Pahalgam

Pahalgam sits at roughly 2,740 metres where two streams meet to form the Lidder river, in the east of the Kashmir Valley. It is surrounded by pine-covered slopes, open meadows and snowy ridges, and it has long been a favourite for families and honeymooners who want space, fresh air and riverside walks.

The drive from Srinagar is part of the experience, passing the saffron fields of Pampore, cricket bat workshops near Anantnag and the ancient ruins at Avantipora. Once in Pahalgam, most visitors spend a day exploring the side valleys. Betaab Valley is a green meadow with a stream running through it, framed by forest, while Aru Valley, further up a separate road, is a quieter village surrounded by meadows and the starting point for several treks. Chandanwari, upstream along the Lidder, is the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra route and often holds snow well into summer.

In town, the riverbank is lined with walking paths, and the small Mamleshwar temple is one of the oldest shrines in the area. Trout fishing on the Lidder is possible in season with a licence.

Pahalgam is busiest during the Amarnath Yatra in July and August, when security arrangements and traffic increase. Two nights here is ideal, and it features on our Kashmir tour and Gulmarg–Pahalgam tour. For the bigger picture, see our Kashmir guide. We follow local advisories closely and confirm which spots are open before you travel.

Spring (March–May): Snow melts from the meadows, rivers run full and the valleys turn green. Pleasant and less crowded.

Summer (June–August): Warm days and cool nights, ideal for walks and pony rides. The Amarnath Yatra in July and August brings crowds and extra security.

Autumn (September–November): Golden colours, clear skies and calm riverside walks. A lovely time for couples.

Winter (December–February): Cold, with snow in town and the side valleys. Some stays close, and roads to Aru and Chandanwari can be blocked by snow, but the town is peaceful and beautiful.

For most travellers, April to June and September to October give the best mix of comfortable weather, open roads and manageable crowds. Snow lovers can visit in winter, but should keep the plan flexible and allow for closures.

By air: Srinagar International Airport is the nearest airport, around 95–100 km away. From Mumbai and Pune, fly to Srinagar directly or via Delhi.

By train: Anantnag, on the valley rail line, is the closest station, roughly 45 km away. Most travellers, however, arrive by air in Srinagar.

By road: Pahalgam is roughly 90–95 km from Srinagar, around 2.5–3 hours by road via Pampore and Anantnag. Local union taxis are used for trips to Aru, Betaab and Chandanwari, as outside vehicles are often not permitted on these routes.

The drive from Srinagar is pleasant, with natural stops at the saffron fields of Pampore, the Avantipora ruins and the cricket bat workshops near Anantnag. Many travellers combine Pahalgam with Srinagar and Gulmarg in a single loop, spending one or two nights in each place.