7 Best Places to Visit in Pahalgam and Activities to Experience

Nestled in the heart of Kashmir Pehalgam is a town that is synonymous with heaven. After Srinagar, if there is a place that deserves your gaze and admiration, it is undoubtedly Pahalgam, with its breathtaking valleys, serene rivers, and unparalleled natural beauty. No wonder it is a must-visit destination in many Kashmir holiday packages, offering travelers an unforgettable experience.

Even a single glance at the town is enough to make travelers feel mesmerized, leaving them awestruck, captivated by its surreal beauty and timeless charm. Well, don’t get stuck gazing at one place because there are a lot of sites that need to be explored.

Before you kick off your trip to Kashmir, keep these best places to visit in Pahalgam on your checklist to make your experience filled with serenity and excitement.

Top Places to Visit in Pahalgam, Jammu Kashmir

Wondering what are the best tourist places in Srinagar? Here are some of the top attractions that you can visit and enjoy in this paradise where you have the perfect blend of history and nature.

Betaab Valley

Betaab Valley is at the pinnacle of popular destinations in Pahalgam, where the majority of Bollywood movie shoots have taken place. The breathtaking snow-capped mountains in the background and a lush, picturesque green view gives a dreamlike feeling. It is often used as the basecamp for the trekkers, where the locals are quite friendly, whether you want to enjoy a peaceful picnic or simply soak in the serene beauty; Betaab Valley offers an unforgettable experience in the lap of nature.

With plenty of pine and walnut trees adjoined with beautiful flowers blooming all around, the valley gives an enchanting escape. As mentioned earlier, this destination has been featured in several movies, and among those, Betaab skyrocketed in popularity, giving the name Betaab Valley.

And don’t forget to rent traditional Kashmiri dresses and try them out while clicking your memories.

Chandanwari

Chandanwari is the starting point for the Amarnath trek that takes place in the rainy season (Sawan). The destination is less than an hour away from Pahalgam, which can be covered by cab service.

Entire region of Chandanwari is covered with snow, making it a popular destination for snow activities.

There are tons of activities such as sliding, snow fight, and trekking; apart from that, there are several nearby destinations that can be explored. The entire tour roughly takes 4-5 hours; however, if you decide to stay, there are facilities available.

It is important to note that during the peak season, which is August to December, there are fewer hotels and room stays around the destination, so make sure you have everything planned in advance.

Sheshnag Lake and Lidder River

By taking the upper route from Chandanwari, you can reach the breathtaking Sheshnag Lake, a high-altitude glacial lake known for its crystal-clear blue waters and mythological significance.

The surroundings of the lake are quite peaceful, and you can clearly see the reflection of the sky on the water. Sheshnag Lake is a perfect spot for nature lovers, trekkers, and photographers seeking breathtaking landscapes, making the entire Kashmir trip unforgettable.

Lidder River originates from the Kalhoi Glacier, situated at the height of 4,653 meters. The river has great significance and plays a crucial role in the Pahalgam ecosystem and livelihood, as the locals are mainly dependent on it.

Aru Village

Betaab Valley, Chandanwari, and Aru Vilalger are the trinity of Pahalgam’s most breathtaking destinations. This charming hamlet serves as the base camp for several famous treks, including the Kolahoi Glacier trek and the Tarsar Marsar trek.

You can also visit Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary, which is a protected flora and fauna region giving an abundance of opportunity for photography. The sanctuary is home to rare species like the Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, and musk deer, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Moreover, there are several activities to take part in, such as horse riding and paragliding. Accompanied by crystal-clear waterfalls, Aru Village provides an idyllic setting for adventure seekers and peace lovers alike.

Baisaran Hills

Just 5km away from the main Pahalgam district that has sustained the authentic Kashmiri culture and cuisines. Baisaran bestows travelers with its dense pine forest escorted with several attractions like Kanimarg, Kashmir Valley Point, Deno Valley Point, and Dangan Valley.

After you are done with appreciating the mesmerizing beauty of Baisaran Valley, experience the activities like pony rides, trekking, and nature walks amidst the pristine beauty of Kashmir.

Lolab Valley

Referred to as land of love and beauty Lolab Valley is the best escape for city dwellers. Situated near the Kupwara district, which is stretched around 24 km, where visitors can spot rare wildlife species like the Himalayan brown bear and snow leopard.

A true biodiversity space where visitors can enjoy scenic views or grab a picnic spot. The entire valley is jeweled with apple farms, orchids, and even cherry farms during summers. Visitors can enjoy the fragrance of fresh fruits and wildflowers filling the air, adding to the valley’s magical ambiance.

This valley is truly a hidden paradise and considered one of the best places to visit in Pahalgam that deserves a place on every traveler’s bucket list.

Parks and Holy Temples

Pahalgam has a plethora of parks and temples that you cannot miss. These spots are regarded as a jewel on the crown of this heavenly destination, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and spiritual solace. Temples like Mamleshwar that hold rich history and are significant spots for Hindus.

Avantipur Temple, an ancient site that showcases remarkable architecture and a deep connection to Kashmir’s rich past. During free time, Pahalgam has one of the most tranquilizing parks. Pahalgam Club Garden and Children’s Park provide breathtaking landscapes where visitors can unwind, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak in the serene atmosphere surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped peaks.

Umrao Park, which is situated near the Lidder River, is a must-visit spot for travelers wanting to rejuvenate and carry the essence of Pahalgam tranquility.

Activities to Take Part in Pahalgam

Pahalgam isn’t all about exploring but a heavenly place that lets you immerse yourself by participating in various activities. Indulge and flourish yourself with every fragment that acts as a tiny piece of a grand mosaic.

So here are the activities that you should never neglect if you get the chance with your travel package.

River Rafting at Lidder River:

The crystal-like condition of Lidder River makes it perfect for river rafting ranging from Class I to Class IV. Every row through the gushing currents offers an adrenaline-pumping experience, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views and lush greenery.

Shopping in Pahalgam:

The markets in Pahalgam are something that give you a vibrant experience that remains unparalleled in entire Kashmir. You can wander through small stalls and check out wooden crafts and shawls and try out traditional spicy Kashmiri cuisine.

Skiing:

Aru is the prime location for skiing at Pahalgam, where the entire village is covered by white powdery snow. The valley gives a perfect setup for slopes that is crucial for skiers, combined with mesmerizing terrains that make the entire activity overwhelming.

Lidder Amusement Park:

Talking about the best places to visit in Pahalgam or activities to try out while visiting the amusement park wouldn’t be that exciting for a place known as nature’s lap. However, the amusement park is situated in between the lush greenery and overlooks the Lidder River. This adds an additional layer of fun and makes the rides more adventurous.

Pony Ride:

Experience the most relaxing rhythmic clatter pony rides through the rugged terrain. It’s a must-try activity if you are visiting Pahalgam, as the cool breeze of the mountains accompanied by a picturesque view offers a refreshing escape.

These are some of the exclusive experiences and activities that you can only relive in Pahalgam. The breathtaking views and the best of nature promise an unforgettable journey into Kashmir’s paradise.

Final Words

Before packing your bags, make sure the above-mentioned places are included in your Kashmir holiday travel package. Ultimately, ensuring you experience the true essence of Pahalgam, from its scenic landscapes to its thrilling adventure activities.

From the serene view in Chandanwari to Seshnag Lake, which is regarded as paradise itself, every corner of Pahalgam offers a mesmerizing experience.

FAQs

Which place is called mini Switzerland in Pahalgam?

Ans. The notable destination in Pahalgham is Baisaran Valley, known for providing stunning views filled with lush greenery and snow-capped mountains.

Is 1 day enough in Pahalgam?

Pahalgham is a big town with so many sightseeing spots and activities to enjoy. So spending just one day won’t be enough, especially if you want to witness the beauty of Betaab Valley and Lidder River.

What are the places to visit near Pahalgam?

There are several trekking spots in Pehalgham and sites that deserve your attention. The nearby attractions are Aru Valley, Baisaran Valley, Seshnag Lake, and Tulian Lake.

What is Pahalgam famous for shopping?

There are plenty of Kashmiri handicrafts, pashmina shawls, carpets, phiran, wooden baskets, kangri, and various home decors you can purchase.