Pahalgam
is famous for its scenic beauty and is the jewel of the picturesque Liddar valley located in the high Himalayas. It provides an ideal setting for activities like hiking,
trekking, and
fishing. It is also the starting point of the annual pilgrimage to the holy cave of
Amarnath.
Pahalgam
is located in the western part of the state of
Jammu and
Kashmir, in the northern region of India. It is located at an altitude of 2130 m above sea level amidst the great Himalayan range. It is positioned beside the Liddar River, in the Liddar valley.
Pahalgam
is 95 km east of
Srinagar. The weather in
Pahalgam
is alpine. Summers (April-June) are mild while winters (November-February) are cold. It experiences rains between July and September. It experiences heavy snowfall from December to February.
The best time to visit
Pahalgam
is during the summers, between mid-April and mid-November. It can also be visited in July-August during the annual pilgrimage to the holy cave of
Amarnath.
The origin of
Pahalgam
is obscure. Mughal rulers ruled this region in the medieval period. It was later a part of the Kingdom of
Kashmir, which was ruled by local Hindu rulers. This princely state remained independent even during the British period and later on merged into independent India.
The natural beauty of
Pahalgam
and the verdant Liddar valley attracts the traveler towards it. The sparkling water of River Liddar, which flows near
Pahalgam
, has a number of picnic spots around it.
Pahalgam
is a part of Asia's only saffron growing area. One can see the saffron plants in full bloom in the month of November. There are a number of hiking and
trekking trails around
Pahalgam
. One can even explore these places on horseback.
Pahalgam
provides a panoramic view of the mighty Himalayan range with its lush green pine forests and snow-capped peaks.
The Liddar River in
Pahalgam
is popular among travelers interested in angling. Stretches of this river are suitable for
trout fishing. Travelers interested in fishing have to obtain a fishing license from the Directorate of Fisheries in
Srinagar.
Pahalgam
is the starting point of a number of
trekking and hiking trails to the surrounding mountains.
Trekking around
Pahalgam
is exhilarating, as it takes the traveler through virgin pine forests, clear mountain streams, and meadows of wildflowers.
Pahalgam
is the starting point of the annual
Amarnath yatra (holy journey) to the holy cave shrine of
Amarnath, which is said to be the abode of Lord Shiva. Every year in the month of July/August, thousands of pilgrims descend on
Pahalgam
on their way to the holy cave.