Situated 2130m up at the confluence of the streams flowing from Sheshnag Lake and the Lidder River, Pahalgam 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. 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 the nearby locations 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.

THE AMARNATH YATRA

Pahalgam is associated with a major Hindu pilgrimage, the annual Amarnath Yatra. Chandanwari (2895m), 16kms 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 11kms from Chandanwari is the mountain lake of Sheshnag (3574m), after which is the last stop, Panchtarni is 13kms. The Amarnath cave is 6 kms 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 information on the Amarnath Yatra, refer to the Amarnathji Yatra link, which contains detailed information on the background of the yatra, the facilities provided and arrangements made, the route of the yatra and registration requirements.

HORSE RIDING

Becoming one with nature is a fulfilling experience at Pahalgam.  Horse-riding is the best way to escape all civilisation and head into the mountains to experience the wilderness up close. Ponies can be hired directly from stables or arranged through the Tourist Office. Tariff boards are displayed at all important locations.

GOLF

Pahalgam Club has a well maintained and beautifully located 9-hole golf course, which can be used by tourists on a day-to-day basis. Golf equipment can be hired from the Tourist Office.

LIDDER RIVER FISHING

This is a fisherman's dream.  Pure mountain air, serene tranquility and bountifully populated waters.  The Lidder River has excellent fishing beats for brown trout. The fishing season stretches from April to September, during which 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.

Please note that live baits and spinning are not allowed.  For permits contact the Directorate of Fisheries, Tourist Reception Centre, Srinagar.