Category: Lakes In Uttarakhand

Hemkund Lake In Chamoli

Hemkund Lake is a stunning high-altitude lake located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. Situated at an elevation of around 4,329 meters (14,200 feet) above sea level, it is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush green meadows. The lake holds immense religious significance for Sikhs and Hindus alike, with a gurudwara (Sikh temple) called Sri Hemkund Sahib located nearby.
Every year, thousands of pilgrims and trekkers visit Hemkund Lake, especially during the summer months when the weather is conducive for trekking. The journey to the lake involves a challenging trek that begins from the base camp at Govindghat and passes through picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and alpine meadows. Along the way, trekkers are treated to breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks.

Mythology About Hemkund Lake

Hemkund Lake holds immense significance in Hindu mythology and Sikh tradition. In Hindu mythology, it is believed to be the place where Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Rama, meditated during the events of the epic Ramayana. According to the legend, Lakshman was severely injured during the battle with the demon king Ravana. In order to heal him, Hanuman, the monkey god, was sent to fetch the Sanjeevani herb from the Himalayas. It is said that Hemkund Lake is the spot where Hanuman collected the miraculous herb.

In Sikh tradition, Hemkund Sahib, located near the lake, is a highly revered pilgrimage site. It is associated with Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. According to Sikh history, Guru Gobind Singh meditated at Hemkund Sahib during his previous incarnation as Guru Gobind Rai. He is believed to have discovered the sacred site during his spiritual journey through the Himalayas.

Activities In Hemkund Lake

Hemkund Lake, nestled in the pristine Himalayan surroundings of Uttarakhand, India, offers a serene and spiritually uplifting experience. Here are some activities you can enjoy around Hemkund Lake:

Pilgrimage to Hemkund Sahib: The primary attraction is the revered Sikh shrine, Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara, located on the banks of Hemkund Lake. Pilgrims from all over the world visit this sacred site, especially during the summer months when the weather is conducive.

Trekking: The journey to Hemkund Lake involves a challenging trek of about 6-7 kilometers from Govindghat, which serves as the base camp. The trek offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and lush greenery, making it a rewarding experience for adventure enthusiasts.

Photography: Hemkund Lake is surrounded by towering peaks and lush alpine meadows, providing ample opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture stunning landscapes, colorful flowers, and the tranquil waters of the lake.

Nature Walks: Explore the beautiful surroundings of Hemkund Lake through leisurely nature walks. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Himalayas, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and listen to the melodious chirping of birds.

Meditation and Yoga: The serene ambiance of Hemkund Lake makes it an ideal spot for meditation and yoga practice. Sit by the tranquil waters, close your eyes, and let the peaceful surroundings rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.

Mythology About Homkund Lake

Homkund Lake holds a significant place in Hindu mythology and is situated in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand, India. According to legend, it is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva, the Hindu deity, resided for a while during his earthly sojourn. Here’s a brief overview of the mythology surrounding Homkund Lake:

Lord Shiva’s Meditation: According to the mythological accounts, Lord Shiva chose Homkund as a place for meditation and penance. It is said that he performed rigorous meditation here to attain spiritual enlightenment.
The Battle with Demon: Legends also mention a fierce battle between Lord Shiva and a powerful demon named Apasmara. This demon represented ignorance and darkness. Lord Shiva fought Apasmara in Homkund to rid the world of evil forces. During this intense battle, it is said that Lord Shiva created the Homkund Lake with his trident (trishul) to quench his thirst. The lake is believed to have been formed by the water that flowed from the impact of Shiva’s trident hitting the ground.
Pilgrimage Site: Homkund is considered a sacred site by Hindus and attracts pilgrims who embark on arduous journeys to reach the lake, especially during the annual Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra, a significant pilgrimage in the region.
Natural Beauty: Apart from its religious significance, Homkund is also renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and pristine alpine meadows.
Cultural Importance: Homkund Lake is not just a site of religious significance but also holds cultural importance in the region. Folklore, rituals, and local traditions associated with the lake enrich the cultural fabric of the Himalayan communities.

While the mythological accounts of Homkund Lake add to its allure, the natural beauty and spiritual aura of the place continue to fascinate pilgrims, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts alike.