Located on the banks of Lidder River at an altitude of 7200 ft. above sea level, Pahalgam is a world famous hill station that offers breathtaking views. Once a favourite place for shooting of Bollywood films, Pahalgam is a favourite health resort and a trekking paradise. Chandanwari, Aru valley and Baisaran valley are Picture perfect places of scenic beauty near Pahalgam. Pahalgam is worldly famous for its popular Golf Course and river rafting. During winter Pahalgam is the popular Skiing destination. Pahalgam is also the base camp for the annual Amarnath Yatra to the famous Amarnath Cave a holy shrine for Hindus.
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Pahalgam has a cool and pleasant climate in summers and very cold and chilly climate in winters. Usually there are spell of snow during November to February. The best season to visit Pahalgam is from March to October. July to August is also the best time to embark on a pilgrimage to the holy Amarnath Shrine.
Summer: March to June (11º C to 25º C)
Winter: October to March (Sub Zeroº C)
PAHALGAM ATTRACTION
1. BETAAB VALLEY
Located on the way to Chandanwari, the valley was named BETAAB after the Bollywood movie by the same name! Earlier known as Hajan Valley but after the successful release of this movie the major part of which was shot here it is popularly known as Betaab valley. Set amid picture perfect environs complete with snowcapped mountains, gurgling streams, colorful willow trees & the warm sun the valley is an ideal for an artist’s canvas. The valley is one of the major tourist attractions of Pahalgam.
2. ARU VALLEY
Aru Valley is a small self-sufficient scenic village located 12 km from Pahalgam. The drive up to the village is alluring and full of scenic points. The grasslands around the village make this place a tourist delight. The place is a perfect Camping and picnic site. The village also serves as the start point for trekking to Kolahoi glacier. Aru valley is one of the major tourist attractions of Pahalgam that attracts large number of tourists throughout the year.
3. CHANDANWARI
Situated in the outskirts of Pahalgam, Chandanwari is a place of immense religious and tourist significance as it is the commencement point of the annual Amarnath Yatra. Blessed with ethereal natural beauty, this place has always been a delightful destination for visitors coming to the Kashmir valley. Undulating terrains, gushing Sheshnag River water and sparse greenery dominate the topography of this small and scenic hamlet. Chandanwari offers ample of opportunities for engaging activities like trekking, hiking, pony ride, palanquin ride and snow sledging.
4. BAISARAN (5 kms)
Located at an altitude of 8000 feet above sea level. Baisaran is a lush meadow enveloped with dense vegetation. The meadow is dotted with thickly wooded forests of pine, and provides a view of the beautiful snow-clad mountains that surround it from all sides. The top of the hill allows a breath taking view of the Lidder River Valley and Pahalgam Valley. This place serves as a picnic and camp site for tourists. The valley with picture perfect beauty is one of favorite places for shooting of Bollywood films.
5. PAHALGAM GOLF COURSE
Surrounded by soaring fir-covered mountains and with bare snow-capped peaks rising behind them the Pahalgam Golf course is set in a large bowl shaped expanse and is a picture of sheer beauty & design. The breathtaking beauty of the Golf course is further enhanced by the snow capped hills and green surroundings that attract large number of tourists to this beautiful place.
SHOPPING LIST: Kashmiri handicraft, Woolens carpets, shawls, wall hangings, woolen items sculptures made of Apple tree wood and tea cosies.
SHOPPING AREA: Pahalgam Main market and Khadi Bhandar.
RESTURANTS:
SNO | NAME | LOCATION | CUISINE | SPECIALITY |
1 | DANA PANI | Pahalgam hotel | Indian Veg. | Lunch / Dinner |
2 | NATHUS RASOI | Next to Hotel Tulyan | Indian / Chinese | Veg. Lunch / Dinner |
3 | VOLGA RESTAURANT | Pahalgam Road | Indian Veg. / Non Veg | Lunch / Dinner |
4 | HOTEL PARADISE | Main Market | Indian / Chinese / Muglai | Kashmiri Wazwan |
5 | TROUTBEAT | Main Market | Continental | Lunch / Dinner |
THINGS TO DO:
- Stroll along the banks of Lidder River or in the bollywood famous streets of Pahalgaam.
- ride Trip to BAISARAN Valley (Mini Switzerland) and Chandanwari.
- Rafting at Lidder River.
- Visit the beautiful Betaab Valley.
- Camping at Aru Valley.