Located in the Anantnag district of Kashmir, Pahalgam is a small but globally renowned town. It is approximately 90 kilometers away from the capital city of Srinagar. Situated on the banks of the Lidder River, Pahalgam serves as the gateway to the holy Amarnath Yatra. Pahalgam is also known as the “Valley of Shepherds” due to its stunning beauty. We had heard a lot about the beauty of Pahalgam, but now we embarked on a journey from Srinagar to Pahalgam to see it with our own eyes.
Our driver, Shabbir Bhat, shared some basic information about Pahalgam with us. Along the way from Srinagar to Pahalgam, we saw many walnut and apple trees. Shabbir mentioned that on our way back from Pahalgam to Srinagar, we would visit a large apple orchard. Enjoying the greenery and the weather on the mountain roads, we were happily singing along to Bollywood songs as we made our way towards Pahalgam.
After a short journey, the pride of Pahalgam, the Lidder River, began to appear. Our car was driving on the road right along the banks of the Lidder River. One distinctive feature of Kashmir’s rivers is that they are not very deep, but due to the boulders descending from the mountains, the waves of water appear extremely beautiful. Another thing is that the water of these rivers looks very clear and white like milk.
Crossing over the bridges built over the Lidder River felt very pleasant. We decided to stop the car for a while to go near the Lidder River. The sound of the Lidder River was very soothing, but its water was very cold. We took photographs here and after a while, we set off again towards Pahalgam.
At many places, it was not clear where the path for the horses was, but the horses in Pahalgam were very skilled and courageous. Their handlers, who accompanied them, were also hardworking and skilled. Sometimes, when these horses were deviating from their paths, the handlers were guiding them back with their voices.
Moving ahead on the thrilling path, we reached a point overlooking the Kashmir Valley. The view of the town of Pahalgam from here was very pleasing. The Kashmiri houses built in a distinct style on the valley and mountains looked very charming. After going a little further, we came across a beautiful waterfall. A boy accompanying us on horseback told us that the forests here were frequented by King Hari Singh of the Jammu and Kashmir state for hunting tigers. Riding on horseback through these rugged paths was an amazing experience.
After some time, we reached near the attraction center of Pahalgam called Baisaran. We had to walk a little after getting off the horse to reach where Baisaran Valley’s main entrance was. As soon as we reached Baisaran Valley through the gate, we were simply amazed.
Baisaran Valley is the heart of Pahalgam. Spread over a vast area, Baisaran Valley is characterized by undulating slopes covered with lush green grass. I had never seen such expansive fields of green grass in my entire life. Surrounding Baisaran Valley are forests of deodar trees and snow-capped mountains, adding to its beauty. We roamed around all over here, capturing many good photographs with the help of our photographer. We also shot videos of the scenic views here.
Some locals were seen with white goats and rabbits, with whom we also took photos. It felt like we had stepped into a scene from a Bollywood movie from the 1990s. It felt as if we had entered paradise. Sometimes we sat on soft velvety grass, sometimes we lay down, and sometimes we even ran around. Altogether, we cherished the beauty of this place in our memories. Oh, what a beautiful time we spent in Baisaran Valley!
Baisaran Valley is also known as Mini Switzerland. I have serious reservations about calling it Mini Switzerland. What’s the need to compare our beautiful places with those abroad? Baisaran Valley, located in Pahalgam, is an adjective in itself; it doesn’t need any special description. After enjoying to our heart’s content, hunger began to creep in. We sat on the grass and had Maggi noodles and hot tea.
After spending a good time in Baisaran Valley, we started our journey back to the parking area on horseback. Once again, we got the chance to enjoy the ride on the challenging roads. Our night stay was in Pahalgam. We headed towards our hotel in Pahalgam by car.
Our hotel in Pahalgam was right on the banks of the Lidder River. After keeping all our belongings in our room, we went for a stroll along the banks of the Lidder River. After a brief walk, we returned, had dinner, and then set out with torches in hand to stroll along the path next to the Lidder River in the darkness of the night. The sound of the Lidder River was echoing more at night, resembling music to the ears. After walking for quite some time, we sat in the hotel lawn and continued to talk about the beauty of Pahalgam and Kashmir until late at night.
It rained heavily throughout the night in Pahalgam. After having breakfast, we once again went to the banks of the Lidder River, carrying umbrellas this time. The flow of the river had become very swift. We sat on the rocks by the river, dipping our feet into the water. The river water was very clear but extremely cold. However, in such natural surroundings, the body also enhances its capacity. After spending quality time, we returned to the hotel. Now it was time to bid farewell to Pahalgam.
➜ Don’t forget to do in Pahalgam: Explore Betaab Valley, spend time by the Lidder River, enjoy horse riding, visit the apple and walnut orchards, buy saffron, indulge in photography.
➜ How to reach Pahalgam: The nearest airport is located in Srinagar, and the nearest railway station is in Jammu, which is 290 kilometers away. You can easily reach Pahalgam by road from Srinagar, passing through major cities like Jammu, Leh, Delhi, Chandigarh, etc.
➜ Best time to visit Pahalgam: While tourists visit Pahalgam throughout the year, the best time to visit is from March to October during the summer months. In winter, especially in December and January, you can enjoy snowfall in Pahalgam.
➜ Recommended duration for visiting Pahalgam: 3 days / 2 nights
Information Source: Authentic information sources available on internet, Various Articles and books on the subject & Interaction with local public.
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