L-G Manoj Sinha flags off Harmukh–Gangbal pilgrimage in Ganderbal

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant-Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the Harmukh–Gangbal pilgrimage at Ganderbal in central Kashmir on Friday, September 18, 2026, describing the route as a living expression of enduring faith.

Speaking at the event, Mr Sinha said Mount Harmukh, also known as Harmukut, is revered as the abode of Lord Shiva, while Gangbal Lake, situated at an altitude of 14,500 feet, is regarded as the sacred presence of Mother Ganga. He cited the Nilamata Purana in support of the description.

The L-G said the yatra embodies purity, devotion and unity in diversity, and called it a sacred bridge between India's glorious past and its vibrant present. Such journeys, he said, strengthen the soul, connect people with nature and inspire harmony.

Mr Sinha noted that Jammu and Kashmir has been nourished for millennia by an unbroken stream of faith, with every part of its land carrying spiritual energy — a point he said was highlighted by Kalhana in the Rajatarangini. Despite difficult terrain and historical upheavals, he added, devotees have preserved their spiritual bond with the pilgrimage site, which is also associated with paying homage to ancestors and is comparable in sanctity to Haridwar.

Reflecting on the wider significance of Himalayan pilgrimages, the L-G said they teach humility before nature and inspire noble thoughts from all directions, fostering social harmony. On this pilgrimage, he said, no one is superior or inferior, and all are seekers of truth united in spirituality — a strength of what he described as our eternal culture.

Mr Sinha urged pilgrims to pledge to protect nature, particularly in the context of climate change and environmental challenges, and said such spiritual journeys strengthen the nation's soul and collective consciousness. He also stressed that the pilgrimage can convey to younger generations that our culture embodies both the consciousness of the present and the direction of the future.

He appealed to citizens and the Harmukh Ganga Gangbal Trust to take an active part in cleanliness drives, blood donation camps, health camps, tree plantation drives and youth programmes. Wishing the pilgrims well, he said the snow-clad peaks of Harmukh should inspire lofty thoughts and that the blessings and compassion of Lord Shiva remain with all those undertaking the yatra.