12 Best Places to Visit in Pahalgam

If there is one word that can best describe the beauty of Pahalgam, it would be PRISTINE! 

Located in Kashmir, a heaven on earth itself, Pahalgam is one of the most scenic places you will ever see. With beautiful vistas, sparkling rivers, lush meadows, and soaring pine trees, Pahalgam is like a perfect painting, a masterpiece of the artist known as nature.

There are many pretty places to visit in Pahalgam, each better than the other. No matter your age, Pahalgam’s attractions will enthral you.

We have listed down the top 12 places to see in Pahalgam, followed by the things to do there.

12 Pahalgam Places To Visit

1. Betab Valley
2. Sheshnag Lake
3. Aru Village
4. Avantipur Temple
5. Panchtarni
6. Kolahai Glacier
7. Baisaran Hills
8. Tulian Lake
9. Lolab Valley
10. Mamleshwar Temple
11. Lidderwat
12. Chandanwari

Let’s look at these Pahalgam tourist places in detail.

Betab Valley

One of the most beautiful valleys in the list of Kashmir tourism, Betab Valley got its name after a Bollywood movie that was shot here. As you walk through the lush meadows of the valley, you can hear the sweet tune of the flowing rivers and see the snow-clad mountains, a sight that makes you feel rejuvenated and mesmerised at the same time.

Sheshnag Lake

The natural beauty of the lake is so serene that you can hear silence bellowing like thunder. The many hues of greens of the surrounding alpine meadows and the sparkling blue waters, this gorgeous glacial lake is one of the most popular Pahalgam tourist places.  

Located about 23 kms from Pahalgam on the Amarnath route, the lake holds religious significance for the Hindu devotees as they believe the legendary, Sheshnag, the five-headed serpent God lives in the lake.

Also Read: Top 8 Places To Visit In Kashmir With Family

Aru Village

About a 12-km drive from the Pahalgam city will take you to the tranquil and unbelievably beautiful Aru Village. Known for its vast meadows, it is an excellent place to spend a peaceful time with yourself and contemplate in the laps of nature.

If you have had enough rest, you can indulge in some adventure activities like zip lining, river-crossing or powered paragliding. The village is also the base camp for the trek to the stunning Kolahoi glacier.

Avantipur Temple

Located on the way to Srinagar, on the Srinagar-Pahalgam highway, the ancient ruins of Avantipur Temple are one of the most interesting places to visit in Pahalgam. The temple, built between 855 and 883 AD by King Avantivarman, is of religious importance for the locals and the devotees who come here from all over India to pay their respects and offer prayers. It is one of the famous Pahalgam tourist places.

The remnants of the magnificent pillars and the intricate carvings on the sculpture are a sight to behold and a testimony to the brilliant architecture of that era. It is a great place to awaken your spiritual senses.

Panchtarni

Located about 40 kms from Pahalgam in the Anantnag district at the confluence of five streams, this scenic place serves as the base camp for thousands of tourists and devotees who come here to visit the holy Amarnath, an important pilgrimage for Hindus. 

If you are visiting with family, do add this to your list of activities in Pahalgam. A narrow patch of about 6 kms leads you directly to the Amarnath cave, where you can go for an overnight camping or a day picnic and just revel in the mesmerising beauty of the place.

Also Read: Best Time To Visit Kashmir With Family

Kolahai Glacier

Visiting this place is one of the things to do in Pahalgam. The Kolahai Glacier is a hanging glacier, and the only way to reach it is to trek from Aru village. And once you reach the summit, the alluring natural beauty of the Glacier will leave you in awe! If you are in Pahalgam, don’t miss this trek for anything; it will give you the best Pahalgam sightseeing experience that you cannot forget.

Baisaran Hills

Nature has bestowed Pahalgam with many beautiful locales that attract many tourists and Baisaran Hills is one such location. Shrouded by dense pine forests, Baisaran hills is an excellent place for you and your family to spend a day doing nothing but relaxing in the lapse of nature and clicking pictures together. If you are in the mood for adventure and fun games, you can go zorbing.

Tulian Lake

This pristine site in Pahalgam is one for the daredevils and the ones seeking adventure and thrill high up in the mountains. Tulian Lake is one of the best Pahalgam places to visit. Located about 12000 feet above sea level, the only way to reach here is through an arduous trek through the dense pine forests that takes a few hours.

Once you make it through the trek and reach the top near the lake, the beauty of the lake will make your sweat, tiredness and pain disappear in a jiffy. It is one of the things to do in Pahalgam.

Make sure that you carry warm clothes as the temperature near the lake can drop low. Spend as much time as you want here, and you wouldn’t want to go back, we bet!

Lolab Valley

Located in the Kupwara district, Valley is well-known for its thrilling trekking trails, and waterfalls. The alluring natural beauty of the place and the friendly locals make a visit to the place unforgettable! It is also an excellent place to indulge in some nature photography, self-portraits, and calming activities in Pahalgam.

Also Read: Jammu and Kashmir Tourism: Best Time to Visit and How to Travel

Mamleshwar Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is completely carved out from stones, and it was built during the reign of King Jayasima. Inside the temple, the shrine is covered completely in Gold.  It is one of the important places of worship for the locals. As per the legend, the temple is the site where Lord Ganesh stood guard for Goddess Parvati to prevent Lord Shiva from entering, which eventually angered the god and beheaded little Ganesha.

If you are visiting Pahalgam, make sure that you plan a long trip for at least 2-3 days to be able to see all the beautiful sites the place has to offer. The place will make you appreciate the beauty of nature like never before.

Lidderwat

Lidderwat is a nature lover's paradise. With its peaceful meadows, sparkling streams, and scenic views, it's a perfect escape. The Lidder River adds to the charm, creating a serene atmosphere. Adventure seekers love using Lidderwat as a base for treks to places like Kolahai Glacier and Tarsar Lake. Whether you're into trekking or want to enjoy nature's beauty, Lidderwat offers a tranquil setting in the heart of Kashmir, making it one of the places to visit in Pahalgam for a refreshing getaway.

Chandanwari

This place is a real gem! The views there are absolutely stunning, and you know, it's got this special tie to the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage.

It's a starting point for the annual pilgrimage and offers stunning landscapes with snow-capped mountains. Beyond its religious significance, Chandanwari is also a great spot for picnics and leisurely nature walks. 

The vibrant meadows and pleasant breeze make it an enjoyable destination, especially during the summer. Whether you're a pilgrim or someone looking to relax in nature, Chandanwari provides a peaceful retreat in the heart of Kashmir.

Best Month To Visit Pahalgam

The best month to visit Pahalgam depends on your preferences and the experiences you seek. Each season brings its own unique charm to this picturesque destination. 

• Summer (May to September):

 

From May to September, the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. This season is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It offers opportunities for activities in Pahalgam such as trekking, golfing, and exploring the lush meadows. Enjoy the scenic beauty without the extreme cold, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and immersing yourself in the natural wonders of Pahalgam. 

• Monsoon (July to September):

Witness Pahalgam transform into a vibrant green paradise during the monsoon season, which typically lasts from July to September. The landscapes come alive with lush greenery and blooming flowers, creating a picturesque setting. While occasional rainfall adds a refreshing touch to the surroundings, it's an ideal time for those who appreciate the vibrant colours of nature. Be prepared for intermittent interruptions in outdoor activities due to rain. 

• Winter (October to April):

Pahalgam becomes a winter dreamland from October to April. Covered in a blanket of snow, the landscapes offer a surreal and magical ambience. These are the best months to visit Pahalgam for snow enthusiasts, providing opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and simply enjoying the serene snow-covered surroundings. Cosy up in the warmth of accommodations and witness Pahalgam's beauty in a different light during the winter months.

Excited about experiencing Pahalgam’s attractions and beauty? Here’s how you can get there.

How To Reach Pahalgam

The place is easily accessible. Here’s how to reach Pahalgam by flight, road and train.

• How To Reach Pahalgam By Flight

Pahalgam doesn't have direct flight connectivity. The nearest airport is Srinagar Airport, located 91.1 km away. It connects Pahalgam to major Indian cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Chandigarh, Leh, and more. To reach Pahalgam from Srinagar Airport, one can easily hire a taxi. 

• How To Reach Pahalgam By Train

There is no Pahalgam railway station. The closest railway station is Udhampur, situated approximately 220 km away. However, due to limited train connections, many tourists opt for Jammu Tawi as it serves as the nearest major railway station to Pahalgam. Jammu Tawi is well-connected with regular trains to various parts of India, including Delhi, Amritsar, Kolkata, and Pathankot. Udhampur Railway Station and Jammu Tawi Railway Station offer taxi services for travellers to Pahalgam. 

• How To Reach Pahalgam By Road

The most common option is to take the NH1A or Jammu-Srinagar Highway, covering a distance of about 95 kilometres. Depending on road conditions, this scenic route typically takes 2-3 hours. After you pass through Anantnag, you'll need to follow the NH501, which will lead you directly to Pahalgam.

Are you a Club Mahindra Member enjoying a stay at the Kashmir Houseboats (a Club Mahindra affiliate resort)? Then you can reach Pahalgam in about 2 hours by road.

If you are visiting Pahalgam, make sure that you plan a long trip for at least 2-3 days to be able to see all the beautiful sites the place has to offer. The place will make you appreciate the beauty of nature like never before.