The portals of the revered Hemkund Sahib Gurdwara were opened for devotees at exactly 10 AM on Sunday, with chants of “Jo Bole So Nihal” echoing through the Himalayan valley. Led by the Panj Pyare, around 5,000 devotees witnessed the spiritual moment, marking the beginning of this year’s pilgrimage season.
Excitement was evident among Sikh pilgrims who had gathered for darshan. On Saturday, a special Shabad Kirtan was organized at Govindghat Gurdwara after the ceremonial Bhog of Akhand Sahib. The first batch of pilgrims left for Ghangharia at 8 AM, escorted by military and Punjabi bands playing devotional tunes.
Gurdwara Hemkund Sahib Trust President Narenderjit Singh Bindra informed that the first group of devotees reached Ghangharia by 4 PM on Saturday and continued their journey to Hemkund Sahib early Sunday morning.
He also praised the swift completion of the damaged vehicle bridge at Govindghat, calling it a major achievement. “There were concerns that the yatra might be affected if the bridge was not ready in time, but with the support of the government and administration, the new bridge was completed in just two months, ensuring smooth travel for pilgrims,” he said.
The Hemkund Sahib pilgrimage holds immense spiritual significance, drawing thousands each year to the sacred site nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of over 15,000 feet.
