Pahalgam is a majestic wonder that adds more glory and beauty to our Paradise on Earth ‘Kashmir.’ All its elements: the legendary peaks, expansive valleys, pristine lakes, bubbly rivers, and abundant scenery has the ability to take your breath away. Its unimaginable beauty and favorable climate is what lures tourists from all around the world. Let us take a look at some of the picture perfect places that have earned Pahalgam the tag of being one of the best hill stations in Kashmir.
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Escape To Eternity With The Best Places To Visit In Pahalgam
Here’s a list of some of the most famous tourist places in Pahalgam to visit with family and loved ones.
Betaab Valley
Located 15 kilometers from Pahalgam is the famous Betaab Valley which looks straight out of a picture postcard. The green meadows, snow-capped mountains, tall Deodar trees, sparkling river Lidder and Pine forests is what makes Betaab valley indefectible. Earlier this valley was known as Hagan Valley but it was renamed as Betaab Valley after the 80s hit Bollywood movie ‘Betaab’ which was shot here. It is also a trekker’s paradise and serves as base camp for high-altitude trails. Betaab Valley is most popular amongst trekkers, honeymooners and couples. If you are looking for a complete package of tranquility, good weather, and scenic surroundings, Betaab valley is the place to be.
Baisaran Hills
Welcome to Baisaran, the mini Switzerland of India. This heavenly place with snow-covered hills and green pasture lands is a replica of the most beautiful place on this earth. This place is just 6 kilometers from Pahalgam, you can either take a walk, a pony journey or a taxi to reach this picturesque meadow. For people who want to hike up to the iconic Tulian Lake, Baisaran is a spectacular campsite too. Your visit to Pahalgam will be incomplete if you miss Baisaran hills for the region is overflowing with natural wonders that’s hard to see anywhere else.
Sheshnag Lake
If camping is on your mind, then the banks of pristine Lake Sheshnag surrounded by a never-ending line of pine trees and magnificent mountains makes for a perfect spot. A 23 kilometers drive from Pahalgam will bring one to the epitome of natural beauty, tranquility and serenity. At an altitude of 3658 meters above sea level this enchanting glacial lake is a great place for trekkers and nature lovers. The Sheshnag Lake also holds great spiritual significance, devotees believe that the mythical Sheshnag still resides in the lake. A perfect place for people looking for a paradise with peace and serenity.
Chandanwari
Chandanwari in Pahalgam holds a great importance as it marks the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra. Not just the destination but the journey too is very amazing. Enjoy great views of partially frozen waterfalls, the mighty snow-capped mountains and Lidder River flowing alongside you on your way to Chandanwari. This picturesque place also boasts of being a hotspot for snow sledding on a snow bridge. The enchanting hill town of Kashmir tends to remain covered in snow for a major part of the year. Make your way through thick layers of snow to catch magical views of the Himalayas. Its undulating landscapes are a treat not just for the eyes but it will also warm your hearts.
Lolab Valley
Another beautiful surprise in Pahalgam is the valley of Lolab which is known for its unparalleled beauty, gorgeous waterfalls and natural springs. The oval-shaped valley is located 9 km away from the northern district of Kupwara. Locals and tourists come here to pitch tents to enjoy bonfires and night-outs with family and friends. If lucky, you get to spot hanguls, snow leopards, musk deer and bears. Waterfalls, thrilling treks, and rivers are the highlights of this place. If you are looking to indulge in some adventure activities, the months of April to June are the best time.
Lidder River
Wherever you travel in Pahalgam, Lidder River will be your companion for the most part of your trip. It is a glacial river against the backdrop of lush snowcapped mountains. This river in the beautiful valley of Kashmir is the lifeline for its locals as water for irrigation comes from here. Its crystal clear blue water is home to many species of fishes like Shuddgurn, Brown trout, Rainbow trout and more. Lidder River is also famous for its many tourist activities like white water rafting, angling, horse riding, and fishing. Adventure lovers should try their hand at rafting as it is one of the most popular activities in Lidder.
Aru Village And Valley
A visit to Aru Village & Valley is a must as this popular valley is nothing short of a heaven. The lush meadows in the quiet and mesmerizingly beautiful Aru Valley is a great place to spend some time in the lap of nature. Hop on to a pony to explore the valley & some scenic points around it. Zorbing, zip lining, paragliding and river-crossing are some of the activities to indulge in while here. Base camp for a trek to Kolahoi glacier is also right here at Aru Valley.
Tarsar Lake
In the Aru district of Jammu and Kashmir lies a stunningly beautiful lake, the Tarsar Lake. While you are in Pahalgam, take that extra effort to reach Tarsar Lake as it is a great spot to witness nature in its full glory. The only way to reach this lake is by a trek which is moderately a difficult one. This almond shaped lake freezes during the winter months, hence it’s advisable to visit Tarsar Lake in summer. So if you have any plans of visiting Tarsar Lake, summer and spring seasons are the best times. If you visit in summer, which happens to be the best time, you can spot migratory birds like black bulbuls, cinnamon sparrows and high flying choughs. Every effort taken to reach here is worth it!
Kolahoi Glacier
Kolahoi glacier, a hanging glacier over the river Lidder is sure to take your breath away. The only way to get to this pristine place is by trekking. One needs to be fit to attempt this trek as it is quite challenging. The trial takes you through dense conifer forests and knee deep snow which gets even more difficult during the winters. But once up there, the unparalleled views of the snow-capped mountains and the surrounding places make you feel on top of the world. The sound of the river Lidder flowing beside you makes this trek an experience of a lifetime. A trek to Kolahoi glacier is both challenging and beautiful at the same time.
Panchtarni
Helicopters that take pilgrims to Amarnath temple land here due to the fact that the cave temple is only 6 km from here. As it is one of the most scenic places around Pahalgam, Panchtarni has become a popular camping and picnic site. It is also the base camp for devotees going on the Amarnath Yatra. Pilgrims traveling by foot, camp here for the entire night until they resume their journey. So if you are around Panchtarni during the pilgrim season, a visit to the Amarnath Temple just cannot be missed.
Mamal Temple
End your Pahalgam tour with a visit to an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees come here all year round to see the perennial pure water spring coming out from under its base. This temple which was constructed 1,600 years ago by king Jayasimha is the oldest temple of Kashmir Valley. The temple is constructed only with stones and the shrine inside the temple complex is completely covered in gold. It’s believed that the site of Mamal Temple is where Lord Ganesha sat as a guard for Goddess Parvati. For people looking to seek divine blessings, a visit to this temple is one of the best things to do in Pahalgam.
Also Read: My Experience Of Visiting Pahalgam: The Valley Of Shepherds
The many attractions here makes Pahalgam an important tourist destination in Kashmir. If you are looking to get away from the hustle-bustle of city life and want to spend some quality time in the lap of nature, Pahalgam is the place for you. Escape to this dream destination this summer for a chilling experience!
FAQ’s About Pahalgam
Pahalgam is a relatively small hill town, so 2-3 days is the ideal time to see all the popular attractions. But if you are short of time, start your day early and spend the entire day visiting key places such as Betaab Valley, Lidder Valley, Baisaran Valley, Aru Valley, etc.
Pahalgam can be reached either by air, train or bus. It is well-connected to the airport, railway station and bus stands. The nearest airport to Pahalgam is located at Srinagar, the nearest railway station to Pahalgam is Jammu Tawi and there are frequent bus services between Pahalgam and the neighboring cities of Srinagar and Jammu.
As Pahalgam is a small place, most of the attractions can be covered by walk. However apart from walking the buses, taxies, ponies and shared cabs are great options to move around.
