I went for the first time in May to see the source of the Ganges. 2006. I saw, I was fascinated, I was amazed. But I never thought I would suffer from it. But I got it.

2018. Once again I reached the same place. But, the big stranger looked around. Many scenes from twelve years ago were shining in the mirror of the mind, with which there is a strong discrepancy around the present.

Now just the picture: Gangotri Glacier seen twelve years ago.

Has nature made itself unfamiliar? Or, are we responsible for it? Very complex question. Although we all know the answer.

From Gangotri to Gomukh: The shape of the 14 km hilly path varies from place to place. The dense green path ends at the banquet. There is also the residence of Lalbaba Ashram and Garhwal Nigam. Most of the people who trek to Gomukh or Tapoban stay at this place at night. The next morning he went out to see Gomukh.

Bhojpur’s Lal Baba’s Ashram. GNVM is a little far away.

We were no exception. Not twelve years ago, not this time. Two igloos are currently being built by the forest department. That igloo of fiberglass is almost at the end. I think next time I will definitely be able to enjoy the taste of Antarctica in this holy place of Uttarakhand.

But, no! I will not go. The wonder of nature that I saw on the pages of a geography book from my childhood, when I finally saw it 12 years ago, is not there! The source of the Ganges, the holiest river in India, was destroyed long ago. But there was the glacier and its cavity, which made the Indians free from their sins.

The forest department’s ‘igloo’.

The 2013 floods caused severe damage to much of Uttarakhand. The Gangotri Glacier also collapsed at that time. Along with that there is the disturbance of warming. That ice wall is no more. There are some patterns left. The Gangotri Glacier, which at one time was trekking to Tapoban, is now closed. Permission to go to Tapoban is available only if you have a permit, trained guide and suitable equipment.

Bhagirathi Picks …

The Shivling Peak from Gangotri and the Bhagirathi Peak that once peeked out from Chirabasa are now fully visible. The form of the rough mountain is like a big cruel tooth-nail all around.

Nah! I will not go. Nature, you stay well. Keep us well.