Shrikhand Mahadev  Clean up and Awareness drive 

Shrikhand Mahadev is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in the Indian Himalayas, located at an altitude of about 18,570 feet in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. The site is known for the Shrikhand Mahadev peak, which is considered the abode of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims undertake the challenging Shrikhand Mahadev Yatra every year, usually during July, coinciding with the Shravan month in the Hindu calendar. The trek is demanding, with pilgrims navigating through dense forests, steep climbs, and glaciers.

The increasing popularity of the Shrikhand Mahadev Yatra has led to a rise in the number of pilgrims, which in turn has resulted in a significant environmental impact. The influx of visitors has led to an increase in litter, particularly non-biodegradable waste such as plastic bottles, food wrappers, and other discarded items. The pristine environment of this high-altitude region is particularly vulnerable to pollution, and the waste left behind by pilgrims poses a threat to the natural ecosystem.

The Himalayan Tribe Foundation has been conducting annual clean-up drives at Shrikhand Mahadev to address this growing problem. These drives are timed to follow the pilgrimage season, with volunteers trekking to the site to collect and properly dispose of the waste left by pilgrims. The clean-up efforts not only help preserve the natural beauty and sanctity of the area but also serve as a powerful tool for raising awareness about the importance of cleanliness and environmental stewardship among visitors.

During the 2024 clean-up drive, the foundation collected 100 kg of garbage, demonstrating the scale of the problem and the need for continued efforts to keep this sacred site clean. The foundation's work at Shrikhand Mahadev is a critical part of their broader mission to protect and restore the natural environments of Himalayan pilgrimage sites