Ganderbal, Aug 30: The annual Gangbal yatra commenced here in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district on Saturday . The pilgrimage to the Harmukh-Gangbal Lake situated at an elevation of 3570 meters started from Naranag area of Kangan in Ganderbal district early Saturday after the group of pilgrims mostly Kashmiri Pandits was flagged off by the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg in presence of Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore. SSP Ganderbal Khalil Poswal, CO.118 Bn. CRPF, and other civil and police officials.
The group of pilgrims left from the Naranag temple for Annual Harmukh Gangbal yatra amid religious fervor and were accompanied by SDRF team, Police , Army , CRPF and other officials. After performing Puja at Naranag temple, devotees set on foot to undertake journey to Gangabal Lake , which is located around 14,500 feet above sea level in the Harmukh mountain range.
According to officials, the sacred puja would be performed on the banks of Gangbal lake on Sunday following which the pilgrims will return the next day. The pilgrimage was organized under the banner of the Harmukh Ganga (Gangabal) Trust (HGGT).
“We are very happy to be part of this yatra which is of great importance for Pandits,” a pilgrim said, adding “we are grateful to the administration and Ganderbal civil and police administration and locals for extending their co-operation and support facilitating this yatra.”
District Administration has made all arrangements including accommodation, food, medical and security arrangements for the pilgrims.
