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Pahalgam

About Pahalgam Tourism

Pahalgam, also known as the “Valley of Shepherds”, located in the Anantnag District of Kashmir, is a nature lovers retreat, which makes us believe that paradise is not always far. Sitting on the banks of the foaming and gurgling Lidder River, this famous tourist place in Kashmir mesmerizes visitors with its lush meadows, verdant forests, sky-kissing mountains, apple orchards, and very peaceful environment.

It is counted among the top tourist destinations of Kashmir because there are opportunities for camping, sightseeing, trekking, pilgrimage yatra, white water rafting and fishing.

A family holiday to Pahalgam is very exciting and you can do a lot of things to make your vacation a fun filled one. You can spend time by the bank of the Lidder River & enjoy the blissful company of Mother Nature. Other places where you can see the awe inspiring beauty of Pahalgam are Aru Valley, Betaab valley and Cahandanwari along with Baisaran, which are dotted with meadows, lakes & streams.

Pahalgam is also popular as a spiritual destination for being the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra, which is undertaken by Hindu pilgrims during the months of June & August, and begins at a town called Chandanwari, located almost 16 kilometers from it.

For adventure enthusiasts, Pahalgam is a haven as they can enjoy camping at Tarsar Lake, Lidderwat, Kolahoi Glacier & Panchtarni. An ultimate adrenaline rush awaits you with white water rafting at Lidder River, which is also famous for a fun filled activity like trout fishing.

Get the most authentic information in this detailed Pahalgam travel guide before planning a trip, including how to reach, best time to visit, top tourist attractions & accommodation options. Plan a trip with Pahalgam tour packages offered by MaximTrip that are available at the best prices & deals.

Best Time to Visit Pahalgam

Summer Season in Pahalgam (March till June, Temperature 15°C to 30°C)

Summer is a wonderful time to visit Pahalgam, with temperature ranging between 15°C to 30°C. Amarnath Yatra, taken by Hindu pilgrims, also starts in summer from June.

Monsoon Season in Pahalgam (July to September, Temperature 13°C to 17°C)

Monsoon begins in mid-June & continues till September, although it receives very less rainfall. Plenty of tourists visit it during this time too because of the Amarnath Yatra.

Winter Season in Pahalgam (October to February, Temperature -2°C to 12°C)

Winter starts in October & continues till February. The landscape during this time is simply marvellous and makes sightseeing & other activities really special.

Top Tourist Attractions in Pahalgam

 

Top Tourist Attractions  in Pahalgam

01 Aru Valley

Aru Valley, Pahalgam is a famous tourist place in Jammu & Kashmir located in the Anantnag district around 12 kilometers further from Pahalgam & is one of the 3 ABC Valleys of Pahalgam. Aru Valley Pahalgam is a hidden gem and off the beaten place in  Jammu and Kashmir. Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, the valley is a beautiful and serene place, far away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The valley was formed by two streams coming together, one from the Aru Glacier and one from the Lidder River., And the landscape is dotted with pretty villages, fields of flowers, and forests of pine and cedar. It is one of the popular valleys of abc valley of Pahalgam.

Aru Valley Pahalgam is a popular trekking destination and is known for its picturesque views. The village of Aru also serves as a base camp for trekking to the Kolahoi Glacier and Tarsar Lake. There are many other small trekking trails in the valley, making it a coveted destination for adventure seekers. The Aru Pahalgam is home to a number of glaciers, alpine meadows and streams. Pahalgam Aru Valley is also famed for its wildlife and is home to a number of rare and endangered species of animals such as the Asiatic black bear, snow leopard and red fox. The Aru Pahalgam is a beautiful village in Pahalgam where you can enjoy and relax.

Aru valley, Pahalgam has many wonderful trekking opportunities, but if you only have one day, you can still enjoy a trek to Green Top or the base camp. Lidderwat is another fantastic place for trekking and is just 8km further from Aru Valley, but you will need two days to reach it. The best option, however, is to hire a guide if you want to trek all the way to Lidderwat.Kolahoi glacier and Tarsar Lake are other multiple days trekking options.

Visiting Aru Valley in March can be a great experience, but in March the temperature can be cold with a temperature of 5°C to 15°C during day and at night it can drop down to sub-zero temperatures. So it is advisable to carry warm clothes if you are visiting Aru Valley in March. During winter Aru valley remains under thick blanket of snow. So , you can’t visit Aru Valley in December.

Top Things to Do in Aru Valley

• Horse Rides

• Enjoy a Picnic

• Skiing & heli Skiing

• Photography

• Fishing in the Aru River

• Sightseeing

Best Time to Visit Aru Valley

July to September is the best time to visit Aru Valley, since it’s great for sightseeing at this time. To enjoy skiing however, plan a trip to Aru Valley during the winter.

How to Reach Aru Valley?

Aru Valley is located almost 12 kilometers from Pahalgam, and it takes 30 minutes approx. to reach it. You can hire a taxi/union cab or any other private vehicle from Pahalgam to reach Aru Valley.

Entrance Fee

You will have to pay Rs. 25 per head to enter the valley.

02 Betaab Valley

Betaab valley, Pahalgam is one of the most beautiful and serene valleys of Jammu and Kashmir. It is located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir and is about 7 kilometers from the town of  Pahalgam. It was originally known as  Hagan Valley and got the name of  Betab valley Pahalgam from the popular Bollywood movie Betaab, which was filmed here in early 80’s. The valley is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is full of green meadows, streams, and forests. It is a popular tourist destination and is known for its scenic and picturesque beauty. The valley is also home to a number of wildlife species such as the snow leopard and brown bear. Betaab valley Kashmir in winter remains under thick layer of snow.

The valley was once populated by shepherds who grazed their sheep on its grasslands during summers but now it’s mostly visited by tourists who come to enjoy its natural beauty.

Things to Do in Betaab Valley in Pahalgam

• Sightseeing

• Go Trekking & Camping

• Enjoy a Picnic

• Visit Betaab valley, where the movie betaab was shot

How to reach Betaab Valley?

Betaab Valley is located 7 kilometers approx. from Pahalgam, and will take you almost 15 minutes to reach.

Best Time to Visit Betaab Valley

October to April is the best time to visit Betaab Valley.

Entrance Fee

You will have to pay an entrance fee of Rs. 100 per person to enter Betaab Valley.

03 Chandanwari

Chandanwari Pahalgam, is situated at a height of 2895 meters above sea level in the Kashmir Division district of Anantnag. To travel the 16 miles between Chandanwari and Pahalgam, you must hire a taxi from the Pahalgam village; outside-village taxis are not permitted. The cost of the 2-hour roundtrip is approximately Rs 1000. It is well-known for having beautiful landscapes and is a well-liked vacation spot for people from all over the world. The area is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and is a great spot to unwind. The sacred Amarnath Yatra, an annual sacred pilgrimage for Hindus, enters through Chandanwari Valley.

It’s a perfect location to escape the bustle of the city and spend some time in quiet surroundings, wild environments, and woods. It has a pleasant temperature and is conveniently reachable from Srinagar by road. Large rocks, glaciers, and small water streams are frequently present.

You will be welcomed by breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks and the Lidder River meandering down the valley as you travel to Chandanwari from Pahalgam in a local taxi. There is a tiny market on the route to Chandanwari Valley where you may purchase basic necessities including medicines, camera accessories, and batteries for your technology.

The Chandanwari glacier, which is close to the market and an excellent place to go on a sled ride, is what makes Chandanwari famous. Numerous enjoyable sports, such as horseback riding, snow sledding, and hiking, are available in Chandanwari. The same route also leads to Sheeshnag Lake, a crystal-clear body of water with a serene atmosphere.

Things to Do in Chandanwari Valley in Pahalgam

• Sightseeing & Photography

• Hiking

• Sledging

• Buy handicrafts & souvenirs from the local shops

How to reach Chandanwari Valley?

Chandanwari is located almost 15 kilometers from Pahalgam, and takes around 30 minutes to reach it. You can hire taxis & other private vehicles to reach Chandanwari from Pahalgam.

Best Time to Visit Chandanwari Valley

The best time to visit Chandanwari is from March to April. However, since it is the base/starting point for Amarnath Yatra, you will be visiting it whenever you take the yatra from June to August.

Entrance Fee

You will have to pay an entrance fee of Rs. 100 per person to enter Chandanwari.

04 Baisaran

Baisaran Valley, located just 5 kilometers away from Pahalgam in the Anantnag district of Kashmir, is famous as a top sightseeing destination, called mini-Switzerland because of its picturesque beauty. It’s a hilltop green meadow dotted with dense pine forests and surrounded by snowcapped mountains. This famous offbeat tourist place in Jammu and Kashmir is great for those wanting to spend a quiet time in the company of nature. It also serves as a campsite for trekkers going to Tulian Lake. Some of the famous tourist points which you can see en route to Baisaran are Kanimarg, Pahalgam Old Village, Kashmir Valley Point, Dabyan and Deon Valley Point. You can also enjoy panoramic sights of Pahalgam town & Lidder Valley from here.

Top Things to Do in Baisaran Valley

• Horse Rides

• Pony Ride

• Ziplining

• Zorbing

Best Time to Visit in Baisaran Valley

The best time to visit Baisaran depends on the kind of experience you want. If you want to enjoy the snow, visit it from January to March. To enjoy its greenery and enjoy pleasant weather, visit it from April to June.

How to reach Baisaran Valley?

Baisaran is located just 5 kilometers from Pahalgam, and can be reached by pony rides which are available from Pahalgam. If you are fit or workout on a daily basis, you can also enjoy a hike to Baisaran, which will take you around 60 minutes.

05 Tulian Lake

Tulian Lake is an alpine lake located near Pahalgam in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It lies at an altitude of 3,684 metres (12,087 ft) above sea level, 16 kilometres (9.9 mi) southwest from Pahalgam and 11 kilometres (6.8 mi) from Baisaran. The lake often has chunks of ice floating in it. It is surrounded on three sides by mountains that rise to over 4,800 metres (15,700 ft) and that are usually covered with snow. It is located in a meadow dotted with pine forests.[6] The lake lies in the great Himalayan range.

Top Things to Do in Tulian lake

• Photography

• Enjoy the spectacular views

• Trekking

Best Time to Visit in Tulian lake

April to August is the best time to visit the lake.

How to reach Baisaran Valley?

You can reach Tulian Lake by trekking, which consists of three parts. In the first part, you start from the base camp. In the second part, you come across a lovely valley comfortably tucked between two enormous mountain ridges with a river running along. In the third part, you finally reach the Tulian Lake.

How long does the trek take?

It takes 2 days to complete the trek to Tulian Lake, but you can also complete it within 1 day by hiring ponies.

Difficulty Level

Moderate to Difficult

06 Sheshnag Lake

Sheshnag Lak,  is a picturesque alpine lake located in the Pahalgam region of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Situated at an altitude of approximately 3,658 meters above sea level, this stunning lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush green meadows, and dense pine forests, offering a mesmerizing backdrop for visitors. The lake is named after Sheshnag, the mythical serpent deity in Hindu mythology, whose name translates to "the divine serpent." According to legend, Sheshnag is believed to reside in the lake, lending it a sacred significance among devotees and pilgrims.

Sheshnag Lake is a popular trekking destination and a key stopover for pilgrims en route to the Amarnath Cave, which is located further ahead. The trek to the lake offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape, including towering peaks and cascading waterfalls, making it a favorite among nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

During the summer months, the lake's crystal-clear waters reflect the azure skies above, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere that is perfect for relaxation and meditation. Visitors can also indulge in activities such as fishing and picnicking along the banks of the lake, immersing themselves in the pristine beauty of the natural surroundings.

Access to Sheshnag Lake is typically via a trekking route from Pahalgam, with the journey taking approximately one to two days depending on the pace of the trekker. Along the way, trekkers pass through scenic valleys, alpine meadows, and dense forests, encountering diverse flora and fauna unique to the region.

Top Things to Do in Sheshnag lake

Enjoy the captivating views

Photography

Best Time to Visit in Sheshnag lake

The best time to visit the Sheshnag Lake is from April to September.

How to reach Sheshnag lake?

Sheshnag Lake is located almost 17 kilometers from Pahalgam and 11 kilometers from Chandanwari Base Camp, from where the Amarnath Yatra starts. It can be reached by taking an enjoyable trek.

07 Lidder Valley/River

The Lidder Valley or Liddar River  is a Himalayan sub-valley that forms the southeastern corner of Anantnag district in Indian-administered Kashmir. The Lidder River flows down the valley. The Lidder Valley is situated within the jurisdiction of Pahalgam tehsil, of Anantnag district. It is bordered by Kashmir Valley to the west, and Sind Valley to the north.

The entrance to the valley lies 7 km northeast from Anantnag town and 62 km southeast from Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a 40-km-long gorge valley with an average width of 3 km

Top Things to Do in Lidder Valley/River

• The River offers a variety of travel activities apart from its spectacular beauty. Here are a few activities which you can enjoy there.

• River rafting: features whitewater rafting allowing adventure freaks to experience the rush of sailing through its rapids. The river offers thrills and excitement to adventure lovers in the summer season when the water flow is suitable for rafting.

Trout Fishing: Fishing is another popular activity for which Lidder  is famous. There are various kinds of fish present in the river. Anglers can try their luck by catching brown and rainbow trout which are found in abundance in Lidder River. Other fishes that can be found in Lidder are Anyour and Shuddgurn.

Camping: Camping along the banks of River is a memorable experience where you can immerse yourself in the fascinating beauty of nature. Lidder River offers a visual treat for those who seek peace and a deep connection with nature. Camping among lush greens, alpine meadows, and majestic mountains is an extraordinary experience that will soothe your body and soul.

The best time to go rafting in Lidder Pahalgam

• The ideal time for river rafting in Lidder usually starts from the summer season typically from May to early September. During this period, the weather is warm and the water levels are also suitable for rafting and other water activities. the snow melts during summer increasing the water level in the river providing a thrilling rafting experience for rafters.

• However, the best time for rafting depends upon the weather conditions, snow melts, and local rules. It is essential to wear safety types of equipment for a safe rafting experience.

How to reach Lidder River

• The River is located in the enchanting valleys of Pahalgam and flows through the entire region of the Anantnag district. To reach this river, you have to travel to Pahalgam town first which is the gateway of Lidder.

By Road: All the cities and towns of Jammu and Kashmir are well connected to Pahalgam as it is a major tourist destination of Kashmir Valley. You can reach Pahalgam by traveling through Srinagar or Anantnag by bus or taxi. The journey offers picturesque views of Kashmir and it will take 2-3 hours from Srinagar to reach Pahalgam depending on the traffic conditions.

By Air: the nearest airway to Pahalgam is Srinagar International Airport located about 90 km away. From the airport, you can book a taxi or private pre-arranged transport to reach Pahalgam.

08 Marsar Lake

Marsar Lake is located in Aru in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, and is famous for its exceptional beauty. It is separated by another famous lake, Tarsar Lake, by an enormous mountain of 4000 meters. When viewed from above, Marsar Lake looks heavenly with the clouds covering it and moving away within seconds.  The blue colours of the waters of the lake along with the rocky terrain surrounding it, makes it look extraordinary and a delight for photographers & nature lovers.

Things to Do in Marsar Lake

• Enjoy the scenic sights

• Photography

Things to Do in Marsar Lake

• Enjoy the scenic sights

• Photography

Best time to visit Marsar Lake

July to September is the best time to visit Marsar Lake.

How to reach Marsar Lake?

Marsar Lake can be reached by a trek whose route starts from Aru Valley, continues to Lidderwat Valley and crosses dense green Shekhawas mountains before finally reaching the lake.

09 Tarsar Lake

The Tarsar Lake or Tar Sar is an almond-shaped, oligotrophic alpine lake situated in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. On its west side lies Dachigam National Park, and on its south side lies Tral. The shortest route for reaching it, is from Surfraw Ganderbal, but it has a difficult terrain. Other trek routes to the lake are from Lidderwat and Nagaberan forest areas which fall in south Kashmir.

Top Things to Do at Tarsar Lake

• Photography

• Sightseeing

• Camping

• Spotting a variety of birds

• Trekking

Best Time to Visit Tarsar Lake

July to September is the best time to visit Tarsar Lake.

How to Reach Tarsar Lake?

To reach Tarsar Lake, you will have to take a trek whose route starts from Aru Valley, continues to Lidderwat Valley and crosses Shekhawas Mountains before coming to an end at the lake.

Pahalgam in Summer

Pahalgam in summer presents a beautiful view of lush green meadows with the gushing Lidder River. During the summer, you can visit all tourist attractions in Pahalgam, including Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, Chandanwari, and Baisaran Valley. During summer, the temperature in Pahalgam remains pleasant, ranging from 15 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius, perfect for river rafting, paragliding, angling, trekking to Kolahoi Glacier, and golfing.

Pahalgam in summer is the perfect hill station to refresh yourself and enjoy its natural beauty.

Pahalgam in Winter

The winter season in Pahalgam starts from November to February. During this period, the temperature usually remains below zero. If you are looking for live snowfall in Pahalgam, then December to January is the best time to visit. In winter, the lush green meadows of Pahalgam get covered under the white blanket of snow. If you are visiting Pahalgam in winter, make sure to pack warm clothes, as the night temperature drops below zero degrees.

Skiing, sledging, ATV ride, Snow biking  and pony riding are some of the activities you can do in Pahalgam in winter. You can take part in the Pahalgam Snow Festival, which is organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department annually.

This stunning valley is known for its serene beauty and picturesque landscapes. You can go for leisurely walks, horse riding, or simply sit by the river and soak in the tranquility of the surroundings.

Skiing In Pahalgam

Skiing in the mesmerizing terrain of Pahalgam is an experience you would not want to miss. After Gulmarg, this town is one of the best options that offer the true essence of Kashmir. Aru Valley, situated a short distance from Pahalgam, is the prime location for skiing, bounded by an enchanting landscape and an abundance of tranquillity.

Aru, situated a short distance from Pahalgam is the prime location of skiing bounded by enchanting landscape and abundance of tranquility making the activity of skiing an experience of pure ecstasy. Two-day Snow Festival in the town witness the tourist from all around the world showcasing winter sports.

Pony Ride In Pahalgam

Pony ride in Pahalgam  is a must do activity when visiting any popular destination in Pahalgam. Experience a delightful adventure with Pony Ride Pahalgam. So when you visit Kashmir don’t miss the opportunity to have a pony ride in Pahalgam.

This natural mode of transportation gives you the natural vibe of the landscaping and surroundings. Ponies in Pahalgam take you to the all the natural and serene destinations where commercial bikes and vehicles can’t go.

The ponies or horses are always accompanied by trained and knowledgeable guides who provide information about all the places along the way, making the journey truly memorable.

Golfing In Pahalgam

Golfing in Pahalgam offers a unique and unforgettable experience amidst the stunning beauty of the Kashmir Valley. The Pahalgam Golf Course, set against the backdrop of majestic snow-capped mountains and lush greenery, is one of the most picturesque golf courses in the country. Designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, this 18-hole golf course offers golfers of all skill levels an opportunity to enjoy the game amidst breathtaking scenery.

The Pahalgam Golf Course, located at an altitude of 7,200 feet above sea level, provides a challenging yet rewarding golfing experience. Golfers can test their skills on well-maintained fairways and greens while soaking in the serene ambiance of the surrounding landscape. The course is known for its undulating terrain, strategically placed bunkers, and natural hazards, adding to the excitement and thrill of the game.

Apart from golfing, visitors to Pahalgam can also indulge in various other activities such as trekking, horse riding, and trout fishing, making it an ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether it's a leisurely round of golf or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Pahalgam offers something for everyone amidst its breathtaking natural beauty.

Kolahoi Glacier In Pahalgam

Kolahoi Glacier,  Situated over the Lidder River, Kolahoi glacier is a hanging glacier known for its breath taking views. While the only way of reaching this glacier is though trekking, one can also hire ponies or horses for some parts of the journey. The terrains to reach the glacier are extremely challenging and are not advised to be undertaken by inexperienced trekkers. The Kolahoi Glacier is often referred to as the “Goddess of Light” by the locals.

Kolahoi Glacier Trek

This five-kilometer-long trek of the hanging glacier is truly an experience of a lifetime. Located in the Anantnag District of Jammu and Kashmir, this glacier is situated at a height of 5,425 meters and is a part of the Kolahoi Peak. The Kolahoi Glacier is the highest glacier in Kashmir and this trek will take you through the most mesmerizing views of the Kashmir Valley. Throughout the trek, you will cross several coniferous forests, magnificent waterfalls, several alpine lakes, green meadows, Lidder riverbank, and enchanting lakes.

River rafting in Pahalgam

White river rafting in Pahalgam offers an exhilarating adventure amidst the stunning landscapes of the Kashmir Valley. The Lidder River, with its pristine waters flowing from the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, provides the perfect setting for this adrenaline-pumping activity. The rafting experience in Pahalgam typically begins at the rafting base camp, where participants receive safety instructions and are equipped with the necessary gear, including helmets and life jackets. The rafting route covers thrilling rapids, ranging from Class I to Class IV, offering excitement for both beginners and experienced rafters.

As participants navigate through the rapids, they are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, dense forests, and picturesque meadows. The gushing waters of the Lidder River provide an exhilarating ride, with plenty of opportunities for adrenaline-fueled moments and memorable experiences.

White river rafting in Pahalgam is available during the summer months, typically from May to September, when the weather is pleasant and the water levels are suitable for rafting. The experience is guided by trained professionals who ensure the safety of participants while providing an unforgettable adventure on the river.