Sheeshnag lake trek
Nestled at an altitude of 3590 meters above sea level, Sheshnag Lake is an oligotrophic lake (water body that has low content of algal production and thus has clear water of high-drinking quality) that is home to several species of fish including the brown trout. The lake appears greenish in colour because of its lush green meadows that surrounds it making it a breathtaking beauty to admire. With a measurement of 1.1 km in length and 0.7 km wide, the lake is considered as one of the most beautiful sights of Jammu and Kashmir tourism. Sheshnag Lake is mainly fed by the streams and snow mountains above it and it usually freezes in winter. Along with its scientific importance, the lake has special significance for Hindu followers as well. Though there are various mythological stories related to the lake but the most commonly believed one is that Sheshnag Lake basically belongs to Sheshnag, the Lord of Snakes, and is said to be dug by the Lord himself. And because of its presence on the route to holy Amarnath Cave, Sheshnag Lake is also a sacred pilgrimage site. Travellers can easily trek this must visit Pahalgam tourist place from Chandanwadi Valley, which is only about 7 miles away. It is best to visit this lake between June and September, when it is easily accessible and at its scenic best.
Day 1: Pahalgam – Chandanwari – Zojibal
We start our day tour from Pahalgam to Chandanwari early in the morning heading towards Sheshnag Lake. During the trek, the trail passes through some of the most beautiful forests of maple and pine along Lidder River. After a 9-10 km walk up soft slopes, the trail enters the beautiful valley of Chandanwari. . You may stop to have lunch in between the green mountains. Then starting again, the trail ascends initially for few kilometers to Pissu Top (11,000 feet) from where you get breathtaking views all around. Zojibal is 5 kms away from Pissutop .It is straight rocky walk from Pissutop. Overnight stay at Zojibal.
Day 2: Zojibal – Nagakoti – Sheeshnag
Distance between Zojibal and Nagakoti is around 2KM and have moderate climb. Altitude increases by 300 feet in these 2 Kms. There are some beautiful mountains streams between these points. We covered this short distance in more than one hour courtesy some photo session. Some part of this 2KM distance is very narrow and Yatris are not allowed to travel on ponies. They have to walk through this narrow path. After Nagakoti our next and last destination for today was the Sheshnag Lake. Sheshnag Lake is the origin of beautiful East Lidder River. From Nagkoti, Sheshnag yatra camp is at 2 kms away and just after 1KM you can enjoy the breathtaking views of this charming lake. After the first glimpse of the lake, you will forget all tiredness of the journey. The first scene of the lake is small light blue colored water appearing between two small hills and a small stream flowing through the gap between those two hills. Overnight stay at Sheshnag.
Day 3: Sheshnag Lake – Chandanwari – Pahalgam
After spending the night at the shores of the lake, it is time to head back to Pahalgam. Follow the same trail to Chandanwari for about 4 hours. The trail passes Pissu Top and a spectacular, primeval countryside. After reaching Chandanwari, take a break and then you will start trekking again, and this section will take you through dense jungles of maple. Keep following the same trail to reach Pahalgam. Stay for the night at either Pahalgam or board a vehicle and head to Srinagar.
