We were travelling to Pahalgam, the valley of shepherds, on road from Srinagar. At the outskirts of the hamlet, a big green board welcomed us. ‘Pahalgam’ literally means ‘The First Village’. It was perhaps named, as per a common mythical belief that during Lord Shiva’s way to Amarnath Cave, this small village served as His first resting point. He had performed a rigorous meditation for many days before heading onto His heavenly abode.