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Rishikesh, situated along the banks of the river Ganges is considered a holy town because of its association with the holiest river in India. This town can be termed as a pivotal  point because many scared  journey start from here. It basically from here that the actual traverse to Hemkunth begins. With the advent of June, pilgrims throng Rishikesh to begin their pilgrimage to Hemkunth, Badrinath and Kedarnath .The Sikhs pilgrims, coming in jathas or individually from India and abroad, make their first halt at the beautiful Gurdwara that is situated at Rishikesh. Located near a busting market place. The Gurdwara complex covers a large territory which includes provision for lodging and also school for orphans besides the others essential  components of  a Gurdwara.

The surrounding mountains cape and a nearby bubbling brook make for a pleasant environment. It is here that the tired pilgrims usually halt for the night to revive their energy and recharge their spirits for the major travel scheduled to begin in the early hours of the next day. However, the primary  duty of the pilgrim once he enters the complex is to first pay obeissance to the Guru Granth sahib housed in the darbar hall. The Gurdwara is a two storied building on the upper floor of which is the darbar hall. An impressive decor with a finely worked ceiling. The darbar hall  resounds with the voices of the granthi, the school children and the pilgrims reciting their prayers.

Many people volunteer to do sewa at the langar and a growing  kinship is established amongst virtual strangers-all enthusiastic at the prospect of going to Hemkunt. As  evening  edges forward , there is a nip in the air that gives one the first feel of the journey ahead. Before the evening edges forward there is a nip in the air that gives on the first feel of the journey ahead Before the evening prayers many people take time to revel in the beauty of the locale. The sarovar  makes for interesting viewing as it teems with large fishes. As nightfall approaches, the tired traveller is lulled to sleep with the sounds of the night and the occasion rainfall. Changing the saffron sleeve of the Nishan Sahib at Gurdwara Rishikesh.

The Gurdwara complex is spread over 5.0 hectares and has an accommodation for 4000 yatris besides having residential  facilities for the sewadar and the orphan children adopted by the Gurdwara. The complex also acts as a transit camp where storage of materials for construction activities at the Gurdwaras ahead is done .