Quick Answer
Aishmuqam is the shrine of Sheikh Zain-ud-Din Wali, a 15th-century Sufi saint and one of the principal disciples of Sheikh Nur-ud-Din (Nund Rishi). It is built around a cave on a hilltop about 100 m above the Srinagar-Anantnag-Pahalgam road, about 22 km from Anantnag and 20 km before Pahalgam. Visitors climb a stone stairway of roughly 270 to 300 steps from the road. The shrine is open to visitors of any faith, men and women alike. Its annual Urs is marked by the Zool, a two-day torch festival.
Most travellers pass Aishmuqam on the way to Pahalgam without stopping. Those who climb up find a shrine set into the rock, with a wide view over the Lidder valley. Zain-ud-Din Wali is remembered as a teacher of the Rishi order of Kashmiri Sufis; Baba Payam-ud-Din, whose shrine near Gulmarg is better known to tourists, trained under him here.
How to reach Aishmuqam
| From | Distance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Anantnag | About 22 km | On the Pahalgam road (NH501) |
| Pahalgam | About 20 km | Back down the Lidder valley |
| Srinagar | About 75 to 80 km, 2 to 2.5 hours | Via Anantnag |
Approximate.
The stairway starts by the road. The climb takes 15 to 25 minutes at an easy pace, with places to rest; it is not suitable for wheelchairs. Allow about an hour in all, which fits easily into the drive to or from Pahalgam.
The Urs and the Zool festival
The shrine's annual Urs draws thousands of devotees. It is marked by the Zool: a night of prayers and recitation (Shab Khawani), followed the next day by the festival itself, when devotees carry torches around the shrine. Traditionally the Urs also marks the start of the farming year in the area. Dates follow the local calendar, so check closer to the time.
Visiting etiquette
At the shrine
Dress modestly, with shoulders and legs covered; women should carry a scarf for their head. Remove shoes where asked, keep your voice down and ask before photographing people.
Adding Aishmuqam to your Pahalgam trip
Ask your driver to stop at Aishmuqam on the way up to Pahalgam or on the way back, ideally in the morning before the climb gets warm. It pairs well with Martand near Anantnag for a heritage half-day. See the culture and heritage guide for more shrines.
Plan your Pahalgam trip
Send your dates. We add Aishmuqam and Martand to your Pahalgam cab.
Further reading from Kashmir Pulse
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Frequently Asked Questions
Whose shrine is Aishmuqam?
It is the shrine of Sheikh Zain-ud-Din Wali, a 15th-century Sufi saint and disciple of Sheikh Nur-ud-Din (Nund Rishi).
How many steps are there at Aishmuqam?
Roughly 270 to 300 stone steps from the road; sources count them differently.
How far is Aishmuqam from Pahalgam?
About 20 km, on the road down the Lidder valley towards Anantnag.
Can women visit Aishmuqam shrine?
Yes. The shrine is open to visitors of either sex and any community.
What is the Zool festival?
A two-day festival at the shrine's annual Urs: a night of prayers followed by a torch procession around the shrine.
Written by Via Kashmir Editorial Team
Last checked November 2026
Via Kashmir is a Srinagar-based travel company built around one goal: giving travellers the best possible Kashmir experience. Our team puts together the best-priced hotels, cabs, Kashmir tour packages, and adventure packages with real sports activities, drawing on daily, on-the-ground knowledge of Kashmir's roads, weather, and seasons. Every guide on this site is written and checked by our local Srinagar team.