Archive · 18 Sep 2026
LG Sinha Flags Off Harmukh–Gangbal Pilgrimage, Urges Eco-Sensitive Journey
Manoj Sinha helped begin the Harmukh–Gangbal pilgrimage in Kashmir.
Devotees travel through difficult Himalayan terrain to reach the holy site.
Sinha said the journey connects people with their faith and history.
He explained that Mount Harmukh is considered the home of Lord Shiva.
Gangbal Lake is regarded as a sacred form of Mother Ganga.
He asked pilgrims to care for nature while they travel.
He said people should see themselves as guardians, not owners, of the environment.
The pilgrimage also brings people together and teaches humility.
Other public representatives attended the ceremony.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the Harmukh–Gangbal pilgrimage at Ganderbal on Friday.
Sinha urged devotees to protect the fragile Himalayan environment during their spiritual journey.
Gangbal Lake, at 14,500 feet, is revered as the sacred presence of Mother Ganga.
Mount Harmukh is described in the Nilamata Purana as the abode of Lord Shiva.
Mian Altaf Ahmad and Mian Mehar Ali attended the flag-off ceremony.
- Who
- Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, devotees, Member of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmad, and Member of the Legislative Assembly Mian Mehar Ali.
- What
- The Harmukh–Gangbal pilgrimage was officially flagged off, with an appeal for environmentally responsible travel.
- When
- Friday; the articles do not provide an exact date.
- Where
- Ganderbal in the Kashmir valley, with the pilgrimage associated with Mount Harmukh and Gangbal Lake.
- Why
- To begin the sacred pilgrimage and encourage devotees to protect the Himalayan environment amid climate and ecological challenges.
- Event
- Harmukh–Gangbal pilgrimage flag-off
- Flagged off by
- Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha
- Location of ceremony
- Ganderbal, Kashmir valley
- Gangbal Lake elevation
- 14,500 feet
- Environmental appeal
- Pilgrims were urged to protect nature and the fragile Himalayan environment.
- Religious associations
- Mount Harmukh is associated with Lord Shiva, while Gangbal Lake is associated with Mother Ganga.
- Attendees
- Mian Altaf Ahmad and Mian Mehar Ali