The Seoz Dhar-Kailash Kund trek is a journey to one of the most enigmatic and untouched natural wonders of Bhaderwah, in the Doda district of Jammu. Nestled at an altitude of 12,887 feet, Kailash Kund is a lake surrounded by myth and revered as a sacred site by the locals. Each year, during the Kailash Kund Yatra, a three-day pilgrimage dedicated to the deity Vasuki Nag, thousands of devotees make their way to this holy lake. The yatra typically takes place between August and September, with the exact dates varying according to the Hindu calendar.
The trek begins at the Vasuki Nag temple in Gatha village, Bhaderwah, and passes through a series of picturesque villages before reaching the stunning Seoz Dhar meadows. Along the way, pilgrims pause at various rest points and temples, each with its own unique story steeped in local folklore. For those interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of the region, this trek offers a rare and immersive experience.
Indiahikes recently explored an alternate route to Kailash Kund, starting from the road ahead of Chattergala Pass. This trail is known for its scenic beauty and solitude, offering trekkers a peaceful journey away from the crowds. The route, which remains largely untouched except during the yatra season, provides breathtaking views of Mt. Brahma I and Mt. Brahma II as trekkers ascend to Kailash Kund.
The trail traverses through dense coniferous forests and expansive meadows before reaching the rugged, boulder-strewn plains at the base of Mt. Kablas, locally known as Kailash. The descent from Mt. Kablas leads to the Seoz Dhar meadows, a landscape characterized by lush grass and smooth boulders of varying sizes, creating a unique and captivating environment.
Despite its natural beauty, Seoz Dhar remains largely unexplored and undeveloped as a tourist destination. The meadows, located at an elevation of about 11,000 feet, are not connected by road, and during the winter, the region is covered in a thick blanket of snow, cutting it off from the surrounding areas. However, in the summer, the meadows come alive with activity as nomads bring their flocks to graze in the cool, serene environment.
Seoz Dhar is a trekker’s paradise, offering miles of unspoiled meadows surrounded by majestic, snow-capped mountains. The area is home to dense forests, clear brooks, and a rich variety of flora, including vibrant wildflowers. The presence of nomads in their traditional attire, tending to their flocks, adds to the charm and authenticity of the landscape.
The Kailash Kund Yatra is a significant event, drawing pilgrims from across the region. The trek to the holy lake is challenging, involving steep ascents and rocky terrain. Trekkers are advised to come prepared with sturdy, well-gripped footwear, protective clothing, and essential supplies. The unpredictable weather in the region necessitates carrying waterproof gear and plastic sheets.
Seoz Dhar is also believed to be rich in valuable herbs, with the nomads claiming that rare medicinal plants, including the legendary ‘Sanjeevni Booti,’ may be found here. There is a great potential for research into these natural resources, and the traditional knowledge of the nomads could prove invaluable.
To fully unlock the tourism potential of Seoz Dhar, there is an urgent need to develop infrastructure, particularly by providing road access. This would not only make the region more accessible to tourists but also ensure that its unique cultural and natural heritage is preserved and promoted.
*The author is an Environmental Science Lecturer at Government Higher Secondary School Khellani.*
