Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Anantnag is strategically located in Kashmir, making it a perfect base for exploring scenic hill stations, pilgrimage sites, and adventure spots. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat, historical sites, or adventure, here are the best nearby destinations & day trips from Anantnag.

 1. Pahalgam – The Valley of Shepherds

 Why Visit?

• One of the most famous hill stations in Kashmir.
• Base for Amarnath Yatra, known for Lidder River, Aru Valley & Betaab Valley.
• Ideal for river rafting, pony rides, and golf.

 Distance from Anantnag: 40 km (1.5-hour drive)
 Best Time to Visit: April–October (for sightseeing), December–February (for snow).
 How to Reach? Taxi or bus via NH44.

 2. Kokernag – The Land of Springs

 Why Visit?

• Famous for crystal-clear freshwater springs & botanical gardens.
• Surrounded by dense pine forests and stunning mountains.
• A great picnic and relaxation spot.

 Distance from Anantnag: 25 km (1-hour drive)
 Best Time to Visit: March–October
 How to Reach? By road via Anantnag-Kokernag Road.

 3. Martand Sun Temple – Ancient Hindu Heritage

 Why Visit?

• An 8th-century Hindu temple dedicated to the Sun God (Surya).
• Built by Lalitaditya Muktapida, showcasing Kashmir’s architectural grandeur.
• Offers stunning views of the Kashmir Valley.

 Distance from Anantnag: 9 km (30-minute drive)
 Best Time to Visit: Year-round
 How to Reach? Private cab or local bus.

 4. Verinag Spring – The Origin of Jhelum River

 Why Visit?

• The source of the Jhelum River, known for its deep blue waters.
• Built by Mughal Emperor Jahangir with Persian-style gardens.
• A peaceful getaway with ancient Mughal charm.

 Distance from Anantnag: 26 km (1-hour drive)
 Best Time to Visit: March–October
 How to Reach? Drive via NH44.

 5. Sinthan Top – A High-Altitude Adventure Spot

 Why Visit?

• A 12,400-ft-high mountain pass with 360-degree views of Kashmir & Jammu.
• Ideal for snow lovers, trekkers, and adventure seekers.
• Less crowded than Gulmarg, perfect for peaceful nature photography.

 Distance from Anantnag: 85 km (3-hour drive)
 Best Time to Visit: May–October (open in summer)
 How to Reach? Drive via Kokernag-Daksum Road.

 6. Aru Valley – A Hidden Paradise

 Why Visit?

• A less crowded valley, perfect for trekking & camping.
• Base camp for Kolahoi Glacier & Tarsar-Marsar Lake trek.
• Home to wildlife, meadows, and stunning river streams.

 Distance from Anantnag: 50 km (2-hour drive)
 Best Time to Visit: April–September
 How to Reach? Via Pahalgam.

 7. Betaab Valley – Bollywood’s Favorite Spot

 Why Visit?

• Named after the Bollywood movie “Betaab” (1983), filmed here.
• Snow-covered peaks, lush meadows & Lidder River views.
• A great spot for photography, nature walks & picnics.

 Distance from Anantnag: 43 km (1.5-hour drive)
 Best Time to Visit: April–November
 How to Reach? Via Pahalgam.

 8. Daksum – A Trekker’s Paradise

 Why Visit?

• Untouched meadows, waterfalls, and pine forests.
• Perfect for trekking, camping, and trout fishing.
• A great place for offbeat travelers looking for peace and adventure.

 Distance from Anantnag: 29 km (1-hour drive)
 Best Time to Visit: March–October
 How to Reach? Drive via Kokernag.

 9. Amarnath Cave Temple – The Sacred Shiva Shrine

 Why Visit?

• A famous Hindu pilgrimage site, known for the Ice Lingam of Lord Shiva.
• Pilgrimage starts from Pahalgam or Baltal, with a trek of 32 km.
• Helicopter services available from Pahalgam to Panjtarni.

 Distance from Anantnag: 88 km
 Best Time to Visit: July–August (Amarnath Yatra season)
 How to Reach? Drive to Pahalgam, then trek or take a helicopter.

 10. Ziyarat Baba Hyder Reshi – A Sufi Shrine

 Why Visit?

• One of the most respected Sufi shrines in Kashmir.
• A peaceful place with a calm and divine ambiance.

 Location: Anantnag city
 Best Time to Visit: Year-round
 How to Reach? Walk or take an auto-rickshaw in Anantnag.

 Best Day Trips from Anantnag

Anantnag is perfectly located for exploring the best of Kashmir. Whether you're seeking adventure in the mountains, spiritual peace, or historical wonders, there’s a perfect day trip waiting for you.

 Best Time to Visit: April–October (for sightseeing), December–February (for snow).
 Recommended Itinerary: Anantnag → Pahalgam → Aru Valley → Kokernag → Verinag → Sinthan Top.