Verinag is a beautiful and historically significant tourist destination located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, at the foothills of the Pir Panjal Range. It is most famous for the Verinag Spring, the primary source of the Jhelum River (locally called Vyeth), which flows through the Kashmir Valley. The spring emerges from a deep blue pool, surrounded by a meticulously built octagonal stone basin and an arched stone colonnade, constructed during the Mughal era.
The spring and garden were developed by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir in the early 17th century. Later, his son Shah Jahan enhanced it further by laying out the classic Mughal-style garden (Charbagh) around the spring. The garden is dotted with chinar trees, lush green lawns, and beautifully arranged water channels, making it a peaceful retreat for tourists and picnickers.
Verinag is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its historical and architectural significance. Inscriptions in Persian on the garden walls still narrate its Mughal legacy. The water of the spring is crystal clear and cold, and the entire area remains pleasantly cool even during hot summers, making it a perfect getaway.
Located about 80 km from Srinagar and 26 km from Anantnag, Verinag is easily accessible by road. The best time to visit is between April and October, when the weather is pleasant and the gardens are in full bloom. During autumn, the falling chinar leaves add a golden charm to the entire area, while winter covers it in snow, giving it a different, serene appearance.