Ganderbal, Aug 30, 2025: The 17th Annual Gangbal Yatra, also known as the “Kailash of Kashmir,” commenced on Saturday from the Naranag base camp in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, marking a significant spiritual journey for Kashmiri Pandits. Organised by the Harmukh Ganga Gangbal Trust (HGGT) under the leadership of Vinod Pandit, the pilgrimage to the sacred Harmukh-Gangbal Lake, situated at an elevation of 14,500 feet in the Harmukh mountain range, began with a Charri Pooja ceremony at the historic Naranag temple.
The event was flagged off by Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Jatin Kishore, SSP Ganderbal Khalil Poswal, and officials from the CRPF, Army, and SDRF.The pilgrimage, revived in 2009 after a hiatus of over 150 years, draws devotees from across India to perform rituals and offer prayers for their ancestors at the Gangbal Lake, considered the abode of Lord Shiva. The 36-km trek from Naranag to the high-altitude lake is supported by robust security arrangements involving J&K Police, CRPF, Army, and BSF, ensuring the safety of pilgrims along the challenging route. The District Administration Ganderbal has prioritised healthcare, accommodation, food, and medical facilities, with langar services, sleeping bags, pony services, and priests arranged by the HGGT.
A special puja is scheduled for Sunday at the lake, after which pilgrims will return the following day.Pilgrims expressed gratitude to the local community, civil administration, and security forces for their cooperation, emphasising the cultural and spiritual significance of the yatra. “We are thrilled to participate in this sacred journey, which holds immense importance for Kashmiri Pandits,” said a devotee, highlighting the role of the Ganderbal administration in facilitating the event. The yatra underscores efforts to preserve the cultural heritage of Kashmiri Pandits and restore historic religious sites in the region.
