The etymology of the word 'Kokernag' is controversial and there are various theories and none has any conclusive historical proof. One theory is that the name derives from the two words namely, koker and nag. Koker has been taken from a Kashmiri word for chicken, while nag has been taken from Sanskrit word for springs. The springs gush out of the base of a thickly wooded hill from where it divides into channels, which resembles to the claw-foot of a hen, hence its name. A second theory is that Koker means 'fowl' and nag means 'serpent'. Another theory is that the word Kokernag originates from Koh kan nag. Kokernag is known also as Breng Kokernag, the name given by Shiekh ul Alam, poet and scholar. He said "kokernag breng chu sunsund preng" which means that "Kokernag is Golden crown of kashmir". Kokernag is also mentioned in Ain Akbari, where in it has been mentioned that the water of Kokernag satisfies both hunger and thirst and it is also a remedy for indigestion.
Geography
Kokernag is at the height of approximately 2,000 m above sea level. Towns situated around Kokernag are Wangam, Devalgam, Hangalgund, Nagam, Sagam, Zalengam, Daksum, Magam, and Soaf Shali. The total area of Kokernag trouth farm about 400 Kanals of which 129 kanals is for the purpose of gardens and area.
Climate
Economy
It is known for its trout streams and the largest fresh water spring in Kashmir, Trout hatchery department which has constructed pools in series where in trout is reared. The state's first rural mart has been set up in Kokernag, to promote and market the handicraft products manufactured by the local women self help groups, by NABARD.
Demographics
According to the 2011 India census Kokernag had a population of 6,553. Males constitute 68% of the population ●Females 32%. Kokernag has an average ●Literacy rate of 63%, higher than the national average of 59.5%.Male literacy is 77%,Female literacy is 33%.In Kokernag, 9% of the population is aged under 6 years.
Transport
Kokernag is situated at a distance of about 22 km from Anantnag on the right side of Anantnag-Kishtwar National highway. The easiest and most comfortable way of reaching this place is to hire a Sumo at Anantnag. One can also catch a local bus that is easily available in Anantnag and head towards Kokernag. It takes about one hour to reach Kokernag..The nearest airport is 88 km away, at Srinagar. The nearest railway station is Anantnag railway station on the 119 km long Kashmir Railway that runs from Baramulla to Banihal. It lies at a distance of 30 km from kokernag.
