Pahalgam - The Valley of Shepherds
Pahalgam is an epitome of natural beauty and a feast to the eyes and soul. This serene place is situated in the heart of Kashmir and is renowned globally as heaven on earth. The herculean mountains covered with snow, lush green pine forests, vast meadows, etc. make this place worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.
The natural charm of this place is such that you won’t be able to resist it for too long. Pahalgam is also famous for being the starting point of Amarnath Yatra (trip) in which lakhs of devotees participate annually.
The mountain trails of Pahalgam run towards the Amarnath cave which is the abode of Lord Shiva and a significant pilgrimage site for the Hindus. Parallel to it runs the Lidder river which is just too gorgeous to avoid.
Months between March to November are the best to visit Pahalgam because the climate is great to wander and explore the place.
History of Pahalgam
Set at an altitude of 2100 meters above sea level, Pahalgam remained an unexplored place by the outer world for a considerable time, and this way, it guarded its mesmerizing beauty.
For many centuries, Pahalgam tended to the nomadic and cattle owners who would often visit the place so that their cattle could graze in its green pastures. Due to this reason, Pahalgam was also referred to as the Valley of Shepherds.
Shifting the focus to the political scenario, Pahalgam being a part of Kashmir, always experienced the after-effects of the political changes that took place here. Historians claim that Hindus ruled in Kashmir for a very long period beginning from the 11th century. In the mid of the 16th century, it was invaded by many Mughal emperors. The most significant among them was the celebrated Mughal emperor Akbar.
After a few centuries, Ranjit Singh established his control over Kashmir in 1819 and later lost his kingdom to Britishers. When Britishers left, Maharaja Hari Singh became the ruler of Kashmir and its towns which included Pahalgam as well.
Kashmir along with its towns like Pahalgam became a part of the Union of India with the treaty of accession that was signed between the two in 1947. During all this political turmoil, Pahalgam remained a passive witness and after India’s independence, it developed as a tourist spot for its unexplored and exotic avenues.
Places To Visit In Pahalgam
1. Aru Valley
If you are planning to visit someplace amazing then Aru Valley should definitely be on your travel bucket list. The lush green grasslands along with the thick and dense forests which are interspersed with modest and playful streams of water make this place truly amazing. River-crossing, paragliding, zorbing in khajjiar, and ziplining are some adventure activities that one can indulge in on a visit to the valley.
2. Lolab Valley
The Lolab Valley is situated in the northern district of Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir. This valley is specifically laid with immense charm and the beauty of raw nature.
3. Admire the Beauty of Betaab Valley
The valley is known for its surreal ambiance which it gets from the green meadows, forests, views of snow-capped mountains, and glistening rivers. The valley is 15km from Pahalgam and has been named after a Bollywood film Betaab that had Bobby Deol and Amrita Singh in the lead. One can gaze at the deodar trees, the Lidder river, and the pine forest for hours over here.
4. Explore the Kolahoi Glacier
Situated over the Lidder River, the Kolahoi glacier is also known as a hanging glacier and is specifically known for its breathtaking views. Moreover, the only way of reaching this place is through trekking which will certainly make your journey worth remembering. Here one can also hire ponies along with horses for specific stretches of the journey.
Things to Do in Pahalgam
- Trekking to Kolahoi Glacier, Lidderwat, and Tulian Lake.
- White-water rafting on the Lidder River.
- Horse riding at Baisaran Valley.
- Camping and nature walks in Aru Valley.
- Shopping for Kashmiri handicrafts, woolens, and dry fruits in local markets.
- Photography of breathtaking landscapes in every season.
Best Time to Visit Pahalgam
The best time to visit Pahalgam depends on the experience you seek:.
- Summer (March to June) - Best for sightseeing, trekking, and outdoor activities, with pleasant temperatures between 11°C to 25°C.
- Monsoon (July to September) - Light showers enhance the valley’s beauty, but landslides may occur.
- Autumn (October to November) - Golden-hued landscapes make it ideal for photography.
- Winter (December to February) - Perfect for snowfall lovers and winter sports, with temperatures dropping to -5°C.
How To Reach Pahalgam
Pahalgam’s untouched beauty of nature will surely melt your heart. It is located at an approximate distance of 2,156, 2,324, 2,981 km from Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru respectively. Here is how you can reach here by the following means of transportation.
- Nearest metropolitan city. Delhi
- Nearest airbase. Srinagar Airport
- Nearest railhead. Srinagar Railway Station
- Distance from Delhi. 787 Kms
By Air
Pahalgam does not have an airport. The nearest airport to reach this town is situated in Srinagar. From the airport, one may take a taxi or a bus to reach Pahalgam. The airport receives direct and connecting flights from all parts of the country hence finding flights in your budget and on dates suitable for you would not be a problem.
- Distance from Srinagar Airport. 80 Kms
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available to Srinagar
By Road
There are regular buses to Pahalgam from many states of India specially from the northern states. Because Pahalgam is well connected via road network one may also consider going by one’s personal vehicle such as a car or a bike.
- Distance from Srinagar. 54 Kms
By Train
Pahalgam also doesn’t have any railway station. The nearest railway station is situated at a distance of 80 km, in Srinagar. Trains from all the major cities and states arrive here. After deboarding, one may take the locally available transport such as intra-state tourist buses or taxis to reach the desired location in Pahalgam.
- Distance from Srinagar Railway station. 83 Kms
Frequently Asked Questions About Pahalgam
Q. Why is Pahalgam famous?
Ans - Pahalgam is widely known as the jewel of the picturesque Liddar valley located in the high Himalayas and it is famous for its scenic beauty.
Q. What is the original name of Pahalgam?
Ans - The original name of Pahalgam was Pahalgom.
Q. What activities can I do in Pahalgam?
Ans - Visitors can enjoy trekking, river rafting, horse riding, camping, golfing, and nature walks in Pahalgam.
Q. Can I see snow in Pahalgam?
Ans - Yes, December to February is the best time to experience snowfall and enjoy winter sports.
Q. Is Pahalgam suitable for honeymooners?
Ans - Absolutely! Pahalgam’s scenic beauty, peaceful environment, and luxury resorts make it a perfect honeymoon destination.
Q. Are there any religious places to visit in Pahalgam?
Ans - Yes, Mamleshwar Temple is a famous Shiva temple, and Chandanwari is the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra.
