Jammu and Kashmir LG stops Harmukh-Gangbal pilgrimage
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha on the Harmukh–Gangbal pilgrimage in Ganderbal Central Kashmir on September 18, 2026. Photo: X/@manojsinha_
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha on Friday (September 18, 2026) flagged off the Harmukh-Gangbal pilgrimage in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal. He described Harmukh as the abode of Lord Shiva and the Gangbal lake as the embodiment of the sacred presence of Mother Ganga.
“Mount Harmukh, also known as Harmukut, is worshiped as the abode of Lord Shiva, while Gangbal lake at 14,500 feet is considered the sacred presence of Mother Ganga,” Mr. Sinha said, referring to the Nilamata Purana.
He said that the sacred yatra embodies purity, devotion and unity in diversity and is a living expression of eternal faith that strengthens our soul, connects us with nature and inspires harmony. “The Jatra is a sacred bridge between India’s glorious past and vibrant present,” said Mr. Sinha.
The LG said that Jammu and Kashmir has been nourished by a continuous stream of faith for millennia, with every step of their land imbued with spiritual energy, as Kalhana emphasized in Rajatarangini. “Despite the difficult terrain and historical upheavals, devotees have maintained their spiritual bond with this pilgrimage site, which is also associated with ancestral reverence, comparable to the sanctity of Haridwar,” he added.
LG said Himalayan pilgrimages teach humility before nature and inspire noble thoughts from all directions and promote social harmony. “I firmly believe that the Harmukh-Gangbal pilgrimage is a living expression of this immortal faith. No one is superior or inferior in the pilgrimage. All are seekers of truth, united in spirituality. That is the strength of our eternal culture,” he said.
Mr. Sinha emphasized the importance of pilgrimage in the present times and urged the pilgrims to pledge themselves to protect nature, especially in the face of climate change and environmental challenges. Such spiritual journeys strengthen the soul and collective consciousness of the nation, he added.
“I often say that the Himalayan pilgrimages teach us two important lessons. First, I am not the master of nature but its steward. Second, noble and beneficial thoughts should come to us from all sides to make society more prosperous. I believe that in our eternal culture, pilgrimage has always been a great force for social harmony.”
He stated that the Harmukh–Gangbal pilgrimage enables us to convey to the younger generation that our eternal culture embodies not only the consciousness of the present but also the direction of the future.
He urged the citizens and the Harmukh Ganga Gangbal Trust to actively participate in activities like cleanliness drives, blood donation camps, health camps, tree planting drives and youth programs.
“May the snow-capped peaks of Harmukh inspire us to cultivate noble thoughts and may the blessings and compassion of Lord Shiva remain upon all pilgrims,” he said.
Published – 18 Sep 2026 22:29 IST