Gangabal Lake - History, Timings & Entry Fee

At a distance of 13 km from Naranag, 62 km from Srinagar, and 69 km from Sonamarg, Gangabal Lake is a picturesque lake located at the foothills of the Haramukh mountain range in the Ganderbal district of Jammu & Kashmir. Also known as Haramukh Ganga, it is one of the largest alpine lakes in India, and among the must-include places in Sonamarg Tour Packages.

Lies at an elevation of 3570 m, Gangabal Lake is an alpine high-altitude oligotrophic lake that is home to several species of fish, including the brown trout. Fed by precipitation, glaciers, and springs, the lake has a maximum length of 2.5 km and maximum width of 1 km. The lake feeds Nundkol Lake, and through Wangath Nallah it merges with the Sindh River. It is the largest alpine lake in Kashmir and is considered the Ganges of Kashmir. Every year lot of Kashmir Hindus visit this lake on the Ganga Ashtami for prayers and blessings.

Gangabal Lake is also a part of the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. So one can reach either from Naranag or Shitkadi, Sonamarg. Among several trek routes to the lake, travelers prefer the one that commences at Naranag and is the most popular and trending short trek of the Valley. From Naranag, it is a 13 km short trek that passes through alpine meadows, valleys, waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and 3 alpine lakes. It is a moderate trek and only 60 percent of the trek is gradual ascent. One can also hire horses to reach the lake but will cost you a very hefty amount.

One can also reach Gangabal Lake from Sonamarg, which is about 63 km long and takes around 3-4 days to complete. The trail passes through Vishansar, Krishnasar, Gadsar, and Satsar Lakes and is marked with rocky terrains, narrow ridges, and streams, making it a challenging yet rewarding experience. Moreover, the pristine Gangabal Lake, is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dense forests and you simply cannot miss the opportunity to camp at the banks of the lake, under the starry night sky.

The best time to trek and visit this lake is from May to October. However, April to June is the best time to visit Satsar Lake, as it is most beautiful during this time & you can enjoy a variety of activities. The lake is frozen and covered in huge snow in winter which makes it inaccessible.

Timings: 7 AM - 5 PM

Entry: Rs. 50 per Person