Pahalgam, in Kashmir’s Anantnag district, is about 96 km from the state capital of Srinagar. It is a quaint little village sitting on the banks of river Lidder. Untouched by urban development, Pahalgam is an angler’s paradise, promising to please even an amateur with a rainbow trout. Pahalgam has a golf course at 2400 metres above sea level. For adventure-seekers, camping equipment, ponies and skiing equipment are easily available. Kolahoi is a popular destination for trekkers via Aru, a fascinating meadow. Pahalgam is also the base camp for pilgrims proceeding to the shrine of Lord Shiva at Amarnath. Situated at the confluence of the streams flowing from Sheshnag Lake and the Lidder river, Pahalgam (2,130 m) was once a humble shepherd’s village with breathtaking views. The most beautiful of these is the huge, undulating meadow of Baisaran, surrounded by thickly wooded forests of pine. Hajan, on the way to Chandanwari, is an idyllic spot for a picnic. Filmgoers will recognize it instantly as it has been the location of several movie scenes. Pahalgam has within it no fewer than eight tiny villages, one of which is Mamal. There is a Shiva temple here, generally considered to be Kashmir’s oldest existing temple, dating to the 5th century. Pahalgam is an ideal place for an adventure sports enthusiast. It offers wonderful treks, skiing, mountaineering and camping sites. Facilities for roller-skating, table tennis, badminton and cards are available at the Pahalgam Club. One can take a temporary membership at the Pahalgam natural golf course. How To Reach When To GO What To See |