LG Flags Off Harmukh–Gangbal Pilgrimage in Ganderbal , Describes Yatra as a Living Expression of Faith; Calls for Greater Commitment to Environmental Protection
Srinagar, September 18, 2026: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday flagged off the Harmukh–Gangbal pilgrimage at Ganderbal, describing the annual religious journey as an expression of Jammu and Kashmir’s longstanding spiritual and cultural traditions.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said the pilgrimage represents a connection between the region’s historical heritage and its contemporary social fabric. He observed that Jammu and Kashmir has, over centuries, been shaped by diverse traditions of faith and spirituality.
Referring to historical and religious texts, Sinha said Mount Harmukh, also known as Harmukut, is revered as an abode of Lord Shiva, while Gangbal Lake, situated at an altitude of around 14,500 feet, is associated with the sacred presence of Mother Ganga.
He said devotees have maintained their spiritual association with the pilgrimage site despite difficult terrain and historical changes. He also noted the traditional significance of the site in paying homage to ancestors.
“The Harmukh–Gangbal pilgrimage is a living expression of this immortal faith. On the pilgrimage, no one is superior or inferior. All are seekers of truth, united in spirituality. This is the strength of our eternal culture,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
Sinha said Himalayan pilgrimages also provide an opportunity to reflect on the relationship between human beings and nature. He urged pilgrims to take a pledge to protect the environment, particularly in view of climate change and other environmental challenges.
“I often say that Himalayan pilgrimages teach us two important lessons. First, I am not the master of nature but its custodian. Second, noble and beneficial thoughts should come to us from all directions so that we may make society more prosperous,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor said pilgrimage promotes social harmony while strengthening individual confidence and spiritual awareness.
“Pilgrimage gives us that strength and self-confidence. At the same time, it brings us closer to nature. During the journey, we realise that nature is our heritage and that we have a responsibility towards it,” Sinha said.
He added that the Harmukh–Gangbal pilgrimage could also help younger generations understand the region’s cultural traditions and their relevance to contemporary society.
Referring to the ongoing Seva Sankalp Abhiyan being organised in connection with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 25 years of public service, the Lieutenant Governor appealed to citizens and the Harmukh Ganga Gangbal Trust to participate in public welfare activities, including cleanliness drives, blood donation camps, health camps, tree plantation and youth-oriented programmes.
Concluding his address, Sinha expressed hope that the pilgrimage would continue to promote spiritual reflection, environmental awareness and social harmony.
Shri Mian Altaf Ahmad, Member of Parliament; Shri Mian Mehar Ali, MLA from Kangan; Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor; Shri Vinod Pandita, Founder Chairman and General Secretary of the Harmukh Ganga Gangbal Trust; Shri Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Shri Sujit Kumar, IGP Kashmir; Shri Jatin Kishore, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal; Shri Anil Bhat, President, and other members of the Harmukh Ganga Gangbal Trust, religious heads, senior civil and police officers, security officials, prominent citizens and a large number of devotees attended the flag-off ceremony. ANB
