Every destination in Kashmir epitomises beauty, and Daksum is no different. Fringed by dense forests and enclosed by Pir Panjal, Daksum boasts stunning scenery. After passing by the Mughal Gardens of Achabal and the magnificent Kokarnag springs, you will stumble upon Daksum on the Anantnag Simthan Kishwar trail. It makes for an ideal getaway from Kokernag, especially if you are a keen trekker or want to try angling. If you simply want to take in the lush beauty and enjoy it in solitude, then Daksum presents many opportunities for you to do as well.
Things to Do
Camping
Daksum serves as an ideal destination for setting up campsites, offering a perfect starting point for trekkers headed towards the renowned Sinthan Top, situated just 31 kilometres away. The best part about Daksum is that you can pitch your camp anywhere and wake up to a scenic view.
Paradise for Trekkers
Daksum is a hiker's dream with its evergreen trees, free-flowing streams, and hidden grassy meadows. With the mellow sound of the Bringi River's pouring water in the background, Daksum is a beautiful haven for all adventure-loving and outdoorsy travellers.
Trout Fishing
The trout in Daksum are also well known. The place is also a great spot for anglers. Take a day trip to the Bringhi River, which is replete with fish, and spend a relaxing time catching trout and immersing yourself in the sounds and sights of nature, with the river's gushing noises or the occasional shepherd tending his sheep serving as your sole company.
Places to See
Achabal
Just 58 km from Srinagar and 38 km from Daksum is Achabal. The Mughal Empress Nur Jehan had her pleasure retreat at Achabal, accessible via Anantnag. Achabal, which is 1,677 m above sea level, is a sight to behold with its scenic attractions. It is also home to one of India's finest Mughal Gardens. From Daksum, you must make a day trip to Achabal.
Kokernag
In Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district, Kokernag is both a town and a notified area committee. Nag and Koker both denote serpents. The spring emerges from the foot of a heavily forested slope, where it splits into channels that resemble a hen's claw foot, giving rise to its name. Kokernag is located at an altitude of about 2,000 m above sea level. The location is well-known for its gardens, Kashmir's biggest freshwater spring, and trout streams.
Verinaag
Another spring of great beauty and significance with deep blue water is located at Verinag on the road to Jammu. It similarly comes forth from the base of a high scarp of a mountain spur, and Jehangir once again constructed a pleasure garden and a summer residence here. Emperor Jehangir built an octagonal pavement around the spring, and he was so enamoured by Verignag's beauty that, while he lay dying at Chengas Village near Rajouri, he asked to be buried at Verignag. This vacation spot is in Tehsil Shahabad Bala, some 26 kilometres from Anantnag Town. A tourist bungalow, a rest area, and some shelters are scattered at this location.
Getting There
Daksum falls on the Anantnag-Semthan-Kishtwar road (NH-1B), which is part of the hiking route to Kishtwar, and is located around 85 kilometres from Srinagar. The trail goes on from here to Sinthan Pass and Sinthan Peak. Daksum and Dandipora are commonly visited by travellers heading to Sinthan Peak.
Air Srinagar is the closest airport for air travellers. A tourist taxi or bus can be taken to complete the 66-kilometre trip to Anantnag from the Srinagar airport.
Road You can also drive to Daksum from Anantnag by way of Achabal and Kokernag.
Rail Rail travellers can take a train to Jammu Tawi Railway Station (296 kilometres), Srinagar (98 kilometres), or Anantnag and then use public transit from the railhead. After going through Achabal Mughal Gardens and on the road to Sinthan Top, you will come to Daksum, which is close to Kokernag Springs.
Best Time to Visit
From April through October, Daksum is transformed into a tropical haven. It is the season when hikers, campers, and picnickers come to the valley to take in its untamed beauty. Beginning in November and lasting through February is the winter season. Daksum transforms into a snowy white paradise during this time. The native Bringhi River flows to its highest volume during the monsoon season.
Cover photo credit Depositphotos