Chamoli (Uttarakhand): Along with the Chardham Yatra in Uttarakhand, the doors of the fifth Dham, Hemkund Sahib, have been opened for pilgrims. Devotees are praying to Shri Guru Gobind Singh that the wishes of those visit the gurdwara be fulfilled and their journey be made successful.
It may be mentioned that due to Covid guidelines, the state government has allowed only 1,000 devotees to visit Hemkund Sahib Gurdwara per day. At the same time, Hemkund management has not yet announced the date for the end of the pilgrimage season. In view of the weather, a decision on this will be taken later. The management has also asked devotees to come to the gurdwara only after registering at the Rishikesh Gurdwara trust office and taking a pass.
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Hemkund Sahib Gurdwara, situated in the lap of Himalayas, is a symbol of the faith for followers of Sikhism. Thousands of devotees from all over the country and abroad come here every year. Hemkund Sahib is situated at an altitude of 4,329 metres above sea level amidst mountains and snow-capped peaks. To reach Hemkund Sahib, devotees have to pass through an icy road.
Sikhs believe that the 10th Guru of Sikhism, Guru Gobind Singh Sahib, had worshiped Mahakal here for many years. Since this was a place of penance for Guru Gobind Singh, Sikhs have immense reverence for this place and visit here despite the difficult terrain. The pilgrimage to Hemkund Sahib is considered one of the most difficult.
