Ganderbal, Sept 22: The Harmakh-Gangbal Lake pilgrimage commenced on Friday morning from the Naranag area in Ganderbal district of central Kashmir. Located at an elevation of 3,570 meters, the yatra sees the participation of a large number of devotees who trek the region to take the blessings.
The yatra was flagged off by the Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Shyambir, and SSP Ganderbal, Nakhil Borkar, in the presence of several civil, police and Army officers .
The officials said that a group of 70 pilgrims embarked on the annual pilgrimage on Friday from the Naranag Temple, for the Harmukh-Gangbal Yatra.
The pilgrims , overwhelmed with religious fervor, are accompanied by the SDRF team, police personnel, and other officials.
After offering prayers at the Naranag temple for blessings, devout pilgrims trek approximately 36 kilometers on foot to reach Gangbal Lake which is nestled at an altitude of around 14,500 feet within the Haramkh Mountain Range.
On Saturday, a holy prayer will be conducted on the banks of Gangbal Lake, and the pilgrims are set to return from Gangbal the following day.
This yatra was organized under the auspices of the Harmukh Ganga Trust and the All Parties Migration Coordination Committee.
Notably, the District administration Ganderbal has made comprehensive arrangements for visitors, including lodging, meals, medical assistance, and safety measures.
Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Shyambir, emphasized that the administration has diligently ensured all necessary safety and logistical preparations for the yatra.
