Ganderbal, Sept 18: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday flagged off the annual Harmukh-Gangbal Yatra from Naranag in Kangan, marking the beginning of the traditional pilgrimage to the sacred Gangbal Lake in the upper reaches of Ganderbal district.
A large number of devotees from Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of the country participated in the yatra, including a sizeable group of Kashmiri Pandits who arrived from different regions to join the annual pilgrimage organised by the Harmukh Ganga Gangbal Trust.
After flagging off the yatra, Sinha extended his greetings and best wishes to the pilgrims undertaking the journey.
Addressing reporters, the Lieutenant Governor said a large number of devotees had gathered for the pilgrimage and expressed hope that the yatra would bring blessings and peace to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
He also prayed for the region’s continued progress on the path of peace, development and prosperity.
The flag-off ceremony was attended by Member of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmad, Kangan MLA Mian Mehar Ali, and senior civil administration and police officials.
The pilgrimage holds religious and cultural significance for the Kashmiri Pandit community, with devotees travelling through the mountainous terrain of Naranag to reach Gangbal Lake, located at a high altitude in the Harmukh mountain range.
Authorities have made arrangements along the route to facilitate the pilgrims, including security measures, logistical support and other necessary facilities for the smooth conduct of the yatra.
The Harmukh-Gangbal Yatra is among the traditional religious pilgrimages associated with Kashmir’s cultural heritage and draws devotees from different parts of the country each year.
