Hemkund Sahib, one of the highest Sikh pilgrimage sites in the world, is located at an altitude of approximately 4,632 meters (15,200 feet) in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Surrounded by seven snow-clad Himalayan peaks and a pristine glacial lake, the weather of Hemkund Sahib plays a crucial role in planning a safe and comfortable yatra.
Due to its extreme elevation, Hemkund Sahib experiences harsh climatic conditions for most of the year, and the shrine remains accessible only for a limited period. Understanding the weather patterns is essential for pilgrims, trekkers, and nature lovers planning a visit.
Hemkund Sahib has an alpine and sub-arctic climate characterized by:
Long, severe winters
Short, cool summers
Frequent rainfall and snowfall
Rapid weather changes
Even during the official pilgrimage season, the temperature can drop suddenly, and snowfall may occur unexpectedly.
Temperature Range:
Day: 5°C to 15°C
Night: 0°C to 5°C
Summer marks the beginning of the Hemkund Sahib Yatra season. Snow begins to melt, allowing the trekking route from Govindghat via Ghangaria to open gradually.
Weather Characteristics:
Cold but manageable daytime temperatures
Snow-covered trails in early May
Clear skies during mornings
Chilly winds in the afternoon
Travel Advisory:
Heavy woolens are mandatory
Trekking paths may still have snow patches
Sudden snowfall is possible at higher altitudes
Temperature Range:
Day: 8°C to 18°C
Night: 2°C to 8°C
The monsoon season brings frequent rainfall to the region, increasing humidity and making trekking more challenging.
Weather Characteristics:
Cloudy skies and misty views
Heavy rainfall in lower regions like Govindghat
Risk of landslides on mountain roads
Slippery trekking paths
Travel Advisory:
Rain gear is essential
Trekking poles recommended
Extra buffer days should be kept
Medical fitness is important due to damp cold
Despite the challenges, July and August see maximum pilgrim footfall due to religious significance.
Temperature Range:
Day: 5°C to 12°C
Night: –2°C to 5°C
This period is considered the best weather window for Hemkund Sahib before winter sets in.
Weather Characteristics:
Clear blue skies
Crisp mountain air
Minimal rainfall
Stunning visibility of surrounding peaks
Travel Advisory:
Nights become extremely cold
Snowfall may begin by late September
Yatra usually concludes by mid-October
This is an ideal time for photography and peaceful pilgrimage.
Temperature Range:
Day: –10°C to –2°C
Night: –20°C or lower
During winter, Hemkund Sahib is completely inaccessible due to heavy snowfall.
Weather Characteristics:
Continuous snowfall
Frozen lake
Extreme cold and blizzards
Zero tourist movement
Status:
Gurudwara remains closed
Roads and trekking routes blocked
Entire region covered in thick snow
The shrine reopens only after snow clearance and safety inspections in late spring.
| Month | Weather Summary | Travel Status |
|---|---|---|
| January – March | Extreme cold, heavy snowfall | Closed |
| April | Snow melting begins | Closed |
| May | Cold, snow patches | Limited access |
| June | Cool & pleasant days | Open |
| July | Rainy, misty | Open |
| August | Heavy rainfall | Open |
| September | Cold, clear skies | Best time |
| October | Cold, early snowfall | Closing phase |
| November – December | Severe winter | Closed |
At over 4,600 meters, Hemkund Sahib experiences:
Low oxygen levels
High UV exposure
Rapid weather shifts
Pilgrims often feel breathlessness, dizziness, or fatigue due to altitude. Weather combined with altitude can intensify physical stress.
Essential items based on weather conditions:
Heavy woolen jackets & thermals
Waterproof outer layers
Woolen caps, gloves, and socks
Trekking shoes with good grip
Sunglasses & sunscreen
Rain poncho during monsoon
Best Overall Weather: September
Peak Pilgrimage Months: July & August
Least Risk of Rain: Late August to mid-September
Avoid: Early May (snow) & peak monsoon days
Sudden snowfall even in summer
Temperature drop after sunset
Strong winds near the lake
Reduced visibility due to fog
Following official advisories and daily weather updates is highly recommended.
The weather of Hemkund Sahib is both beautiful and unforgiving. While the natural surroundings are breathtaking, the extreme climatic conditions demand careful planning, physical preparedness, and respect for nature.
Understanding seasonal weather patterns ensures a safe, spiritually fulfilling, and memorable journey to one of the most sacred high-altitude pilgrimage sites in India.
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