10 Best Things To Do In Pahalgam, India

1. Amarnath Cave

Amarnath Cave is believed to be the seating place of Lord Shiva, one of the most powerful Hindu deities. The cave was only recently discovered in the 19th-century, by a local who accidentally stumbled upon it. Inside the cave, there is a “linga” (shape of Shiva) formed naturally out of ice. Since no one created the linga, it has become one of the most famous and sought after pilgrimage sites in the country. People often stop here to pay their tributes before moving on for Amarnath.

Amarnath Cave

Address: Baltal Amarnath Trek, Forest Block, Anantnag, Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir 192230

Website: Amarnath Cave

2. Camping at Lidder Valley

Pahalgam, and especially Lidder Valley, is a hotspot for campers who are looking for some adventure and excitement in their lives. You will begin your journey from Aru Village, and from there, it is a 12 km (7.4 mile) hike to the camping site. If you think you won’t be able to make it, you can opt for a pony ride.

You can also go for a trekking trip to two identical lakes which are situated nearby called Marsar and Tarsar. It is set in the Kolahoi glaciers. If you are looking for a quiet place in the mountains, somewhere remote where you can find peace and much-required me-time, this is the place to be.

3. White water river rafting

White water river rafting is popular in Pahalgam. Known as the Lidder Joy Ride, the 8 km (4.9 mi) stretch of pure, ruthless white water will take you on the ride of your life. The rafting experience has been graded into different categories where you can go for a short ride of 2.5 km (1.5 mi) while the longest ride is about 8 km (4.8 mi) long.

Your journey will begin from Varganpal Bridge, Pahalgam and take you through the valley to Ganeshpora. There are professional rafting tour guides available in the area where you can book rides. They have all the necessary safety equipment and also provide a navigator if you want, who will take you on the river rafting ride.

White Water River Rafting

Website: White Water River Rafting

4. Jamia Masjid

Jamia Masjid Mosque is situated just outside the main market. It is one of the major attractions in Pahalgam. You will witness the Himalayas in the backdrop, and River Lidder flowing mercilessly down below. It only adds to the natural beauty of Jamia Masjid Mosque. Thousands of people come here on pilgrimage to pay their respects every year.

Jamia Masjid

Address: Jamia Masjid Sharif, KP Rd, Pahalgam 192126

5. Pahalgam Zoo

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

The Pahalgam Zoo is located at a distance of about one kilometer from the main city. Whether you love animals or are traveling with family and the kids, Pahalgam Zoo is a great destination that is worth a visit. You will get to see different species of wild animals like bear, leopard, and deer here. There is a rose garden with more than 200 varieties of roses. You will also find Tulips and some other wild and local flowers and shrubs in the garden.

Pahalgam Zoo

Address: Aru Road, Near River Lidder, Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir

6. Baisaran Hills

In Baisaran Hills, also known as Mini Switzerland across the world, you will find dark, long meadows covering the landscape. It is located at a distance of five kilometers (3.1 mi) from Pahalgam main market. The land is covered with thick green carpet and the snow covered peaks in the backdrop will make you feel like taking selfies all day long.

Hikers who are looking to hike further towards the hills all the way to Tulian Lake, often camp at Baisaran Hills. There is also an off-beaten track that will lead you straight to the lake, and on the way, you will see some of the best panoramic views of your life.

Baisaran Hills

Address: Near Pahalgam Club, Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir 192126

7. Mamaleshwar Temple

Mamaleshwar Temple was built in the 12th-century AD and is one of the ancient temples in Pahalgam. This is another favorite picnic spot located on the bank of River Lidder that was built in honor of Lord Shiva. It is situated just one km (0.6 mi) from the main city of Pahalgam, and most tourists like to walk their way to the temple to pay their respects.

Mamaleshwar Temple

Address: Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir 192126

8. Pahalgam Golf Course

Whether you are an expert or a newbie, if you like to play golf or just want to try it, there is perhaps no better place in the world then the Pahalgam Golf Course. It offers a thick carpet of lush green grass, snow covered mountains in the backdrop, and an amazing climate that will allow you to play all day long.

Pahalgam Golf Course

Address: Pahalgam Plateau, Pahalgam

Website: Pahalgam Golf Course

9. Kolhai Glacier

Kolhai Glacier is located north of the city of Pahalgam. It is a beautiful glacier which will offer you one of the most stunning views you have ever seen. If you are not an experienced trekker, then this journey is probably not for you. The hike is dangerous and challenging, however, it is worth every bit of trouble you will face on your way to the top. The source of River Lidder is situated on the highest peak of the glacier which is known as Kolhai Glacier.

10. Sheshnag Lake

Sheshnag Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the city, and it is also a popular pilgrimage site. According to the Hindu mythology, Sheshnag was the king of serpents, and the lake is still believed to be his home. There are two ways to reach the lake. If you like trekking, you will begin an uphill journey from Chandanwari, or you can take a pony ride. Either way, you must visit this lake once.

Have a pleasant time in Pahalgam

Pahalgam is a small town that has a lot to offer to those who are looking to escape their 9-5 office life. If you are tired of your routine city life and want to escape to nature, Pahalgam is the place to be.