The Valley of Shepherds, Situated at the confluence of the streams flowing from Sheshnag Lake and the Lidder river, Pahalgam (2,130 m) was once a humble shepherd's village with breathtaking views. Now it is Kashmir's premier resort, cool even during the height of summer when the maximum temperature does not exceed 250C. A number of hotels and lodges cater to all preferences and budgets, from luxurious hotels to unpretentious trekkers' lodges.The most beautiful of these is the huge, undulating meadow of Baisaran, surrounded by thickly wooded forests of pine. Hajan, on the way to Chandanwari, is an idyllic spot for a picnic. Filmgoers will recognize it instantly as it has been the location of several movie scenes.Pahalgam has within it no fewer than eight tiny villages, one of which is Mamal. There is a Shiva temple here, generally considered to be Kashmir's oldest existing temple, dating to the 5th century.Pahalgam is also associated with the annual Amarnath Yatra. Chandanwari (2,895 m), 16 kms from Pahalgam, is the starting point of the yatra that takes place every year in the month of Sawan (July to August). The road from Pahalgam to Chandanwari is on fairly flat terrain and can be undertaken by car. From Chandanwari onwards the track becomes much steeper, and is accessible on foot or by pony. About 11 kms from Chandanwari is the mountain lake of Sheshnag (3,574 m), after which, 13 kms away is the last stop, Panchtarni. The Amarnath cave is 6 kms away from there. During the month of Sawan, an ice stalagmite forms a natural shivling in the Amarnath cave, which waxes and wanes with the moon.Horse Riding/HikingPahalgam is the base of a major trek that passes along Aru and Kolohi Glacier GolfPahalgam Club has a 9-hole golf course, which can be used by tourists. Golf sets can be hired on the spot.
Detailed Destination Itinerary
- Baisaran - Baisaran (3 km away from Pahalgam) is a lush green meadow surrounded by thick forest. One can trek to Tulian Lake from here (day trip).
- Betaab valley - Betaab valley (7 kms from Pahalgam) is named after bollywood movie Betaab which was extensively shot here. The valley is characterised by picture perfect views and is a kind of popular picnic spot for tourists to arrive.
- Aru - Aru is a sleepy village 10 km from Pahalgam, is the first step on the way to Kohlai glacier. From here one can also trek to Tarsar, Marsar lakes and Sonamarg. Aru offers picture perfect views and is a popular tourist visit option.
- Tulian Lake - Tulian Lake a high altitude lake near Pahalgam at an altitude of 11,000 ft asl. The lake is surrounded on three sides by snow covered mountains .It is located in a meadow dotted with pine forests.The lake lies between the two Himalayan mountain ranges of Pir Panjal and Zanskar and presents spectacular views.
- Martrand Sun Temple - Matrand Sun temple near Anantnag is a temple complex built around ancient temple ruins and visited enroute Pahalgam while arriving from Srinagar / Katra / Patnitop via Anantnag.
Nice Blog About Pahalgam. Pahalgam is really Lovely. See Here Katra Patnitop Tour Itinerary.
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