Though Jammu Kashmir is known for its rugged mountains, ice-laden peaks, enchanting gardens, and magnificent glaciers, the waterfalls in the state are also worth mentioning. These water bodies are the perfect places to spend time in seclusion. One can completely rejuvenate himself at these heavenly abodes. The serene and tranquil environment that these waterfalls in Jammu & Kashmir present can be the monotonicity of daily life.
The two most important waterfalls of the state that are also hot tourists destinations are Kokernag Spring and Verinag Spring. These are. in fact, the perfect picnic spots for families. Located amidst picturesque surroundings and breathtaking sceneries, the beauty of the places mesmerizes the visitors.
Kokernag, a waterfall situated near Srinagar, is a botanical garden that is known for magical healing powers. A rose garden which is blessed with countless number of scented flowers and scented shrubs is known for a lovely spring that flows from the top of a hill and forms a waterfall.
Verinag springs is one of those waterfalls in Jammu & Kashmir that is among the largest springs of India, Lying in Kothar district, this waterfall is built in circular form. Known for manicured lawns that run around the circumference of this water body, Verinag is the place of lush greenery and beautiful flowers.
KOKERNAG WATERFALL
Kokernag Waterfall of Jammu and Kashmir is located at a massive altitude of 2012 meters and is a perfect tourists retreat. Situated at a distance of about 80 kilometers from Srinagar, this waterfall is also known by the name "Papashudan nad" which means a spring that cleanses one of his sins.
The picturesque location of Kokernag Waterfall is a well known picnic spot. Blessed with myriad flowers and lush greenery, this water body is known for a spring which is its source. This lovely spring gets forked into multi-channels as it descends for a hill and forms the mighty waterfall. The numerous channels that are formed after the division of the spring appear like a clawed foot of a hen. It is this reason that this waterfall is called "Kokernag".
The waterfall is located amidst Bringhi valley. Known for sprawling green lawns and fragrant air that comes from the countless number of scented flowers blossoming here, Kokernag is a perfect holiday destination for those who want to spend time away from the hustle and bustle of metropolitan cities. The amazing healing properties of the water are known to cure several diseases. Kokernag Waterfall has been described by famous historian, Abul Fazi, as a source of water laden with medicinal properties. Sick people are brought here so that they can get cured by this water.
As far as accommodation is concerned, tourists are provided with refurbished cottages that can be available at economical prices. The nearby attractions include Verinag, Daksum, and Acchabai.
VERINAG WATERFALL
Located in Kothar District, Verinag Waterfall lies at a distance of about 78 kilometer from Srinagar. Build by the mighty Mughal Emperor Jehnagir in 1620, this waterfall is one of the most picturesque places of Jammu and Kashmir. One can access this waterfall by going through a bypass that comes out from the highway connecting Jammu to Srinagar.
The term "Verinag" stands for "bluish snake". According to mythology, "Nila Nag" was the son of the sage Kashyap. Originally built in circular form, Jehangir modified the shape of the kund to octagonal, a common Mughal architecture feature. Enclosing a periphery of eighty meter, Verinag Waterfall is surrounded by a wall made up of brick.