Hemkund Sahib closed for winters

GOPESHWAR, Oct 15: The sacred portals of Hemkund Sahib, one of the most revered Sikh shrines in Garhwal Himalayas, were closed today for winters.

            Over 1,500 pilgrims thronged Hemkund Sahib, which is located at a height of 16,000 ft, to take part in the prayers that preceded closure of its gates, said Sardar Seva Singh, Manager of the Gurdwara Trust.

            The Himalayan shrine is closed annually for the winter season during which the area becomes snow-bound.

            Around 1,75,000 Sikh devotees visited the shrine this season.

            Patna Sahib Jatthedar J N Singh also took part in the prayers today, Seva Singh said.

            It is believed Guru Govind Singh performed a tapasya at Hemkund Sahib in a previous birth. (PTI)