Aru Valley
Overview
Aru Valley is very popular for its breathtaking views and peaceful environment. It lies in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir at a height of 2400 meters above the mean sea level. The Pahalgam to Aru valley distance is around 12 kms that goes through scenic roads of pine forests and snow capped mountains far away.
From here a number of treks begins, also said as the home of base camp to the treks like Tarsar Marsar Lake trek and the climb to the Kolahoi Glacier. And along it the Aru River flows which is another branch of the river Lidder.
The valley has charm for both snow in winters and flower bloom in the spring. There are a lot of adventure activities to do here in the valley from paragliding to camping, ziplining and a lot more.
Highlights of Aru Valley
- Except for activities like trekking to restricted regions or fishing, Aru Valley does not require any special permits.
- When making travel plans especially in the winter, always make sure to check the road accessibility and current weather conditions.
- It is advised that travelers must hire a private vehicle or taxi from Pahalgam as there are not many public transportation choices such buses or shared taxis to this valley.
- Some sites in this valley may have limited access due to their ecological sensitivity or security concerns.
- Here the BSNL postpaid network is the only available network.
- Aru valley Pahalgam is popular for adventure activities like paragliding, horse riding, river rafting.
- From here you can start your popular treks like Tarsar Marsar trek, Kolahoi glacier trek.
- Camp alongside the Aru river under the sky full of stars.
- The famous Betaab valley is around 22 kms away from it which you can also add in your itinerary.
Popular Kashmir Tours
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Things to do in Aru Valley
Paragliding
Paragliding through the scenic views above the valley with clear skies and panoramic views of snow covered mountains offers a thrill to those who love adventure.
Aru valley in summer is an ideal time for paragliding as the weather remains calm and pleasant. There are various affordable paragliding adventures available here If you are really interested in such activities you can go for paragliding in srinagar
There’s also the option of paragliding for 1000 INR per person for a shorter duration. There’s also a longer 15-minute paragliding session available, negotiable for roughly 2700-2800 INR.
Flying above the valley gives participants a bird’s-eye view of Pahalgam and the winding Lidder River.
Rafting
Rafting is done in the river Lidder that flows through the Aru valley. This river travels through several kilometers before finally joining the Jhelum River.
April to August, when the water flow is high but not dangerously so, is the ideal season to go white water rafting on the Lidder River in Pahalgam. This time of year, the water does still remain nearly frozen, but when the sun comes out, it provides a calming element.
There is a slow and fast rapid flow of the river, so those who are doing it for the first time can choose to go for slow frapids, while experts will love the excitement of fast rapids. It is advisable to book in advance especially in the busy travel season.
Ziplining
You can enjoy ziplining across the Aru River if you love to take risks and adventure thrills. Gliding across the green valley, dense pine forests and the flowing river down offers a unique view of the valley.
It has both lengthy and difficult routes which vary according to the choice of the travelers. The summer months have clear skies and pleasant weather which provide the best conditions to carry out this activity.
You will be under professionals and expert guidance who ensure the safety with equipment and harnesses. You will find zip lining and other adventures included in our kashmir tour package.
Camping
Aru Valley camping is an amazing experience. The riverbank campsites let guests sleep with the peaceful sounds of the Lidder River running by them beneath a starry sky.
Basic tents for hikers and luxurious tents with all the amenities are available for camping. During their stay, campers can also take advantage of bonfires, BBQ nights, and regional Kashmiri food.
Although May through October is the ideal time to go camping, individuals who are looking for adventure can also go camping in the winter.
The best time for camping is from May to October as the clear skies will witness the start but for those seeking adventure winter camping is also an option.
Horse Riding
In Aru Valley, riding horses is a well-liked pastime. Pony owners are available to take you to the valley location and its viewing places.
Even though there might not be set rates, pricing negotiations are usual. Depending on how well you can negotiate and how long the ride lasts, the price of the pony ride can normally range from 500 to 800 INR.
Once in the valley proper, though, the terrain is easy and doesn’t really need a pony. Local guides offer well-trained horses, and tourists can take rides through the valley and even to nearby locations like Betaab Valley.
Srinagar to Aru Valley
Depending on where in Srinagar you started from, the Srinagar to Aru Valley distance is approximately 113 kilometers. So, for instance, if you left early on Day 1 from Srinagar, you would arrive in Pahalgam at the latest by 10 am. After taking a stop to eat, continue traveling to Betaab Valley.
You may easily reach Aru Valley by 4 pm if you visit all these locations. After dark, take a stroll through the village and stay the night. Drive back to Pahalgam the following day, then go to Srinagar.
You can stop at Aishmuqaam Dargah on the way back to see where the scene for the Bajrangi Bhaijaan song Bhar do Jholi was shot. This will make it simple for you to complete your trip to Pahalgam in two days, which is the maximum amount of time I’ll advise.
If you want to go to Baisaran Valley, you must walk there for 4-5 hours from Pahalgam. Starting early in the morning, you will travel six km to Baisaran before returning to Pahalgam on foot. Overall, the walk is 12 kilometers long, some of which can be traveled by road.
below given is the list of Srinagar to Aru Valley Taxi fare. You can get these taxi services by a call on: +918899366900
| Taxi Name | Rate Per Day |
|---|---|
| Sedan | 4000 |
| Innova | 5000 |
| Innova Crysta | 5500 |
| Tempo Traveller | 6500 |
How Does Aru Valley Look in Winter
If you visit Pahalgam in winters and decide not to visit Aru Valley, it can end up being your worst regret. It is a very popular destination which is just 12 kms away from Pahalgam. The Aru Valley in Winter is entirely changed into a gorgeous as the snowfall gets heavier.
Snow covers the entire valley, giving visitors an odd sense of being in a mysterious land. The valley also offers a peaceful offbeat experience for those looking to enjoy winter sports like skiing, snowshoeing, and snowball fights.
The temperature drops significantly, with daytime temperatures going below zero degrees. It is very essential to carry warm clothing. The pine trees, mountains everything gets snow covered and white that seems straight out of a postcard.
Aru Valley Vs Betaab Valley
Both Aru Valley and Betaab Valley are Pahalgam’s popular tourist destinations, and the real beauty of Kashmir can be seen here in these valleys. These valleys are less crowded hence the beauty remains untouched. Both routes to these locations are really beautiful as it passes through a thick forest, runs alongside a river, and offers up sights that will stick in your memory for a very long time.
Visiting these valleys will actually define what makes Kashmir so well-known and have earned it the moniker “paradise on earth.” While Betaab Valley is more well-known for its natural beauty and ties to Bollywood for the famous movie Betaab, Aru is more well-known for its adventurous activities including paragliding, trekking, and camping.
It serves as the base camp of the starting point of tarsar marsar trek and Kashmir great lake treks. Betaab valley you can have a quick visit and take photos, but Aru is more peaceful and better for staying for a longer time.
FAQ's
Why is aru valley famous?
Aru Valley is famous for its beautiful views on the route, base treks to the Kolahoi Glacier, Kashmir Great Lakes and Tarsar-Marsar Lakes. Also, adventure activities like paragliding, trekking, and camping.
Can we go to aru valley by car?
Yes, Aru Valley is accessible by car to reach pahalgam . For easy and convenient travel you can book kashmir taxi service. There are easy ways to reach pahalgam The drive takes around 30 minutes with views of pine trees, and a lush green valley on the way.
What is the entry fee for aru valley?
What is the best time to visit aru valley?
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