Hemkund Sahib is a revered Sikh pilgrimage site located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, nestled high in the Himalayas. Rishikesh, known as the Yoga Capital of the World, is a popular starting point for travelers heading to Hemkund Sahib. This route is commonly traveled by pilgrims and adventure seekers alike due to its spiritual significance and stunning natural beauty.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Hemkund Sahib from Rishikesh, covering train, bus, car, and trekking options. You will also find practical travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice on what to expect upon arrival.

Getting from Rishikesh to Hemkund Sahib – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is suitable for reaching Rishikesh from other parts of India before starting the journey to Hemkund Sahib. However, there is no direct train to Hemkund Sahib due to its remote location. Train travel is popular for comfort and connectivity to Rishikesh.

• Rishikesh Railway Station is well connected to major cities like Delhi, Haridwar, and Dehradun, with frequent trains running daily. The station is about 5 km from the city center, accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi.

• From Delhi to Rishikesh, trains take approximately 5 to 7 hours, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹600 depending on class and train type, making it an economical choice.

• Train services can be crowded during peak pilgrimage seasons like summer and festivals, so booking tickets early via IRCTC is advisable to secure seats.

• Rishikesh station has basic amenities, but it is best to carry water and snacks as food options are limited, especially for early morning or late-night arrivals.

Bus

Buses are a common and affordable way to travel from Rishikesh towards Hemkund Sahib, especially for the first leg to Govindghat. They are popular among pilgrims and backpackers for their frequency and accessibility.

• State-run buses operated by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) run regularly from Rishikesh Bus Stand to Govindghat, the base for the Hemkund Sahib trek, covering about 280 km in 8 to 10 hours.

• Bus fares typically range from ₹300 to ₹600 depending on the type of bus (ordinary or deluxe), with tickets available at the bus stand or via online portals.

• Buses can be crowded during the pilgrimage season (May to October), so arriving early at the bus stand or booking in advance is recommended to avoid standing during the long journey.

• The route passes through mountainous terrain on National Highway 7 (NH7), with several toll plazas and scenic stops where you can buy local snacks and refreshments.

• Weather conditions like monsoon rains can cause delays or landslides, so check local weather updates before traveling.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Rishikesh to Hemkund Sahib offers flexibility and comfort, especially if you want to stop at scenic spots along the way. It is a preferred option for groups and families.

• The drive covers approximately 280 km via NH7 and takes around 8 to 10 hours depending on traffic and road conditions, with tolls at multiple plazas along the route.

• Starting early in the morning is advisable to avoid heavy traffic near Rishikesh and to reach Govindghat before dusk, as mountain roads can be challenging after dark.

• Fuel stations are available en route, but it is wise to fill up in Rishikesh or major towns like Rudraprayag, as options are limited in remote stretches.

• Parking is available at Govindghat, but it can fill up quickly during peak season, so arriving early is important to secure a spot.

• Road conditions are generally good but can be slippery during monsoon; ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and equipped with good tires for mountain driving.

Trek

The final leg to Hemkund Sahib involves a trek from Govindghat, which is essential as no motorable road exists beyond this point. The trek is popular among pilgrims and nature lovers for its spiritual and scenic experience.

• The trek from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib is about 19 km one way, usually completed in 6 to 8 hours depending on fitness and pace.

• The trail passes through Ghangaria, a small village where you can rest or stay overnight; basic guesthouses and eateries are available here.

• The trek is steep and challenging, especially the last 6 km, so proper trekking shoes, warm clothing, and sufficient water are necessary for safety and comfort.

• During the pilgrimage season (May to October), the trail is crowded, so starting early in the morning helps avoid rush and ensures you reach before dark.

• Porters and mules are available for hire at Govindghat and Ghangaria to carry luggage, which is helpful for those not accustomed to high-altitude trekking.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers making the journey from Rishikesh to Hemkund Sahib. It covers essential actions to ensure a smooth and safe pilgrimage.

• Book your train ticket to Rishikesh in advance via IRCTC to avoid last-minute hassles and secure preferred travel dates and classes.

• From Rishikesh, take a state-run or private bus to Govindghat; purchasing tickets a day before travel helps avoid overcrowding and ensures a seat.

• Arrange accommodation in Govindghat or Ghangaria depending on your trek plan; booking guesthouses early during peak season is important as rooms fill quickly.

• Prepare your trekking gear including sturdy shoes, warm clothes, and water bottles; consider hiring a porter if you have heavy luggage to ease the trek.

• Start the trek early from Govindghat to reach Hemkund Sahib by afternoon, allowing time for rest and return before sunset to avoid trekking in the dark.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a basic first-aid kit including altitude sickness medicine, as Hemkund Sahib is at high altitude and some travelers may experience discomfort.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water during the trek and in remote areas to avoid waterborne illnesses common in mountain regions.

• Book bus and train tickets online or at official counters to avoid scams and inflated prices, especially during the pilgrimage season.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Rishikesh for safe and reliable local transport to bus stands or railway stations.

• Pack light but include essentials like rain gear and warm layers, as weather in the mountains can change quickly even in summer.

• Be prepared for limited mobile network coverage on the trek; inform family or friends about your itinerary before starting the journey.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Hemkund Sahib is between May and October when the weather is pleasant and the trek is accessible. Winters bring heavy snowfall, closing the route and making travel unsafe.

Monsoon season (July to September) can cause landslides and slippery trails, so caution is necessary. Early morning departures help avoid afternoon rains and fog.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali or local fairs when transport and accommodation are overcrowded and prices rise sharply.

• Summer months (May and June) offer clear skies and moderate temperatures, ideal for trekking and sightseeing.

• Monsoon rains can delay buses and cause roadblocks on NH7, so check weather forecasts and local advisories before departure.

• Starting your journey before 7 AM helps beat traffic jams near Rishikesh and ensures you reach Govindghat with enough daylight for the trek.

Arrival at Hemkund Sahib & What to Expect

Upon reaching Hemkund Sahib, you will find a serene high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks and the iconic Gurudwara. The area is peaceful but has limited facilities due to its remote location.

Local commute options are minimal; most visitors walk around the area. After the pilgrimage, you will return the same way to Ghangaria, where you can find basic lodging and food. Prepaid taxis or shared jeeps are available from Govindghat to Rishikesh.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Hemkund Sahib from Rishikesh is by combining train or bus travel to Govindghat, followed by a well-planned trek. Booking tickets early and preparing for mountain conditions will make your journey comfortable and safe.

With careful planning, you can enjoy the spiritual and natural beauty of Hemkund Sahib confidently. Follow the steps and tips in this guide to ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience from Rishikesh to this sacred Himalayan destination.