Hemkund Sahib opens for devotees: Panj Pyare with Nishan Sahib lead the first batch

The first batch of pilgrims Panj Pyare left for Hemkund Sahib on May 22. It is a renowned Sikh shrine located near Joshimath, Chamoli district. They departed from Govindghat Gurdwara in Chamoli on the eve of the opening of Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara portals on May 25. (Image credit: ANI)

Hemkund Sahib is situated at a height of 15,000 square feet above sea level. The gurudwara is dedicated to the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh. The shrine is visited by lakhs of devotees every summer. (Image credit: Hemkund official website)

The first batch of pilgrims was flagged off by Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami and Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd). All the arrangements for the devotees have already been done. (Image credit: ANI)

While speaking with media personnel, Dhami said that he is thankful to PM Modi as the Government of India had approved the ropeway for Kedarnath and Shri Hemkund Sahib which will make this difficult journey very easy in the coming time. (Image credit: PTI)

Gurmit Singh also welcomed the devotees and expressed gratitude to the chief minister and other administration for preparing the arrangements. He emphasized that the shrine is a sacred confluence of faith, devotion and unwavering belief that brings to life the proud values of the Sikh tradition.(Image credit: X/Gurmit Singh)

In order to reach Hemkund Sahib from Govindghat, Panj Pyare had to trek down a total distance of 20kms. Govindghat is also the starting point of the Valley of Flowers. Earlier on February, suspension motor bridge connecting Govindghat and Hemkund Sahib collapsed due to a landslide. (Image credit: ANI)

Prior to the opening of doors, army soldiers also cleared the snow from the path. They offered prayers at the Hemkund Sahib Gurdwara. (Image credit: PTI)

Police also conducted an on-site inspection of the pedestrian route to review security arrangements ahead of the opening of the portals of the holy shrine. (Image credit: ANI)