Pahalgam Sightseeing
Overview
If you are planning to visit Pahalgam,, the area is bound to fill you every day with adventure and thrill. Let’s explore with Cliffhangers India and learn about Pahalgam before visiting the area.
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Places To Visit In Pahalgam
Pahalgam has numerous places to visit but here are the top picks you must visit if you find yourself in Pahalgam.
Aru Valley
One of the most beautiful places in Pahalgam, Aru Valley is situated at a 12 km distance from Pahalgam. The drive from Pahalgam to Aru Valley is full of breathtaking scenery.
Aru Valley offers a quiet adventure with activities like zorbing, ziplining, and pony riding. Aru River flows through the lush meadows giving it a magical touch.
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Betaab Valley
The picture-perfect valley is the dream destination of any travel enthusiast. With snow-capped mountains caressing the lush green meadows, dotted by Pine and Deodar trees, and the pristine Lidder river flowing carelessly through the valley, Bataab Valley is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Pahalgam.
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Sheshnaag Lake
If listening to the sound of silence is your curiosity, Sheshnag Lake is the perfect place for you. The mythological lake where Sheshnaag is said to have resided is bestowed with the best of nature. The placid lake is so clean and so calm that you can hear the smallest sounds in the area.
The lake is reached after an uphill trek or a pony . If you are interesting in trekking, Sheshnaag Lake Trek is one of the great to choose
Baisaran Valley
The Switzerland of India or the mini-Switzerland is a picturesque place at a 7.5 km adventurous uphill trek from Pahalgam. The valley is a hub of adventure activities and is a favorite relaxing place for many tourists.
The Baisaran valley is dotted with Pine trees surrounding it into a bowl-shaped landscape.
Awantipur Temple ruins
The brilliance of the architecture of the ancient era is reflected overwhelmingly in the ruins of the Avantipur temple. Sculpted sculptures on the stones of the temple and pillars are bound to fill one with awe.
The temple is a famous photography spot and is a must-visit if you are looking for places to visit near Pahalgam as it is at a distance of over 50 km from Pahalgam.
Book the best offbeat: Gurez Valley
Kolahoi Glacier
The hanging glacier over the Lidder Liver is a sight to behold. At a 25 km distance from Pahalgam and after a short but tricky uphill trek, Kolahoi Glacier is a stunning point to witness the whole landscape from a point at the top.
The glacier showcases the flowing Lidder River and feels like witnessing the beginning of things. It is one of the most visited places in Pahalgam and a worth-it trek.
Pahalgam Sightseeing Itinerary
Day 1 Srinagar–Pahalgam. Enroute Sightseeing
Start early if you are traveling from Srinagar to Pahalgam and explore the Avantipur Ruins on your way. Drive straight to the Betaab Valley. It would take you around half an hour from Pahalgam to drive to the 15 km away valley. Set out from Betaab Valley for Aru and spend the night in the area.
Day 2 Aru-Chandanwari
Drive back from Aru Valley to Chandanwari where a short trek will take you to the Sheshnag lake. Set out from Sheshnag Lake to Pahalgam. After arriving at Pahalgam, set out for the Baisaran Valley trek, which is a 1-1.5 hour trek, and explore the meadows of the mini-Switzerland. After coming back to Pahalgam, explore the local area including Lidder amusement park and Pahalgam golf course.
Day 3 Visit Kolahoi Glacier
Visit Kolahoi Glacier at a 1-hour drive from Pahalgam and take the short trek to the breathtaking Glacier. You can also visit Tarsar Lake on the day and head back to Srinagar after your short visit.
Pahalgam Sightseeing By Horse
Pahalgam is a popular destination for horse riding. Most of the tourist destinations feature pony-riding as an activity in the area. If you are planning to get your heart full of pony-riding activities, let’s explore the Pahalgam by horse and the destinations you can visit for that.
1. Baisaran Valley: Baisaran valley trek is a popular trek for horse riding enthusiasts. The trek is a bit moderate to difficult and the horse riders would walk behind you convincing you to just hire the horse and make your trek easy. Riding it in the valley is a royal experience especially when it’s snowing.
2. Betaab Valley: Horse riding in the beautiful valley is one of the most memorable experiences. Riding through the Taiga landscape and tall pine trees with river Lidder flowing sideways gives you a primitive feeling when the modern world had not evolved and things were natural and beautiful.
3. Tulian Lake: A pony ride to Tulian Lake is a popular activity undertaken by tourists in the area. The experience through the thick forests lures tourists from all over to take a pony instead of walking up to the lake. A beautiful destination after a tiring ride is bound to fill your heart with a thrill. Tulian Lake Trek is one of the best trek in Pahalgam.
4. Aru Valley: A horse ride from Aru Valley to Kootpathri is a thrilling activity taking you through the most beautiful pathways. The ride is decorated with clean air and the beautiful landscape of the valley. Kootpathri is another destination that is popular for its aesthetic view.
Things To Do In Pahalgam
There are many things that one can do in Pahalgam. Below is the list of activities to do.
Trekking
Trekking is one of the popular activities that one can do in Pahalgam. Pahalgam offers a lot of treks which include the Tarsar Marsar Trek, Tulian Lake Trek, and Kolahoi Glacier ou Trek. These treks are one of the popular treks in Pahalgam.
Trekking in Pahalgam will take you through the beautiful meadows and magnificent valleys. It provides plenty of trekking trails for the trekkers. It is suitable for all trekking types.
Book the best treks in Kashmir: Kashmir Great Lakes Trek | Tarsar Marsar Trek
White Water Rafting
White Water Rafting is one of the most adventurous activities one can do. It can be done in the Lidder River. It is better to enjoy this activity in the Lidder River for a better experience. The most challenging rafting experience is found in the Zanaskar River. River rafting in the Lidder River is highly recommended for those who are experts and have an experience of years. It starts at the Langalbal Bridge and ends at the Ganeshpura.
If you are an adventurer, this activity is one of the adventurous activities you can go for.
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Skiing
Skiing is an adventure winter sport in Pahalgam. It is performed in the Aru village of Pahalgam. Pahalgam is a place that is full of exquisite natural beauty. It is the second skiing destination after Gulmarg.
Every year there is a snow festival celebrated with the introduction of many winter sports. If you are interested in skiing in Pahlagam, it is highly recommended to inspect yourself medically before participating in this activity. The best time to visit Pahalgam for skiing is in the months of winter, during these months the valley is covered with heavy snowfall.
Book here the winter adventure: Skiing in Gulmarg
Horse Riding
Horse riding is also one of the best activities you can take during your Pahalgam trip. Horse riding will take travelers to beautiful landscapes. It is one of the recommended activities for every traveler.
During the horse ride in Pahalgam, you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains. If you are interested in sightseeing in Pahalgam then, there is no better option than a pony ride, enjoy sightseeing on the ponies is one of the best experiences ever.
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Fishing in Lidder River
Fishing in the Lidder River will be quite a good experience in Pahalgam. Lidder River is full of trout fish and the activity is full of fun.
Pahalgam is one of the best destinations for trout fishing. If you are planning to visit Pahalgam do not miss to participate in this activity. The months from April to September are the best months to enjoy trout fishing.
Photography
Photography is one of the best activities you can choose. You can take shots of the green landscapes, lush meadows, and pristine valleys of Pahalgam.
If you are a photography lover the place is the best to take the panoramic views.
Best Time To Visit Pahalgam For Sightseeing.
Pahalgam Sightseeing in Winter
Pahalgam is an all-weather destination. Where summer brings a fresh wave of tourists excited to explore Pahalgam, winter is another decoration in Pahalgam, covering it under thick snow. If you are planning a sightseeing in winter, Pahalgam will satisfy you with the following destinations.
1. Aru Valley: Aru Valley becomes a wonderland in Winter. The whole valley gets covered under feathery snow which looks like a blanket covering everything warmly. The winter trek to Tarsar Marsar Lake and Kolahoi Glacier also begins from Aru Valley. The valley is a must-visit destination in winter.
2. Pahalgam lakes: Tulian Lake and the Sheshnag Lake which get frozen in winter are a treat to the eye in Pahalgam. If you get your gear, you can even enjoy ice skating in the area.
3. Chandanwari : Chandanwari is the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra. The area is popular for snow-sledding and skiing. The mountains surrounding the region are majestic and snow-covered in winter. The waterfalls on the way to Chandanwari are frozen giving one of the most beautiful views.
Pahalgam Sightseeing In Summer
Pahalgam is beautiful in the summer season also. It is one of the top attractions to enjoy sightseeing. During this time the valley is in its full glory. During summertime, you will enjoy the breathtaking views of the wildflowers which are blooming and the magnificent views of the high Himalayan mountain passes.
During this time all places are accessible, and you can take the ponies to enjoy the sightseeing. At this time you will enjoy the lush greenery and it is the peak season of tourists. One can go for many activities such as trekking, trout fishing, photography, and river rafting.
You can also see the pristine lakes in Pahalgam. The average temperature during the summer months is from 11 to 25 degrees Celsius.
What is Mini-Switzerland in Pahalgam
Baisaran Hills which is only 8 kilometers from the main town of Pahalgam is termed as the Mini-Switzerland in Pahalgam. The Baisaran Valley has open vast meadows, tall trees, dense forests, and incredible surroundings which makes it the perfect place for nature lovers. The valley is also the base camp for Amarnath Yatra and Tulain Lake trek. It is also an ideal place for trekkers who are looking for trekking. You can go to Baisaran Valley through ponies for a: better experience.
Religious Significance
Pahalgam is the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra. Chandanwari which is 15 kilometers from the Pahalgam is where the trek to Amarnath starts. Another base camp for the Amarnath yatra is the Baltal area of Sonmarg. Amarnath Yatra starts in July and ends in August. If you are looking for Amarnath yatra, you can visit here in July and August.
What is Pahalgam Famous For?
Pahalgam is famous for its scenic natural beauty, pristine lakes, and lush green meadows. The valley provides an ideal setting for trekking and hiking trails. Besides that, it is one of the popular tourist destinations to enjoy sightseeing.
Essential Information
How To Reach Pahalgam
You can reach Pahalgam by different modes of transport. The place is well connected to the rest of the country and can be reached by road, train, and flight.
By Road: If you were coming from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, etc you have to reach first Srinagar, the only way to reach Pahalgam from Srinagar is by road. There is also an availability of helicopter services and it is mostly during the Amarnath Yatra. The drive from Srinagar will take you 3 hours to reach Pahalgam,
By Train: Jammu Tawi Station is the main railway station. From here book a cab or shared cab to reach Srinagar, after Srinagar book another cab direct to Pahalgam, you will be welcomed with the splendor and natural beauty of Pahalgam.
By Air: Srinagar airport is the nearest airport to reach Pahalgam. Once you reach the airport book a cab/shared cab direct to Pahalgam.
Where To Stay In Pahalgam
In Pahalgam, there are multiple staying options where you can stay when visit. Some of the best hotels in Pahalgam are mentioned below.
Hotel Hill Top Pahalgam: Hotel Hill Top Pahalgam is one of the best 3-star properties in Pahalgam. The rooms are very large, hospitality and the food services are very great. This is the highly recommended hotel in Pahalgam. It offers free wifi and parking services. The views from this hotel are breathtaking.
Royal Hillton Pahalgam: This is one of the luxurious properties in Pahalgam. Situated in the foothills of the Himalayas.
The hotel is surrounded by breathtaking views of the mountains, and the hospitality and staff are great. The place is another option in Pahalgam.
Hotel Woodstock Pahalgam: The hotel rooms are very luxurious, offering the visitors a comfortable luxurious stay. It is located in the center of Pahalgam. The services are great with polite and gentle staff. The views from this property are breathtaking.
These are some of the best properties where you can stay and these hotels are highly recommended for your stay.
Weather In Pahalgam
The weather during the summer season is pleasant and warm. From December to March, it receives heavy snowfall, and even the roads are sometimes blocked. The temperature in winter months drops to sub-zero degrees.
Places near Pahalgam which include Aru Valley, Betab Valley, and Chandanwari receive snow till April. From May to April the weather remains pleasant and mostly dry during the day.
From September it starts dropping temperature and there will be a little cold. From October it can receive snowfall anytime and continues till March.
Distance from Srinagar To Pahalgam
The distance from Srinagar to Pahalgam is 100 kilometers. It takes approximately 3 hours to drive from Srinagar to reach Pahalgam. It is one of the sought-after tourist destinations in Kashmir.
The road condition is good and. You will enjoy the breathtaking scenery during your drive to Pahalgam.
