Pahalgam "The valley of shepherds" is not only a popular hill station but also a recreation resort and a notified area committee in the Anantnag district of Jammu & Kashmir. The town lies on the banks of the Lidder River, at an altitude of 7,200 ft (2,200 m) above sea level. It is a beautiful valley situated at the confluence of the streams flowing from Sheshnag Lake and the Lidder River. The area is surrounded by thickly wooded pine forests, breathtaking vistas of meadows, and the snow-clad Himalayan Mountains. The Lidder River running through it makes it even more picturesque. The river is one of the favorite spots for trout fishing in the country.
Pahalgam is the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra. This Hindu pilgrimage takes place every year in the month of July-August. In this Yatra, the devotees try to reach the Mountain cave of Lord Shiva. The town also holds an amazing two-day long Snow Festival that showcases winter sports like skiing, snow-sledding, golf, trekking, and angling which tourists can participate in. This rural valley depicts a true picture of virgin nature and serves as a base for treks to Chandiwar, Aru Valley, and the Kohli Glacier.
Pahalgam can be visited all year round, but the best time is from March to November. Those who wish to see snowfall can visit between the months of November and February. At the 2011 India census, Pahalgam had a population of 5922. The official language is Urdu and Kashmiri.
The nearest airport is Srinagar airport (SXR). The road journey from Srinagar to Pahalgam is about 95 Km and on the way, one will witness the dense forests, lakes, crystal clear streams, and meadows of flowers.
Explorations & Experiences in Pahalgam-
- Aru valley
- Betaab valley
- Lidder River
- Chandanwari
- Baisaran Tulian Lake
- Sheshnag lake
- Amarnath Yatra
- Skiing in Pahalgam
- Kolahoi Glacier
