Hemkund Sahib Yatra 2025 begins; Uttarakhand CM flag off pilgrimage

Hemkund Sahib, one of the highest Gurudwaras in the world, opened its doors on Sunday for its annual pilgrimage 2025. Set in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, the portals were opened on Sunday after the traditional Ardas (prayer).The revered Sikh pilgrimage site and its annual yatra attracts spiritual seekers from across the globe.The official launch of this year’s yatra started on Thursday, when the first batch of pilgrims, or jatha, departed from Gurudwara Sri Hemkund Sahib located on Laxman Jhula Road in Rishikesh. A ceremonial flag-off was conducted by Uttarakhand Governor and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.According to the Uttarakhand Tourism Department, approximately 183,000 pilgrims visited Hemkund Sahib in 2024, a strong turnout though still below the record of 240,000 set in 2019.“We are witnessing considerable enthusiasm among pilgrims for Shri Hemkund Sahib, much like the sustained interest we observe for the Char Dham yatra,” a tourism department spokesperson said.The yatra was led by five beloved (the Panj Pyare), ones symbolizing Sikh spiritual leadership. “This sacred journey is a testament to unwavering faith,” the governor said. “We extend our best wishes and prayers for a safe and spiritually enriching experience for all devotees embarking on this path.”CM Dhami reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and fulfilling pilgrimage for all. “Uttarakhand is honored to welcome pilgrims from across the globe to this divine land,” he said. “Our administration has worked diligently to ensure all necessary arrangements are in place for a smooth and comfortable yatra.”Set at an altitude of about 14,200 feet, Gurudwara Sri Hemkund Sahib is among the highest places of worship in the world. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and nestled beside a glacial lake, the shrine holds deep spiritual significance in Sikhism. It is believed to be the place where Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, meditated in a previous incarnation.The site remains accessible only during a limited season due to its high-altitude location, the pilgrimage to Hemkund Sahib is both physically challenging and spiritually rewarding. The site draws comparisons to the Char Dham Yatra in terms of religious fervor and the number of annual visitors.As the portals open and the yatra gains momentum, thousands of devotees are expected to ascend the mountainous trail in search of spiritual peace and divine connection.