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Pahalgam is probably the most popular
hill resort
in the Kashmir valley. Since it is rather lower than Gulmarg the
nighttime temperatures do not drop so low and it has the further
advantage of the beautiful Lidder River running right through the
town.Pahalgam is situated at the junction of the Aru and Sheshnag
Rivers and surrounded by soaring, fir-covered mountains with bare,
snow-capped peaks rising behind them. The Aru flows down from the
Kolahoi glacier beyond Lidderwat while the Sheshnag from glaciers
along the great Himalayan.
It is also known as the Valley of Shepherds. It is surrounded by
tall mountains full of lush green forests and a gushing stream.
River Lidder flows through its heart.
Pahalgam serves as the base camp for many expeditions and
excursions such as Kolahari Glacier, Sheeshnag, Sonasar, Harwag
and the Amarnath Yatra. Pristine camping grounds under the shadow
of tall pines trees are delightful. Pahalgam is situated at a
distance of 95 kms from Srinagar at a height of about 2130 mts
(7200 ft). Pahalgam offers excellent opportunities for hiking,
riding, fishing etc.
Places of Interest in Pehalgam:
Baisaran: 5 kms from Pahalgam is a lush meadow surrounded by hills
and covered with dense vegetation. This region looks very similar
to European resorts and is a good campsite. Beautiful meadows
surrounded by Pine trees. There is a Tulian lake at 3353 metres
covered by Ice.
Chandanwari: 16 kms away from Pehalgam and starting point of
Amaranth Yatra.
Aru: 2408 metrs, 11 Kms.
 Here
river Lidder disappears at Gur Khumb and reappears after 27mtrs. A
small village, 11 kms upstream the Lidder River, is a beautiful
locality. The route is picturesque with ample campsites. This
village is the starting point for treks to the Kolahoi glacier.
Lidderwat: 11 kms from Aru, Meadows and dense forests make i a
good camping place. Situated at 3408 meters. You can trek from
here to Sindh Valley.
Tarsar Lake: 3962 meters. 34 Kms. Delightful camping site, on
thee way to peaceful meadows.
Marsar' Lake: Another lake just 243 meters from Tarsar lake,
Kolahoi Glacier :
1467 mts. Trek from Pehalgam and back completed in 3 days.
This is the head of the Lidder valley and the base of a glacier of
the same name. The glacier has twin peaks at 17,827 ft. It is a
spectacular sight and there are camp sights around 14,000 ft. From
Kolahoi, Sonmarg can be reached via Sarbal.
Things to Do
Horse Riding: Ponies can be hired directly or through the Tourist
Office. Tariff boards are displayed at all important locations.
Golf: Pahalgam Club has a 9-hole golf course, which can be
used by tourists. Golf sets can be hired from the Tourist Office.
Fishing: The Lidder River has excellent fishing beats for
brown trout. The fishing season stretches from April to September.
Permits are issued, for a maximum of three days at a time, on a
first-come - first-served basis and are charged on a per day per
rod basis. Fishing equipment can be hired in Srinagar. Live baits
and spinning are not allowed. For permits contact the Directorate
of Fisheries, Tourist Reception Centre, Srinagar.
Trekking: The environs of Pahalgam offer exciting trekking
opportunities, the best known being: Pahalgam - Chandanwari-
Sheshnag- Panchtarni- Amarnath Cave Temple- Sonamarg.
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