Top places to visit

Top places to visit

Anantnag is one of the most picturesque regions of Kashmir, filled with lush valleys, rivers, ancient temples, and Mughal gardens. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or adventure enthusiast, here are the top places to visit in Anantnag.

 1. Pahalgam – The Valley of Shepherds

 Why Visit?

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

 Distance from Anantnag: 40 km (1.5-hour drive)
 Best Time to Visit: April–June (for greenery), December–February (for snow).

 2. Verinag Spring – The Source of Jhelum River

 Why Visit?

• Crystal-clear blue spring, considered the origin of Jhelum River.
• Surrounded by Mughal gardens, built by Emperor Jahangir.
• Ideal for picnics, photography, and nature walks.

 Distance from Anantnag: 26 km (1-hour drive)
 Best Time to Visit: March–October

 3. Kokernag – Land of Freshwater Springs

 Why Visit?

• Famous for gushing freshwater springs shaped like a chicken claw.
• Surrounded by botanical gardens, pine forests & stunning mountains.
• A perfect place for relaxation, picnics & trout fishing.

 Distance from Anantnag: 25 km (1-hour drive)
 Best Time to Visit: April–October

 4. Martand Sun Temple – Ancient Hindu Architecture

 Why Visit?

• A stunning 8th-century temple dedicated to Surya (the Sun God).
• Built by Lalitaditya Muktapida, showcasing Kashmiri-Hindu architecture.
• Offers panoramic views of the Kashmir Valley.

 Distance from Anantnag: 9 km (30-minute drive)
 Best Time to Visit: March–November

 5. Achabal Mughal Garden – A Royal Retreat

 Why Visit?

• A beautiful Mughal-era garden, built by Empress Nur Jahan.
• Features cascading fountains, terraced lawns, and Chinar trees.
• Inspired by Persian & Mughal garden styles.

 Distance from Anantnag: 9 km
 Best Time to Visit: April–October

 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

 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
 Best Time to Visit: April–November

 8. Daksum – A Trekker’s Paradise

 Why Visit?

• Known for pine forests, flowing streams & snow-clad mountains.
• A great place for trekking, angling, and camping.
• Ideal for offbeat travelers looking for peace and adventure.

 Distance from Anantnag: 29 km
 Best Time to Visit: March–October

 9. Amarnath Cave Temple – 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)

10. Ziyarat Baba Hyder Reshi – A Sufi Shrine

 Why Visit?

• One of the most respected Sufi shrines in Kashmir.
• Attracts devotees from different communities for spiritual healing.
• A peaceful place with a calm and divine ambiance.

 Location: Anantnag city
 Best Time to Visit: Anytime

 11. Sheshnag Lake – A High-Altitude Gem

 Why Visit?

• A serene alpine lake, located on the Amarnath Yatra trek.
• Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush meadows.
• Ideal for camping, trekking, and nature photography.

 Distance from Anantnag: 75 km (via Pahalgam)
 Best Time to Visit: June–September

 12. Sinthan Top – A High Mountain Pass

 Why Visit?

• A breathtaking viewpoint at 12,400 feet, offering 360-degree views.
• Ideal for snow lovers, with skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
• Less crowded than Gulmarg, perfect for adventure seekers.

 Distance from Anantnag: 85 km
 Best Time to Visit: May–October

 13. Lidder River – The Heart of Kashmir

 Why Visit?

• Flows through Pahalgam, Aru, and Betaab Valley.
• Famous for river rafting, trout fishing & scenic views.
• Great for picnics, photography & adventure sports.

 Best Location to Visit: Pahalgam, Anantnag
 Best Time to Visit: March–September

Anantnag is a treasure trove of natural beauty, religious sites, and adventure spots. Whether you want to explore Mughal gardens, hike through valleys, or visit ancient temples, this region has something for everyone!

 Best Time to Visit: April–October (for sightseeing), December–February (for snow).
 Recommended Route: Srinagar → Anantnag → Pahalgam → Kokernag → Verinag → Martand Temple