Located at a considerable distance of about 45kms from the capital city of Srinagar, the Gangabal Lake is one of the most visited lakes of the Kashmir Valley. It is considered as one of the sacred places of the Hindus, thereby drawing the attention of numerous pilgrims towards it. Due to its religious value, the Lake is crowded by devotees throughout the year. One can access the lake via Sonamarg.
Importance
The foothills of Mount Haramukh are the dwelling place of the very famous Gangabal Lake. The Lake is one of the most visited lakes of the Kashmir Valley. The Gangabal Lake is widely renowned as Uttarganga as it is considered to be the true foundation of Kashmir Ganga.
It is the concluding end of grand ‘Haramuktaganga’ pilgrimage. Lake’s turquoise painted expanse of water offers a delicate charisma to the valley which is recognized as the ‘Hardwar of Kashmir’. One must definitely visit the lake at least once in their lifetime.
Attractions
Trekking and camping are the two most important activities of tourism interest. One can view the twin lakes of Gangabal and Nandakol from Zach pass. The higher you go, the better the view. So, try and try to climb as high as possible. The view is spectacular when the weather is clear.In order to enjoy fishing, one needs to get a permit from the capital city of Srinagar.
Amusements
The lake proves to be a dwelling place to a number of varieties of fish such as the brown trout. Nevertheless, to have the benefit of fishing, visitors need a permit from Srinagar. Besides fishing, this lake is extremely ideal for trekking and hiking. People can stroll all the way up over 4,000 meters, enjoying the green grasslands, the bountiful Himalayas who provide a shade to the nomads and their flock of sheep.
This view increments the beauty of the lake. One can also enjoy the view from a horse. In spite of entertaining the visitors through fishing, the Gangabal Lake also organizes several treks such as the one from Sonamarg though Kishansar and Vishansar, lasting for a period of 4days.
Things to Carry
Before setting out for any journey, we must always remember to carry the essential assets such as jackets, food, safe drinking water, camera, sunglass, woolen clothes, medicines and most importantly tickets. Best time to visit
One can visit the Gangabal Lake between the months of July and October as one cannot access the arena during other parts of the year due to snowfall. However, angling can also be enjoyed during March-October.
How to reach
By Air- One of the simplest ways of accessing Gangabal Lake is by air. Srinagar International Airport is well connected to the other cities of India via airways.
By Rail- One can also reach Ganderbal via railways. The Jammu Tawi Railway Station acts as a medium of connection between Ganderbal and the other regions of Jammu and Kashmir.
By Road-Ganderbal is well connected to the other places of the northern state of Jammu and Kashmir via roads. Roads are one of the fastest and easiest ways to reach Ganderbal. Taxis and cabs can be hired at nominal rates, as per the seasons.
