The quaint town of Pahalgam is a scenic paradise, located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in India, is adorned with a blanket of pine, cedar and conifer trees, surrounded by imposing mountain ranges, blessed with crystal-clear rivers Lidder and Seshnag, Pahalgam looks like a surreal portrait. Hundreds of miles away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Pahalgam serves as a delightful retreat for all, from adventure junkies to religious people.
Enjoy a pony ride atop the steep hills or undertake a thrilling trek from Aru. Be mesmerized by the vastness of the snow-capped Kolahoi Glacier. You can also visit the nearby Amarnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, attracting thousands of devotees annually. Betaab Valley is also a must-visit place, and interestingly, the valley is named after a Bollywood movie which was shot there. Pahalgam also offers a host of adventure and sports activities, such as river rafting, skiing, and golf.
Experience the warm hospitality of the locals and get a chance to experience their simple lifestyle. Apart from its beauty, other aspects that add to the allure of the âValley of Shepherdsâ are its people, cuisine, and culture.
Betaab Valley
A jewel of Jammu and Kashmir tourism, Betaab Valley is a must-visit for all nature admirers. The valley reclines between the other two pristine valleys- Pahalgam and Chandanwadi, en route to Amarnath Temple Yatra. The landscape is dotted with a carpet of green and offers a distant view of snow-capped mountains. The valley is a perfect gateway to enjoy the heavenly charm of Mother Nature.
Chandanwari Valley
Whether you are looking for an offbeat destination for your vacation or want to explore the eternal beauty of Pahalgam, Chandanwari is an ideal stopover to unwind in the lap of nature. Visit Chandanwari Valley, the surreal world of breathtaking mountain ranges, lush paddocks and a long stretch of no manâs land to witness the marvels of nature unfold before your eyes.
Baisaran
A trekkerâs fantasy, Baisaran Valley is christened as the âMini Switzerlandâ of India. This eye-catching paddock can be covered by foot from the main center of Pahalgam. Wander aimlessly in this vast meadow situated on top of the mountain range overlooking the Lidder River flowing through the Pahalgam and Lidder Valley.
Aru Valley
Famous as a hotspot for biodiversity best known to mankind, explore the exotic flora and fauna that makes the Aru Valley exquisite and fetching. Here the sky forms a clear blue canopy over the head; the air is all misty, soft murmurings of the native conifer and pine forests and beautiful meadows create an awe-inspiring diorama for travelers thronging the place
Mamal Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Mamal Temple is an ancient treasure that nestles in the spellbinding region of Pahalgam. The ancient shrine is situated on top of a mountain that lies along the banks of the glacial Kolahoi stream. During the reign of an erstwhile king, the sacred complex was established. The shrine mostly used to be festooned with gold then.
Sheshnag Lake
Nestled at an impressive elevation, Sheshnag Lake brings you face-to-face with untouched beauty with adequate doses of adventure. Your lungs will delight in smog-free skies, and your eyes will marvel at this oligotrophic lake that is so clear that you can see the surrounding lush green meadowâs reflection on the lake that gives it an emerald green glitter.