Srigufwara

Srigufwara is an administrative sub division in Anantnag District of Indian State Jammu and Kashmir. Srigufwara was given Tehsil status by government of Jammu and Kashmir on 1 February 2014.EtymologyThe word Srigufwara is a combination of two roots Sri and gufwara. The initial part sri, (Kashmiri, sir) not be confused with Sanskrit root of the same name, means secret and gufwara (Kashmiri: gof: cave, wara: place) means place with a cave/secret. According to a legend, a famous Sufi saint Zainudin Wali meditated here in a cave in the 15th century AD when there was sparse human habitation in the area. His secret communion with God resulted in his salvation. It is believed that the name of the place comes from this saint’s presence here. Earlier it was called gofabal (gof=cave, bal=place) again meaning place with a cave. The meaning of old Kashmiri name gofabal and new Urdu name Srigufwara corresponds to each other making it more authentic and rules out Sanskrit meaning.LocationSrigufwara is located on the banks of one and the only tributary of Lidder River. It is 19 kilometers away from the main city Anantnag. Alternate route to famous health resort Pahalgam en route to famous Hindu Shrine Amarnath dedicated to the god Shiva, passes through Srigufwara. It serves as a shortcut to travel to Pahalgam. The drive is via Apple valley, vast landscapes, and lush green fields. Seventh century Martand sun temple on Martand plateau (Karewa) built by king Lalitaditya Muktapida of Kashmir is 10 kilometers away from Srigufwara.