Places of Interest in Pahalgam

Betaab Valley, situated just 7 km up on Pahalgam, has got its name from Sunny Deol’s movie, Betaab, which was shot extensively in this area. Surrounded by snow-covered mountain peaks and dense pine and deodar forests, this valley is the mouth of River Sheshnag. There is a beautiful garden in the valley, with a bridge to cross the river.

Aru is a resort village, located at a distance of 11 km from Pahalgam. Lying at an elevation of 2,408 m, this meadow leads to the famous trek via Lidderwat, extending to Kolahoi Glaciers (36 km) at an altitude of 3,400 m. Travellers visiting Pahalgam can reach this village by travelling on a motorable road or walking along a mountain path.

Chandanwari, situated at a distance of 16 km from Pahalgam, lies at an elevation of 2,923 m. Famous for its snow bridge, this location serves as the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra that takes place every year, from July to August. With a fairly flat terrain linking Chandanwari to Pahalgam, the location is easily accessible by car.

Biasaran, situated 5 km away from Pahalgam, is a lush meadow enveloped with dense vegetation. The meadow is dotted with thickly wooded forests of pine, and provides a view of the beautiful snow-clad mountains that surround it from all sides. Resembling European resorts, this huge and undulating meadow serves as a good campsite.

Mattan, situated a few kilometres away from Anantnag, is an important Hindu pilgrimage centre in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. Lying on the Pahalgam road this centre attracts hordes of devotees from all across the country. It is one of those religious places in India where the priests and pundits used to gather for worshiping the Sun god.
The temple is famous for its beautiful Shiva Lingam, which is preserved within a beautiful brick structure surrounded by crystal clear water on all sides. Presently, the temple complex is one of the much-guarded areas of Jammu & Kashmir and is thus controlled by paramilitary forces. A special permission is required to enter this temple.

Lidderwat is a beautiful camping site amidst dense forests, located at an elevation of 3,408 m. Situated 22 km from Pahalgam, this village is starting point of the trek to the Sindh Valley. Tourists can easily travel to this village via taxi, or can even take a pony ride.

Mamaleshwar Temple is one of the most ancient temples in Pahalgam, with its history dating back to the 12th century. Built by King Jayasimha on the right bank of River Lidder, this temple is devoted to Lord Shiva. The temple encompasses a pedestal and a Shiva Lingam, with a pure water spring covered by a basin. Situated 1 km downstream from Pahalgam, this temple is easily accessible from the town on foot.

Tulian Lake is located at an altitude of 3353 m, 11 km away from Baisaran and 16 km from Pahalgam. This snow-covered lake is surrounded by peaks that rise to a height of more than 300 m above its shores. Tulian Lake is set along a trek route via Baisaran, and thus can be reached by hiring ponies from near the centre of the town.