Places to Visit in Pahalgam
Overview
The picturesque town of Pahalgam lies in the Anantnag district at a total distance of 80 kilometres from the capital city of Srinagar. The breathtaking hill station is visited by people for stirring beauty as well as thriving activities. The idyllic landscapes, enchanting lakes with snow-laden mountains promise a memorable experience. Endless local attractions and the best places to visit in Kashmir include Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, Baisaran Valley, Tulian Lake, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, Gulmarg etc. The ever-scenic Lidder river glides gently through the valleys. Visit the Sun Martand Temple to explore the rich heritage of the valley and seek blessings.
The best of Pahalgam is enjoyed in summer. From June to September, different sightseeing spots are open to the public and thrilling activities can be experienced as well. Trekking is at its peak during this time with adventure junkies seen on the trails for the entire summer. Here, we have summarised the best places to visit in Pahalgam along with some nearby places to explore. If you have already chosen any Kashmir tour packages, then there are chances that some of these places are already in your itinerary. If not, we advise you to talk to your travel agent to add them. Now Take a look at some of the popular treks of Pahalgam to undertake in summer.
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Best Places to Visit in Pahalgam
01. Aru Valley
Aru Valley is situated in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. It is the gateway to some of the most stunning lakes in Kashmir including Tarsar Lake, Sundarsar lake, Harnag Lake etc. The breathtaking valley is a heaven for every thrill-seeker with abundant adventure activities to experience here.
From horse riding in the meadows to river rafting by Lidder River, it is every traveller’s calling. While the Aru valley is largely a summer destination, it does offer snow-sports like skiing and snowboarding in winter. Spend a night, camping in the secluded valley with less human intervention and enjoy a serene time in the company of nature.
02. Betaab valley
Betaab Valley or Hajan Valley is one of the best places to visit in Pahalgam. The mesmerising beauty of the Betaab Valley drew the attention of endless Bollywood directors. It rose to fame when the “Betaab” movie was shot here. Crystal-clear water streams and snow-capped mountains adorn the valley, attracting tourists from far and wide.
Apart from other recreational activities, take postcard perfect pictures as the frames are naturally beautiful and mind-boggling. The valley is 15 kilometres away from Pahalgam. It can be easily visited via booking Kashmir taxi service or pony rides are available too from the Pahalgam bus stand.
03. Baisaran valley
Baisaran Valley has gained immense popularity as the ‘mini-Switzerland’. In addition to a local attraction, it provides a gorgeous hiking trail. Since Baisaran valley isn’t accessible through private vehicles, trek there or hire a pony ride.
The valley is dotted with lush meadows and thick forests, offering a breathtaking basecamp for the popular Tulian Lake trek. The best time to visit Baisaran Valley is from April to October with comfortable weather and long sunlight hours for sightseeing. It is only 5 kilometres from Pahalgam town. Explore Baisaran to revive your childhood Bollywood dreams.
04. Chandanwari
Another must-to-visit valley of Pahalgam, Chandanwari is known for being the starting point of the holy Amarnath Yatra. It is crowded with pilgrims from June to August as vibrant tents dot the vistas. The remote location of the attraction makes it more tranquil and gorgeous.
Chandanwari is well-suited for summer getaways, you can come here in winters to experience the beauty of the glaciers melting down in the gushing Lidder river. Located at a distance of about 16 kilometres from Pahalgam, taxis and cabs can be easily booked. The valley has some local markets for a fun shopping spree.
05. Tulian lake
At a height of 12,090 feet from the sea level, the serene Tulian Lake is present. The Tulian lake trek is often undertaken by trekkers to visit the lake and soak in the beauty. After completing 16 kilometres, you are in the presence of a marvellous water body whose presence is just enough.
It has been extensively used as a camping spot and picnic attraction. The bluish-green water of the lake is the most beautiful sight you can see as you wake up in the morning. Tucked by snow-capped mountains, it is one of the unmissable places to visit in Pahalgam. The lake freezes completely in winters, forming icicles.
06. Lidder Amusement Park
In the close proximity to Lidder river, lies the Lidder Amusement Park. If you are on a big family vacation to Pahalgam, visit the park with children and enjoy roller coasters, rides, miniature trains, swings etc.
Lidder river flowing close-by, offers water-based activities such as white-water rafting, boating, fishing and angling etc. It is a family-friendly spot with small gift shops and refreshment stalls found at a small distance. The garden is set in a splendid meadow with snow-covered mountains in the backdrop.
Places to Visit Near Pahalgam
07. Daksum Valley
Daksum valley is a hidden gem of Kashmir, popular among nature-enthusiasts. The ambience of the town is soothing with endless natural beauty with grassy meadows and water-streams flowing nearby. The Bringhi river is the highlight of the place with its turquoise waters and gorgeous surroundings.
Nestled by the towering Pir Panjal range, the place is known to offer a lot of activities to do such as trekking, photography, sightseeing, camping etc. A total distance of 78 kilometres needed to be covered to reach Daksum from Pahalgam.
If you like Daksum valley then there are many other beautiful offbeat places in Kashmir which should be in your itinerary.
08. Sinthan top
Lying at an altitude of about 12,440 feet, Sinthan top gives a panoramic and a holistic view of the surrounding Himalayas. It is located at a distance of 60 kilometres from Pahalgam. The route goes through Kokernag for 30 kilometres and then again 30 kilometres to reach Sinthan top.
People often trek to Sinthan Top for different activities like picnics, sightseeing, sledging, horse riding, etc. There are some waterfalls seen near the attraction. One interesting thing about Sinthan top is that it is generally covered in thick snow except for 2-3 months in Summer. For sightseeing, June to September is suitable. Enjoy winter sports at the Top from November to April.
09. Kokernag
“The Golden Crown of Kashmir”, as it is popularly called, Kokernag is an offbeat attraction, known for its natural beauty enveloping the entire town. The gardens present here offer a perfect spot for family picnics or to spend some time with yourself, relaxing and rejuvenating. They are filled with heavenly smells of wildflowers.
Imagine being in a place where you are submerged with colourful flowers. It feels magical. The spring in Kokernag is a major highlight, believed to have healing properties. Some trekking trails found here are Achbal Bagh trek, Arshan Valley trek, etc. Go on an unexpected adventure in Kokernag.
10. Achabal
Visit Achabal to feel the refreshness found in the air there. With Mughal Gardens, and Achabal Spring, it is now visited by nature-lovers and adventure buffs alike. The gardens constructed in the Mughal Era are often picked by locals for a peaceful yet fun getaway. They are tucked by Chinar trees, forming a soothing shadow over visitors.
The healing power of Achabal Spring is the highest of the town. It is set in a beautiful panorama with towering peaks in the backdrop. Take a quick stroll or go for nature walks here. Don’t forget your cameras to click stunning shots.
11. Verinag
Another less-explored beauty of Kashmir valley is the Verinag town. The place gets its name from the Verinag Spring, found there. Once you are done exploring Pahalgam, set your foot to visit the Verinag town. The spring is often visited by tourists for trout fishing as well as to witness the waterfalls found in proximity.
Verinag is a popular en route sightseeing spot. The spring is completely frozen in winter, creating a magical spectacle. Summer is suitable to come here given the accessibility and pleasant weather. The total distance separating the two towns is about 75 kilometres, taking a total travel duration of 2 hours.
12. Warwan Valley
As a retired gem of Jammu and Kashmir, It is one of the most exotic places in the Valley. As you enter the Warwan valley it feels like you are in another world. The traditional mud houses, thick forests and clear water streams flowing nearby seem like a fairytale. The valley is located in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the Jammu region.
Apart from the valley the more popular is the Warwan Valley trek. Covering a total distance of 78 km in 8 to 9 days, the trek takes you to a dreamy place. The place lies in the remote locations of Kashmir and the peace felt here is nowhere to be found. The stark contrast between lush grasslands and rusty barren mountains is magical to the eyes.
Trekking Places in Pahalgam
13. Tarsar marsar trek
Tarsar Marsar trek, as one of the most beautiful treks of India, is one of the major reasons why Pahalgam is called the trekking town of Kashmir. from the Aru Valley, located at a distance of 12 kilometres from the main town, the Tarsar marsar trek starts and goes all the way up to passes, lakes, etc. With the lifetime opportunity of witnessing the allure of two pristine lakes of Kashmir, Tarsar Lake and Marsar, it is a must-to-do.
Another lake that mesmerises trekkers is the Sundersar lake. These attractions are thoroughly explored in the voyage including an all-night camp. The serenity seen throughout the trek is hard to find. Every summer, people from around the corners of the globe visit Kashmir just for undertaking this surreal trek. The memories of the beautiful meadows, magnificent passes, placid lakes will be etched forever.
14. Kolahoi Glacier Trek
If you have just entered into the thrilling world of trekking and are looking for an easy yet enjoyable trek, Kolahoi Glacier trek is the right choice. It is another trek that starts from Aru and moves further through the banks of Lidder river, verdant coniferous forests and finally to the majestic Kolahoi Glacier.
The trekking trails of this hike can be navigated easily without any special set of skills required. The highest that trekkers go in the journey is about 12,600 feet. The highlight of Kolahoi Glacier trek is the Lidderwat basecamp. The huge meadows sprawled with lively wildflowers seems like a painting on a canvas. The scenic view is so dreamy.
15. Nafran valley trek
Nafran Valley trek is one of the best offbeat treks of Kashmir. The variety in shows in terms of different landscapes is mind-blowing and leaves a print in your heart. Starting from the Aru valley again, trekkers follow the course of Lidder river throughout with a sight of the Kolahoi Glacier at a distance.
The remote location of the trekking trail makes Nafran valley trek an unmissable one. It is completely far from the madding crowd. Immerse in the immaculate beauty of lakes of Nafran Valley. The Harnag Lake is a popular camping as well as picnic spot, reached after crossing the Harnag Pass.
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