SRINAGAR, June 20: The historic Naranag Temple in Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir has been reopened for devotees and tourists following a comprehensive security review, the Lieutenant Governor’s administration announced on Thursday. The ancient religious site, a significant tourist and pilgrimage destination, had been closed for over a year due to security considerations.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the decision to reopen the temple was conveyed by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha via a post on the social media platform X. He stated, “After thorough security review, decision has been taken to open the Naranag Temple at Ganderbal for devotees and tourists.” The temple complex had been inaccessible since April of the previous year.
The Naranag temple, situated in the upper reaches of Ganderbal, has long been a point of interest for both religious pilgrims and sightseers. Its closure had raised concerns among local communities, as it impacted livelihoods dependent on tourism and religious visitor footfall. Mian Mehar Ali, the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Kangan constituency, had previously raised the issue multiple times, highlighting the economic repercussions. Ali had met with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha recently to discuss the closure and advocate for its reopening, a sentiment echoed by various other stakeholders and political figures.
The reopening is anticipated to revitalize religious tourism and facilitate pilgrimage activities in the Naranag area, which is renowned for its ancient temple architecture and its picturesque natural surroundings. Officials confirmed that all necessary security measures have been implemented to ensure the safety and security of all visitors to the temple premises.
The Naranag complex, comprising several ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a significant archaeological and religious site. It dates back to the 8th century and is attributed to King Lalitaditya of the Karkota dynasty. The site’s historical and spiritual importance, combined with the natural beauty of the surrounding Trifilar valley, makes it a unique destination. The closure had deprived many of the opportunity to experience its heritage and tranquility.
The administration’s move to reopen the temple is seen as a positive step towards promoting tourism and religious accessibility in the region. Security arrangements are expected to be robust, balancing the need for safety with the objective of facilitating a welcoming environment for pilgrims and tourists alike. This reopening is poised to contribute to the local economy and enhance the cultural and religious landscape of Ganderbal.
The Chenab Times News Desk