A view of the snow-covered highway connecting the Kashmir Valley with Kishtwar at Sinthan Top, south of Srinagar. File | Photo credit: Nissar Ahmed
Popular trekking spots in Kashmir’s Anantnag were kept off-limits on Friday (January 2, 2026) on the cues of security agencies.
Margan Top, Chauhar Nag and Sinthan Top are on the banned list. These areas are at an altitude of around 3,696 meters and have traditionally attracted adventure seekers to the alpine meadows and glacial lakes for which they are known.
According to an order issued by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Kokernag, inputs from the police and security agencies indicated security vulnerabilities in certain high-altitude and forested areas falling under Kokernag sub-division.
The order states that unrestricted movement and outdoor activities in these sensitive areas “could adversely affect public safety and security.”
“The order will remain in effect for two months unless withdrawn or extended,” he said
Meanwhile, Station House Officer (SHO) Larnoo has been directed to ensure strict implementation of the order and regulate movement at all check posts.
Margan Top, Chauhar Nag and Sinthan Top, located high in the Himalayas, connect Kistwar in Jammu with the Kashmir Valley. Margan Top has a hiking trail that leads to Kargil in Ladakh. The area is popular with local and foreign adventure sports enthusiasts.
Published – 02 Jan 2026 22:06 IST
