An altitude of 3590 meters above sea level, Sheshnag Lake is an oligotrophic lake (water body with low protoctist content and high-quality clear water), home to many fish species along with brown trout. The lake appears green in color thanks to its lush green meadows that surround it creating it a wide-ranging beauty to admire. With a measurement of 1.1 kilometers long and 0.7 km wide, the lake is considered as one of the most stunning sights of Jammu and Kashmir tourism.
Sheshnag Lake is especially fed by the streams and snow mountains on top of it and it always freezes in winter. In addition to its scientific importance, the lake also has special significance for Hindu followers. There are numerous mythological stories associated with the lake, but the most commonly believed is that Sheshnag Lake belongs primarily to Sheshnag, the Lord of the Snakes, and is alleged to have been dug by the Lord himself. Since its presence on the way to the Holy Amarnath Cave, Sheshnag Lake is also a sacred pilgrimage site. Travelers will simply trek this must-visit Pahalgam tourist place from Chandanwadi valley, that is simply about 7 miles away. Between June and September it’s best to go to this lake when it’s simply accessible and at the best of the scenery.
Itinerary
Early in the morning we start our day tour from Pahalgam to Chandanwari to Sheshnag Lake. The trail passes through some of the most beautiful maple and pine forests along the Lidder River during the trek. After a 9-10 km walk up soft slopes, the trail enters Chandanwari’s beautiful valley. You may stop for lunch between the green mountains. Then starting again, the trail ascends initially for a few kilometers to Pissu Top (11,000 feet) from where you get amazing views all around. Zojibal is 5 km from Pissutop. It’s a straight rocky walk from Pissutop. Overnight stay at Zojibal.
The distance between Zojibal and Nagakoti is about 2 KM and has a moderate climb. In these 2 Kms, altitude increases by 300 feet. There are some beautiful streams of mountains between these points. In more than an hour we covered this short distance with the courtesy of some photo session. Some part of this 2KM distance is very narrow and Yatris is not allowed to travel on ponies. They must walk through this narrow path.
Our next and last destination for today was the Sheshnag Lake after Nagakoti. Sheshnag Lake is the origin of beautiful East Lidder River. From Nagkoti, the Sheshnag yatra camp is 2 km away and you can enjoy the amazing views of this charming lake just after 1KM. After the lake’s first glimpse, you will forget all the journey’s tiredness. The lake’s first scene 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.
It’s time to head back to Pahalgam after spending the night on the shores of the lake.Follow the same trail for about 4 hours to Chandanwari. The trail passes Pissu Top and a spectacular, primeval countryside. Take a break after reaching Chandanwari and then start trekking again, and this section will take you through dense maple jungles. Follow the same trail to reach Pahalgam. Stay at either Pahalgam for the night or board a vehicle and head to Srinagar.
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