Located in the upper hills of Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal District, Naranag is one of the most picturesque places in Kashmir valley akin to a paradise for tourists, trekkers and adventure lovers. It is located at the foot of Pir Panjal range, which is spread to the southeast connecting it with other famous trekking points.
The presence of the majestic Gangabal lake adds to its enchanting allure and beautiful view.
Moreover, the premises of a temple symbolizing an ancient monument dedicated to Lord Shiva is also situated in the vicinity of Naranag.
Naranag is located about 50 km from the Summer Capital Srinagar and near about 30 Km from main town Kangan.
The place is surrounded by lush green forests and meadows. One of Naranag’s main attractions is the Naranag temple built in the 8th century. It is one of the important archaeological sites of the country .
The village surrounding Naranag serves as a base camp for Harmukh, Gangabal and Satsar. A tributary river of the Indus river flows through the village of Wangat besides the presence of a glacier.
This place consists of a cluster of temples adjacent to each other at a distance of about 200 meters. According to historians, Naranag temple was dedicated to Lord Shiva or Mahadev by the 8th century ruler Lalith Aditya Maktadia.
It is believed that king Avanti Vermin visited him and donated a pedestal for bathing in Bhatshir. The architecture of Naranag temple showcases the art of the 8th century.
This destination can flourish the economy and keep up the legacy of rich tradition, culture and ancient history of Kashmir if it is brought up on the tourist map.
Naranag used to be the base camp for the annual pilgrimage for Gangabal (high altitude lake located on the foot of Harmukh mountain – which is considered as Mount Kailash of Kashmir). Harmukh valley trek is the last part of Seven Great alpine lakes of Sonamarg to Naranag trek.
This place is also famous for its scenic meadows, lakes and mountains apart from serving as a base camp for trekking to the Mount Haramukh and Gangabal Lake.
According to locals, Naranag has the grandeur to attract the tourists from across the globe if the administration and tourism department intervene and consider its proper development.
“I had heard that Kashmir is the paradise on earth and here you can actually have that feeling of being in paradise. Moreover, Kashmir is safe for everyone and we are delighted and equally excited to see more places in Kashmir,” a non-local tourist said.
Locals hope that the administration works to provide a face-lift to the place and bring it on the map of pilgrimage tourism.
