Pahalgam is one of the most beautiful destinations to visit in Jammu and Kashmir. From natural splendors to thrilling activities, the place is known to delight all age groups. You can enjoy activities such as swimming, horse riding and walking through the valley. Its pristine beauty is just what you need for a dreamlike vacation in Kashmir valley. A tour to Pahalgam is sure to make you experience the beauty of Kashmir to the fullest.
About Pahalgam :
Pahalgam is a situated at the convergence of the Lidder Lake and the Sheshnag Lake. At a height of 2,130 m, Pehalgaam hill station is a spectacular sight. At one point of time, the hill station used to serve as the village of shepherds. Even today, this one-time village with splendid views stands untouched by the ravages of progress. Pahalgam now counts amongst the premier resorts of the Kashmir valley. This beautiful hill station dates back to the medieval period. Ruled by the Mughals at one point of time, it later came under the reign of the local Hindu kings as a part of the Kashmir kingdom. This princely state continued to exist until it got merged into India, after independence.
Location :
Pahalgam is located in the western part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is located at an altitude of 2130 m above sea level amidst the great Himalayan range. It is positioned beside the Liddar River, in the Liddar valley. Pahalgam is 95 km east of Srinagar. The weather in Pahalgam is alpine. Summers (April-June) are mild while winters (November-February) are cold. It experiences rains between July and September. It experiences heavy snowfall from December to February.
History :
The origin of Pahalgam is obscure. Mughal rulers ruled this region in the medieval period. It was later a part of the Kingdom of Kashmir, which was ruled by local Hindu rulers. This princely state remained independent even during the British period and later on merged into independent India.
Places Of Interest :
Baisaran & Hajan : The most beautiful of place in Pahalgam 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.
Amarnath Yatra : Pahalgam is also associated with the annual Amarnath Yatra. Chandanwari, 16 kms from Pahalgam, is the starting point of the yatra that takes place every year in the month of Sawan (July to August). During the month of Sawan, an ice stalagmite forms a natural shivling in the Amarnath cave, which waxes and wanes with the moon.
Sheshnag Lake : The waters of this greenish blue lake are covered with ice till June.
Panchtarni : It is the confluence of five streams and gives Panchtarni its name. A good camping site.
Aru : This charming meadow can be reached by walking along a mountain path. The river Lidder disappears at Gur Khumb and reappears after 27 mts.
Tarsar Lake : It can be reached from Lidderwat. There are delightful camping sites and flower meadows at Sikiwas, 24 kms from here. To reach the nearby Mansar lake one has to cross a 243 mts high bridge.
Recreational Activities :
Trekking : The environs of Pahalgam offer exciting trekking opportunities, the best known being: Pahalgam – Chandanwari- Sheshnag- Panchtarni- Amarnath Cave Temple- Sonamarg.
Horse Riding : Ponies can be hired directly or through the Tourist Office. Tariff boards are displayed at all important locations.
Golf : Pahalgam Club has a 9-hole golf course, which can be used by tourists. Golf sets can be hired from the Tourist Office.
Fishing : Fishing in the Lidder
Fairs & Festival :
Pahalgam is the starting point of the annual Amarnath yatra (holy journey) to the holy cave shrine of Amarnath, which is said to be the abode of Lord Shiva. Every year in the month of July/August, thousands of pilgrims descend on Pahalgam on their way to the holy cave.
How to Get There :
Airport: The nearest Airport is in Badgam Distt
Train: The nearest rail head is at Jammu.
Road: Bus service is available from Srinagar and Anantnag. Taxis can be hired from Srinagar at pre-fixed rat