50 kilometers away from Srinagar, at the foothills of the magnificent Haramukh, Gangbal –an alpine fresh water lake stands still. The lake is surrounded by mountains like a precious jewel.
Situated at an elevation of about 3600 meters, this high-altitude lake is about 2.5 km long and a kilometer wide. Water from rain, springs and melting glaciers feeds this lake, which is the origin of Wangath – a tributary of the Sindh River. The river serves as a habitat for different varieties of freshwater fish, especially brown trout.
The Gangbal Lake is approached from Srinagar 45 kilometers by road via Ganderbal up to Naranag and then a trek of 13 kilometers up slopes leads to the lake, which can be covered by a horse ride or by foot./ Photo/ Rayees Shah~ TK
The Naranag- Gangabal trek is regarded as the most beautiful trek in Kashmir. Another trek which leads to the lake site is from Sonamarg via the Vishansar Lake. Photo Rayees Shah
The trek crosses three mountain passes:Nichnai pass, Gadsar pass and Zajibal pass. The Gangabal Lake can also be accessed through a trek from Bandipora via Arin. Photo/ Rayees Shah
With breathtaking landscape and mesmerizing meadows the trek to Gangabal Lake is a perfect way to reflect, recharge and reconnect with self. Here are some of the pictures of the magnificent area surrounding the Gangabal Lake. Photo Rayees Shah
