Kulgam

The word ‘Kulgam’ denotes “Kul” meaning thereby the “Whole” and the “Gam” in Arabic to  “teach righteousness”. Mir Syed Hussain Simnania (RA) had invited  Hazrat Amir Kabir Mir Syed Ali Hamdani (RA) to Kashmir and mystical poetess Lal Ded  to Kulgam where their disciples like  Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani (RA), manifesting the composite culture, promoted and encouraged it even when dissension in rest of the Asiatic Countries was taken as heretics. Kulgam, as such, is believed to be a place acting as torch-bearer for righteousness in the circumspection. For Administrative convenience and with the aim to bring administration closer to the people for their development and betterment, district Kulgam, like other 07 newly created districts in the state, came into existence after being carved out from District Anantnag and made functional administratively with effect from 2nd April, 2007. Kulgam (District Headquarter) is situated at a distance of about 68 kms from Srinagar and about 17 kms from Anantnag. Geographically, the district lies between 330 –15’ North Latitude and 740-35’ East longitude bounded in the East and North by Anantnag and Shopian districts respectively.  It is also bounded by Reasi, Ramban & Rajouri Districts in the South and South west though separated by the mighty and majestic mountainous range of Pirpanjal acting as a massive topographic physical protection. The District has road connectivity with its neighboring districts like Shopain, Pulwama, Anantnag and Ramban etc, besides being linked with far flung areas of the district by a dependable road network. Nallah Veshav, which drains from the northern face of Pir Panjal, is the main left bank tributary of river Jhelum and traverses through District Kulgam. Before the confluence of Veshu with the Jhelum, it got broken off into a number of channels providing drinking water facilities to the vast population of the district and irrigation facilities to huge tracts of the agricultural land of the district. Besides places of spiritual interest viz  Mir Syed Hussain Simnania (RA) at Kulgam, Sheikhul Alam (RA) at Global Bogund Qaimoh, Noorshah Bagdadi at Kund, Sheikh Noor-udin Wali (RA) at Chimmer, the District has tourist spots like: “Aharbal WaterFall” on Veshu Nallah which is place of sight-seeing in extreme South-West of Kulgam. “Kung-Watan and Gurwatan” ahead of Aharbal; “Charebal” and “Nadimarg” highland pastures are also places of tourist attraction apart from virgin meadows in the area from ‘Kund’ to ‘Ladigasan’ (ahead of Aharbal Clefts). The District has an abundance of natural & fresh water resources also in the shape of various famous springs, such as Kounsarnag (ahead of Aharbal), Waseknag (Kund), Khee Nag (Khee Jogipora) etc. Comprising a geographical area 1067 Sq. Kms, the District has one Sub-Division (Noorabad) and Seven Tehsils, namely, Kulgam, Devsar , Damhal Hanjipora, Pahloo, Yaripora, Frisal and Qaimoh, 21 Nayabats ,viz, Kulgam, Qaimoh, Mirhama, Yaripora, Devsar, Chowgam, D H Pora, Nagam, Pahloo, Lammer, Katrasoo, Ashmuji, Tangmarg, Chimmer, Chambgund, Kilam, Khull, Balsoo, KB Pora, Manzgam and Nowbugh Kund. The District has 11 Community Development Blocks, viz. Kulgam, D H Pora, Pahloo, Devsar, Qaimoh (partly), Kund, Manzgam, D K Marg, Pombay, Frisal and Behibag. As per Census 2011, the District consists of 231 Villages out of which 226 villages are inhabited and 05 are un-inhabited. There are 04 Municipal Committees viz Kulgam, Devsar, Yaripora & Frisal. The Municipal Committees namely Ashmuji, Mohammadpora, Qaimoh and few words from some MCs have been denotified by the Govt during the years 2012 to 2015. Out of four (04) Assembly Constituencies, Kulgam and Noorabad fall fully in the District while as two (02) Assembly Segments viz. H S Bugh and Devsar fall partly in its jurisdiction.

History and Heritage  
History of Kulgam is dealing with the life and the journey of a Muslim hermit, Sayed Simnan Sahib, who gave it the name "Kulgam" where "Kul" means "clan" in Sanskrit; "gram" in Sanskrit means "village".

Coming of Sayed Simnan Sahib

Sayed Simnan Sahib came from a place called Simnan in Iran. Traveling to the Kashmir valley of Jammu and Kashmir in modern India, Sayed Simnan Sahib came to Kulgam and liked the spot on a cliff overlooking the Veshaw River.
One of the most important parts of the cultural identity of the Kashmiri people is the Kashmiri (Koshur) language. This language is spoken only in the Valley of Kashmir by the Kashmiri Pandits and Kashmiri Muslims. Besides language, Wazwan and culture has been greatly influenced by Central Asian and Persian culture. Kashmiri is an Indo-Aryan (Dardic subgroup) language close to Central Asian Avestan-Persian. Cultural music and dance like Wanvun, Roaff, carpet/shawl weaving |Kaleenbafi and Koshur Sufiana form a very important part of Kashmiri identity. Kashmir has witnessed many spiritual gurus who migrated from their land to Kashmir. Kashmir has also witnessed the birth of some of the great poets and suifs of all time like Lal Daed, Sheikh-ul-Alam, Habba Khatoon and many more; and is regarded as Peer Vaer (a place or land of spiritual gurus). It is important to note that Kashmiri culture is predominantly followed only in the Kashmir valley and Doda of the Chenab region. Jammu and Ladakh have their own distinct cultures that are very different from that of Kashmir.

Geography and Climate
The district of Kulgam is located in Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is situated near the Pir Panjal Ranges, on the left bank of the Veshaw River, and is about 68 kilometers from Srinagar. The district's geographical boundaries are between 330–15' North Latitude and 740-35' East longitude. Kulgam has many natural water resources, including springs such as Kausar Nag, Waseknag, Khee Nag, and Qaimoh Nag. The district also has many mountain peaks, including Bramshakri (4500 m), Huen Heng (3900 m), and Sondir Top (3700 m).
Located at an elevation of 1746.12 meters (5728.74 feet) above sea level, Kulgam has a Marine west coast, warm summer climate (Classification: Cfb). The district’s yearly temperature is 13.91ºC (57.04ºF) and it is -12.06% lower than India’s averages. Kulgam typically receives about 33.85 millimeters (1.33 inches) of precipitation and has 49.47 rainy days (13.55% of the time) annually.

Flora and Fauna
Kulgam is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, thanks to its pristine natural environment. The town is surrounded by dense forests teeming with a variety of plant species, including conifers, oaks, and rhododendrons. Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted to know that Kulgam is also home to several rare and endangered species, such as the Himalayan black bear, the musk deer, and the snow leopard.

Tourist Attractions
Aharbal, Aharbal is a hill station in the south-western part of Kashmir Valley in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, south of the summer capital of Srinagar (Sub district: Damhal Hanjipora, District: Kulgam). Aharbal Waterfall is also known as Niagara Waterfall of Kashmir.
Aharbal is known for its waterfall, Aharbal Falls, where the Veshu falls noisily 25 metres and 7 metres through a narrow gorge of granite boulders. Aharbal Falls are also referred to as the Niagara Falls of Kashmir, owing to the volume of the water that falls.The water volume would be sufficient to generate 100 MW of hydroelectricity.
Panchanpathri, located near the Sheikh ul Aalam Astaan (Shrine) at Chimmer, is a valley known for its lush greenery and scenic beauty, making it a popular spot for adventure enthusiasts. The name "Panchanpathri" translates to "valley of five streams," hinting at the natural charm it holds.
Syed Simnania (RA) Ziyarat Shareef, formerly known as Shampora, is a historic and religious site in Kulgam, named after the revered Iranian Saint Syed Simnania (RA). The site holds cultural and spiritual significance, drawing visitors seeking a connection to the past.
Ziyarat Shareef Sheikh ul Aalam (RA) at Chimmer is another historic and religious site in Kulgam. Sheikh ul Aalam (RA), a prominent figure, spent most of his life in Qaimoh, contributing significantly to the region's spiritual heritage. The shrine stands as a testament to his legacy and attracts pilgrims and tourists alike.
Houen Heng, also known as Dog's Horn peak, is a site with a tragic history hidden beneath its snow-covered peaks. Located at an altitude of 4200 meters above sea level, it offers breathtaking views and a somber reminder of past events.
Vasak Nag Kund, situated at Kund in Tehsil Devsar, is a cold water spring with historical and natural significance. The spring is known for its cold, refreshing water and is a popular spot for visitors seeking a tranquil retreat.
Badi Bahek, tucked away in DH Pora, is a hidden gem surrounded by pine forests and snow-capped mountains. The serene environment and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Chiranbal, located a short distance from Manzgam, offers a picturesque landscape with lush forests and towering mountains in the background. The area's natural beauty makes it a perfect spot for adventurers and nature lovers.
Kousarnag Lake, nestled amidst the Pir Panjal peaks, is a snow-fed lake and a source of several rivers in Kulgam. The lake's pristine waters and stunning surroundings make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

How to Reach
By Air: Nearest Airport is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport Srinagar
(SXR) which is at a distance of around 68 KM from Kulgam

By Rail: Nearest Railway Station  is Anantnag Railway Station situated at a distance of 15 Km from Kulgam. Jammu Tawi and Udhampur railway stations are the nearest railway stations for inter state journey.

By Road: There are regular buses from other major cities(Srinagar and Jammu) to Kulgam. Bus Station(s): Kulgam