Top 5 Best Places Visiting in Anantnag for Nature, Heritage & Spirituality

1.Lidderwat

Lidderwat Valley is a serene and beautiful valley sited in the lovely region Pahalgam in the Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir. This beautiful Valley nest at confluence of rivers, generated from Kolahoi glacier, Tarsar, and Marsar Lakes, serving as a primary base camp to of batch of trekker and mountaineer going to the nearby high Altitude lakes, Glaciers, peaks.

Highlights of Lidderwat Valley

• Scenic Location and Geography:
• Lidderwat Valley is sandwiched between the Kolahoi and Tarsar Ranges offering a sight on lush green meadows, dense alpine shades and towering snow-capped peaks. The valley is located at the Lidder River basin in the heart of the Lidder rivers which originates from glaciers of Tarsar , Marsar, and Kolahoi and confluence wherein forms the Lidder River which drains down as Pahalgam.

• Lodge Base Camp for Trekkers and Climbers:
• Lidderwat is well known Base camp for trekkers those are going for Expedition such as:

Kolahoi Glacier – Known as the largest glacier in the Kashmir valley.

Tarsar and Marsar Lakes – Twin high lakes which are renowned for their beauty.

High-Altitude Peaks – Several mountains around the valley are the preference of mountaineers and adventure junkies.

• Shepherd’s Haven:
• In the summer the valley becomes a bustling pastures’ land as it is flocked by shepherds (locally called Bakarwals) who bring their sheep and goats and graze in the lush pastures. These herders plus add a authenticity along with a cultural charm to the valley.

Best Time to Visit Lidderwat Valley

The best time to visit Lidderwat Valley is May to September when the weather is favorable and the valley is full of flowers. In this unfavourable season, trekking routes are open and the valley gains life with presence of herdsmen and wildflowers.

In winter (November to March) the valley remains glaciated and thereby inaccessible, but presents an atypically snowy, hauntingly beautiful combination to seekers of winter adventure.

2.Tulian Lake

Tulian Lake is a one of the highest altitude glacial lake situated at the height of about 3, 684 meters (12,087 feet) above the mean sea level. This immaculate lake situated in surroundings of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir is celebrated for its striking beauty and attrition trek. It still is enclosed by tall Himalayan mountains, some of which are even snow-covered all through the summer months.

Why Visit Tulian Lake?

Unspoiled Charm: Because Tulian Lake is far from human interference, it remains a relatively simple and peaceful area that makes it ideal for people who are seeking seclusion in a natural setting.

Adventure and Thrill: Tulian Lake trek is opted for adventure lovers combining lush green, difficult climb and magic angle view.

Photography Paradise: The trek and lake itself provides ample of salutes for spectacular photography due to ever changing landscapes and beautiful beauty.

Best Time to Visit Tulian Lake

The most suitable time to visit Tulian Lake is in May to September as the weather remains pleasant and the treks are accessible. Meanwhile, during this time, trekkers can witness green lush surrounding, clear blue sky, and nice comfortable warm KeyError daytime temperatures.

During winter (October to April) the valley is heavily in snow, and the hike will be quite challenging and mostly the lake will be entirely iced.

3.Martand Sun Temple

Martand Sun temple that is dedicated to Surya (Sun God) is an excellent example of the graceful India’s ancient architectural beauty. Situated more than five kms away from Anantnag in the beautiful state of Jammu and Kashmir, otherwise known as Martand for its significance, this particular temple is one of the loveliest structures planned ever in India.

Though in ruins today, Martand Sun Temple still leaves a lasting impression on the visitors with its grandeur, exquisite carvings and timeless beauty.

Historical Significance

The temple was constructed during the 8th century CE by the hands of King Lalitaditya Muktapida of Karkota Dynasty. Synthetic approaches reflect first enlightenment cusps of Kashmiri Hindu architecture, while symbolizing cultural and Artistic success of ancient Kashmir.

The name of the temple is derived from the word “Martand” which is derived from the Sanskrit word for Sun. The temple was built as a dedication to Surya, the Hindu Sun God. It was built to depict glory of Sun God and used as central place of worship for Kashmiri Hindus.

Why Visit the Martand Sun Temple?

Architectural and Historical Significance:One of India’s earliest sun temples, Martand Sun Temple has a lot of significance as an ancient Kashmiri Hindu culture and building architecture representative.

Cultural Significance The location is a proof of abundant history and architectural excellence of ancient civilizations of Kashmir.

Beautiful Views and Peaceful Spot: The temple’s height, sitting on a hill, gives magnificent views of the surrounding area creating a perfect setting for snapping photos and silently contemplation.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Martand Sun Temple is spring and summer only when weather is cool and the valley is in full fledged bloom. Autumn too ranging from September to November is also excellent for a visit to the temple and to see the dull golden hues of Kashmir’s landscape.

4.Verinag

Located in the beautiful terrain of Jammu and Kashmir, Verinag Spring is visually stunning natural wonder that lies on the way to Jammu. Famous for its deepest blue waters that emerge from the foot of a towering mountain spur, Verinag has immense historical, natural, as well as cultural values.

Historical Significance

Verinag had great status during the Mughal era, when Emperor Jehangir, fell in love with its beauty, made a pleasure garden and a summer retreat next to the spring. Jehangir’s love for this serene spot was so extravagant that as penned in the historical records of here, as he was dying at Changas, village near Rajouri he wished to be buried at Verinag.

The emperor’s fascination directed him to have an octagonal pavement made around the spring, proving even more its attractiveness. The garden with its Mughal pattern, floral beds and risen water features, perfect symmetrical pathways and shows at the glory and beauty of the style evidences Mughal.

Jehangir himself wrote in his memoirs that it was impossible for one to discover any place of such beauty located elsewhere in the world than Verinag.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Verinag is during the spring and summer season (March to June) that offers remit climate, and the garden in full bloom. Also a superb time to visit would be Autumn (September to November), when the land is painted in shades of amber.

Why Visit Verinag?

Verinag is a must visited place for naturalist people, history lover and for peace and cool mind. Its blend of natural splendor, Mughal legacy and peaceful atmosphere provides tourists an opportunity to enjoy the ageless allure of Kashmir.

5.Pahalgam

Pahalgam located in the north east of Anantnag district is one of the most famous health resorts in the heavenly state of Jammu and Kashmir. Ringed by towering hills covered in lush evergreen forests, Pahalgam caters to all kind of travelers with rejuvenating cool and healthy climate, breathtaking natural beauty.

Activities and Attractions

Lidder River: The crystal clear waters of the Lidder River make it an ideal spot for angling, trout fishing and picnic beside the river side.

Aru and Betaab Valleys : Jaunts around Aru and Betaab Valleys are in level for their verdant, massive meadows and enchanting perspectives.

Trekking and Adventure: Pahalgam is a starting point of trek to the high altitudes lakes, Tarsar, Marsar, and Tulian, etc. It is also used for horse riding, camping and white-water rafting.

Baisaran Valley: There you will often hear referred to as “Mini Switzerland”, it is a picturesque meadow located a short trek from Pahalgam.

Best Time to Visit Pahalgam

• Summer (Mar to June): Best time to visit and take sightseeing, hiking and pleasant weather.
• Winter (December to February): Ideal for getting snow showers and sports of winter.
• Amarnath Yatra Season (July-August): Pahalgam is a fully loaded pilgrim destination for the seasons period.

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