Anantnag is a town located in the southern sector of the Jehlum Valley in Jammu and Kashmir. The Anantnag’s past is rich, dating back to prehistoric times and is mentioned in ancient epics and chronicles that showcase the importance of this land in Indian history.

Mythology

Anantnag is mentioned in the Bhagavad Gita as a place where the Hindu God Shiva left his serpents while moving towards the Amarnath Cave. Some believe that these serpents transformed into numerous springs that are still seen today in Anantnag Town. This backstory makes Anantnag’s past rich and interesting.

Overview of Anantnag History

The name "Anantnag" is believed to have been derived from the numerous springs originating from this place, with "Anant" meaning infinite and "nag" referring to springs in Kashmiri lingo. The city was an agricultural trade centre and the southern headquarters for navigation by large boats in the Vale of Kashmir. The city was heavily damaged by the Kashmir earthquake of 2005 but has since shown significant population growth and progression in agriculture and trade in the South Kashmir region. This period marked a crucial chapter in Anantnag's historical timeline.

Ancient Historical Background of Anantnag

Anantnag is believed by historians to be one of the earliest settlements in the world. Dating back to 5000 BCE, the town has its mention in Nilmat Purana as well. The town was a business centre at that time, according to historians. The Martund Sun Temple in Anantnag is a testament to ancient civilizations in Anantnag. The temple is one of the UNESCO sites and dates back to 700 CE, contributing to the archaeological importance of the region.

Mughal Era In Anantnag History

Anantnag has a long history of Muslim rule. The Mughal era witnessed the changing of the town’s name from Anantnag to Islamabad by the Mughal Governor Islam Khan. During the Mughal rule, the town saw the construction of magnificent architecture. These structures were built in a rich style of architecture that was peculiar to the Mughals. The Mughal gardens of Achabal and Verinag are some of the splendours of that era in the Anantnag district.

Modern Face of Anantnag

Leaving Anantnag’s past, today Anantnag has emerged as a buzzing town having some of the largest industry units in Kashmir tourism. From world-renowned willow bats and the largest fisheries to agricultural development and tourism, the town has become an example of holistic development in Kashmir.

Want to know about historical marvels in Anantnag?
Here are some of the amazing architectural and historical marvels in Anantnag that you can visit year-round:

Martund Sun Temple

The Matund Sun Temple is a UNESCO heritage site located in Mattan Anantnag. The temple is an architectural wonder built by the ruler Lalitaditya Muktapida. Today it is in a dilapidated condition.

Verinag Spring

The spring is the main source of one of the largest rivers in Kashmir tour, the Jhelum. It showcases an octagonal shape around which beautiful Mughal-style arches are built. There is also a garden around the spring that counts in the Mughal gardens in Kashmir.

Achabal Garden

Another beauty that defines the historical background of Anantnag, the Achabal Garden is among the stunning Mughal gardens of the era. Located in the Achabal area, the garden is multi-terraced with water channels flowing down.

Ziarat Baba Hyder Reshi Shrine

One of the spiritual points in Anantnag, the shrine of Muslim Sufi Saint Baba Hyder Reshi is located in Danter village of Anantnag. The shrine is a beautiful spot for relaxing in nature and soaking in the spiritual environment in Kashmir.

Baba Dawood Khaki Mosque

This mosque is built in the name of the revered Sufi preacher of Kashmir Sheikh Baba Dawood Khaki. Located in the Ashajipora area of Anantnag, the mosque is believed to be 600 years old and presents a peculiar architecture.

Chapel of John Bishop

A Christian look into Anantnag history reveals to us the sacred Chapel of John Bishop. The Chapel is located in the John Bishop hospital in Pahalgam area of Anantnag. The building for the hospital was constructed in 1902 and is one of the colonial structures.

Mamaleshwar Temple

A historical marvel dating back to 400 CE, the Mamal Temple is believed to be the place where Shiva cut the head of Ganesha. This heritage site is located on the banks of the Lidder River in Anantnag's Pahalgam.
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