Destination

Photo by Asif Asharaf

Pahalgam: The Valley of Shepherds

Nestled at 2,130 m along the Lidder River, Pahalgam is Kashmir’s most loved hill resort and the gateway to the Amarnath Yatra. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, thick pine forests, and endless meadows, it combines postcard-perfect beauty with every facility a traveller could need. Whether you’re here for adventure, pilgrimage, or pure relaxation, Pahalgam delivers.

Why Pahalgam Never Gets Old

It’s the classic Bollywood location (Betaab, Haider, Bajrangi Bhaijaan and dozens more were shot here). Yet despite the fame, the town still retains its charm: horses grazing on green banks, the gushing Lidder, and the scent of pine in the air.

Must-Visit Spots in & Around Pahalgam

1. Betaab Valley

Named after Sunny Deol’s movie “Betaab”. A flat, lush meadow encircled by mountains and the Lidder River. Perfect for picnics and Instagram.

2. Aru Valley

11 km from Pahalgam town. Quieter and greener than Betaab. Base for treks to Kolahoi Glacier and Tarsar-Marsar lakes.

3. Chandanwari

Starting point of the holy Amarnath Yatra (16 km from Pahalgam). Snow bridges even in summer and stunning mountain views.

4. Baisaran Meadows (“Mini Switzerland”)

5 km from town centre. A gentle pony ride or 1-hour walk through pine forests opens up to a huge meadow with 360° mountain views.

5. Lidder River & Riverside Walk

Stroll along the riverbank in Pahalgam town — lined with shops, cafés, and colourful Kashmiri willow bats.

6. Mamleshwar Temple

A 12th-century stone temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, just 1 km from town on the opposite bank.

Adventure & Trekking Options

  • Kolahoi Glacier Trek** (3–4 days from Aru)
  • Tarsar-Marsar Twin Lakes Trek** (5–6 days, moderate–hard)
  • Sheshnag & Panchtarni** (via Chandanwari for Amarnath route)
  • River rafting on the Lidder (Grade II–III, April–September)
  • Horse riding, ATV rides, zip-lining (available in town)

Practical Travel Information

  • Best time to visit**:
    – March–June: Pleasant weather, tulips & green valleys
    – July–August: Amarnath Yatra rush (book everything early)
    – September–November: Golden autumn
    – December–February: Snow & winter sports
  • How to reach**:
    – Srinagar Airport → Pahalgam (90 km, 2.5–3 hrs).
    – Private taxi: ₹2500–3500 one-way.
    – Shared cab from Srinagar Batmaloo stand: ₹250–350 per seat.
  • Local transport**:
    – Union taxis & ponies have fixed rates (displayed on boards).
    – Betaab Valley: ₹2500–3000 full car return
    – Aru + Betaab + Chandanwari combo: ₹4000–5000 per car.
  • Stay options**:
    – Luxury: Hotel Heevan, Pahalgam Hotel, Kolahoi Green Resorts
    – Mid-range: Hotel Mountview, Pine Spring, Forest Hill
    – Budget: Hundreds of hotels & guesthouses from ₹1500–5000
    – Riverside camping & Swiss cottage tents in Aru/Baisaran
  • Food** – Wazwan restaurants, trout fish, kahwa, and riverside cafés everywhere.
  • ATM & Network** – Multiple ATMs (SBI, J&K Bank) and all mobile networks work perfectly.

Pahalgam is where Kashmir’s beauty is concentrated into one postcard-perfect valley. Whether you spend your days sipping kahwa by the river, galloping across Baisaran on horseback, or trekking to an alpine lake, this is the place that turns first-time visitors into lifelong Kashmir lovers.

Pro tip: Stay at least 2–3 nights — one day is never enough.

Overview

Destination Pahalgam
Locations Aru-Baisaran-Betaab Valley
Tour Duration 6 Days
Attraction Aru Village

Map

Pahalgam Tour package

Ladakh

8 Days 7 Nights

The Frozen Symphony

Starting From
₹32000 ₹45000
a small building on a rocky cliff over a body of water

5 Days 4 Nights

Echoes of Paradise

Starting From
₹48000 ₹65000
cows grazing on a hill

5 Days 4 Nights

Canvas of Clouds

Starting From
₹36000 ₹45000
a river running through a lush green forest

7 Days 6 Nights

The Whispering Waters

Starting From
₹32000 ₹43000
two red apples hanging from a tree branch

6 Days 5 Nights

The Orchard Dream

Starting From
₹27000 ₹35000

6 Days 5 Nights

The Temple Trail

Starting From
₹25000 ₹38000