7 Must Visit Beautiful Spots In Pahalgam

Pahalgam is one of the most famous and frequently visited places in Jammu and Kashmir. Every year, people visit the valleys and lakes of Pahalgam to trek across the magnificent, peaceful lands not found anywhere else in India. Located in Jammu and Kashmir, it’s a popular hill station and health resort. People enjoy coming here to trek through the hill, meadows, and valleys, have picnics, angling, horseriding, and river rafting. When you go to Pahalgam, these are the places you should definitely visit.

# Lidder River

The river originates from the Kolhoi glacier of Jhelum river. The water from the river is utilised for canals and water treatment plants. One can go trekking around the river and even visit the glacier. Between mid-April to mid-November is a good time to visit. The river is a popular spot to go trout fishing and river rafting. This is why it’s known as “angler’s paradise”. It’s one of the most famous fishing spots in north India, where groups of fishing enthusiasts spend hours on the banks.

# Aru Valley

Located upstream from the Lidder river, the valley comprises of captivating lakes, mountains, and lush meadows. The valley is the place to go for horse riding and photography. It’s also a base camp for trekkers. These various activities make it one of the more frequented valleys and a great place for sightseeing.

# Betaab Valley

The valley is named after a famous 1983 Hindi film starring Sunny Deol and Amrita Singh. The valley used to be a popular shooting location for Indian films. It also serves as a camping ground for trekkers and travellers. The best time to visit it is between the months of October and April.

# Mamleshwar Temple

According to legend, the temple was believed to be the spot where Lord Ganesh was to protect his mother, Goddess Parvati. When Lord Shiva tried to enter it, he said to him “mam mal” (don’t go). Hence it’s called the Mammal temple, devoted to Lord Shiva. It is regarded as dating back to 400 A.D. It is located a mile from Pahalgam town and a popular spiritual destination.

# Pahalgam Golf Course

One of the most famous golf courses in India, the Pahalgam Golf Course spans over a distance of 7000 yards with a 18 hole course. Designed by Ranjit Nanda, the golf course seamlessly blends into the scenic surroundings. The green of the course blends in the surrounding meadows and hills. The course has numerous elevation changes, making a healthy and fit body necessary to play golf on it.

# Sheshnaag Lake

Named after the Hindu mythology figure, Sheshnaag means “King of snakes”. It is an ancient pilgrim spot, a sacred site for Hindus. Pilgrims pass it on their way to the Amarnath Cave/ Temple, the shrine which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Amarnath Temple is famous for its natural lingam formed by stalactites and stalagmites. A ‘lingam’, meaning “sign” or “mark”, is a representation of the Lord Shiva and his energy. The lake is fed by the snow mountains and streams, and hosts a variety of fishes.

# Baisaran Valley

Due to the lush, flowing meadows full of pine trees which are similar to the valleys of Switzerland, Baisaran is referred to as ‘Mini Switzerland’. The valley is famous largely because of the stunning polarity between the pine forests and the snow capped mountains surrounding it. The area is accessible via ponies and is a campground for hikers and trekkers. Naturally, it also makes it a picnic and photography spot.