Top Sightseeing Spots & Tourist Places to Visit in Pahalgam in 2024

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The verdant landscapes, the pine forests, the gurgling streams and brooks and the awe-inspiring lakes etched against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains and the blue skies, Pahalgam is considered to be one of the most beautiful places in the entire Kashmir valley.

Once a favorite destination for Bollywood filmmakers, this place unveils awe-inspiring views of pine forests, extensive meadows, snow capped mountains and the gorgeous Lidder River. Nearby places like Baisaran, Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, Kolahoi Glacier and Sheshnag are the vibrant examples of nature unfolding its beautiful landscapes. The contrasting sceneries better be seen before believing. For example the Kolahoi Glacier Vs Aru Valley which both are stunning examples of this contrast!

Check Now : Pahalgam Tour Packages

Pahalgam is the base point of many popular treks such as Daksum, Kolahoi Glacier and Chandanwari etc. Its weather remains cool even during peak summer days drawing more tourists here. The world famous Amarnath Yatra which attracts religious people from all over, starts here. Even the Shikargarh, which is a reserved wildlife sanctuary is an idea picnic spot patronized by many. It is one of the favorite spots among the children.

This rural valley is still unspoilt by the ravages of urbanization and depicts a true picture of virgin nature.

Places to Visit in Pahalgam

1. Baisaran Valley

Address : 283J+PRX, Baisaran Rd, Forest Block, Jammu and Kashmir 192126

Just 5 km away from Pahalgam, this location has some of the darkest and long meadows matching with those in Switzerland. Hence it is also termed as Mini Switzerland and the dense pine forest around gives the green carpet look to the meadow a fine contrast. Even more contrasting is provided by the snow-capped peaks of all the surrounding mountains. Seldom one sees such contrasting hues spread all over and it is enough to become a jaw dropping scenery for the surprised visitor.

If this is not enough, Baisaran is also an ideal camping site for trekking enthusiasts who want to travel further up to the Tulian Lake. For the rest this trek is also frequented by ponies and this off-beaten track offers panoramic sights of the town and the Lidder Valley. The pony ride is thrilling but risky and one needs to be extra cautious. Trekking is recommended as the views that unfold are breathtaking.

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How to Reach :

There are three ways to reach Baisaran from Pahalgam:

Pony Ride: This is the most popular way to reach Baisaran. You can find pony riders readily available in the Pahalgam market. The ride takes about an hour and costs around Rs 1300 per person (subject to change). While it can be a fun and scenic experience, keep in mind that the ride can be steep and muddy, especially after rainfall.

Trek: If you’re up for a bit of exercise, you can trek to Baisaran. The trek is about 5 kilometers long and takes around 1-2 hours. The trail is relatively easy to follow, but it can be slippery after rain.

Taxi: You can also hire a taxi to reach Baisaran. However, taxis can only take you up to a certain point, and you will still need to walk for a short distance to reach the meadow. This option is generally not recommended as it’s the least scenic.

Key Spots for Photographers:

Every corner of the Baisaran Valley reveals its splendor to photographers. Take in the expansive, verdant meadows that are a riot of color, serving as the ideal backdrop for the striking Himalayan peaks, including Kolahoi Glacier. Telephoto lenses will enjoy focusing on the fine details of the mountains. Take in the expansive views of the meadows meeting the pine forests. To blur the background and highlight the subject, use a wide aperture. Look out for local families or grazing horses; candid moments make for interesting shots.

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2. Betaab Valley

Address : 3937+VFC, Chandanwari Rd, Chandanwari, Pahalgam, Hajan, Jammu and Kashmir 192126

Named after the blockbuster Bollywood movie Betaab, this Valley is a combination of picturesque surroundings. It falls on the way to Amarnath Temple Yatra and is one of the three valleys Pahalgam boasts; the others are Aru and Chandanwadi. The valley is the mouth of the River Sheshnag. The Betaab Valley is your perfect gateway to enjoy the beauty Mother Nature has unleashed.

The coloured flower beds in the midst of lush walnut and willow vistas makes for stunning setting. Situated at walking distance from the Pahalgam city center, this valley is among the handful tourist places that the tourist should not miss. Encircled by mountains and featuring deodar and pine forests, the flora and fauna keeps everyone interested. Just when you thought this was all, look forward to exploring the lakes of Baisaran and Tulian. The pathways are distinctively different for each and one needs to take the route to find out.

How to Reach :

There are two main ways to reach Betaab Valley from Pahalgam:

Private Taxi: This is the most convenient option, especially if you’re traveling with a group or have luggage. You can hire a taxi from the Pahalgam tourist taxi stand. The ride to Betaab Valley takes about 30 minutes and costs around Rs. 1000 for a small car and Rs. 1400 for a larger Innova (subject to change). Be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand.

Shared Taxi: A more budget-friendly option is to take a shared taxi to a village called Anantnag (also spelled Chandanwari) near Betaab Valley. These shared taxis depart frequently from the Pahalgam taxi stand and cost around Rs. 10 per person. From Anantnag, you can either walk (around 30-45 minutes) or try to hitch a ride with a local vehicle to reach Betaab Valley.

Key Spots for Photographers:

Betaab Valley in Kashmir is a photographer’s dream, offering a variety of stunning spots. The lush green meadows are perfect for wide-angle landscape shots, especially during the golden hour. Crystal-clear streams running through the valley provide opportunities for serene water captures, best enhanced with a polarizing filter. The dramatic snow-capped mountains serve as a breathtaking backdrop, ideal for telephoto lens photography. Dense deodar forests create moody, atmospheric shots with light filtering through the trees. Traditional wooden bridges and huts add rustic charm and cultural depth to photographs. Panoramic viewpoints offer sweeping views of the entire valley, allowing for wide, scenic captures that showcase the diverse and breathtaking beauty of Betaab Valley.

3. Aru Valley

Address : 2869+X8W, 37V7+FR2, Jammu And Kashmir, Pahalgam

Located just 12 km from Pahalgam, Aru Valley captures the imagination of trekkers and skiing enthusiasts who visit this place in winters. It is an excellent choice for both leisure seekers and adventure lovers alike. Overlooking the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Himalayan Range, this valley is a pristine scenic village everyone is mesmerized with. This valley has clear blue canopy over its head, misty and romantic surroundings, whispering pines and sweet chirping birds create a captivating aura for the visitors. Though the village is the smallest and tiniest hill station, its breathtaking beauty and activities like trekking, hiking, horse riding make it one of the popular tourist places to visit in Pahalgam. Visiting here with no preconceived notions would surely spring many surprises. The exotic flora and fauna makes this valley a unique experience for every tourist. It is a famous hot spot for bio diversity best known to mankind and especially in the whole of Kashmir.

Most Popular Places to Eat in : Pahalgam, Jammu & Srinagar.

How to Reach

By Air: Take a flight to Srinagar Airport, which has excellent connections to India’s main cities. Aru Valley is about a 3-hour drive (about 100 kilometers) from Srinagar.

By Road: The closest town to Aru Valley is Pahalgam, which is reachable by bus or taxi from Srinagar. Aru Valley is about 12 km away from Pahalgam. It takes two to three hours to travel by car from Srinagar to Pahalgam, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Local Transportation: To get to Aru Valley from Pahalgam, you can take a shared jeep or hire a local taxi. With the assistance of local drivers, the road to Aru Valley can be easily navigated through picturesque landscapes.

Trekking: From neighboring places like Lidderwat or Batakote, there are trekking routes that take adventurers to the Aru Valley. The natural beauty of the area can be experienced more fully on these routes.

Key Spots for Photographers:

Kashmir’s Aru Valley has a number of important locations that draw tourists in with their peacefulness and unspoiled beauty. The verdant meadows encircled by towering pine forests, ideal for leisurely strolls or picnics, are one of the attractions. The valley is also the starting point for beautiful hiking trails, which lead to picturesque locations like Tarsar Lake and Lidderwat, where the majestic peaks are reflected in the glistening waters. Activities like camping in the peaceful surroundings or visiting neighboring valleys like Betaab and Chandanwari are well-liked options for those looking for adventure. The allure of Aru Valley is its unspoiled splendor and the chance it provides to get back in touch with the natural world.

Visit Kashmir in December for breathtaking winter landscapes—plan your trip now!

Best Places to stay in Pahalgam

There are around 20 hotels in Pahalgam that facilitate good accommodation to the tourists. Although the hotels are limited in number, those can be classified into categories like luxury hotel, deluxe hotel and budget hotel. During peak season (March-November), generally rooms of the hotels remain fully booked. In addition, read more

Hotel Diamond Star Pahalgam

Rs.3,000/Night
Hotel Diamond Star beckons with its tranquil ambiance and seamless blend of luxury and nature.

Hotel Outlook Pahalgam

Rs.5,000/Night
Hotel Outlook Pahalgam offers a culinary journey through authentic Kashmiri flavors in a warm and inviting ambiance.

Hotel Green Heights Pahalgam

Rs 5,000/Night
Bombay At Hotel Green Heights Pahalgam, , immerse yourself in luxury amidst the majestic Himalayan peaks, where every moment is a captivating experience.

Best 4 Star Hotels & Luxury Super Deluxe Properties to Stay in Pahalgam
Best Cottages to Stay in Pahalgam

4. Kolahi Glacior:

Address : Kolhai Glacier, Forest Block 191203

Kolahoi is Kashmir’s only perennial source of pure water. Located just below the Kolahoi mountain and upwards of the Lidder Valley, the Kolahoi Glacier is a hanging (hollowed from inside) glacier and extends itself to five kilometers. Situated 26 km north of Pahalgam and 16 km from Sonamarg and it lies at an elevation of 4,700 meters or 15,400 feet. It is the source of Lidder River and some melted waters become the famed tributaries of the Sind River. Its water serves Anantnag District’s entire population used for drinking and agricultural purpose. The leftover if any, discharges itself into Jhelum river near Khanabal. Tourists prefer trekking up to the Kolahoi Glacier, which in itself is a 4-day activity wherein the participants are ensured of exemplary scenic beauty and freshness to stay interested.

The whole of the path is carpeted with lush green mountain vegetation and green meadows. Despite withstanding the drastic climatic conditions, that glacier still holds a beautiful majesty amongst the mountain ranges, which lures thousands of trekkers each year!

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How to Reach

Start from Srinagar: Fly to Srinagar Airport, which is the nearest major airport. From Srinagar, hire a taxi or take a bus to Pahalgam. The drive from Srinagar to Pahalgam takes around 2-3 hours.

Travel to Aru Valley: From Pahalgam, hire a local taxi or take a shared jeep to Aru Valley. The distance is about 12 kilometers and the journey offers scenic views of the valley.

Journey to Kolahi Glacier: The journey begins in Aru Valley and leads to Kolahi Glacier. This is a strenuous hike that takes two to three days. Hiring a local guide is advised for the trek. The path crosses rough terrain and ascends to higher altitudes, passing through the lovely meadow of Lidderwat.

Key Spots for Photographers:

There are many breathtaking locations for photographers at Kolahi Glacier. Aru Valley offers verdant meadows and pine forests, so start there. Vibrant scenery can be found by following the Lidder River to the Lidderwat Meadow. For cultural photos, take pictures of traditional Gujjar shepherd camps. Climb to the dramatic ice fields close to the glacier and high altitude meadows. At the glacier itself, don’t miss the enormous ice formations and Himalayan peaks, which make for amazing photos.

Pahalgam is a quaint and serene town situated on the bank of Lidder River at an elevation of 7200 feet. Located in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, it is considered to be one of the most beautiful places in Kashmir valley. Once a favorite destination for Bollywood filmmakers, read more

5. Sheshnag :

Address : Shesnag lake ,Shri Amarnath Trek, 3FVX+5GM, Jammu and Kashmir 192126

A high quality drinking water (Oligotrophic) lake that is home to several species of fish including Brown Tout is named as Sheshanag Lake. The lake is 1.1 km in length and around 0.7 km wide it is widely considered as one of the most beautiful sights of Kashmir. The nearby green meadows surrounding it make this lake appear greenish. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful by most tourists visiting Kashmir. This lake Sheshnag is fed by the streams and melting snow from the mountains above and it usually freezes in winter. Sheshanag has many mythological stories related to the lake. The most common belief is that this lake belongs to the Lord of Snakes; Sheshnag who dug this lake for himself after Lord Shiva left him on his way to Amarnath. Additionally since this is quite close to the route of the holy Amarnath Cave, the importance has grown to a pilgrimage site. Located just 27 km from Pahalgam, it takes a two day hiking or trekking to reach this lake. Trekking usually unfolds many unseen views and vistas and seasoned trekkers seriously recommend taking it up at least once.

How to Reach

Travel to Pahalgam: The first stop on your itinerary should be Pahalgam, a well-liked tourist destination in the Kashmir Valley. By road, Pahalgam is reachable from Srinagar (approximately 95 km) and Jammu (285 km).

Organize Transportation: In order to get to Sheshnag Lake from Pahalgam, you must make arrangements for transportation. If you intend to trek, you can arrange for a trekking guide or hire a local taxi to accomplish this.

Journey to Chandanwari: The Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage route typically includes a visit to Sheshnag Lake. The starting point for this pilgrimage is Chandanwari, which is about 16 km from Pahalgam. Chandanwari is accessible via shared transportation or local taxis.

Trekking or Riding a Pony: There are two ways to get to Sheshnag Lake from Chandanwari: trekking or riding a pony. The hike, which is about 12 km long, passes through beautiful mountainous scenery.

Savor Sheshnag Lake: As soon as you arrive at Sheshnag Lake, behold the stunning splendor of the lake encircled by mountains covered in snow. It’s a calm location where you can unwind and take in the beauty of nature.

Savor Sheshnag Lake: As soon as you arrive at Sheshnag Lake, behold the stunning splendor of the lake encircled by mountains covered in snow. It’s a calm location where you can unwind and take in the beauty of nature.
After spending some time at Sheshnag Lake, you can hike or take a pony ride back to Chandanwari in the same manner as before.

Sheshnag Lake, nestled near Pahalgam in the Himalayas, offers photographers stunning spots to capture its beauty. Start at Chandanwari for serene landscapes along the Lidder River. Trek through Sheshnag Wadi’s alpine flowers to reach the tranquil lake itself, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Capture reflections, glacier-fed streams, and the majestic Himalayan backdrop including Kolahoi and Amarnath peaks. Sheshnag Lake provides diverse natural vistas, making it a photographer’s paradise in Kashmir.

More About Pahalgam

6. Chandanwari

Address : Chandanwari, Pahalgam, 192126

Chandanwari lies on the outskirts of Pahalgam, just 16 km away and holds religious and tourist significance. From here the world famous Amarnath Yatra starts from July to August. At an elevation of 2,923 meters people indulge in snow ball fights and only after exhausting they use the snow bridge to slide down using the newly found sledge riding. The road from Pahalgam to Chandanwari is fairly flat and can be used by vehicles. It takes roughly 30 minutes from Pahalgam to reach here, at Chandanwari. The road passes through old Pahalgam town and at the right hand side the Lidder River will be flowing along with and play hide and seek. Many waterfalls can be seen on both sides of the road making the drive a pleasurable experience. At just 13 & 23 km off Chandanwari are the two beautiful lakes, namely the Sheshnag and Panchatarni which also serve as picnic spots. Tourists often spend time lazing nearby either absorbing the breathtaking beauty or sipping tea from the nearby stalls. Chandanwari offers ample of opportunities for engaging activities like trekking, hiking, pony ride, palanquin ride and snow sledging.

How to Reach

Travel to Pahalgam: Pahalgam is a well-liked tourist destination located in the Kashmir Valley. Pahalgam is reachable by road from Srinagar, about 95 km away.

Make Travel Plans: You can make travel plans to Chandanwari from Pahalgam. There are two alternatives: taking advantage of Pahalgam’s shared transportation services or hailing a cab locally.

Travel by Road: The route from Pahalgam to Chandanwari is picturesque, with views of the Lidder River and pine forests along the way. Depending on traffic and road conditions, the road trip takes one to one and a half hours.

Trekking Information: Chandanwari is also the starting point for the trek to Sheshnag Lake and beyond, which is part of the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage route. If you plan to trek, ensure you have the necessary permits and are prepared for the trekking conditions.

Travel Tips: It’s advisable to check current road conditions and any travel advisories before planning your journey to Chandanwari, especially during peak tourist seasons or if you’re visiting as part of the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage.

Chandanwari near Pahalgam is a haven for photographers, offering stunning landscapes with the Lidder River and pine forests. Capture vibrant meadows with wildflowers and snow-capped vistas in winter. It’s an ideal starting point for treks to Sheshnag Lake, promising picturesque views year-round.

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7. Mamleshwara

Address : 2856+WQC, Pahalgam, 192123

Religious texts mention of different reasons for having Lord Ganesha as the doorkeeper. One of the stories says that it was Mamleshwar Temple where Lord Ganesh stood as a doorkeeper for her mother and didn’t allow Lord Shiva to enter its premises. Consequently, Lord Shiva cuts his head off without knowing that he was his own son and following his mother’s order. Dating back to 400 AD, this impressive stone edifice is about a kilometre away from Pahalgam, resting amid mist-covered mountains. The complex is lush green and is situated across the Kolahoi stream, which is another beautiful attraction of the region. This temple is not big by any means and is barely under 8 square feet internally, has a porch supported in the 2 columns. It houses an old pedestal and a Shiva Linga. Surprisingly, a spring of remarkably pure water rises from under the temple site and is enclosed in a basin in front of the stairs.

How to Reach

Travel to Pahalgam: To begin with, make your way to Pahalgam, which is 95 km away by road from Srinagar. One of the most popular tourist destinations in the Kashmir Valley is Pahalgam.

Local Transportation: To get to Mamleshwar Temple from Pahalgam, take a shared taxi or hire a local one. In Pahalgam, taxis are easily accessible and can transport you right to the temple.

Route by Road: From Pahalgam, the Mamleshwar Temple road winds through picturesque meadows and pine forests. The temple is conveniently reachable by road and is situated inside the town of Pahalgam.

Location: Mamleshwar Temple is easily accessible for tourists to visit and explore because it is located close to Pahalgam’s main market area. The majority of the town’s amenities and lodging are situated in the central regions of Pahalgam, which are only a short drive or stroll away.

Travel Tips: It’s a good idea to check the availability of local transportation and the state of the roads, particularly during the busiest travel seasons or inclement weather. Although it’s usually easy to find Mamleshwar Temple within Pahalgam town, make sure you have the appropriate directions or advice from locals if needed.

8. Shikargarh

Address : 2856+QW8, KP Rd, Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir 192126

Shikargarh a wild life reserve located in the main market of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, You could be easily reached by horse, it is a picnic spot to enjoy with family and friends.Shikargarh near Pahalgam is a scenic spot known for its natural beauty and historical charm. Once a hunting lodge for Mughal emperors, it now offers panoramic views of the Lidder River and surrounding green valleys. Visitors can explore the old lodge ruins and enjoy peaceful walks amidst pine forests and meadows. It’s a great place for picnics and leisure activities. Shikargarh also serves as a starting point for trekking adventures into the Himalayas, attracting nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike to experience its tranquil atmosphere and stunning vistas in Pahalgam.

Suggested read : Best Cottages to Stay in Pahalgam

How to Reach

Journey to Pahalgam : Commence your journey by driving from Srinagar to Pahalgam, a well-liked tourist destination in the Kashmir Valley (about 95 km).

Local Transportation : You can walk or take a local taxi from Pahalgam to Shikargarh. Taxis are easily accessible and can transport you to the location.

Route : Traveling to Shikargarh usually takes you through picturesque meadows and pine forests with vistas of the Lidder River. The location itself is not too far from Pahalgam’s main town area.

Location : Shikargarh is conveniently accessible for tourists to explore its historical ruins and take in the expansive landscapes because it is situated within Pahalgam.

Travel advice : Especially during the busiest travel seasons, inquire about local transportation options and road conditions. Although it’s usually easy to locate Shikargarh within Pahalgam town, make sure you have clear directions or advice from locals if necessary.

9. Amarnath Yatra

Address : Baltal Amarnath Trek, Forest Block, Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir 192230

The Amarnath Cave, which lies in India’s Jammu and Kashmir region, is highly revered by Hindus. Situated at an elevation of 3,888 meters (12,756 feet) above sea level, the cave is approximately 141 kilometers (88 miles) from Srinagar, the summer capital of the state, and is accessible through Pahalgam town. This hallowed shrine, regarded as one of Hinduism’s holiest sites, draws travelers from all over the globe. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the cave is snow-covered most of the year, except during the short summer pilgrimage season.

How to reach

To reach Amarnath Cave from Pahalgam:

Travel to Pahalgam, a town in Kashmir Valley.
From Pahalgam, travel 16 km to Chandanwari by taxi or shared transport.
Trek 14 km or take a pony ride from Chandanwari to reach Amarnath Cave.
Check pilgrimage schedules, permits, and weather conditions before starting.
Prepare for high-altitude trekking and ensure appropriate clothing and accommodations for the journey.

Pahalgam, gateway to Amarnath Cave, offers photographers Betaab Valley’s lush greenery and serene river views. Lidder River in town provides reflections and local life shots. Aru Valley offers alpine meadows and streams. Chandanwari starts the Amarnath Yatra with dramatic snow-capped peaks. The trek to Amarnath Cave through pine forests and glacier-fed streams captures Kashmir’s natural beauty.

if you plan your visit to Pahalgam also, don’t forget to explore : Popular Market of Pahalgam

Pahalgam Tour & Travel Faq’s

How far is Pahalgam from Kashmir by road?

Distance Between Kashmir to Pahalgam Is 191 Kms , Duration, Driving Directions & Route Map.

What is the best time to visit Pahalgam?

Pahalgam is a Hills & Mountains destination. The best time to visit Pahalgam is March, April, May and June. Since this is the peak season expect a little crowd during this time. October, November, December, January and February period experiences moderate weather.

What is the Speciality of Pahalgam?

Pahalgam is associated with the annual pilgrimage to the shrine Amarnath Yatra. Chandanwari, located 16 kilometres (9.9 mi) from Pahalgam. The town is the starting point of the yatra that takes place every year in the months of July–August, receiving hundreds of thousands of tourists.

Is it better to stay in Pahalgam or Gulmarg?

Ultimately, whether you choose Gulmarg or Pahalgam depends on your interests. If you crave adventure and cooler temperatures, Gulmarg is your answer. For a quieter, nature-centric retreat, Pahalgam offers a peaceful and rejuvenating experience.

Can we see snow in Pahalgam?

The best snowfall month in Pahalgam is December. Pahalgam is one of the most attractive and enthralling destinations in India which is blessed to have natural beauty and serenity.

What is the hottest month in Pahalgam?

January is the coldest month (with the temperature averaging (-8°C/17.6°F) and August the hottest (25.5°C/77.9°F), but many summers are hotter than this.

How to travel locally in Pahalgam?

The best way of traveling within Pahalgam is taxis, buses, and ponies (cost around INR 50). One will have to take local cabs (Sumo, Tavera, or similar) as they don’t allow taxis from Srinagar and Jammu or private vehicles (of other states) for local sightseeing in Pahalgam.

if you plan your visit to Srinagar also, don’t forget to explore : Top Sightseeing in Srinagar

Conclusion:

Pahalgam offers photographers a diverse array of stunning spots. From Betaab Valley’s tranquil landscapes to the reflective beauty of the Lidder River, each site provides unique opportunities. Aru Valley’s alpine meadows and Chandanwari’s dramatic peaks captivate, while the trek to Amarnath Cave through pine forests encapsulates Kashmir’s natural and spiritual essence. These top spots promise unforgettable photographic moments, capturing the timeless charm of Pahalgam.