About Kausarnag Lake
Kausarnag Lake is a high-altitude alpine oligotrophic lake in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas in Kulgam District, Jammu and Kashmir, near Aharbal. Situated at about 3,500 metres elevation, it is the source of the Veshaw River which feeds the Aharbal Waterfall. Surrounded by snow-clad peaks and alpine meadows, the lake remains frozen for much of the year and is accessible only via a strenuous summer trek.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a remote, pristine glacial lake set in a bowl of snow-covered Pir Panjal peaks and alpine meadows at around 3,500 metres. Access is only by a steep, strenuous trek of about 20-25 km from Aharbal via Kongwattan, with no road to the lake itself. The area offers clear glacial water, seasonal wildflowers, camping grounds at Kongwattan, and panoramic mountain views. There are no built structures or shops at the lake.
Key highlights
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High-altitude alpine glacial lake at approximately 3,500 metres in the Pir Panjal Range
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Source of the Veshaw River that forms the Aharbal Waterfall
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Pristine oligotrophic waters surrounded by snow-clad peaks and alpine meadows
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Challenging trek from Aharbal via Kongwattan Meadow
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Sacred lake with seasonal accessibility only in summer months
Culture & Context
Kausarnag Lake is considered sacred in local tradition and is revered by Kashmiri Hindus, associated with deities and visited for ritual significance. The lake holds cultural importance for communities in the Kashmir Valley.
Route
| By air | Nearest airport is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar, then drive to Aharbal and trek onward |
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| By train |