Kokernag Garden - Kashmir's Famous Freshwater Spring

Srinagar, Jammu and KashmirNATURE

Famous for its freshwater springs and lush botanical garden, Kokernag is a peaceful nature retreat in Kashmir's Anantnag district.

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Info

NATURE

Info

2-3 hours

Accessibility

Not Wheelchair Friendly

Parking

Parking Available

Photography

Photography Allowed

About the Destination

Overview

Kokernag is a well-known destination in the Breng Valley of Kashmir, primarily recognized for its large freshwater spring, Papashudan Nag. The spring's water is believed to have digestive and medicinal properties. Its most distinct feature is how it gushes out from the base of a forested hill and immediately splits into numerous channels, which from above, are said to resemble the claw of a chicken ('Koker' means chicken, 'Nag' means spring). The area around the spring has been developed into the Kokernag Botanical Garden. This garden features meticulously maintained flowerbeds, manicured lawns, and a variety of trees, including chinar and pine. Visitors experience a calm environment dominated by the constant sound of flowing water. Walkways crisscross the garden, allowing for easy exploration of the different sections and channels of the spring. There is also a government-run trout farm here, one of the largest in Asia, where you can see trout being reared in raceways fed by the spring water.

Why This Place is Special

• The Papashudan Nag, Kashmir's largest freshwater spring
• Water believed to have medicinal and digestive qualities
• A well-maintained botanical garden and arboretum
• Asia's largest trout fisheries farm
• The source of the Bringhi River
• Pleasant and cool climate during summer months
• A popular picnic spot for families

Ideal For

FamiliesCouplesSolo travelersNature loversPhotographersSenior citizens

Facilities & Amenities

• Parking
• Restrooms
• Food stalls
• Seating areas
• Drinking water
• First aid
• Souvenir shops
• Information center

Visitor Tips

• Visit between 10 AM and 4 PM for the best sunlight and to enjoy the gardens fully.
• Weekdays are much quieter than weekends, which attract large local crowds.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the extensive garden area.
• Carry a light jacket or shawl, as the temperature can be surprisingly cool even on a sunny day due to the spring water.
• Try the freshly fried trout at one of the local restaurants or government-run cafeterias nearby.
• The best spots for photography are near the main source of the spring and along the water channels.
• Carry some cash, as digital payment options may be limited at smaller food stalls.
• Keep the area clean
• do not litter in the gardens or water channels.

Rules & Restrictions

• Do not enter the water channels or the spring source.
• Littering is strictly prohibited.
• Plucking flowers or damaging plants is not allowed.
• Consumption of alcohol in the garden is forbidden.

Safety Information

• Always check the prevailing local conditions and travel advisories before planning your trip to the Kashmir valley.
• The stone pathways near the water channels can be slippery
• walk carefully.
• Mobile network connectivity can be intermittent. BSNL and Jio generally have better coverage in the area.
• Stay on the designated pathways within the botanical garden.
• Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas during peak season.
• If trying local food, ensure it is from a clean and hygienic stall or restaurant.
• Inform someone about your itinerary, especially if traveling solo.

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Location & Address

Kokernag, Breng Valley, Anantnag District, Kokernag, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India

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Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Kokernag is from April to September. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the botanical garden is in full bloom with a variety of flowers. Summer (May-July) is peak season, offering a cool escape from the heat. The monsoon season (July-August) sees lush greenery, although with occasional rain showers. Autumn (September-October) offers beautiful foliage colors. Winters (November-February) are harsh with heavy snowfall, which can sometimes restrict access.
Peak Crowd: May to August, especially on weekends and public holidays, due to summer vacations and pleasant weather.
Moderate Crowd: April, September, and October on weekdays.
Low Crowd: November to March, as the cold weather and potential snowfall deter most visitors.

How to Reach

Air

Srinagar International Airport (SXR) is the nearest airport, located approximately 85 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi for a 2.5 to 3-hour drive to Kokernag.

Train

The nearest major railway station is Jammu Tawi (245 km). From Jammu, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Anantnag/Srinagar. The closest local railway station is in Anantnag (25 km), connected by the Kashmir Railway line from Banihal to Baramulla.

Road

Kokernag is well-connected by road from Srinagar and Anantnag. Take the NH44 to Anantnag, and from there, a local road leads directly to Kokernag. Taxis and shared cabs are readily available from Anantnag.

Local Transport

Within the Anantnag district, shared taxis (Sumos) are the primary mode of local transport. For a more comfortable journey from Srinagar, it is best to hire a private cab for a day trip, which often includes other nearby spots like Verinag and Achabal.