Sheshnag Lake History in Anantnag district of Kashmir valley

Sheshnag Lake History in Anantnag district of Kashmir Valley

Sheshnag Lake History in Anantnag district of Kashmir Valley: Sheshnag Lake is a pristine, high-altitude oligotrophic lake situated on the route leading to the revered Amarnath Cave. It is located 23 kilometers from Pahalgam, in the Anantnag district of Kashmir Valley, within the Indian Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

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Perched at an elevation of 3,590 meters, this alpine lake offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and is a popular destination among trekkers and pilgrims alike.

History & Geography

Sheshnag Lake formed centuries ago as a result of cloud bursts that caused a deep groove to be carved out by surrounding mountains. These mountains remain covered with snow and ice throughout the year, slowly melting and replenishing the lake with fresh water. The lake derives its name from Sheshanaga, the nagaraja or King of all Nāgas, who is regarded as one of the primal beings of creation in Hinduism.

Legends also surround the area, including the popular Kashmiri folk tale “Himal and Nagrai”, which centers around a fabled spring located an hour’s drive from Srinagar city. A stone marker stands there, commemorating the lore and the original aboriginal inhabitants of Kashmir, the Nagas.

Sheshnag Lake is home to a variety of fish, including the prized brown trout. During winter, the lake freezes over and is inaccessible due to heavy snowfall. It is surrounded by verdant meadows and snow-capped mountains, making it a breathtaking destination for tourists. The lake is primarily fed by snow melt and streams originating from mountaintops.

It eventually drains out through a stream that joins the Lidder River at Pahalgam. Overall, Sheshnag Lake is a must-visit destination for those seeking natural beauty and tranquility in the Kashmir Valley.

How To Reach Shesnag Lake

The lake can be accessed via a road journey of 113 kilometers up to Chandanwari, from where visitors can hire ponies and embark on a trek of 7 kilometers upslope to reach the lake. The journey to Sheshnag Lake is a scenic one, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

For those on a pilgrimage to the Amarnath Temple, Sheshnag Lake is a must-visit destination. The temple is located just 20 kilometers north of the lake, making it an ideal stopover for pilgrims en route to the temple. Overall, Sheshnag Lake offers a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and cultural significance, making it a popular destination among travellers from all over the world.

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