Anantnag
Encyclopedia
Anantnag (An-ant=un-ending, Naga=Springs) a city and a municipality
in Anantnag district
in the state of Jammu & Kashmir, India
. Anantnag is regarded as the commercial and financial capital of the valley of Kashmir. It is also the largest business and trading center of the valley.
The district as well as its headquarter city are called by same name.
during his journey to Amarnath
cave left all his valuables on the way and Anant Nag was the place where he is supposed to have left countless number of serpents residing on him.The city finds its place in the Bhagavadgita that says "I am Ananta Naga" It is also well mentioned in ancient Naga
and Pichash
cronicals of ancient aboriginals of the valley.It was also known as Kashyapteshwara in ancient times linking it to the mythology of Rishi
Kashyapa.Regarding this second name no mention is to be found in the old chronicles of Kashmir. However, the name of Islamabad was assigned to the city by one Islam Khan
who was a high official of Kashmir during the Mughal rule
in 1663 A.D., but the change in its nomenclature proved temporary and during the reign of Maharaja Gulab Singh
the town as well as district again resumed their old name, Anantnag, as it was popular among the common masses.Anant also means numerous in the Sanskrit language and Naga means spring in the Kashmiri language
. Thus Anantnag is believed to mean numerous springs, because there are many springs
, including Nag Bal, Salak Nag and Malik Nag in the town
.The name of Anantnag District
according to a well known archaeologist, Sir A. Stein
,comes from the great spring Ananta Naga issuing at the center of the city. This is also corroborated by almost all local historians including Kalhana according to whom the city has taken the name of this great spring of Cesha or Ananta Naga land of countless springs. The spring is mentioned in the Neelmat Purana as a sacred place for the Hindus and Koshur Encyclopedia testifies it.
found here some monuments of the Mughal
period in ruins when he visited Jammu and Kashmir in 1835. No significant ancient building or archaeological site is found in the district today, except for the Martand temple, as most of the ancient architectural monuments in the area were destroyed during the rule of Sultan Sikander. What must have once been magnificent architectural show pieces like the Martand complex of temples, or the temples of Lalitaditya, the Emperor of Kashmir, and King Awantivarman at Awantipora
(which lie midway between Srinagar and Anantnag), are now in grand ruins.
Stones from the temple's foundation were not spared. It was total plunder and destruction of the temple and the people living around the temple were directed to adopt Islam. Those who did not accept this direction were butchered along with their family members. This way people from one village to another were converted into Islam. Even today one gets surprised over art and skill of the builders of this world famous Martand temple by looking at its ruins.
Its impressive architecture reveals the glorious past of the area. The Government of India, after Independence, developed many beauty spots of the district, but of their noble and magnificent edifices only faint traces survive. This temple has the typical Aryan structure as was present in Aryan Kashmir.
The Martand temple (coordinates 33.7456817°N 75.2203792°E) is situated nine kilometres east-north-east of Anantnag district headquarters.
.
The city is constituted by three main borough
s or towns Viz Anantnag, Khanabal, Mattan and half a dozen small townships. Most of the population of the city resides in the Anantnag borough. The old city of Anantnag comprises Nagbal, Maliknag, Kadipora, Cheeni Chowk, Doni Pawa, Sarnal Bala, Janglatmandi, Old Port Khanabal, Downtown Martand, & Dangarpora areas and few villages like Haji Danter, Mir Danter etc. The new city consists of the civil lines areas like S.K. Colony, Laizbal, Anchidora, Iqbalabad, Posh Bilal Colony, Fasilabad, Moomin-Abad, Harnag, Sultan Bah-i-Rum Shah and Mid town areas like Ashshjipora, Naibasti, Batpora and Mir Bazaar. Anantnag has quite a population inhabiting several satellite areas like Wanpoh, Dialgam, Fatehpora, Nowgam, Seer, Fateh Garh University town and NH 1 A north and east.
Near Anantnag three streams namely Arapath, Brengi and Sandran confluence together, thus giving birth to river Veth (Jhelum
). Another stream Lidar also joins the flow with them at a little distance downstream further ahead. From this place the river becomes navigable. In olden times river Jhelum was the main source of transportation between Anantnag and other towns downstream.
The distances of different town
s and cities from Anantnag are Achhabal - 6 miles (9.7 km), Kokarnag - 14 miles (22.5 km), Verinag - 17 miles (27.4 km), Pahalgam
- 24 miles (38.6 km) and Srinagar
- 33 miles (53.1 km).
Anantnag is a city of various handicrafts. Shawl weaving, Gabbah
(a type of carpet) and Namdah (Urdu for rug
) manufacturing are the main trades.
Sir Walter Lawrence writes in his book The Valley of Kashmir that in latitude Kashmir corresponds with Peshawar, Baghdad and Damascus in Asia: with Fez in Morocco: and South Carolina in America, but it presents none of the characteristics of those countries. People have linked the climate of Kashmir to that of Switzerland until the end of May, and of Southern France in July and August. But it is impossible to speak of Kashmir as possessing any one climate or group of characteristics. Every hundred feet of elevation brings some new phase of climate and of vegetation.
Sex ratio of girls in Anantnag district per 1000 boys was recorded 937 i.e. an increase of 26 points from the figure of 2001 census which puts it at 911.
In 2011 census, data of Anantnag district regarding child under 0-6 age were also collected. There were total 206,338 children under age of 0-6 against 0 of 2001 census. Of total 206,338 male and female were 112,661 and 93,677 respectively. Child Sex Ratio as per census 2011 was 831 compared to 0 of census 2001. Children’s proportion in total population was around 8.53 percent. This figure was around 7.67 percent as per 2001 census.
In education sector, Anantnag District is having average literacy rate of 64.32 percent. Male literacy and female literacy were 74.13 and 54.15 percent respectively. In all, there were total 555,608 literates compared to 0 literates of 2001 census.
Male and female were 552,404 and 517,740 respectively.
Population Growth for Anantnag District recorded in 2011 for the decade has remained 37.48 percent. Same figure for 1991-2001 decade was 32.77 percent.
Total Area of Anantnag District was 2917 km2 with average density of 375 per km2.
Anantnag Population constituted 8.53 percent of total Jammu and Kashmir Population.
Sex Ratio of Anantnag District is now 937, while child sex ratio (0-6) is 831 per 1000 boys.
Children below 0-6 age were 206,338 which forms 19.28 of total Anantnag District population.
Average Literacy rate for Anantnag District is 64.32 percent, a change of from past figure of 0.00 percent. In India, literacy rate is counted only for those above 7 years of age. Child between 0-6 ages are exempted from this.
Total literates in the Anantnag District increased to 555,608.
All the data regarding Anantnag District Population were released by Directorate of Census Operations in Jammu and Kashmir.
For more information kindly visit Anantnag district.
The Village of nomad is un-spoilt by the ravages of progress. This place is an angler's delight and even an amateur can catch a rainbow trout from the rushing streams. The large brown bear is a natural inhabitant of the thick Pine and Cedar forests. Pahalgam has a golf course at 2400 meters above the sea level. Camping equipment, ponies and skiing equipment is readily available. Kolahoi is a popular destination via Aru a charming meadow.
Around Pahalgam are many places of interest, and because the resort is set between fairly steep hills, it is worth hiring a pony rather than walking. Pony fares are posted at prominent locations.
The most beautiful of these is the huge, undulating meadow of Baisaran, surrounded by thickly wooded forests of pine. Hajan, on the way to Chandanwari, is an idyllic spot for a picnic. Filmgoers will recognize it instantly as it has been the location of several movie scenes.
Pahalgam is also associated with the annual Amarnath Yatra. Chandanwari (2,895 m), 16 km from Pahalgam, is the starting point of the yatra that takes place every year in the month of Sawan (July to August). The road from Pahalgam to Chandanwari is on fairly flat terrain and can be undertaken by car. From Chandanwari onwards the track becomes much steeper, and is accessible on foot or by pony. About 11 km from Chandanwari is the mountain lake of Sheshnag (3,574 m), after which, 13 km away is the last stop, Panchtarni. The Amarnath cave is 6 km away from there. During the month of Sawan, an ice stalagmite forms a natural Shivling in the Amarnath cave, which waxes and wanes with the moon.
The area holds a rich cover of vegetation, the dominant forest consisting of conifers which account for over 90%. The principal species are Cedrus deodara, Pinus griffithii, Abies pindrow, Aesculus indica etc. The major shrubs are Indigofera heterantha, Viburnum spp., Sorbaria tomentosa etc. the ground cover is very rich and dicotyledonus herbs dominate: Rumex patientia, Primula spp., anemone spp., etc.
Nature has gifted this Biosphere Reserve with multiple species of rare, endangered and protected species. The main species are hangul, musk deer, serow, brown bear, Leopard, rhesus macaque, grey langur, Himalayan mouse hare, etc.
The area houses a good population of pheasants and upland birds apart from other species, both resident and migratory. The common birds are griffon vulture, monal, snow cock, koklas, blue rock pigeon, Kashmir roller, European hoopoe, jungle crow etc.
Achabal is an important tourist place about 8 kilometres away from Anantnag. The place is fmous and attractivedue to an ancient spring surrounded by a garden terraced and developed by the Mughals. The place has got some historical background also. The upper portion of the garden is called 'Bag-e-Begum Abad' developed by Malika Noor Jehan Begum in 1620 AD and renowned as Sahib Abad in which there was a Hamam (treasure of water) getting heat from a logical lamp (Tosng).
Cascades and fountains erected by Mughal Emperors enhance the beauty of the spot. A mosque standing in the garden believed to have been
constructed by Mughal Prince Dara Shikwah. Achabal was once the pleasure retreat of Empress Noor Jehan. A trout hatchery is also located nearby.
The word Kokernag has been derived from the two words namely, Koker and Nag. The word Koker has been taken from a Kashmiri word "Morgee" meaning chicken, while the word nag has been taken from Sanskrit word "Nag" meaning snake. Regarding the name of Kokernag, there are different versions. According to a famous legend it was a saint (Gushwami) who came from some unknown place to this place along with his bucket. During
his rest, some women folk came from the nearby densely forested area's in search of water, they failed in their search. Ultimately they saw the saint in a deep sleep with his bucket in front of him. The women folk went towards him in order kill thirst with his water, but when they opened the lid of the bucket they found snake in it which escaped and crept on the ground. As soon as it crept, its shape changed into a chicken called "Koker" in Kashmir, It dug the soil of the land by paws and water gushed out from these places, wherever it dug. This is the reason due to which we call the place Kokernag today. Saint was seeing all these happenings in his dream. Legend is that if he would have not opened his eyes all area of this place would have become a big lake or flood may have occurred.
It is also famous for its trout streams and the largest fresh water spring in Kashmir, Trout hatchery department which has constructed pools in series where in trout is reared. Different pools have got trout with different weights and ages. Departments sells it to the tourists who find it a delicious dish and enjoy it. Kokernag is eight miles form Achabal and famous for the curative properties of its beautiful springs. The total area of Kokernag is 300 Kanals of which 129 kanals is for the purpose of gardens and the rest is forest area.
Kokernag has some historical importance also. Kokernag has been mentioned in Ain Akbari, where in it has been mentioned that the water of Kokernag satisfies both hunger and thirst and its is also a remedy for indigestion. The author of Ain Akbari notices that touch-stone is found in Kokernag.
The Verinag spring is about 26 kilometers away from Anantnag and is considered as the original source of river Jehlum. The spring is situated at the bottom of hill covered by pine trees and evergreen plants. The wonderful and charming construction of the spring as well as it's adjacent garden compel the visitors to see it again and again. The construction of the banks of spring as well as it's surroundings is of rare shape. The Mughal Emperor Jehangir constructed it and carvers for the purpose for the purpose were brought from Iran. The construction date of the spring is 1029 H is duly inscribed on a stone installed at the western gate of entry towards the spring.
has potential for canoeing
and water skiing
. Water trekking is local name for three to four day trip along the Jhelum River
in a shikara with camping gear. Aru (58 km) and Pahalgam (45 km) are popular destinations for hikers
, trekkers
and fishermen
.
Sports like football
and cricket
are popular among schoolchildren as well as adults.
Municipality
A municipality is essentially an urban administrative division having corporate status and usually powers of self-government. It can also be used to mean the governing body of a municipality. A municipality is a general-purpose administrative subdivision, as opposed to a special-purpose district...
in Anantnag district
Anantnag District
Anantnag is a district in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in north-western India. It is one of eight districts which make up the Kashmir Valley. The district headquarter is Anantnag...
in the state of Jammu & Kashmir, India
India
India , officially the Republic of India , is a country in South Asia. It is the seventh-largest country by geographical area, the second-most populous country with over 1.2 billion people, and the most populous democracy in the world...
. Anantnag is regarded as the commercial and financial capital of the valley of Kashmir. It is also the largest business and trading center of the valley.
The district as well as its headquarter city are called by same name.
Etymology
According to ancient mythological stories, the name Anant Nag is given to the place because Lord ShivShiva
Shiva is a major Hindu deity, and is the destroyer god or transformer among the Trimurti, the Hindu Trinity of the primary aspects of the divine. God Shiva is a yogi who has notice of everything that happens in the world and is the main aspect of life. Yet one with great power lives a life of a...
during his journey to Amarnath
Amarnath
Located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir and situated on Mount Amarnath, the Amarnath caves are one of the most famous shrines in Hinduism. Dedicated to the god Shiva, the shrine is said to be over 5,000 years old...
cave left all his valuables on the way and Anant Nag was the place where he is supposed to have left countless number of serpents residing on him.The city finds its place in the Bhagavadgita that says "I am Ananta Naga" It is also well mentioned in ancient Naga
Naga (clan)
The Naga were one of the ancient most kshatriya tribes of India who ruled large parts of the world at different times. They spread throughout India during the period of the epic Mahabharata. Anthropologist Gelek Lonbsang believes they have distant ancestry with East Asians based on their similar...
and Pichash
Pisacha Kingdom
Pisacha kingdom refers to the territory of Pishachas who were a group of mountain dwellers who lived in the mountains around the Kashmir Valley. These tribes were mentioned in the epic Mahabharata along with other exotic tribes. The Kashmiri language is considered to be a language in the group of...
cronicals of ancient aboriginals of the valley.It was also known as Kashyapteshwara in ancient times linking it to the mythology of Rishi
Rishi
Rishi denotes the composers of Vedic hymns. However, according to post-Vedic tradition, the rishi is a "seer" to whom the Vedas were "originally revealed" through states of higher consciousness. The rishis were prominent when Vedic Hinduism took shape, as far back as some three thousand years...
Kashyapa.Regarding this second name no mention is to be found in the old chronicles of Kashmir. However, the name of Islamabad was assigned to the city by one Islam Khan
Islam Khan
Islam Khan may refer to:*Islam Khan I - also known as Islam Khan Chisti *Islam Khan II - also known as Islam Khan Mashhadi *Islam Khan III - also known as Islam Khan Badakhshi...
who was a high official of Kashmir during the Mughal rule
Mughal Empire
The Mughal Empire , or Mogul Empire in traditional English usage, was an imperial power from the Indian Subcontinent. The Mughal emperors were descendants of the Timurids...
in 1663 A.D., but the change in its nomenclature proved temporary and during the reign of Maharaja Gulab Singh
Maharaja Gulab Singh
Maharaja Gulab Singh was the founder and first Maharaja of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, the second largest princely state in British India...
the town as well as district again resumed their old name, Anantnag, as it was popular among the common masses.Anant also means numerous in the Sanskrit language and Naga means spring in the Kashmiri language
Kashmiri language
Kashmiri is a language from the Dardic sub-group and it is spoken primarily in the Kashmir Valley, in Jammu and Kashmir. There are approximately 5,554,496 speakers in Jammu and Kashmir, according to the Census of 2001. Most of the 105,000 speakers or so in Pakistan are émigrés from the Kashmir...
. Thus Anantnag is believed to mean numerous springs, because there are many springs
Spring (hydrosphere)
A spring—also known as a rising or resurgence—is a component of the hydrosphere. Specifically, it is any natural situation where water flows to the surface of the earth from underground...
, including Nag Bal, Salak Nag and Malik Nag in the town
Town
A town is a human settlement larger than a village but smaller than a city. The size a settlement must be in order to be called a "town" varies considerably in different parts of the world, so that, for example, many American "small towns" seem to British people to be no more than villages, while...
.The name of Anantnag District
Anantnag District
Anantnag is a district in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in north-western India. It is one of eight districts which make up the Kashmir Valley. The district headquarter is Anantnag...
according to a well known archaeologist, Sir A. Stein
Marc Aurel Stein
Sir Marc Aurel Stein KCIE, FBA was a Hungarian archaeologist, primarily known for his explorations and archaeological discoveries in Central Asia. He was also a professor at various Indian universities.-Early life:Stein was born in Budapest into a Jewish family...
,comes from the great spring Ananta Naga issuing at the center of the city. This is also corroborated by almost all local historians including Kalhana according to whom the city has taken the name of this great spring of Cesha or Ananta Naga land of countless springs. The spring is mentioned in the Neelmat Purana as a sacred place for the Hindus and Koshur Encyclopedia testifies it.
History
Anantnag is an ancient city which came into existence as a market town around 5000 B.C. making it one of the oldest urban human settlements in the whole world.Before the advent of Muslim rule in 1320 A.D., Kashmir was divided into three divisions, viz; Maraz in the south, Yamraj in the centre and Kamraj in the north of the Valley. Old chronicles reveal that the division was the culmination of the rift Marhan and Kaman, the two brothers, over the crown of their father. The part of the valley which lies between Pir Panjal and Srinagar now called the Anantnag was given to Marhan and named after him as Maraj. While Srinagar is no longer known as Yamraj, the area to its north and south are still called Kamraz and Maraz respectively. Lawrence in his book "The Valley of Kashmir" states that these divisions were later on divided into thirty four sub-divisions which after 1871 were again reduced to five Zilas or districts.Historic sites and remains
Anantnag, like the rest of the Kashmir Valley, has witnessed many vicissitudes and experienced many upheavals from time to time. Charles von HügelCharles von Hügel
Charles von Hügel was an Austrian army officer, diplomat, botanist and explorer, now primarily remembered for his travels in northern India during the 1830s...
found here some monuments of the Mughal
Mughal Empire
The Mughal Empire , or Mogul Empire in traditional English usage, was an imperial power from the Indian Subcontinent. The Mughal emperors were descendants of the Timurids...
period in ruins when he visited Jammu and Kashmir in 1835. No significant ancient building or archaeological site is found in the district today, except for the Martand temple, as most of the ancient architectural monuments in the area were destroyed during the rule of Sultan Sikander. What must have once been magnificent architectural show pieces like the Martand complex of temples, or the temples of Lalitaditya, the Emperor of Kashmir, and King Awantivarman at Awantipora
Awantipora
Awantipora is a town and a notified area committee in Pulwama district in the state of Jammu & Kashmir, India.The ruins of temples constructed by Lalitaditya, the Brahmin emperor of Kashmir, and King Awantivarman are located in Awantipora. The temples are located at and .- Demographics : India...
(which lie midway between Srinagar and Anantnag), are now in grand ruins.
Martand Sun Temple
The Martand temple is one of the important archaeological sites of the country. The temple was attacked by Sikander Butshikan. It took one year for Sikander Butshikan to fully damage and destroy this Martand temple. Aflter having failed to demolish the temple totally this enemy of art, culture and godly beauty, stuffed the temple with wooden slippers and set it ablaze. Seeing the matchless beauty of the fold studded domes of the temple getting destroyed Sikander kept on laughing and went on giving instructions for the complete destruction of the temple by treating it as God's order.Stones from the temple's foundation were not spared. It was total plunder and destruction of the temple and the people living around the temple were directed to adopt Islam. Those who did not accept this direction were butchered along with their family members. This way people from one village to another were converted into Islam. Even today one gets surprised over art and skill of the builders of this world famous Martand temple by looking at its ruins.
Its impressive architecture reveals the glorious past of the area. The Government of India, after Independence, developed many beauty spots of the district, but of their noble and magnificent edifices only faint traces survive. This temple has the typical Aryan structure as was present in Aryan Kashmir.
The Martand temple (coordinates 33.7456817°N 75.2203792°E) is situated nine kilometres east-north-east of Anantnag district headquarters.
Geography
Anantnag is located at 33.73°N 75.15°E, at an elevation of 5300 feet (1,615.4 m) above sea level, at a distance of 33 miles (53.1 km) from the main state-headquarters SrinagarSrinagar
Srinagar is the summer seasonal capital of Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated in Kashmir Valley and lies on the banks of the Jhelum River, a tributary of the Indus. It is one of the largest cities in India not to have a Hindu majority. The city is famous for its gardens, lakes and houseboats...
.
The city is constituted by three main borough
Borough
A borough is an administrative division in various countries. In principle, the term borough designates a self-governing township although, in practice, official use of the term varies widely....
s or towns Viz Anantnag, Khanabal, Mattan and half a dozen small townships. Most of the population of the city resides in the Anantnag borough. The old city of Anantnag comprises Nagbal, Maliknag, Kadipora, Cheeni Chowk, Doni Pawa, Sarnal Bala, Janglatmandi, Old Port Khanabal, Downtown Martand, & Dangarpora areas and few villages like Haji Danter, Mir Danter etc. The new city consists of the civil lines areas like S.K. Colony, Laizbal, Anchidora, Iqbalabad, Posh Bilal Colony, Fasilabad, Moomin-Abad, Harnag, Sultan Bah-i-Rum Shah and Mid town areas like Ashshjipora, Naibasti, Batpora and Mir Bazaar. Anantnag has quite a population inhabiting several satellite areas like Wanpoh, Dialgam, Fatehpora, Nowgam, Seer, Fateh Garh University town and NH 1 A north and east.
Near Anantnag three streams namely Arapath, Brengi and Sandran confluence together, thus giving birth to river Veth (Jhelum
Jhelum River
Jehlum River or Jhelum River , ) is a river that flows in India and Pakistan. It is the largest and most western of the five rivers of Punjab, and passes through Jhelum District...
). Another stream Lidar also joins the flow with them at a little distance downstream further ahead. From this place the river becomes navigable. In olden times river Jhelum was the main source of transportation between Anantnag and other towns downstream.
The distances of different town
Town
A town is a human settlement larger than a village but smaller than a city. The size a settlement must be in order to be called a "town" varies considerably in different parts of the world, so that, for example, many American "small towns" seem to British people to be no more than villages, while...
s and cities from Anantnag are Achhabal - 6 miles (9.7 km), Kokarnag - 14 miles (22.5 km), Verinag - 17 miles (27.4 km), Pahalgam
Pahalgam
Pahalgam is a town and a notified area committee in Anantnag district in India's northernmost state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a popular tourist destination, and every year, many tourists visit Pahalgam.- Geography :...
- 24 miles (38.6 km) and Srinagar
Srinagar
Srinagar is the summer seasonal capital of Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated in Kashmir Valley and lies on the banks of the Jhelum River, a tributary of the Indus. It is one of the largest cities in India not to have a Hindu majority. The city is famous for its gardens, lakes and houseboats...
- 33 miles (53.1 km).
Anantnag is a city of various handicrafts. Shawl weaving, Gabbah
Gabbeh
Gabbeh carpets, sometimes spelled 'Gabbe' are a traditional variety of Persian carpet. Gabbeh is pronounced as gava in Kurdish and Luri and is also called Khersak in Bakhtiari...
(a type of carpet) and Namdah (Urdu for rug
Kashmir rug
A Kashmir Rug is a handmade, hand-knotted oriental rug, that origins from Kashmir. Kashmir rugs carpets have beautiful, intricate designs that are primarily Oriental floral style and come in a range of colors, designs, sizes and qualities....
) manufacturing are the main trades.
Climate
Anantnag District possesses all the typical characteristics of the climate of Kashmir Valley as a whole. In his introduction to the Rajtarangini Kulan or Kakhana Pundit says about the climate of Valley: 'It is a country where the sun shines mildly, being the place created by Kashayapa as if for his glory. High school-houses, the saffron, iced water and grapes, which are rare even in heaven, are common here. Kailasa is the best place in the three worlds, Himalaya the best part of Kailasa, and Kashmir the best place in Himalaya'.Sir Walter Lawrence writes in his book The Valley of Kashmir that in latitude Kashmir corresponds with Peshawar, Baghdad and Damascus in Asia: with Fez in Morocco: and South Carolina in America, but it presents none of the characteristics of those countries. People have linked the climate of Kashmir to that of Switzerland until the end of May, and of Southern France in July and August. But it is impossible to speak of Kashmir as possessing any one climate or group of characteristics. Every hundred feet of elevation brings some new phase of climate and of vegetation.
Demographics
Total population of Anantnag is 1,070,144 as per latest provisional figures released by Directorate of Census Operations in Jammu and Kashmir. This shows increase of 37.48 percent in 2011 compared to figures of 2001 census. The initial figures of data shows that male and female were 552,404 and 517,740 respectively. Anantnag District of Jammu and Kashmir comprises an area of 2917 km2 which includes 1882 km2 of Forest area. As per census 2011, density of Anantnag District per square km is 375 compared to 294 per km2 of 2001.Sex ratio of girls in Anantnag district per 1000 boys was recorded 937 i.e. an increase of 26 points from the figure of 2001 census which puts it at 911.
In 2011 census, data of Anantnag district regarding child under 0-6 age were also collected. There were total 206,338 children under age of 0-6 against 0 of 2001 census. Of total 206,338 male and female were 112,661 and 93,677 respectively. Child Sex Ratio as per census 2011 was 831 compared to 0 of census 2001. Children’s proportion in total population was around 8.53 percent. This figure was around 7.67 percent as per 2001 census.
In education sector, Anantnag District is having average literacy rate of 64.32 percent. Male literacy and female literacy were 74.13 and 54.15 percent respectively. In all, there were total 555,608 literates compared to 0 literates of 2001 census.
Highlights of 2011 Census
Total population is 1,070,144 compared to 778,408 of 2001.Male and female were 552,404 and 517,740 respectively.
Population Growth for Anantnag District recorded in 2011 for the decade has remained 37.48 percent. Same figure for 1991-2001 decade was 32.77 percent.
Total Area of Anantnag District was 2917 km2 with average density of 375 per km2.
Anantnag Population constituted 8.53 percent of total Jammu and Kashmir Population.
Sex Ratio of Anantnag District is now 937, while child sex ratio (0-6) is 831 per 1000 boys.
Children below 0-6 age were 206,338 which forms 19.28 of total Anantnag District population.
Average Literacy rate for Anantnag District is 64.32 percent, a change of from past figure of 0.00 percent. In India, literacy rate is counted only for those above 7 years of age. Child between 0-6 ages are exempted from this.
Total literates in the Anantnag District increased to 555,608.
All the data regarding Anantnag District Population were released by Directorate of Census Operations in Jammu and Kashmir.
For more information kindly visit Anantnag district.
Tourism
The Anantnag district is not only the rice bowl of the Valley, it is equally rich in landscape. The nature has been generous in gifting the district with places of unparallel beauty. The district can rightly boast of possessing the largest number of health resorts in the whole State. Of them particular mention may be made of Verinag, Kokernag, Achabal, Daksum and world famous health resort of Pahalgam. Before the advent of militancy in the state, during the summer months these places used to be filled to the brim by tourists coming from all parts of the country and a large number of foreign tourists also used to visit these places. Now the Government is pursuing hard through sustained efforts in putting the tourist industry back on the rails and efforts are on for face-lifting the physical appearance of these places. The damaged tourist infrastructure like Huts, Dak Bungalows and Rest Houses are being re-constructed and it is hoped that the past glory of the places of tourist interest get restored and tourist industry will again flourish in the district.Pahalgam
This world famous hill station is 45 km. from the District Head Quarter at Anantnag and located on the banks of river Lidder at an altitude of 7200 ft. from sea level. Pahalgam is one among the five tehsils of Anantnag district and tehsil head quarters are located in the main town of Pahalgam. Once a great tourist puller and favourite place for shooting of Bollywood films is perhaps the best health resort in the country. Pahalgam also serves as base camp for the famous Amarnath Ji Yatra. The Pahalgam Valley presents glamorous look due to its pine forests, snow clad mountains, healthy climate and vast meadows and pastures. Pahalgam skirts Lidder river and torrential flow of water in Lidder river enriches the awesome beauty of the Valley. Besides tourist huts, several hotels in private sector have come up here and these hotels provide modern facilities to their guests. A number of treks in this region also begin from Pahalgam, as the 35 km trail traverses through pinewoods to the spectacular Kolahoi Glacier.The Village of nomad is un-spoilt by the ravages of progress. This place is an angler's delight and even an amateur can catch a rainbow trout from the rushing streams. The large brown bear is a natural inhabitant of the thick Pine and Cedar forests. Pahalgam has a golf course at 2400 meters above the sea level. Camping equipment, ponies and skiing equipment is readily available. Kolahoi is a popular destination via Aru a charming meadow.
Around Pahalgam are many places of interest, and because the resort is set between fairly steep hills, it is worth hiring a pony rather than walking. Pony fares are posted at prominent locations.
The most beautiful of these is the huge, undulating meadow of Baisaran, surrounded by thickly wooded forests of pine. Hajan, on the way to Chandanwari, is an idyllic spot for a picnic. Filmgoers will recognize it instantly as it has been the location of several movie scenes.
Pahalgam is also associated with the annual Amarnath Yatra. Chandanwari (2,895 m), 16 km from Pahalgam, is the starting point of the yatra that takes place every year in the month of Sawan (July to August). The road from Pahalgam to Chandanwari is on fairly flat terrain and can be undertaken by car. From Chandanwari onwards the track becomes much steeper, and is accessible on foot or by pony. About 11 km from Chandanwari is the mountain lake of Sheshnag (3,574 m), after which, 13 km away is the last stop, Panchtarni. The Amarnath cave is 6 km away from there. During the month of Sawan, an ice stalagmite forms a natural Shivling in the Amarnath cave, which waxes and wanes with the moon.
Pahalgam Development Authority
For effective management of the erstwhile Pahalgam Project Organization, Pahalgam constituted by the Govt. in the year 1978 vide SRO 415 dated July 1978 under Development Act,1970, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir vide its Cabinet decision No.15/2 dated 6.2.2003 issued under Government Order No.23-TSM of 2003 dated 21.02.2003 ordered that Pahalgam Development Authority shall be headed by a Chief Executive Officer who shall also function as Administrator/Chairman of local Town Area Committee/Notified Area Committee. This shall remain part of the Tourism Department.How to reach
Pahalgam is in Anantnag District and is about 96 km from Srinagar. The nearest Airport is in Badgam Distt. This Airport is connected with major cities of India.The nearest Rail Head is at Jammu and from there National Highway NH1A connects the Kashmir valley with India. The road to Pahalgam takes from Khannabal or alternatively from Bijbehara towns from this National Highway. Every sort of transport suiting every budget from Buses to Taxis ply on this Highway. It Takes around 10 to 12 hours to cross this mountainous road which crosses some beautiful spots and the famous Jawahar Tunnel linking Kashmir Valley with rest of India. Bus service is available from Srinagar and Anantnag which leave at fixed time from the Bus stands.Taxis and other sort of transport can be hired from Srinagar at pre-fixed rates. Assistance is available at Tourist Reception Centre Srinagar. On Road to Pahalgam one comes across the beautiful Lidder Valley with important spots of Mattan and Aishmuqam.Flora
The area holds a rich cover of vegetation, the dominant forest consisting of conifers which account for over 90%. The principal species are Cedrus deodara, Pinus griffithii, Abies pindrow, Aesculus indica etc. The major shrubs are Indigofera heterantha, Viburnum spp., Sorbaria tomentosa etc. the ground cover is very rich and dicotyledonus herbs dominate: Rumex patientia, Primula spp., anemone spp., etc.
Fauna
Nature has gifted this Biosphere Reserve with multiple species of rare, endangered and protected species. The main species are hangul, musk deer, serow, brown bear, Leopard, rhesus macaque, grey langur, Himalayan mouse hare, etc.
Avifauna
The area houses a good population of pheasants and upland birds apart from other species, both resident and migratory. The common birds are griffon vulture, monal, snow cock, koklas, blue rock pigeon, Kashmir roller, European hoopoe, jungle crow etc.
Achabal
Perhaps the most beautiful of springs is Achabal, which gushes out of the Sosanwar hill, and was once enlisted by the emperor Jehangir in the service of beauty and pleasure. It is said that the Breng river which disappears at Dewalgam in the fissures of the limestone is the real source of the Achabal spring.Achabal is an important tourist place about 8 kilometres away from Anantnag. The place is fmous and attractivedue to an ancient spring surrounded by a garden terraced and developed by the Mughals. The place has got some historical background also. The upper portion of the garden is called 'Bag-e-Begum Abad' developed by Malika Noor Jehan Begum in 1620 AD and renowned as Sahib Abad in which there was a Hamam (treasure of water) getting heat from a logical lamp (Tosng).
Cascades and fountains erected by Mughal Emperors enhance the beauty of the spot. A mosque standing in the garden believed to have been
constructed by Mughal Prince Dara Shikwah. Achabal was once the pleasure retreat of Empress Noor Jehan. A trout hatchery is also located nearby.
Kokernag
Basically, the real name of Kokernag is Bindoo Zalangam, as recordedin the revenue records. It is situated at a distance of about 17 km. from district headquarters. Kokernag is a collection of many small springs and their collective appearance resembles to the claws of a Koker (cock). Kokernag is the largest fresh water spring of Kashmir and its water has many curative and digestive properties.The word Kokernag has been derived from the two words namely, Koker and Nag. The word Koker has been taken from a Kashmiri word "Morgee" meaning chicken, while the word nag has been taken from Sanskrit word "Nag" meaning snake. Regarding the name of Kokernag, there are different versions. According to a famous legend it was a saint (Gushwami) who came from some unknown place to this place along with his bucket. During
his rest, some women folk came from the nearby densely forested area's in search of water, they failed in their search. Ultimately they saw the saint in a deep sleep with his bucket in front of him. The women folk went towards him in order kill thirst with his water, but when they opened the lid of the bucket they found snake in it which escaped and crept on the ground. As soon as it crept, its shape changed into a chicken called "Koker" in Kashmir, It dug the soil of the land by paws and water gushed out from these places, wherever it dug. This is the reason due to which we call the place Kokernag today. Saint was seeing all these happenings in his dream. Legend is that if he would have not opened his eyes all area of this place would have become a big lake or flood may have occurred.
It is also famous for its trout streams and the largest fresh water spring in Kashmir, Trout hatchery department which has constructed pools in series where in trout is reared. Different pools have got trout with different weights and ages. Departments sells it to the tourists who find it a delicious dish and enjoy it. Kokernag is eight miles form Achabal and famous for the curative properties of its beautiful springs. The total area of Kokernag is 300 Kanals of which 129 kanals is for the purpose of gardens and the rest is forest area.
Kokernag has some historical importance also. Kokernag has been mentioned in Ain Akbari, where in it has been mentioned that the water of Kokernag satisfies both hunger and thirst and its is also a remedy for indigestion. The author of Ain Akbari notices that touch-stone is found in Kokernag.
Verinag
Verinag spring is of great importance and beauty, with deep blue water which issues from the bottom of a high scrap of a mountain spur and here also Emperor Jehangir built a garden and pleasure house.The Verinag spring is about 26 kilometers away from Anantnag and is considered as the original source of river Jehlum. The spring is situated at the bottom of hill covered by pine trees and evergreen plants. The wonderful and charming construction of the spring as well as it's adjacent garden compel the visitors to see it again and again. The construction of the banks of spring as well as it's surroundings is of rare shape. The Mughal Emperor Jehangir constructed it and carvers for the purpose for the purpose were brought from Iran. The construction date of the spring is 1029 H is duly inscribed on a stone installed at the western gate of entry towards the spring.
Daksum
Located in the dense forests, this scenic spot falls on the Anantnag-Symthan-Kishtwar road. A gushing stream flows through Daksum which is rich in trout fish.It is a forest retreat girdled by mountains. The surrounding forests are famous for fauna and flora. This famous tourist sport is in the south east of Anantnag town and is about a distance of 40 kilometers from district headquarter.Sports
Adventure sports are popular among tourists. PahalgamPahalgam
Pahalgam is a town and a notified area committee in Anantnag district in India's northernmost state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a popular tourist destination, and every year, many tourists visit Pahalgam.- Geography :...
has potential for canoeing
Canoeing
Canoeing is an outdoor activity that involves a special kind of canoe.Open canoes may be 'poled' , sailed, 'lined and tracked' or even 'gunnel-bobbed'....
and water skiing
Water skiing
thumb|right|A slalom skier making a turn on a slalom waterski.Waterskiing is a sport where an individual is pulled behind a boat or a cable ski installation on a body of water, skimming the surface.-History:...
. Water trekking is local name for three to four day trip along the Jhelum River
Jhelum River
Jehlum River or Jhelum River , ) is a river that flows in India and Pakistan. It is the largest and most western of the five rivers of Punjab, and passes through Jhelum District...
in a shikara with camping gear. Aru (58 km) and Pahalgam (45 km) are popular destinations for hikers
Hiking
Hiking is an outdoor activity which consists of walking in natural environments, often in mountainous or other scenic terrain. People often hike on hiking trails. It is such a popular activity that there are numerous hiking organizations worldwide. The health benefits of different types of hiking...
, trekkers
Backpacking (wilderness)
Backpacking combines the activities of hiking and camping for an overnight stay in backcountry wilderness...
and fishermen
Fishing
Fishing is the activity of trying to catch wild fish. Fish are normally caught in the wild. Techniques for catching fish include hand gathering, spearing, netting, angling and trapping....
.
Sports like football
Football (soccer)
Association football, more commonly known as football or soccer, is a sport played between two teams of eleven players with a spherical ball...
and cricket
Cricket
Cricket is a bat-and-ball game played between two teams of 11 players on an oval-shaped field, at the centre of which is a rectangular 22-yard long pitch. One team bats, trying to score as many runs as possible while the other team bowls and fields, trying to dismiss the batsmen and thus limit the...
are popular among schoolchildren as well as adults.
Performing arts
Performing arts of the city include:- Bhand Pather, a form of traditional folk theatre art form of play and dance, is performed by a group of about ten to fifteen artists. They depict in a satirical style social evils. Performance is accompanied by light music.
- Chakri is a major and popular form of Kashmiri folk music.
- Another form of Kashmiri genre of music called Sufiana music is also practiced in the city. It was introduced in the valley in the 15th century from Iran. Over centuries, it has assimilated a number of Indian RagasRagaA raga is one of the melodic modes used in Indian classical music.It is a series of five or more musical notes upon which a melody is made...
, and has established itself as a classical music of the region. The instruments used in the music include santoorSantoorThe santoor is an ancient stringed musical instrument, native to Kashmir and Iran. It is a trapezoid-shaped hammered dulcimer often made of walnut, with seventy two strings. The special-shaped mallets are lightweight and are held between the index and middle fingers...
, sitarSitarThe 'Tablaman' is a plucked stringed instrument predominantly used in Hindustani classical music, where it has been ubiquitous since the Middle Ages...
, Kashmiri sazBaglamathumb|180px|Cura and bağlamaThe bağlama is a stringed musical instrument shared by various cultures in the Eastern Mediterranean, Near East, and Central Asia....
, tablaTablaThe tabla is a popular Indian percussion instrument used in Hindustani classical music and in popular and devotional music of the Indian subcontinent. The instrument consists of a pair of hand drums of contrasting sizes and timbres...
, and wasool. - Hafiz Nagma, a form of dance, is performed to the accompaniment of Sufiana music. The dancer is a female while males play different instruments used in Sufiana music.
- Drama and film making