Hemkund Sahib – A Quick Peek into Greatness

Gurudwara Sri Hemkund Sahib is something of an extraordinary odyssey. With a name that means “snow bowl”, Hemkund, aka Hemkunt, is a journey that will open your eyes and your heart to some of the world’s greatest wonders and loveliest sights. Dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who was the tenth Sikh Guru, Hemkund Sahib in Uttarakhand is a Sikh place of religion that is beyond beautiful. Nestled high up in the mighty Himalayas on a glacial lake enveloped by seven imposing peaks, Hemkund Sahib is a journey that will let you rediscover yourself. If you plan a visit to Hemkund any time soon, check out hotels in Uttarakhand for your stay. Here’s a quick look into this larger-than-life place of worship

Hemkund Sahib is a holy site that finds mention in the Dasam Granth, the holy book as dictated by Guru Gobind Singh himself. According to the Dasam Granth, Hemkund Sahib is the site where Pandu Raja practised Yoga. Located at approximately 15,000 ft, Hemkund Sahib can be reached from Gobindghat on the Rishikesh-Badrinath highway.

Sikhism is based on the tenets of humanity. One of these tenets are kar seva, meaning selfless service. Hemkund Sahib remains inaccessible from October to April due to heavy snowfall and extreme winters. However, when the paths open up in May, the devotees flocking to Hemkund Sahib set out to repair any damage the tough winters may have done to the path. This is done as part of the kar seva that Sikhs believe in.

The Hemkund Sahib is the only Gurudwara in India situated at such a lofty height. Taking into consideration the climate and location, it was built in a pentagonal shape, which makes it the only pentagonal Gurudwara in the world. The water of the lake in which the Gurudwara stands is believed to be holy, and countless people visit here every year and take a dip into these waters.

What’s more is, the very journey to Hemkund Sahib is one that will test your grit and trust upon yourself. Self-discovery and a feeling of oneness with the Almighty are your rewards for braving the Himalayan peaks.