Yusmarg lies about 47–50 km south-west of Srinagar in Budgam district, at roughly 2,400 m in the foothills of the Pir Panjal. Its name is often translated as the “meadow of Jesus”, linked to a local legend. It is a wide, grassy meadow studded with pine trees, where shepherds bring flocks of sheep and goats to graze in summer.
The classic outing is the walk or pony ride of about 4 km through the forest to Nilnag, a small, dark-green lake in the pines. The Doodh Ganga river rushes along the edge of the meadow.
Top things to do at Yusmarg
Walk to Nilnag lake
About 4 km each way through pine forest — or hire a pony. Allow two to three hours for the round trip with a break by the lake.
Picnic on the meadow
Watch the shepherds and their flocks, and walk along the Doodh Ganga river.
Combine with Charar-e-Sharief
The famous Sufi shrine at Charar-e-Sharief lies along the route and makes a meaningful stop.
How to get to Yusmarg
- From Srinagar: about 47–50 km via Budgam and Charar-e-Sharief, around 1.5–2 hours by car.
- Transport: a hired taxi for the day is the practical option.
- Combining: it is possible but long to combine Yusmarg and Doodhpathri in one day; better to choose one.
Insider tips
- Facilities are limited; carry water and snacks.
- Agree pony rates before setting out to Nilnag.
- Wear proper shoes — the forest path can be muddy.
- Check the weather; the meadow is exposed and storms roll in fast.
Tours that include Yusmarg
These guided trips cover Yusmarg or combine easily with a visit:
Multi-day tour from €471 Kashmir: 7-Day Tour to Srinagar, Pahalgam and Gulmarg
A classic week in the Kashmir Valley: Srinagar’s lake and gardens, Pahalgam’s pine valleys and Gulmarg’s meadows, with transfers, accommodation and breakfast arranged for you.
- Srinagar, Pahalgam and Gulmarg in one trip
- Transfers and accommodation included
- Breakfast every morning
Private city tour from €41 All-Inclusive Srinagar Full & Half-Day Tour with Pickup
A flexible private tour with pickup: choose half a day or a full day to see the Shankaracharya Temple, stroll the Mughal gardens and browse Srinagar’s craft markets with a local driver-guide.
- Hotel or houseboat pickup
- Shankaracharya Temple and the Mughal gardens
- Time to shop for local crafts in the market
