How Far is Hemkund Sahib from Ghangaria Helipad and How to Reach There?
The Final Stretch to Hemkund Sahib – Know the Route Before You Go
So, you’ve taken the helicopter from Govindghat and landed safely at the Ghangaria helipad. That’s a big relief and a great start to your Hemkund Sahib Yatra. But many yatris stop here and wonder, “How far is Hemkund Sahib from here? Can I walk? Should I hire a pony or palki?”
As of May 2025, thousands of pilgrims take the shortcut route—Govindghat to Ghangaria by helicopter—but forget that the final 6 km from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib is not just about distance. It’s about a steep climb at high altitude. You go from 10,000 feet to over 15,000 feet, so it’s important to plan smartly.
In this blog, we’ll explain the distance, time, and best ways to reach Hemkund Sahib from Ghangaria. We’ll also guide you on options like ponies and palkis for elderly yatris, and provide clarity on topics like helicopter fare, ticket price, and ride time from Govindghat to Ghangaria.
Q1. How much distance is left to cover after landing at Ghangaria helipad?
After your helicopter ride from Govindghat to Ghangaria, you still have to cover 6 kilometers to reach Hemkund Sahib. But don’t mistake this for a simple walk. It’s a steep and continuous uphill trek with oxygen levels dropping as you go higher. It usually takes 4 to 6 hours on foot, depending on your speed and fitness level.
If you’re not used to trekking or have health issues, it’s best to avoid walking and choose a pony or palki instead. Local service providers are available at Ghangaria and prices are fixed by the state authority.
Q2. Can I go from Govindghat to Ghangaria by helicopter and then hire help to reach Hemkund Sahib?
Yes, many yatris prefer to go Govindghat to Ghangaria by helicopter and then continue the final stretch with the help of hired ponies or palkis. These are easily available near the helipad at Ghangaria.
This option is especially useful for elderly pilgrims, women, or those doing the yatra on a tight schedule. Booking your helicopter seat in advance and arranging a pony on the spot is a smart combo for a less tiring yatra.
Q3. What is the helicopter fare from Govindghat to Ghangaria and is it worth it?
The Govindghat to Ghangaria helicopter fare is approximately ₹2,895 one way as of May 2025. It helps you skip the 13 km trek that would take 6–8 hours otherwise. For many yatris, saving time and energy is well worth the cost, especially if you’re doing a same-day return or traveling with elders.
Just remember, the helicopter doesn’t drop you at Hemkund Sahib. It drops you at Ghangaria, from where you have to climb or hire assistance for the rest.
Q4. How long does it take to reach Hemkund Sahib after landing at Ghangaria helipad?
The time to climb from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib depends on your stamina. On foot, it takes 4 to 6 hours. With a pony, around 3 hours. With palki, slightly longer.
Even if your Govindghat to Ghangaria helicopter time was just 10 minutes, don’t underestimate the physical effort needed after that. Start early in the morning to avoid bad weather and reach Hemkund Sahib before noon.
Q5. Can I get real-time helicopter updates like ticket price or schedule for today?
Yes, you can check Govindghat to Ghangaria helicopter ticket price and Govindghat to Ghangaria helicopter time today online on the booking portal. This helps you plan your day better. Many portals also provide WhatsApp updates and live assistance.
Having live updates makes it easier to coordinate your travel from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib since the whole journey depends on weather and visibility.
Q6. What’s the best way to book a helicopter from Govindghat to Ghangaria in advance?
The easiest method is Govindghat to Ghangaria helicopter booking online. The process is simple:
- Enter your travel date and passenger count
- Upload ID and Yatra Registration Slip
- Pay online and get your ticket via email or WhatsApp
After booking, just report at Govindghat Helipad 1 hour before your flight time. Services like helicopter from Govindghat to Ghangaria are available from 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM.
Plan Your Climb from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib with Clarity
Many yatris feel that once they’ve booked their Hemkund Sahib helicopter ticket from Govindghat, the tough part is over. But remember, Hemkund Sahib still lies 6 km uphill from the Ghangaria helipad. That part of the yatra needs careful preparation.
If you’re physically fit, trekking can be a rewarding experience. But if you’re elderly or on a short schedule, hiring a pony or palki is the safer choice. Regardless of how you go, reaching the Gurudwara at 15,000 feet is a blessing and a memory of a lifetime.
Plan your helicopter ride, check Govindghat to Ghangaria helicopter service timings, and keep buffer time for your climb. That’s the best way to complete the yatra peacefully and safely in 2025.