Pahalgam is a picturesque town located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Known as the “Valley of Shepherds,” it is nestled at an altitude of around 7,200 feet in the Lidder Valley, surrounded by lush green meadows, dense pine forests, and snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
Pahalgam is a popular tourist destination and serves as a base camp for the annual Amarnath Yatra, a significant Hindu pilgrimage. It is renowned for its natural beauty, offering attractions like Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, and Baisaran (Mini Switzerland). Adventure enthusiasts also enjoy activities like trekking, fishing, horse riding, and river rafting on the Lidder River.
When you travel to Pahalgam, you will love to visit popular tourist spots and enjoy the local culture. Amongst other Things to do in Pahalgam, you can surely explore some of the best things to do in Pahalgam to make your trip a fulfilling one. On a trip to Pahalgam things to do can include exploring Pahalgam attractions and visiting the places of interest.
Sheshnag Lake is a conspicuous pilgrimage destination and tourist site, situated close to Pahalgam in Kashmir. The lake is named after Sheshnag – the heavenly serpent according to Hindu mythology. It is said that the serpent dug this lake and made it his homestead, where he still lives.
The lake is viewed hallowed since olden times as it lies on the journey course to the sacred Amarnath caves. Softened snow and rugged streams nourish Sheshnag Lake, which stays frozen and inaccessible amid winters. The picturesque surroundings of this lake comprise of sprawling green pastures and snow-laden mountains. It is the regular natural surroundings of tan trout fish, which is found here in vast numbers.
Chandanwari is the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra, which takes place every year in the month of Sawan (Rain). It is famous for snow sledging on a snow bridge.Taxi cabs can be hired from Pahalgam for a roundtrip. The trip takes about four-five hours on a semi-road that has the Lidder river meandering on the one side, and lofty, snow-capped mountains on the other. Some people prefer to do a day hike to Chandanwari.At Chandanwari, the Sheeshnag river is captivating with its sheer force and clear waters. You can get an opportunity to do sledge riding and get up to some heights, upto the fifth point which is also a route that yatris take to reach the Amarnath Cave. “Snow fights” is what people generally indulge in here before they sledge back down.
Visit the last beautiful town of the Lidder Valley, Aru. At a separation of 15 kilometers from Pahalgam, it is the central point for any trek to the Kolahoiglacier, which is situated at a height of 18,000 feet. Earmarked with pine trees on both sides and followed by the Lidder River, the drive up to Aru is an experience in itself.Keep your cams prepared for some flawless shots of the Valley. The place also offers horse rides across the valley encircling the village of the native people.
Betaab Valley is a grand valley that lies towards the northeast of Pahalgam. This valley ascribes its name to the hit Bollywood filmBetaab, which was shot in its beautiful surroundings. Sprawling verdant pastures, snow-topped mountains and winding streams form the stunning scenery of this valley. The locale is very popular among kids, as it is an excellent place for picnic and games.The valley is an acclaimed trekking base and camping area for voyagers who need to investigate the nearby mountain routes.
