PAHALGAM
Pahalgam is a popular tourist destination located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in India. It is a scenic hill station situated at an altitude of 2,740 meters (8,990 feet) above sea level in the Himalayas. Pahalgam is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, pristine rivers, lush green meadows, and snow-capped mountains.
One of the main attractions in Pahalgam is the Lidder River, which flows through the town and offers opportunities for activities like trout fishing and white-water rafting. Pahalgam is also the starting point for the annual Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage, which takes place during the months of July and August.
The town is surrounded by stunning landscapes and is a gateway to several popular trekking routes, including the famous Kolahoi Glacier and Tarsar-Marsar lakes. Adventure enthusiasts visit Pahalgam for activities like hiking, horse riding, and camping in the picturesque valleys and meadows.
Pahalgam also has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore the local villages to experience the traditional lifestyle and interact with the friendly locals. The town has a few ancient temples, including the Mamal Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, which attracts devotees and tourists alike.
In addition to its natural beauty, Pahalgam offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and campsites, to cater to the needs of visitors. The town has a pleasant climate during the summer months, making it an ideal getaway for people seeking respite from the heat in the plains.
However, it’s worth noting that as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, including Pahalgam, has been subject to occasional periods of unrest. It is advisable to check the current travel advisories and consult with local authorities or tour operators before planning a trip to Pahalgam or any other destination in the region.
NEAR BY PLACES
CHANDANWARI (16KM: 2,923M)
It is famous for its snow bridge and as the base camp for annual Amarnath Ji Yatra.
BAISARAN (5 KM: 2,438M)
Pine forests dot this meadow which presents a picturesque view of the snow-clad mountains. The snow covered Tulian lake at an altitude of 3353 m is 11kms from Baisaran
SHESHNAG LAKE (27 KM: 3,658M)
The lake has special significance for Hindu religion followers who believe that the lake belongs to the Lord of Snakes – Sheshnaag which still resides there. One of the mythological beliefs says that the lake has been dug by the Lord Sheshnag himself and thus has been named after divine serpent. The lake is also sacred as it falls enrouteto the holy Amarnath Cave.
PANCHTARNI (40 KM)
It is the confluence of five streams and gives Panchtarni its name. A good camping site.
AMARNATH CAVE
A large number of Hindu pilgrims pay obeisance at the Cave during the months of June and August. The pilgrimage commonly called as Amarnath Yatra begins from Chandanwadi which is 16 kms from famous tourist spot Pahalgam. The trek passes through Sheshnag and Panchtarni and concludes at Amarnath Cave.The shrine is dedicated to the god Shiva and is believed according to Hindu mythology over 5,000 years old.
The cave is situated at an altitude of 3,888 m and is about 141 km from Srinagar.
The cave is accessed by either Pahalgam – Chandanwari Track Route or Sonamarg – Baltal Route. Over the years, it has become the revered destination for the Hindu devotes who visit the cave annually.
ARU (11 KM: 2,408M)
This charming meadow can be reached by walking or by taxis along a mountain path. The river Lidder disappears at Gur Khumb and reappears after 27 mts.
LIDDERWAT (22KM: 3,408M)
A beautiful camping site set among dense forests. Starting point of the trek to the Sindh Valley.
KOLOHI (1,467 M)
Base for a three-day return trek to the Kolohi Glacier
TARSAR LAKE (34 KM: 3,962M)
It can be reached from Lidderwat. There are delightful camping sites and flower meadows at Sikiwas, 24 kms from Pahalgam. To reach the nearby Marsar lake one has to cross a 243 mts high bridge..