Andarkot is a place of archeological importance. Formerly known as Jayapura, this area was the erstwhile capital of King Jayapida near Wular Lake. Many ruins of the ancient period are found at this place.
Jayapida constructed many Buddhist viharas and Hindu temples which are now in ruins. A couple of sculptured relief on two faces of the pilaster can be seen in the Kesava temple. Most of the sculptures belong to about the 7th and 8th century.
Andarkot is about a mile away from Sumbal. One can reach Andarkot from Baramulla by road. The ancient causeway which connects the island with the mainland of Sumbal is still the only means of communication in the rainy season, when the lowlands round about are covered with water. The nearest railway station is at Jammu.
