Famous Gurudwaras in Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand holds deep spiritual significance for the Sikh community as several Gurudwaras here are associated with the journeys of Sikh Gurus in the Himalayas. These sacred sites not only offer religious solace but also provide breathtaking natural surroundings, making the pilgrimage a spiritually uplifting as well as scenic experience for devotees.
Gurudwara is a holy shrine and place of worship sacred to the followers of Sikhism. People from all faiths or those who don’t profess any faith are welcomed in Sikh Gurudwara. Uttarakhand has few Sacred Sikh shrines that are revered by Sikhs and large numbers of pilgrims make a pilgrimage to these holy places.
Browse through the List of Gurudwaras in Uttarakhand
Pilgrims visiting these Gurudwaras also experience the tradition of “Langar,” where free meals are served to all visitors irrespective of caste, creed, or religion. The peaceful ambiance, disciplined management, and selfless service by volunteers make these shrines exemplary centers of faith and humanity in the hill state.
One can find many gurudwara all over the Uttarakhand; however two most revered Sikh shrines in Uttarakhand are Hemkund Sahib and Nanakmatta Sahib. Hemkund Sahib altitude is a staggering 4,600 meters and is inaccessible to pilgrims during heavy winters from October through April.
Nanakmatta, in Udham Singh Nagar district, is another holy town dedicated to Guru Nanak Dev and Guru Hargobind. Reetha Sahib is another revered Sikh place of worship visited by devotees.
A visit to Gurudwaras in Uttarakhand is often combined with nearby spiritual and nature destinations, enhancing the overall pilgrimage journey. These sacred places continue to inspire devotion, unity, and service, attracting thousands of devotees and travelers every year.
Hemkund Sahib Yatra is held every year when Sikh pilgrims visit the holy shrine in Uttarakhand. Many travelers visit Hemkund Sahib when they are completing their Valley of Flowers trek. Hemkund Sahib weather is pleasant during the months of June to September.
Get answers to questions about your travel plan. Here you'll find helpful information about activities, travel tips, safety guidelines, and seasonal recommendations.
Q: Which are the most famous Sikh pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand?
A: The most famous Sikh pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand are Hemkund Sahib and Gurudwara Nanakmatta Sahib. Both shrines are deeply connected to Sikh history and the journeys of Sikh Gurus. Thousands of devotees visit these sacred Gurudwaras every year to seek blessings and experience spiritual peace in the serene Himalayan surroundings.
Q: What is the significance of Hemkund Sahib?
A: Hemkund Sahib is one of the highest Sikh shrines in the world, located at an altitude of around 4,600 meters. It is believed to be the meditation site of Guru Gobind Singh Ji in his previous life. The Gurudwara is surrounded by snow-covered peaks and a glacial lake, making the Hemkund Sahib Yatra both spiritually uplifting and visually breathtaking.
Q: When does Hemkund Sahib Yatra start and end?
A: The Hemkund Sahib Yatra usually starts in May or June and continues until October, depending on weather conditions. The shrine remains closed during winter due to heavy snowfall. The best time to visit Hemkund Sahib is between June and September when the weather is pleasant and the trekking route is accessible.
Q: How to reach Hemkund Sahib?
A: To reach Hemkund Sahib, pilgrims first travel to Govindghat and then trek approximately 6 km from Ghangaria to the shrine. The journey involves a steep but well-maintained trekking route. Many devotees combine the Hemkund Sahib Yatra with the nearby Valley of Flowers National Park trek.
Q: Where is Nanakmatta Sahib located?
A: Gurudwara Nanakmatta Sahib is located in the Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand. It is associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. The peaceful Sarovar (holy pond) and beautiful Gurudwara complex attract devotees throughout the year.
Q: What is the importance of Nanakmatta Sahib?
A: Nanakmatta Sahib holds great religious significance as it marks the visit of Guru Nanak Dev Ji during his Udasi (spiritual journey). The Gurudwara stands as a symbol of faith, unity, and service, and it is one of the most visited Sikh religious places in Uttarakhand.
Q: Is there Langar facility at Sikh Gurudwaras in Uttarakhand?
A: Yes, all major Gurudwaras in Uttarakhand, including Hemkund Sahib and Gurudwara Nanakmatta Sahib, offer the tradition of Langar. Free meals are served to all visitors regardless of religion, caste, or background, reflecting Sikh values of equality and selfless service.
Q: What is the best time to visit Sikh pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand?
A: The best time for Sikh pilgrimage in Uttarakhand is from May to October. During these months, the weather remains pleasant and accessible, especially for the Hemkund Sahib trek. Winter visits are possible for Nanakmatta Sahib, but Hemkund Sahib remains closed due to heavy snowfall.
Q: Can Hemkund Sahib Yatra be done with family?
A: Yes, many families undertake the Hemkund Sahib Yatra every year. However, since it involves high altitude and trekking, elderly pilgrims and children should prepare properly and consult a doctor if needed. Proper planning and acclimatization are important for a safe and comfortable journey.
Q: What other Sikh shrines are there in Uttarakhand?
A: Apart from Hemkund Sahib and Nanakmatta Sahib, devotees also visit Shri Reetha Sahib Gurudwara, which is associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji. These Sikh religious places in Uttarakhand are known for their peaceful atmosphere and spiritual importance.
Q: Why is Hemkund Sahib combined with Valley of Flowers trek?
A: Many pilgrims combine the Hemkund Sahib Yatra with the Valley of Flowers National Park trek because both destinations are located near Ghangaria. This allows travelers to experience both spiritual devotion and the natural beauty of one of India’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Q: Are Sikh pilgrimage tours available in Uttarakhand?
A: Yes, several travel agencies offer Sikh pilgrimage tour packages in Uttarakhand, especially for Hemkund Sahib and Nanakmatta Sahib. These tours usually include transport, accommodation, and guided assistance to make the journey smooth and comfortable for pilgrims.
