PAHALGAM - The Valley of Shepherds.

Situated at the confluence of the streams flowing from Sheshnag Lake and the Lidder river, Pahalgam (2,130 m) was once a humble shepherd's village with breathtaking views. Now it is Kashmir's premier resort, cool even during the height of summer when the maximum temperature does not exceed 250C. A number of hotels and lodges cater to all preferences and budgets, from luxurious hotels to unpretentious trekkers' lodges, including J&K TDC's huts. Around Pahalgam are many places of interest, and because the resort is set between fairly steep hills, it is worth hiring a pony rather than walking. Pony fares are posted at prominent locations. The most beautiful of these is the huge, undulating meadow of Baisaran, surrounded by thickly wooded forests of pine. Hajan, on the way to Chandanwari, is an idyllic spot for a picnic. Filmgoers will recognize it instantly as it has been the location of several movie scenes. Pahalgam has within it no fewer than eight tiny villages, one of which is Mamal. There is a Shiva temple here, generally considered to be Kashmir's oldest existing temple, dating to the 5th century. Lidder River Pahalgam is also associated with the annual Amarnath Yatra. Chandanwari (2,895 m), 16 kms from Pahalgam, is the starting point of the yatra that takes place every year in the month of Sawan (July to August). The road from Pahalgam to Chandanwari is on fairly flat terrain and can be undertaken by car. From Chandanwari onwards the track becomes much steeper, and is accessible on foot or by pony. About 11 kms from Chandanwari is the mountain lake of Sheshnag (3,574 m), after which, 13 kms away is the last stop, Panchtarni. The Amarnath cave is 6 kms away from there. During the month of Sawan, an ice stalagmite forms a natural shivling in the Amarnath cave, which waxes and wanes with the moon. For detailed information on the Amaranath Yatra, refer to the Amarnathji Yatra Link, which contains detailed information on the background of the yatra, the facilities provided and arrangements made, the routes of yatra, registration requirements, "do's and don’ts", etc. WHAT 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 Fishing in the Lidder Shepherds on the move in Lidder Valley 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. OTHER FACILITIES CLUBS Pahalgam Club, managed by J&K TDC has a restaurant, conference room, billiards and library. Temporary membership is available with the management. SHOPPING Pahalgam, originally a shepherds' village, is naturally known for products made of wool. Gabbas and Namdas can be purchased from local shops. WHERE TO STAY To view the completer list of Hotels in Gulmarg please Click here Other Accommodation: J&K TDC offers accommodation in its 26 three/two-bed room Huts, 19 one -bed room huts , one clubhouse (3 suites) and a 7-roomed Tourist Bungalow at Pahalgam. The tariff is as under: One - bed room hut Rs. 800/- Two- bed room hut Rs. 1500/- Three -double bedded room hut. Rs. 2000/- Suites in Tourist Bungalow: Rs. 650/- Double bed room in Tourist Bungalow: Rs. 300/- Reservation & Enquiries: Sr. Manager (Tours & Travel Division), J&K TDC, Tourist Reception Centre, Srinagar. Tel. 457927, 472644, Fax: 0194- 457927, 476107 e-mail: shamimwani@vsnl.com TOURIST INFORMATION The J&K Govt. Tourist Office is located at the head of the main bazaar, where the tourist coaches stop. Tourists are urged to visit the office for all kinds of information and assistance, and for the latest information on trekking, hiking and other recreational activities in Pahalgam. They should make it a point to enquire from the Tourist Office whether one should proceed on a particular trek or not.