Hemkund Sahib Yatra 2025 Begins with Spiritual Fervor

Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib opens for Darshans after a grand flag-off 

The Hemkund Sahib Yatra 2025 officially commenced with a ceremonial flag-off from Gurudwara Sri Hemkund Sahib on Laxman Jhula Road in Rishikesh, marking the beginning of one of the most revered Sikh pilgrhttps://www.clubmahindra.com/blog/images in India. Located at an altitude of 15,200 feet in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, the sacred shrine opened its portals following the traditional Ardas (prayer), inviting devotees from across the world.

The first batch of pilgrims, led by the Panj Pyaras (five beloved ones), began the arduous trek from Govindghat, their chants of “Jo Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal” echoing through the mountains. Devotional bands from the Garhwal Scouts and Punjab added to the spiritual atmosphere as the journey got underway.

Hemkund Sahib holds deep religious significance as the meditation site of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, in a previous life. The annual pilgrimage season, lasting only a few months due to extreme weather, attracts thousands of devotees who undertake the challenging climb as a spiritual calling.

To support the influx of pilgrims, the Uttarakhand government has implemented extensive arrangements, including medical camps, sanitation services, and heightened security measures. Special emphasis is also being placed on maintaining ecological balance, with the state committing to a plastic-free yatra to preserve the fragile Himalayan environment.

Often likened to the Char Dham Yatra for its spiritual intensity and sheer number of visitors, the Hemkund Sahib Yatra represents both devotion and resilience. As the pilgrimage continues over the coming weeks, thousands more are expected to journey through the scenic yet demanding Himalayan terrain in search of spiritual peace and divine blessings at the sacred shrine.