In the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand where the Alaknanda River meets the Lakshman Ganga, on the way to Badrinath lies a beautiful town named Govindghat. An immaculate destination position in Garhwal, Govindghat is not only for religious lovers but also for adventure lovers. Situated at an altitude of 1800 meters, it is a base for most treks including the trek towards Hemkund Sahib and the wonderful Valley of Flowers.
The Gurudwara is situated on the right bank of the river Alaknanda and is an important landmark of this place. One can also find a place to stay here amidst the beauty of nature and rolling hills. Ghangaria is another base point that comes after Govindghat from where the journey to Hemkund and Valley of Flowers officially begins. Govindghat offers refreshing views of the alpine hills covered in mist. This is one of the best places to visit if you are looking for a place that offers peace and a perfect getaway to find solitude to break away from the monotony of your routine.
Activities in Govindghat:
Tracking
Of the many treks that take place in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Govindghat is the starting point for many of them. The trek to the famous Valley of Flowers also starts from Ghangaria which can be reached from Govindghat. The religious journey to Hemkund Sahib starts from Govindghat.
Pilgrimage
The holy temple of Badrinath is situated just 25 km away from Govindghat. In addition, a pilgrimage to the revered Sikh temple of Hemkund Sahib, situated at an altitude of 4600 meters, which is undertaken on foot, passes through Govindghat. Thousands of devotees become a part of this trip.
Nearby Attractions:
Ghangaria
It is like the last place where humans reside on your way to Hemkund Sahib. This is a beautiful settlement that is the base for a trip to the Valley of Flowers. The picturesque beauty of the place along with the cool breeze makes it a perfect destination in summer.
Pushpavati and Hemganga rivers
These rivers join Lakshman Ganga. If you are planning a trip to Govindghat, then the Valley of Flowers should be on your list. You are going to learn about the nearly 700 species of flowers that bloom in the region, as well as some endangered species including Himalayan deer and Asiatic black bears.
Badrinath Temple
One of the most religious places in India and located at a distance of about 40 km from Govindghat, this massive temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is one of the 108 must-see places for the followers of Vaishnavism.
Mana Village
Situated near Govindghat, this place is a tourist destination that is a must-visit for all nature lovers. A 400 feet waterfall named Vasudhara Falls is located here, which is believed to have some spiritual powers. You are likely to reach these waterfalls after a trek of about 5 km from Govindghat.
Stay near Govindghat:
There are many hotels and ashrams at Govind ghat. But apart from this, you can find a good market to buy groceries and other supplies before starting your journey there are many clean homestays in Joshimath that are budget-friendly where you can relax before and after finishing your trip to recharge your strength.
Best time to visit Govindghat:
The best time to visit Govindghat is the summer and monsoon season. Avoid the winter season as the place becomes inaccessible during this time due to heavy snowfall. The summer season lasts between April and June which are moderately hot with a cool soothing breeze. The monsoon season arrives in mid-June and lasts till the end of September. The temperature is pleasant during this time and you can also go trekking during this time.
Food in Govind ghat:
Govindghat has a wide variety of cuisines that vary according to the region you visit. In areas including Badri Nath and Bhim Pul, you will find only vegetarian dishes. The food gets a distinctive taste due to the high use of pure ghee and local spices. There are small huts near the Valley of Flowers and Bedini Ghat that serve delicious Chinese food and non-vegetarian Indian food. Enjoy the delicacies of Uttaranchal with hot parathas in which stuffed vegetables are served at various places here.
