About Pahalgam

Pahalgam is an angler's delight and even an amateur can catch a rainbow trout from the rushing streams. The large brown bear is a natural inhabitant of the thick Pine and Cedar forests. Pahalgam has a golf course at 2400 meters above the sea level. Camping equipment, ponies and skiing equipment is readily available. White water of River Lidder makes it ideal for the thrilling adventure sport like white water rafting. Kolahoi is a popular Trekking destination via Aru Valley a charming meadow. Some of the most popular trekking destinations from Aru are Kolohai, Tarsar, Marsar etc. Around Pahalgam there are many places of interest, and because the resort is set between fairly steep hills, it is worth hiring a pony rather than walking. In Pahalgam the most beautiful of these is the huge, undulating meadow of Baisaran, surrounded by thickly wooded forests of pine. Hajan and Betab Valley on the way to Chandanwari, is an idyllic spot for a picnic. Filmgoers will recognize it instantly as it has been the location of several movie scenes. Pahalgam has within it no fewer than eight tiny villages, one of which is Mamal. In Pahalgam there is a Shiva temple, generally considered to be Kashmir's oldest existing temple, dating to the 5th century.

"Shepherd's village", Pahalgam is visited by tourists and locals in huge number for its gradual lowering of temperature and river Lidder flowing at an approachable distance. Traveling through meandering roads, Pahalgam opens up with a fresh coo1 breeze of the river. The Lidder river rises from the Kolohoi glaciers, Tarsar lake and Sheeshnag to join as tributary of Jhelum. Pahalgam has an astounding 9 hole golf course open for tourists now being extended into an 18 hole. The golf championships are organised by state government and private hoteliers in summer. Here, tourists and locals putt together in the shades of Pine trees surrounding the golf course. Pahalgam (Nunwan) is a base camp for the annual Amarnath Yatra which starts from June to August every year. Enroute to Anarnath Cave is Chandanwari (2,895 m), 16 kms from Pahalgam, is the starting point of the yatra. The road from Pahalgam to Chandanwari is on fairly flat terrain and can be undertaken by car. From Chandanwari onwards the track becomes much steeper, and is accessible on foot or by pony. About 11 kms from Chandanwari is the mountain lake of Sheshnag (3,574 m), after which, 13 kms away is the last stop, Panchtarni. The Amarnath cave is 6 kms away from there. During the month of Sawan, an ice stalagmite forms a natural shivling in the Amarnath cave, which waxes and wanes with the moon.

The Holy Cave of Amarnathji is 46.7 km from Pahalgam at a altitude of 3952 meters, believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. The ice lingam formed by water droplets, symbolises Lord Shiva. Nearby are ice lingams of Mata Parvati, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Kartikeya also. People visit the Holy Cave during the scheduled Yatra period.Yatris can hire a pony or Dandy from (Nunwan) Pohalgam. According to Bringesha Samhita ,a book in sanskrit , Rishi Bringesha once instructed his disciples to have darshan of sacred lingam at the holy cave , The pilgrims were harassed by demons on the way, Lord Shiva gifted rishis a scepter for their safeguard. Charri Mubarak today is a symbol of this protected caravan. TOURIST ATTRACTIONS 1) Aru Valley: Juxtaposed against the snow-covered Himalayan peaks, Aru Valley is an enthralling village in Kashmir. One of the most popular valleys in Kashmir, it is the base camp for visits to the huge number of lakes, meadows and peaks around it like the Kolahoi glacier and the Tarsar lake. The village of Aru lies beside the Aru river, a tributary of the Lidder river. The Aru valley is noted for its scenic meadows. Most tourists come here for areas of peace and quiet in the lap of nature. Aru is a great place for family outings because it has beautiful resorts and activities for all kinds of people. The locals truly make you feel at home with innumerable cups of Kaahwa and by taking you sightseeing. Located 12 km from Pahalgam, despite being a small village Aru Valley is captivating with its scenic meadows and activities like horse riding, hiking and trekking. This place is an excellent choice for people looking to spend their holidays in luxury as well as those looking for some adrenaline pump. 2) Betaab Valley: Previously known by the name of Hagan Valley or Hagoon, the Betaab Valley in Pahalgam is a breathtaking combination of picturesque surroundings that is encircled by mountains full of tall deodar trees and pine forests, with the Lidder River flowing right through it. The valley is located at a distance of 15 kilometres from Pahalgam in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. The valley got its more recent and attractive name from a famous Bollywood movie that was shot here and has been attracting a large number of tourists ever this. The Bollywood connect of the valley, coupled with the scenic views that the place offers, have made the area a popular tourist destination. The valley falls between Pahalgam and Chandanwadi on the way to the Amarnath Temple Yatra and is one of the three angelic valleys of Pahalgam, the other two being Aru and Chandanwadi. Sprawling fertile pastures, snow-capped mountains and meandering streams are characteristic of this valley and add to the aesthetic appeal of this place. Apart from being well-known for this stunning landscape, the valley is also renowned as a famous trekking base and camping site for travellers who want to explore the nearby regions or set out for the Amarnath Yatra. The beautiful valley is the dream destination for every photography lover since practically every nook and corner of this place is the perfect spot for capturing photos. Being a precious jewel of Jammu and Kashmir tourism, the Betaab Valley is one amongst the handful of places that should be visited. The heavenly pleasures of nature can be enjoyed here without any disturbance or pollution, while the sights of the coloured flower beds and the musical sound of the birds further add to the beauty and splendour of this place. 3) 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. 4) Lidder River: Located in the picturesque beauty that the state of Jammu and Kashmir is, the Lidder River is a glacial river that originates from the Kolahoi glacier. Flowing through the valleys of Pahalgam, this mighty river is a sight to behold and is a popular tourist hotspot as well. The crystal clear water houses many different varieties of fish and is also used for irrigation purposes. The peaceful aura of this destination combined with its scenic beauty makes it a quaint picnic spot to spend some quality time in the lap of nature. The Lidder river of Jammu and Kashmir is the perfect spot to relax and unwind away from the chaos of city life. A nature lover's paradise, the blue water of this river against the backdrop of lush mountains is a sight to sore eyes. Experience the raw beauty of the region here as you take long walks along the banks of the river. Considered as one of the most important tributaries of the Indus, this river is the main source of water for the nearby Anantnag region which is only accessible by trekking. Other adventure sports that you can indulge in are white water rafting, angling, horse riding and fishing as well. 5)Chandanwari: Chandanwari, located 15 km from Pahalgam, is the starting point of the famous Amarnath Yatra. It is also famous for the snow sledging on a snow bridge. The place is perfect to enjoy a picnic with your family and enjoy the natural beauty. Pahalgam is a popular hill station in Anantnag district of Jammu & Kashmir. It is a very famous tourist destination, and many tourists visit the place every year. It is located on the banks of Lidder River. Chandanwari is best recognised as the place where the Bollywood movie "Betaab" was shot. Many modern facilities have come up here for the visitors. Treks in this region begin from Pahalgam, as the 35 km trail crosses through pinewoods to the Kolahoi Glacier. 6)Mamaleshwara Temple: At a distance of about a kilometer from Pahalgam, is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, constructed purely of stone, by the then King Jayasima. The temple is marked as a significant place of worship in the region and draws pilgrims from all over the state. 7)Amarnath Yatra: Pahalgam is also a host to the famous Amarnath Yatra which takes place each year during the month of Sawan (July to August). It commences from both routes, of Pahalgam and Baltal. Chandanwari which is around 15 km from Pahalgam is the starting point for Amarnath Yatra. Pahalgam to Chandanwari is easily accessible by taxi. From Chandanwari, pilgrims need to continue their Yatra on foot or on a pony, which takes at least 2 days to reach the cave and back, with an overnight stay in either Shishnag or Panchtarni. 8) Tulian Lake: Between the Pir Panjar and the Zanskar range is a sparkling blue lake, dotted by chunks of ice during the few times in the year, when isn't frozen completely. At an altitude of 4000m above sea level, the lake demands a 2-day trek from Aru to be reached. One can also hire ponies, available from this trip to the lake. 9) Trekking: With plenty of trekking trails, Pahalgam is the base camp for countless trekkers. Challenging mountain ranges, pristine lakes and plateaus make the region of Pahalgam suitable for all types of trekking. Best time to trek in Pahalgam is from April to June. 10) Golfing: At an altitude of about 2400m above sea level, a nine hole golf course is sported by Pahalgam, also referred to as 'Plateau' by a lot of locals. One can also rent equipments here as well as enjoy the few refreshments available in the premises. 11) 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, 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