Shepherd’s village Pahalgam is visited by tourists and locals in huge number for its gradual lowering of temperature and river Ladder flowing at an approachable distance. Traveling through meandering roads of north Kashmir, Pahalgam opens up with a fresh cool breeze of the river. It has an astounding 9 hole gold course open for tourists now being extended into an 18 hole . The golf championships are organized by state government and private hoteliers in Summer. Here, tourists and locals putt together in the shades of Pine trees surrounding the golf course.
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Location
Pahalgam is located in the western part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is located at an altitude of 2130 m above sea level amidst the great Himalayan range. It is positioned beside the Liddar River, in the Liddar valley. Pahalgam is 95 km east of Srinagar. The weather in Pahalgam is alpine. Summers (April-June) are mild while winters (November-February) are cold. It experiences rains between July and September. It experiences heavy snowfall from December to February.
History
The origin of Pahalgam is obscure. Mughal rulers ruled this region in the medieval period. It was later a part of the Kingdom of Kashmir, which was ruled by local Hindu rulers. This princely state remained independent even during the British period and later on merged into independent India.
Sightseeing
Chandanwari (16km: 2,923m)
It is famous for its snow bridge.
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 waters of this greenish blue lake are covered with ice till June.
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Panchtarni (40 km)
It is the confluence of five streams and gives Panchtarni its name. A good camping site.
Amarnath Cave
Pahalgam is Base Camp of Amarnathji yatra which stands at 3952 mtrs, 46.7 km from Pahalgam. The Holy Cave is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. The ice lingam formed by water droplets, symblises Lord Shiva . People visit the Holy Cave during the scheduled Yatra period. Yatris can hire a pony of Dandy from Pahalgam.
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Distances of stopovers from Pahalgam are : Chandanwari 16 km Pissu top 19.6 km Sheeshnag 25.6 km, Holy Cave 46 . 7 km.
All stopovers have facilities from tents to medical comps and langars, The trek is covered in 2 to 3 days. This Hindu pilgrimage is believed to be the discovery of a Muslim shepherd nomad Butta Malik who’s descendant still receive a percentage of the donations made by pilgrims. The Yatra Generally during June to August depending upon the Hindu calendar (Sawan Purnima)
Aru (11 km: 2,408m)
This charming meadow can be reached by walking 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.
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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 here. To reach the nearby Mansar lake one has to cross a 243 mts high bridge.
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When to Visit
The best time to visit Pahalgam is during the summers, between mid-April and mid-November. It can also be visited in July-August during the annual pilgrimage to the holy cave of Amarnath.
PAHALGAM (Adventure)
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The Liddar River is popular among travelers interested in angling. Stretches of this river are suitable for trout fishing. Travelers interested in fishing have to obtain a fishing license from the Directorate of Fisheries in Srinagar. Pahalgam is the starting point of a number of trekking and hiking trails to the surrounding mountains. Trekking around Pahalgam is exhilarating, as it takes the traveler through virgin pine forests, clear mountain streams, and meadows of wildflowers.
FAIRS AND FESTIVALS
Pahalgam is the starting point of the annual Amarnath yatra (holy journey) to the holy cave shrine of Amarnath, which is said to be the abode of Lord Shiva. Every year in the month of July/August, thousands of pilgrims descend on Pahalgam on their way to the holy cave.
How to Get There
Airport: The nearest Airport is in Badgam Distt
Train: The nearest rail head is at Jammu.
Road: Bus service is available from Srinagar and Anantnag. Taxis can be hired from Srinagar at pre-fixed rat
