Army, Galo Welfare Society finalise plan for Topo Gonov pilgrimage

Manigong (Arunachal Pradesh), Dec 22 : The Indian Army and the Galo Welfare Society (GWS) have finalised the roadmap for a community pilgrimage to the sacred high-altitude site of Topo Gonov (2,900 metres), following a coordination meeting in Manigong on Monday.

The pilgrimage is scheduled from January 19 to 24, 2026, and is being billed as a joint effort to preserve and promote the indigenous cultural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh.

During the meeting, GWS leaders and tribal elders shared the historical significance of Topo Gonov, describing the peaks as ancestral landmarks that reflect the heritage and resilience of the Galo people.

A local priest also spoke on the site’s religious importance, calling Topo Gonov a sanctuary for prayer and traditional rituals, and said the journey would help the community reconnect with a sacred space that has remained difficult to access for generations due to the terrain.

In response, the Indian Army assured full logistical and safety support for the expedition, including high-altitude movement protocols to address the challenges of the 2,900-metre ascent.

The Army said it would provide a comprehensive support system for the delegation, including tribal elders and women representatives, to ensure the pilgrimage is conducted safely and with dignity.

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