Paragliding Paradise Soaring High Over Bhimtal

A Spiritual Journey with Harkesh Singh & Family – Powered by Travelophila

Our journey to the holy shrine of Hemkund Sahib began early at 1:30 AM from Delhi. We were a group of 10 family members, led by Harkesh Singh ji. Our companion on this beautiful trip was Urbania Traveller driver, Naveen — a knowledgeable, energetic, and young man who knows Uttarakhand’s roads, food spots, and highway dhabas like the back of his hand.

Naveen made our long drive enjoyable by stopping at the best local places for breakfast and lunch, ensuring everyone was refreshed and comfortable throughout.

Our StayA Warm Stay in Govindghat – A Glimpse into Pahadi Hospitality at Govindghat:

During our Hemkund Sahib Yatra, we had the pleasure of staying at a cozy local homestay in Govindghat, hosted by the ever-smiling Dhuni Chand ji and his kind-hearted wife. This humble Pahadi couple welcomed us with open arms, treating us not just as guests, but as part of their own family. Dressed in traditional Uttarakhandi attire, they carried with them a warmth and grace that reflected the rich culture of the hills.

Their simple yet heartfelt hospitality made our stay unforgettable.

Local Flavors That Touched the Soul
Every meal was a celebration of Garhwali flavors—mandua roti, jhangora ki kheer, gahat dal, and freshly made pahadi sabzis served with homemade pickles and ghee. The food was not just delicious, but made with love, served piping hot in the cozy kitchen where the whole group gathered like a family.

Village Walk and Temple Visit
In the evening, we strolled through their quaint village—stone-paved paths, smiling faces, and the sound of temple bells in the air. We visited centuries-old heritage temples, where time seemed to pause. Locals offered stories about their deities, traditions, and age-old customs passed down through generations.

Nature’s Symphony
Right in front of the cottage, a small mountain stream flowed gently, its clear waters adding a soothing soundtrack to our peaceful stay. We often sat by the river in the morning with our tea, letting the cool breeze and the sound of flowing water rejuvenate our spirits.

About Hemkund Sahib

Located at an altitude of over 4,600 meters, Hemkund Sahib is a sacred Sikh pilgrimage site surrounded by snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear waters. The place is serene, spiritual, and truly divine.

The Journey in Detail:

Delhi to Rishikesh: 230 km (5–6 hours by train or car)
Rishikesh to Govindghat: 270 km (9–10 hours by car)
Govindghat to Ghangaria: 13 km trek (4–6 hours, moderate pace)
Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib: 6 km steep trek (3–4 hours)

Tips for the Journey:

Start early to avoid traffic and fatigue.
Carry rain gear, warm clothes, and comfortable trekking shoes.
Stay hydrated and walk at your own pace during the trek.
Avoid heavy meals before trekking to avoid fatigue.

Why Choose Hemkund Sahib?

The calmness, spirituality, and surrounding natural beauty make Hemkund Sahib one of the most soul-stirring places in India. It’s not just a pilgrimage – it’s an experience of peace, faith, and nature’s magnificence.

Hemkund Sahib with Travelophila:

Itinerary Highlights:

Dedicated driver-guide (Naveen) with local expertise
Handpicked homestays and meals
Scenic road journeys and guided treks
Assistance with darshan and local exploration

Best Time to Visit:

June to September is ideal. The weather is cool, and the valley blooms with colorful flowers.

Things to Carry:

Valid ID cards
Warm jackets, woolens, gloves
Power banks and flashlights
Raincoat or poncho
Basic medicines and ORS
Trekking pole (optional but helpful)

Hemkund Sahib Yatra – 6 Days / 5 Nights Itinerary

Delhi → Rishikesh → Govindghat → Ghangaria → Hemkund Sahib → Return

Day 1: Delhi to Rishikesh

Departure: Early morning at 3:30 AM from Paschim Vihar, Delhi
Distance: 230 km | Travel Time: ~6 hours
Highlights: Scenic drive, short stop at highway dhabas for breakfast
Evening: Visit Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat (optional)
Stay: Hotel in Rishikesh
Meals: En route breakfast & lunch, dinner at hotel

Day 2: Rishikesh to Govindghat

Distance: 270 km | Travel Time: 9–10 hours
Route: Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Joshimath → Govindghat
Highlights: Prayag Darshan (confluence of rivers), Local snacks stops
Stay: Homestay at Govindghat with a local Pahadi family
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch en route, Dinner with homestay family

Day 3: Govindghat to Ghangaria (Trek Day)

Distance: 13 km trek | Trek Time: 4–6 hours
Mode: On foot or mule (optional)
Trek Route: Govindghat → Pulna → Bhyundar → Ghangaria
Highlights: River views, waterfalls, pine forests
Stay: Hotel/Lodge in Ghangaria
Meals: Packed lunch/snacks, Dinner at hotel

Day 4: Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib and Return

Distance: 6 km steep trek (one way)
Trek Time: 3–4 hours up | 2–3 hours down
Highlights: Spiritual darshan at Hemkund Sahib (4,632 m), Glacial lake views, Langar
Return: Back to Ghangaria by afternoon
Stay: Hotel/Lodge in Ghangaria
Meals: Morning tea/snacks, Langar at Gurudwara, Dinner at hotel

Day 5: Ghangaria to Govindghat – Drive to Joshimath or Pipalkoti

Trek: 13 km down to Govindghat
Drive: Continue to Joshimath or Pipalkoti (~1–2 hrs)
Stay: Hotel at Joshimath or Pipalkoti
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch en route, Dinner at hotel

Day 6: Return Journey – Joshimath to Delhi

Distance: ~500 km | Travel Time: 14–16 hours
Route: Joshimath → Rudraprayag → Rishikesh → Delhi
Highlights: Local food stops and scenic drive
Arrival: Late evening or night in Delhi

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch en route

In Summary:

Our Hemkund Sahib Yatra was a journey of faith and connection — with nature, with each other, and with the divine. Travelophila made it smooth, soulful, and unforgettable.