State: Jammu and Kashmir
District: Anantnag
Location: 91 km from Srinagar
Altitude: 6988 ft above sea level
Serves as: Hill Station, Prime Tourist Destination in Kashmir Valley
Famous for: Snow Capped Himalayan Ranges, Adventure sports, skiing
One of the most beautiful towns in the Kashmir Valley, Pahalgam is often refer as the 'Valley of Shepherds'. Settled amidst dense forests, confluence of streams and snow capped mountains this little town of Pahalgam is quite popular among tourists. Located at an altitude of 6988 feet above sea level, this quaint little town is home to beauty itself. It is said that once upon a time, this town of Pahalgam used to be a humble abode for shepherds. There are lush forests, crystal clear lakes, vast expanse of flower meadows and beautiful water streams everywhere you see. Pahalgam is also Asia's only saffron growing region and hence one can see many saffron plants blooming throughout during the month of November.
Pahalgam also serves as one of the prime destinations for film shootings. Apart from being a famous hill station of Jammu and Kashmir, the blessed town of Pahalgam is also known for adventure sport activities such as trekking, hiking and river rafting. Trout fishing and skiing is also one of the popular activities tourist indulge in Pahalgam. Imagine enjoying all these amidst beautiful nature with the snow capped Himalayan ranges serving as a backdrop! Considered to be one of the famous tourists destinations of Jammu and Kashmir Tourism, Pahalgam can be visited throughout the year.
The climate in Pahalgam is beautiful; even in summers the weather is pleasant. No wonder tourists flock to Pahalgam throughout the year. But that is not all why tourists drop in to Pahalgam. There is more to Pahalgam than just being a hill station, adventure sports destination and important tourist destinations in India. Pahalgam also serves as the starting point for the annual pilgrimage of Amarnath Yatra. The annual pilgrimage to Amarnath caves is scheduled during the months of July to August. Thousands of devotees flock to Pahalgam to commence the journey of Amarnath Caves during these two months.
Given it's pleasant weather, Pahalgam can be visited throughout the year. The altitude of Pahalgam is rather lower than Gulmarg(8694 ft), which doesn't allow the night temperature to drop too low and this adds as an advantage to the favorable climate of Pahalgam. Summers in Pahalgam lasts from April to July with temperature anywhere between 15°c - 30°c. Monsoon in Pahalgam lasts from July to September with temperature anywhere between 15°C to 17°C. Winters in Pahalgam lasts from October to March with temperature anywhere between 0°C to 12°C. Tourists can choose travel plans to Pahalgam as per the weather they prefer.
Relax and enjoy the serenity
Explore Pahalgam
Go trekking
Go hiking
Go pony riding
Go trout fishing
Enjoy bike trekking
Enjoy adventure sports
Enjoy water sports such as white water rafting and kayaking on Lidder River
Play golf at Pahalgam Golf Course
Enjoy Skiing, Snow-sledging
Pheran, which is the Kashmiri woolen poncho
Dry fruits like walnut, pistachios, almonds
Aromatic spices
Kashmiri golden apples
Wicker-work items
Handicrafts
Paper mache products
Fish lovers can enjoy fresh trout fish, especially rainbow trout and brown trout, right from the Lidder River or Sheshnag Lake. Many restaurants, particularly Troutbeat Cafe serves fresh trout. Other food items to try includes famous Kashmiri cuisine comprising of Dum Aloo, Kashmiri Pulao, Yakhni Chawal and Mutton Rogan Josh. Also try out a unique dining experience in the 'Houseboat Restaurants'.
The Annual Amarnath Yatra starts at Pahalgam every year during the months of July and August. Pahalgam is flocked with devotees from all around the world for the commencement of this holy journey to Amarnath Shrine.
Betaab Valley is one of the sought after destinations in Pahalgam. It is said that unless you pay a visit to Betaab Valley you wouldn't believe how exactly beautiful this place is. Sort of heaven on earth!
Located 15 km from Pahalgam, the valley gets its name because it was picturized in one of the famous Bollywood movies, Sunny Deol starrer - 'Betaab'. The famous 'Bobby Hut' continues to be a tourist attraction here. Apart from Betaab movie, many other Bollywood films during the 1970s and 1980s were shot here, including Kashmir Ki Kali, Silsila, Jab Jab Phool Khile, Satte Pe Satta, Aarzoo and Kabhie Kabhie. Before Betaab movie, this valley was known as Hagan Valley. Betaab Valley is a piece of art in itself, given it's scenic surroundings, deodhar and pine forests, and floral beds.
A visit to this valley is a must whenever in Pahalgam as one has to witness the charm and eternal beauty unfolded within this magical place in form of melodious bird whispers, floral fragrance, snow clad mountains, bubbling streams and captivating beauty of the vast meadows. River Lidder flows beside the Betaab Valley and adds to its beauty. One can view this valley on their journey to Amarnath Caves. Betaab Valley is also a trekker's paradise. Being situated close to the Pahalgam, it also serves as an excellent camping site - enjoyed vividly by adventure seekers, trekkers and nature explorers.
- Best time to visit this place is during March to October.
- Can rent big shoes at the entrance.
- Perfect spot for family picnics
- Absolutely relaxing spot
- Overnight camping can be done here
Entry Fee per person - INR 100
Entry Fee per child - INR 50
Baisaran in Pahalgam is also referred popularly as 'The Mini Switzerland of India'. Located 5 km from Pahalgam, Baisaran is beautiful meadow with mesmerizing beauty with it's vast grassy carpet, rolling hills, snow clad Himalayan Ranges, dense vegetation of Deodhar and Pine trees, and scenic valley view. Following the woody trails of Baisaran, one can witness the snaky contours of the Lidder River. The view is panoramic and seems right out of a picture frame. Walking in the Baisaran Pine Forests is a delightful experience in itself. Activities like pony riding and trekking can be done here.
Entry Fee for Baisaran - INR 10 per person
The Sheshnag Lake or locally known as Sheshnag Jheel is a popular destination in Pahalgam, as one would immediately fall in love with it at the first sight. It is located 24 km from Pahalgam en route to Amarnath Shrine and is frozen during winter and melts only during summers. This greenish-blue Sheshnag Lake settles amidst the Himalayan Ranges 12000 ft above sea level. The Sheshnag Lake holds mythological importance, as it is named after 'Sheshnag' - The divine serpent as per Hindu Mythology. It is said that the Sheshnag had himself dug up this lake and made it's humble abode. It is believed that 'Sheshnag' still happens to reside here. Due to this mythological prominence, the Sheshnag Lake is considered as sacred and is a must visit point by pilgrims who visit the Amarnath Shrine. The water from this Sheshnag Lake is considered pure and of high quality; and is used for drinking.
Other than this sacred myth, the Sheshnag Lake is also an attraction to thousand's of tourists for it is one of the marvels of Kashmir. The Sheshnag Lake settles amidst scenic surroundings with green expanse and snow capped mountains as a backdrop. One of the popular activity enjoyed on this lake is trout fishing, for trout is found in abundance here. Other activities one gets to enjoy here is photography, trekking, hiking and pony riding. The Sheshnag Lake is a delight for nature lovers given its captivating scenery, exotic birds, swans and glittering waters. One can hike to the Sheshnag Lake from Chandanwadi Valley.
The Lidder River that flows through this plesantly old-fashioned town of Pahalgam is the main source of charm of this town. This long Lidder River with it's two tributaries, the Lidder East that flows from Sheshnag Lake and Lidder West that flows from the Kolahai Glacier cascades through the town and through the Kashmir Region. On this river, about 2 km from Pahagam Taxi Stand is Lidder Amusement Park. Lidder Amusement Park is open for snow activities and rides. This amusement park perches beautifully amidst snow clad mountains on all the four sides. Lidder Amusement Park is open from the month of April to November. This park offers lot of adventure rides including miniature railway, paddle boats, bumper car rides and is popular among kids as well as adults. The Lidder Amusement Park offers a complete holiday experience in Pahalgam as it is a much needed attraction for children as well as adults. It serves as a picnic spot as well as a recreation spot for adventure seekers. Nature lovers can just relax and enjoy the beauty around.
Entry Fee Per Person - INR 100
Entry Fee Per Child - INR 25
Lidder Amusement Park Timings - 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
Closed on Fridays
Mamal Temple in Pahalgam is locally known as Mamleshwar Temple. The Lord Shiva as Mamleshwar is worshiped in this temple. It is a very small temple perched on the mountain side of the Kolahoi stream on the banks of Lidder River. The temple is ancient and is dated back to 400 AD. The legendary tale associated with this Mamal Temple is that this is the same blessed place where Lord Ganesha was kept as a guard by his mother Parvati to keep anyone from coming inside. And this is how the temple got it's name - 'Mamal' which means 'do not go'. The temple holds great significance among devotees and hence is thronged with pilgrims throughout the year. The glacier water streams out throughout the year and is considered holy. The Mamal Temple must be one of the oldest temples in the Kashmir Valley. One can relax in the serenity of this temple within the peaceful surroundings. The best time to visit Mamal temple is from April to November given the favorable weather. Taxi services from Pahalgam are available for the Mamal Temple.
Temple timings - 6:00 am to 8:00 pm
Travel Tip and Suggestions - While visiting this temple refrain from wearing leather clothing or fur items. No food items are allowed to be carried inside the temple.
Settled between two villages, Overa and Aru, the Overa - Aru Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the important tourist destinations of Pahalgam perched amidst tranquility, away from the noises of the city. Spread over an area of 500 sq.km, the Overa - Aru Wildlife Sanctuary is home to rare and endangered wild species such as Kashmir Red deer or Hangul, Kashmir Muskdeer, Asiatic ibex, Himalayan Serow, Common Leopard, Asiatic Black bear, Himalayan Brown Bear, Egyptian vulture, Flycatcher and European Roller. The Overa Forests have been the hunting reserves of the Maharajas for hundreds of years. Many glaciers and lakes within the sanctuary have managed to keep the expanse rich and flourishing. This biosphere though small, yet maintains a dense vegetation of deodhar and pine trees. Within this lush greenery and high mountain range, the Overa - Aru Wildlife Sanctuary is an ideal visit for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Bird watching with over more than 100 species of birds, wildlife spotting, hiking, trekking and overnight camping in the hut accommodation provided within the sanctuary are some of the activities enjoyed here. The best time to visit the Overa - Aru Wildlife Sanctuary is from May to August. Bird watching is one of the activity that can be enjoyed preferably in the lower areas of the sanctuary during March to May. Though monsoon is not severe in this areas, yet heavy snowing is experienced during winters. And hence the Overa - Aru Wildlife Sanctuary is not accessible during those times.
Travel tip - You can explore the sanctuary by foot, though good trekking shoes are advisable. The trek here is bit trickier and slippery, given to heavy snow. Landslides are common occurrence and roads get jammed at times.
Tulian Lake is a beautiful lake and an important tourist destination in the Kashmir Valley. Perched at an altitude of 11000 ft above sea level, the Tulian Lake resembles a shape of '8'. The visit to this lake is popular among trekkers. The trek of Tulian Lake is pretty steep and bit tricky. This scenic spot attracts thousands of tourists given it's breathtaking view and the location of the lake amidst dense pine trees and snow clad mountain ranges of Zanskar and Pir Panjal. The Tulian Lake is located 16 km from Pahalgam.
Nestled 7900 ft above sea level on a large plain plateau in middle of snow-capped mountain ranges, is the Pahalgam Golf Course. Pahalgam Golf Course is a eighteen hole golf course which is an attraction among golf lovers. A game of golf amidst such scenic surroundings at an such high altitude is a game to remember. Being a plain wide expanse the locals refer it as the plateau. This golf course in Pahalgam settles on the plateau that rises on the confluence of two rivers - Aru and Sheshnag. Several golf championships are held in this area. The golf game played here by visitors are chargeable on hourly basis. Visitors can also visit the famous deer park of Pahalgam which is located at one end of the Pahalgam Golf Course.
Timings of Pahalgam Golf Course - 9:00 am to 8:00 am
The Pahalgam Golf Course is open all the days.
Entry Fee Per Person - INR 1200
Reaching the town of Pahalgam is a trickier adventure in itself. It is not directly accessible from the main cities. There is no airport in Pahalgam. The nearest airport for Pahalgam is Srinagar(Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport) which is at a distance of 90 km from Pahalgam on the Srinagar - Kanyakumari Highway. The Srinagar Airport, being a domestic airport is well connected to major Indian cities such as New Delhi, Jammu, Mumbai, Chandigarh, Leh, Amritsar, Indore, Bengaluru and Dehradun. The road journey from Srinagar to Pahalgam is around 3 hours approximately.
The nearest international airport for Pahalgam is Sri Guru Ram Das Jee International Airport in Amritsar which is 269 km from Pahalgam. From here you can either take a flight to Srinagar and from there carry on to Pahalgam. Or there are many bus serves(government and private) available from Amritsar to Pahalgam. The other best option is to hire private taxis to reach Pahalgam.
The nearest railway station for Pahalgam is Jammu which is at a distance of 255 km. From Jammu Railway Station one can easily continue their journey to Pahalgam by buses(state buses as well as private buses) and taxis outside the railway station.
Distance of Pahalgam from Jammu - 260 km
Distance of Pahalgam from Delhi - 800 km
Distance of Pahalgam from Srinagar - 91.6 km
Distance of Pahalgam from Amarnath Temple - 28.2 km
Distance of Pahalgam from Katra - 233 km
Distance of Pahalgam from Srinagar Airport - 90 km
Distance of Pahalgam from Jammu Railway Station - 255 km
Distance of Pahalgam from Gulmarg - 139.6 km
Distance of Pahalgam from Anantnag - 40.5 km
Distance of Pahalgam from Mumbai Airport - 1680 km
J&K Tourism
Tourist Reception Centre,
Pahalgam
Contact Number: 01936-243224
Website: http://www.jktourism.org
JKTDC Office
Main Market,
Pahalgam
Contact number: 01936-243468
Website: http://www.jktdc.co.in
District: Anantnag
Location: 91 km from Srinagar
Altitude: 6988 ft above sea level
Serves as: Hill Station, Prime Tourist Destination in Kashmir Valley
Famous for: Snow Capped Himalayan Ranges, Adventure sports, skiing
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| Pahalgam - The Valley of Shepherds |
About Pahalgam
One of the most beautiful towns in the Kashmir Valley, Pahalgam is often refer as the 'Valley of Shepherds'. Settled amidst dense forests, confluence of streams and snow capped mountains this little town of Pahalgam is quite popular among tourists. Located at an altitude of 6988 feet above sea level, this quaint little town is home to beauty itself. It is said that once upon a time, this town of Pahalgam used to be a humble abode for shepherds. There are lush forests, crystal clear lakes, vast expanse of flower meadows and beautiful water streams everywhere you see. Pahalgam is also Asia's only saffron growing region and hence one can see many saffron plants blooming throughout during the month of November.
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| Pony ride in the Pahalgam Valley |
Pahalgam also serves as one of the prime destinations for film shootings. Apart from being a famous hill station of Jammu and Kashmir, the blessed town of Pahalgam is also known for adventure sport activities such as trekking, hiking and river rafting. Trout fishing and skiing is also one of the popular activities tourist indulge in Pahalgam. Imagine enjoying all these amidst beautiful nature with the snow capped Himalayan ranges serving as a backdrop! Considered to be one of the famous tourists destinations of Jammu and Kashmir Tourism, Pahalgam can be visited throughout the year.
 |
| Saffron Fields in Pahalgam |
The climate in Pahalgam is beautiful; even in summers the weather is pleasant. No wonder tourists flock to Pahalgam throughout the year. But that is not all why tourists drop in to Pahalgam. There is more to Pahalgam than just being a hill station, adventure sports destination and important tourist destinations in India. Pahalgam also serves as the starting point for the annual pilgrimage of Amarnath Yatra. The annual pilgrimage to Amarnath caves is scheduled during the months of July to August. Thousands of devotees flock to Pahalgam to commence the journey of Amarnath Caves during these two months.
 |
| Pahalgam with it's scenic surroundings |
Best Time to Visit Pahalgam
Given it's pleasant weather, Pahalgam can be visited throughout the year. The altitude of Pahalgam is rather lower than Gulmarg(8694 ft), which doesn't allow the night temperature to drop too low and this adds as an advantage to the favorable climate of Pahalgam. Summers in Pahalgam lasts from April to July with temperature anywhere between 15°c - 30°c. Monsoon in Pahalgam lasts from July to September with temperature anywhere between 15°C to 17°C. Winters in Pahalgam lasts from October to March with temperature anywhere between 0°C to 12°C. Tourists can choose travel plans to Pahalgam as per the weather they prefer.
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| Buy Pheran - Kashmiri Poncho in Pahalgam |
What to Do in Pahalgam
Relax and enjoy the serenity
Explore Pahalgam
Go trekking
Go hiking
Go pony riding
Go trout fishing
Enjoy bike trekking
Enjoy adventure sports
Enjoy water sports such as white water rafting and kayaking on Lidder River
Play golf at Pahalgam Golf Course
Enjoy Skiing, Snow-sledging
 |
| Snow clad mountains of Pahalgam |
What to Shop in Pahalgam
Clothing variety with chain stitched embroidery
Kashmiri Carpets
Gabbas (flooring made out of old blankets)
Namdas (small Kashmiri carpets or rugs)
Gabbas (flooring made out of old blankets)
Namdas (small Kashmiri carpets or rugs)
Pashmina Shawls and winter wear
Wool products such as bags, mat, pullover
Wool products such as bags, mat, pullover
Dry fruits like walnut, pistachios, almonds
Aromatic spices
Kashmiri golden apples
Wicker-work items
Handicrafts
Paper mache products
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| Snowfall in Pahalgam |
What to Eat at Pahalgam
Fish lovers can enjoy fresh trout fish, especially rainbow trout and brown trout, right from the Lidder River or Sheshnag Lake. Many restaurants, particularly Troutbeat Cafe serves fresh trout. Other food items to try includes famous Kashmiri cuisine comprising of Dum Aloo, Kashmiri Pulao, Yakhni Chawal and Mutton Rogan Josh. Also try out a unique dining experience in the 'Houseboat Restaurants'.
Festivals in Pahalgam
The Annual Amarnath Yatra starts at Pahalgam every year during the months of July and August. Pahalgam is flocked with devotees from all around the world for the commencement of this holy journey to Amarnath Shrine.
Places of Interest in Pahalgam
Betaab Valley in Pahalgam
Betaab Valley is one of the sought after destinations in Pahalgam. It is said that unless you pay a visit to Betaab Valley you wouldn't believe how exactly beautiful this place is. Sort of heaven on earth!
Located 15 km from Pahalgam, the valley gets its name because it was picturized in one of the famous Bollywood movies, Sunny Deol starrer - 'Betaab'. The famous 'Bobby Hut' continues to be a tourist attraction here. Apart from Betaab movie, many other Bollywood films during the 1970s and 1980s were shot here, including Kashmir Ki Kali, Silsila, Jab Jab Phool Khile, Satte Pe Satta, Aarzoo and Kabhie Kabhie. Before Betaab movie, this valley was known as Hagan Valley. Betaab Valley is a piece of art in itself, given it's scenic surroundings, deodhar and pine forests, and floral beds.
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| The famous Betaab Valley in Pahalgam |
A visit to this valley is a must whenever in Pahalgam as one has to witness the charm and eternal beauty unfolded within this magical place in form of melodious bird whispers, floral fragrance, snow clad mountains, bubbling streams and captivating beauty of the vast meadows. River Lidder flows beside the Betaab Valley and adds to its beauty. One can view this valley on their journey to Amarnath Caves. Betaab Valley is also a trekker's paradise. Being situated close to the Pahalgam, it also serves as an excellent camping site - enjoyed vividly by adventure seekers, trekkers and nature explorers.
Entry Fee and other details for traveling to Betaab Valley
- Best time to visit this place is during March to October.
- Can rent big shoes at the entrance.
- Perfect spot for family picnics
- Absolutely relaxing spot
- Overnight camping can be done here
Entry Fee per person - INR 100
Entry Fee per child - INR 50
Baisaran in Pahalgam
Baisaran in Pahalgam is also referred popularly as 'The Mini Switzerland of India'. Located 5 km from Pahalgam, Baisaran is beautiful meadow with mesmerizing beauty with it's vast grassy carpet, rolling hills, snow clad Himalayan Ranges, dense vegetation of Deodhar and Pine trees, and scenic valley view. Following the woody trails of Baisaran, one can witness the snaky contours of the Lidder River. The view is panoramic and seems right out of a picture frame. Walking in the Baisaran Pine Forests is a delightful experience in itself. Activities like pony riding and trekking can be done here.
Entry Fee for Baisaran - INR 10 per person
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| Sheshnag Lake Perched amidst the Himalayan Ranges |
Sheshnag Lake in Pahalgam
The Sheshnag Lake or locally known as Sheshnag Jheel is a popular destination in Pahalgam, as one would immediately fall in love with it at the first sight. It is located 24 km from Pahalgam en route to Amarnath Shrine and is frozen during winter and melts only during summers. This greenish-blue Sheshnag Lake settles amidst the Himalayan Ranges 12000 ft above sea level. The Sheshnag Lake holds mythological importance, as it is named after 'Sheshnag' - The divine serpent as per Hindu Mythology. It is said that the Sheshnag had himself dug up this lake and made it's humble abode. It is believed that 'Sheshnag' still happens to reside here. Due to this mythological prominence, the Sheshnag Lake is considered as sacred and is a must visit point by pilgrims who visit the Amarnath Shrine. The water from this Sheshnag Lake is considered pure and of high quality; and is used for drinking.
Other than this sacred myth, the Sheshnag Lake is also an attraction to thousand's of tourists for it is one of the marvels of Kashmir. The Sheshnag Lake settles amidst scenic surroundings with green expanse and snow capped mountains as a backdrop. One of the popular activity enjoyed on this lake is trout fishing, for trout is found in abundance here. Other activities one gets to enjoy here is photography, trekking, hiking and pony riding. The Sheshnag Lake is a delight for nature lovers given its captivating scenery, exotic birds, swans and glittering waters. One can hike to the Sheshnag Lake from Chandanwadi Valley.
Lidder Amusement Park in Pahalgam
The Lidder River that flows through this plesantly old-fashioned town of Pahalgam is the main source of charm of this town. This long Lidder River with it's two tributaries, the Lidder East that flows from Sheshnag Lake and Lidder West that flows from the Kolahai Glacier cascades through the town and through the Kashmir Region. On this river, about 2 km from Pahagam Taxi Stand is Lidder Amusement Park. Lidder Amusement Park is open for snow activities and rides. This amusement park perches beautifully amidst snow clad mountains on all the four sides. Lidder Amusement Park is open from the month of April to November. This park offers lot of adventure rides including miniature railway, paddle boats, bumper car rides and is popular among kids as well as adults. The Lidder Amusement Park offers a complete holiday experience in Pahalgam as it is a much needed attraction for children as well as adults. It serves as a picnic spot as well as a recreation spot for adventure seekers. Nature lovers can just relax and enjoy the beauty around.
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| Lidder Amusement Park |
Entry Fee and Other Details of Lidder Amusement Park
Entry Fee Per Person - INR 100
Entry Fee Per Child - INR 25
Lidder Amusement Park Timings - 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
Closed on Fridays
Mamal Temple in Pahalgam
Mamal Temple in Pahalgam is locally known as Mamleshwar Temple. The Lord Shiva as Mamleshwar is worshiped in this temple. It is a very small temple perched on the mountain side of the Kolahoi stream on the banks of Lidder River. The temple is ancient and is dated back to 400 AD. The legendary tale associated with this Mamal Temple is that this is the same blessed place where Lord Ganesha was kept as a guard by his mother Parvati to keep anyone from coming inside. And this is how the temple got it's name - 'Mamal' which means 'do not go'. The temple holds great significance among devotees and hence is thronged with pilgrims throughout the year. The glacier water streams out throughout the year and is considered holy. The Mamal Temple must be one of the oldest temples in the Kashmir Valley. One can relax in the serenity of this temple within the peaceful surroundings. The best time to visit Mamal temple is from April to November given the favorable weather. Taxi services from Pahalgam are available for the Mamal Temple.
Temple timings - 6:00 am to 8:00 pm
Travel Tip and Suggestions - While visiting this temple refrain from wearing leather clothing or fur items. No food items are allowed to be carried inside the temple.
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| Mamal Temple in Pahalgam |
Overa - Aru Wildlife Sanctuary in Pahalgam
Settled between two villages, Overa and Aru, the Overa - Aru Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the important tourist destinations of Pahalgam perched amidst tranquility, away from the noises of the city. Spread over an area of 500 sq.km, the Overa - Aru Wildlife Sanctuary is home to rare and endangered wild species such as Kashmir Red deer or Hangul, Kashmir Muskdeer, Asiatic ibex, Himalayan Serow, Common Leopard, Asiatic Black bear, Himalayan Brown Bear, Egyptian vulture, Flycatcher and European Roller. The Overa Forests have been the hunting reserves of the Maharajas for hundreds of years. Many glaciers and lakes within the sanctuary have managed to keep the expanse rich and flourishing. This biosphere though small, yet maintains a dense vegetation of deodhar and pine trees. Within this lush greenery and high mountain range, the Overa - Aru Wildlife Sanctuary is an ideal visit for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Bird watching with over more than 100 species of birds, wildlife spotting, hiking, trekking and overnight camping in the hut accommodation provided within the sanctuary are some of the activities enjoyed here. The best time to visit the Overa - Aru Wildlife Sanctuary is from May to August. Bird watching is one of the activity that can be enjoyed preferably in the lower areas of the sanctuary during March to May. Though monsoon is not severe in this areas, yet heavy snowing is experienced during winters. And hence the Overa - Aru Wildlife Sanctuary is not accessible during those times.
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| Overa - Aru Wildlife Sanctuary |
Entry Fee and other Details for Overa - Aru Wildlife Sanctuary
There is no entry fee for Overa - Aru Wildlife Sanctuary, however you will have to pay for the pony rides.Travel tip - You can explore the sanctuary by foot, though good trekking shoes are advisable. The trek here is bit trickier and slippery, given to heavy snow. Landslides are common occurrence and roads get jammed at times.
Tulian Lake in Pahalgam
Tulian Lake is a beautiful lake and an important tourist destination in the Kashmir Valley. Perched at an altitude of 11000 ft above sea level, the Tulian Lake resembles a shape of '8'. The visit to this lake is popular among trekkers. The trek of Tulian Lake is pretty steep and bit tricky. This scenic spot attracts thousands of tourists given it's breathtaking view and the location of the lake amidst dense pine trees and snow clad mountain ranges of Zanskar and Pir Panjal. The Tulian Lake is located 16 km from Pahalgam.
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| Tulian Lake in Pahalgam |
Pahalgam Golf Course
Nestled 7900 ft above sea level on a large plain plateau in middle of snow-capped mountain ranges, is the Pahalgam Golf Course. Pahalgam Golf Course is a eighteen hole golf course which is an attraction among golf lovers. A game of golf amidst such scenic surroundings at an such high altitude is a game to remember. Being a plain wide expanse the locals refer it as the plateau. This golf course in Pahalgam settles on the plateau that rises on the confluence of two rivers - Aru and Sheshnag. Several golf championships are held in this area. The golf game played here by visitors are chargeable on hourly basis. Visitors can also visit the famous deer park of Pahalgam which is located at one end of the Pahalgam Golf Course.
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| Pahalgam Golf Course |
Entry Fee and other Details of Pahalgam Golf Course
Timings of Pahalgam Golf Course - 9:00 am to 8:00 am
The Pahalgam Golf Course is open all the days.
Entry Fee Per Person - INR 1200
How to Reach Pahalgam
Reaching the town of Pahalgam is a trickier adventure in itself. It is not directly accessible from the main cities. There is no airport in Pahalgam. The nearest airport for Pahalgam is Srinagar(Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport) which is at a distance of 90 km from Pahalgam on the Srinagar - Kanyakumari Highway. The Srinagar Airport, being a domestic airport is well connected to major Indian cities such as New Delhi, Jammu, Mumbai, Chandigarh, Leh, Amritsar, Indore, Bengaluru and Dehradun. The road journey from Srinagar to Pahalgam is around 3 hours approximately.
The nearest international airport for Pahalgam is Sri Guru Ram Das Jee International Airport in Amritsar which is 269 km from Pahalgam. From here you can either take a flight to Srinagar and from there carry on to Pahalgam. Or there are many bus serves(government and private) available from Amritsar to Pahalgam. The other best option is to hire private taxis to reach Pahalgam.
The nearest railway station for Pahalgam is Jammu which is at a distance of 255 km. From Jammu Railway Station one can easily continue their journey to Pahalgam by buses(state buses as well as private buses) and taxis outside the railway station.
Distance of Pahalgam from Jammu - 260 km
Distance of Pahalgam from Delhi - 800 km
Distance of Pahalgam from Srinagar - 91.6 km
Distance of Pahalgam from Amarnath Temple - 28.2 km
Distance of Pahalgam from Katra - 233 km
Distance of Pahalgam from Srinagar Airport - 90 km
Distance of Pahalgam from Jammu Railway Station - 255 km
Distance of Pahalgam from Gulmarg - 139.6 km
Distance of Pahalgam from Anantnag - 40.5 km
Distance of Pahalgam from Mumbai Airport - 1680 km
For Information and other Details When in Pahalgam
J&K Tourism
Tourist Reception Centre,
Pahalgam
Contact Number: 01936-243224
Website: http://www.jktourism.org
JKTDC Office
Main Market,
Pahalgam
Contact number: 01936-243468
Website: http://www.jktdc.co.in
beautiful place on our planet! very detailed information. grt!
ReplyDeleteYes beautiful place indeed, or I must say 'Heaven on Earth'..Thanks for visiting..
ReplyDelete