Pahalgam Hill Station is at an altitude of 2,130m and is nearly 96 kms from Srinagar. It is the most beautiful and famous hilly vacation place in Kashmir valley. The word ‘Pahalgam’ means a herdsman’s village. The origin of Pahalgam is a bit confusing, it was ruled by the Mughals in the medieval period. But later, it was a part of Kashmiri kingdom and was administered by the regional Hindu kings. The royal place state stayed free even during the British rule and was later consolidated into the independent India.

On 1st August 2000, almost 32 people were killed including 23 travelers along with two police by the rebelling terrorists in Kashmir throwing grenades and attacking the hotel and the police base with arms.

Present Condition

The river bank and the mountain town is well known for its rainbow, brown and trout. It is also the base of various treks, a trip to the glaciers, holy places and numerous beautiful places. It is the starting point of many treks in the area and the annual expedition to the holy caves in Amarnath. Its astonishing panoramic beauty has attracted many tourists. The thick jungle of pine trees, vast pastures and the snow covered mountains adds the fabulous beauty of the valley. Its instinctive beauty makes it the famous hill resort of the country.

Tourist Attractions

The basic tourist spots include Chandanwari (Snow Bridge), Baisaran (Pine forests in snowy mountains), Amarnath Cave (Religious pilgrimage), Aru (an attractive pasture), Panchtarni (junction of five streams), Lidderwat (Camping site), Sheshnag Lake (greenish blue lake), Tarsar Lake and Kolohi (Starting point of a three day trek to Koholi glacier).

Tour Tips

When to Visit

The best moment to visit the place is during the summers between mid April and November.  A tour can also be planned in July–August, the time for yearly Amarnath Yatra. The sweeps of Liddar River are best for trout fishing. Pahalgam is the base point of the trekking and hiking trails to the nearby mountains which takes the tourists from the virgin pine woods, mountain streams and pastures of wild flowers.

How to Reach

By Flight

The closest airport is in Badgam district. Airport connects to all the important states of India.

By Train

Nearest railway station is at Jammu and then NH1A is connected to the Kashmir valley.

By Road

Buses are available from Srinagar and Anantnag. Autos can be boarded from Srinagar at the local and fixed fares. NH1A will take you to Khannabal or easily from Bijbehara to NH1A.

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