Pahalgam travel guide: everything you need to know

Pahalgam, commonly referred to as the “Valley of Shepherds,” is a popular destination for nature lovers in Kashmir’s Anantnag District, which gives us hope that paradise is not always far away. This well-known tourist destination in Kashmir, which is located on the banks of the foaming and gurgling Lidder River, enchants visitors with its lush meadows, verdant woods, sky-kissing mountains, apple orchards, and extremely tranquil surroundings.

Due to the availability of camping, sightseeing, hiking, white water rafting, trekking, and fishing, it is one of Kashmir’s most popular tourist sites.

How to Reach Pahalgam

By Air: The Sheikh-Ul-Alam in Srinagar is roughly 90 kilometres distant and is the closest airport to Pahalgam. This airport is connected to flights from all major cities, including Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Mumbai, etc. You can take a taxi from here to Pahalgam.

By Train: The closest railroad station is Udhampur, which is 217 kilometres from Pahalgam. All major cities are connected by train from here. The Jammu Tawi station, 285 kilometres away, is another neighbouring railroad station. From here, you can take a cab or a private vehicle to Pahalgam.

By Road: State Road Transport Corporation buses connect Pahalgam to Srinagar, Jammu, and those cities. Additionally, you have the option of taking a private bus with deluxe, AC, or non-AC services. The pleasure of taking a road trip will allow you to enjoy the scenery of the surrounding areas as you travel.

Best Time To Visit Pahalgam

The three distinct seasons in Pahalgam are summer, winter, and monsoon. Summer is the busiest travel season due to the great weather. March through June see a spike in tourism. Pahalgam is not only a summertime tourist destination, though. During the monsoon, it is also commonly visited. When it snows hard in the winter, adventurers flock to Pahalgam. Trekking, adventure sports, and other wintertime activities are in high demand. The optimal time to travel to Pahalgam so depends on your intended activities.

Thing To Do in Pahalgam

Trekking: Pahalgam is a fantastic location for lovers of trekking. An adrenaline rush can be experienced due to the rocky landscape and the sloping mountains. A once-in-a-lifetime adventure is trekking between the greenery of meadows and the snow-capped mountains. The Kolahoi Glacier, Amarnath Holy Cave, Sheshnag Lake, Tulian Lake, Chandanwari, Tarsar Lake, and Marsar Lake are important trekking trails.

Rafting: Try white water rafting on the Lidder river in Pahalgam if you enjoy adventure. The river’s Aru branch is the most well-liked. The river’s upper stages, where the extremely cold water rushes quickly down to the rest of the Pahalgam valley, are where rafting typically begins.

Golf Course: The Pahalgam Golf Course, which is located far higher than typical ground level, is an absolute delight for golf enthusiasts. Between the mountains, you can play golf or simply enjoy watching others play!

Places to visit in Pahalgam

Pahalgam is one of the top hill resorts in Kashmir for honeymooners, families on holiday, and nature enthusiasts because of its steep hills, deep, verdant valleys, and coniferous forests. Numerous travellers from all over the world are drawn to Pahalgam by its captivating tourist attractions and welcoming environment.

Pahalgam can legitimately be referred to as a recreation retreat, offering a wide range of activities to accommodate the diverse interests of all different types of tourists. It is not only a hill station in Kashmir. The blog post on the finest places to visit in Pahalgam includes a list of some of the most well-known tourist destinations in and around Pahalgam that you can visit with family or on your own.

1. Aru Valley

Aru valley is a great place to visit near Pahalgam and is located about 12 km from the city. The picturesque Trans-Himalayan town of Aru Valley looks out towards the majestic Himalayas.

Every nature enthusiast is enthralled by the vibrant flower meadows, foggy atmosphere, fir and pine forests, and the wonderful weather. The valley is well-known among people who enjoy nature as well, though. It also provides an opportunity for adventure seekers to take part in Pahalgam’s adventure activities, which include hiking, river rafting, camping, and trout fishing, among others.

2. Baisaran Hills Pahalgam

Five kilometres from the centre of Pahalgam, Baisaran Hill is a rolling meadow surrounded by dense pine forests. Lush flora best describes Baisaran Hills, making it a destination worth visiting. The contrast between the snow-capped slopes and the lush pasturelands makes Baisaran very attractive. In Kashmir, camping on the hill is a popular activity.

You can make camp next to Tulian Lake. At the same time, other hikers choose to hike from Baisaran, ascending to the Tulian Lake, which is 3353 metres above sea level, and setting up camp there. Others begin their treks in Pahalgam, the Baisaran Mountains, or Tulian Lake.
The Lidder valley in the Himalayas may be seen well from an off-beak trail. If you do not intend to go hiking!

3. Betaab Valley Pahalgam

Betaab Valley, formerly known as Hagan Valley and 15 kilometres from Pahalgam, received its new name after the 1983 filming of the popular Bollywood film “Betaab.” The Betaab valley in Pahalgam, one of the three lovely valleys together with Chandanwari and Aru, is the ideal combination of peace, excellent weather, and picturesque surroundings.

The valley is located along the Amarnath cave path. Betaab Valley is a must-see destination in Pahalgam. It is surrounded by snowy peaks and is dotted with pine and deodar trees. You feel removed from the pressures of city life here.

The colourful flowerbeds and deep green carpets in Betaab Valley’s landscape enhance its beauty and enchant everybody who sees it. The main reason to go to Pahalgam’s Betaab valley is for that reason.

4. Chandanwari Pahalgam

Chandanwari Valley, located around 16 kilometres from Pahalgam and tucked away at an elevation of 2895 metres above sea level, boasts an abundance of natural beauty.

Additionally, it serves as the beginning point for the Amarnath Yatra’s Pahalgam route. The most well-liked vacation spot for outdoor enthusiasts who adore hiking is Chandanwari.

5. Awantipora

Awantipora ruins, also known as Avantipura ruins, are the remains of numerous ancient Hindu temples that King Awanti Varman, who ruled Jammu and Kashmir in the ninth century, built. They are located in Pahalgam town in the Kashmir valley.

The Awantipora ruins are a haven of calm and mental tranquillity for followers of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, the dwelling deities of the temples. This collection of temples was built amidst a beautiful forest, thus it is aesthetically pleasing to visitors.

The Awantipora remains, one of the most visited tourist destinations, are also a reminder of the Avantipur kings, who ruled the area for for a century. The website was a well-liked scared site back when it was in its prime. The remains still recount the history of the area and its kings. The Awantipora temple complex in Pahalgam may be visited all year long, and it is located in the village of Jaubror.

Restaurants in Pahalgam

The main focus of Pahalgam cuisine is indulging in the delicious Kashmiri cuisine, known as Wazwan. In Pahalgam, popular foods include Matshgand, Kaanti, Modu Pulaav, Muj Gaad, and Marcha-Wangan Korma. Trout is a must-try fish. There are many eateries, dhabas, motels, and resorts in Pahalgam where you may pamper your stomach and taste buds.

Hotels in Pahalgam

Pahalgam attracts a large number of tourists all year long because of its stunning scenery, fantastic sightseeing opportunities, and adventurous activities. Pahalgam offers a variety of lodging choices, including budget hotels for those seeking a comfortable stay at a fair price, as well as hotels with 3 to 5 stars that offer the greatest in luxury.

Pahalgam Tour Packages

Holidays Hunt Travel, one of the best tour and travel agency in Jammu and Kashmir, provides a Pahalgam Tour Packages. For a customised Pahalgam Kashmir tours, contact us. Please call or whatsapp +91-94199-15255 or visit our website holidayshunt.com

Jammu and Kashmir Travel Guide

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Accommodation in Pahalgam

Pahalgam is famous for its picturesque beauty, great sightseeing opportunities & adventure activities, and invites great numbers of tourists throughout the year. There are several accommodation options in Pahalgam, from 5 to 4 star hotels that provide the utmost luxury and budget hotels for those looking for a pleasant stay at reasonable rates.Show More

Top Things to do in Pahalgam

Pahalgam, known as the Valley of Shepherds, is famous for its breathtaking beauty, sightseeing opportunities & options for adventure activities. There are many things to do in Pahalgam which promise to make your holiday a fun, exciting and thrilling one.

Camping is one of the best things to do in Pahalgam, with the top camping sites in Pahalgam being Panchtarni, Lidderwat & Tarsar Lake. Explore its picturesque beauty by trekking at Kolahoi Glacier, or get the ultimate adrenaline rush with white water rafting at Lidder River.

Pahalgam is also famous as the base from where the famous Hindu pilgrimage, Amarnath Yatra, commences in June & continues till August, from a place called Chandanwari, located almost 15 kilometers away.

Tourist Attractions in Pahalgam

The lush meadows, mountains, beautiful forests, apple orchards, gorgeous views of snowcapped mountain peaks & the peaceful environment make Pahalgam a famous holiday destination in Kashmir, both for those on a family holiday & honeymoon tour.

There are several tourist attractions in Pahalgam which are great for sightseeing. Some of the famous sightseeing places are Baisaran, Sheshnag Lake, which has religious significance for the Hindus & falls en route to Amarnath Cave.

The splendid beauty of Pahalgam can be explored in the Aru & Betaab valleys, which are dotted with meadows, streams & lakes. 

Pahalgam Weather

Summer Season In Pahalgam (March Till June, Temperature 15°C To 30°C) Pahalgam is most beautiful in the summer, when temperatures range from 15 to 30 degrees. Hindu pilgrims also go on the Amarnath Yatra during the summer, beginning in June.

Monsoon Season In Pahalgam (July To September, Temperature 13°C To 17°C) Mid-June marks the start of the monsoon season, which lasts until September but brings very little rain. Due to the Amarnath Yatra, a large number of tourists also go there at this time.

Winter Season In Pahalgam (October To February, Temperature -2°C To 12°C) Winter begins in October and lasts through February. The scenery is incredibly stunning at this time of year, which makes sightseeing and other activities extra-special.

Tips for Visiting Pahalgam

• For winter trips, pack heavy woolen clothes, windproof jackets, gloves, etc.
• Keep yourself hydrated especially with warm liquids.
• Book your train/bus/flight or accommodation beforehand during the peak season.
• Always keep your hotel manager’s number in your phone for emergency situations.
• Do not roam around at night.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pahalgam