About Kailash Kund
Kailash Kund is a high-altitude glacial lake situated in the Kailash Range above Bhaderwah in Doda district, Jammu and Kashmir, at an elevation of about 3,900 metres. Revered as a sacred lake dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vasuki Nag, it is the focal point of the annual Kailash Kund Yatra. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows like Seoj Dhar, the lake is notable for its pristine waters, pilgrimage importance and challenging trekking route.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a strenuous high-altitude trek from Bhaderwah via Seoj Meadow and Hayan to reach a pristine, bowl-shaped glacial lake surrounded by rocky slopes and snow patches. The lake itself is small, clear and sacred, with prayer flags and offerings visible around its banks during pilgrimage season. There are no permanent structures at the lake; the surroundings are open alpine meadows with panoramic Himalayan views, suitable for sightseeing, photography and brief camping.
Key highlights
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Sacred high-altitude glacial lake at ~3,900 metres in the Kailash Range
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Centre of the annual Kailash Kund Yatra dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vasuki Nag
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Scenic trek via Seoj Dhar alpine meadow and Hayan
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Pristine clear waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks
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Panoramic views of Bhaderwah Valley and surrounding Himalayan ranges
History of Kailash Kund
Kailash Kund has long been revered in local tradition as an abode of Lord Shiva and Vasuki Nag, the serpent deity regarded as the guardian of Bhaderwah. The lake has been a pilgrimage destination for centuries, with the annual yatra tradition maintained by local communities.
Culture & Context
The lake is highly sacred for Hindus, especially devotees of Lord Shiva and Nag deities. The annual Kailash Kund Yatra, usually held in August-September on Shravan Purnima, draws thousands of pilgrims who take a holy dip in the lake. Local Vasuki Nag Temple at Gatha is closely associated with the yatra rituals.
Route
| By air |
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