Pahalgam – The Valley of Shepherds

Season: Both SUMMER & WINTER

Overview:

At 2,200 meters (7,218 ft) in the Anantnag district of Kashmir, Pahalgam is a picturesque valley on the banks of the Lidder River. Located about 90 km (2–2.5 hrs) from Srinagar International Airport, Pahalgam is a favorite for its lush meadows, pine forests, rushing rivers, and snow-capped peaks. It is also the starting point for the Amarnath Yatra and the famous Aru & Betaab Valley treks.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Srinagar International Airport (90 km / 2–2.5 hrs).

• By Road: Well-connected via Anantnag and Srinagar.

• By Rail: Jammu Tawi (255 km) is the nearest major railhead.

Things to Do in Pahalgam:

Adventure Activities:

• River Rafting (Summer Only) – White-water rafting in the Lidder River.

• Trekking (Summer Only) – Base for Kolahoi Glacier, Tulian Lake, and Aru Valley treks.

• Golfing (Summer Only) – Pahalgam Golf Course set amid pine forests.

• Horse Riding (All Seasons) – Traditional way to explore valleys and meadows.

• Fishing (Summer Only, with permit) – Trout fishing in Lidder River and streams.

• Zipline – A popular activity of fun.

Sightseeing (By Car / Horses in Summer, Sledges in Winter):

• Betaab Valley – Famous for Bollywood shoots, named after the movie Betaab.

• Aru Valley – Starting point for multiple treks, surrounded by meadows.

• Chandanwari – Gateway to the Amarnath Yatra, 16 km from Pahalgam.

• Pahalgam Golf Course – Scenic 18-hole course.

• Mamleshwar Temple (12th century) – An ancient Shiva temple near Pahalgam town.

Sightseeing (Accessible by Horses or Walk Only):

• Baisaran Valley – Known as “Mini Switzerland,” a meadow with panoramic views.

• Tulian Lake – High-altitude lake in the Zanskar range.

• Kolahoi Glacier – A popular trekker’s destination, source of Lidder River.

• Sheshnag Lake – Sacred high-altitude lake en route to Amarnath.

Nearby Places to Visit:

• Martand Sun Temple (Anantnag) – Ancient Hindu temple ruins.

• Avantipur Ruins – Archaeological remains of 9th-century temples.

• Aishmuqam Shrine – Famous Sufi shrine en route to Pahalgam.

• Lidderwat Meadow – A trekking and camping paradise.

• Tarsar & Marsar Lakes – Twin alpine lakes on advanced trekking routes.