Pahalgam is a feast for the senses. As soon as you step into the valley, you hear the sound of birdsong, smell the fresh scent of needles in the air, and see spectacular white-hatted mountains, lush meadows, and the gurgling Lidder River. Hiking through emerald forests and meadows rewards you with crystal-clear lakes that mirror the sky above. It’s Kashmir’s one of the finest offerings with crisp and clean air, untouched nature coves, and plenty of spots to tick off your bucket list. Read on this expertly curated travel guide to Pahalgam to make the most of your travels.

A standing army of pines in Pahalgam

Best time to visit Pahalgam

Pahalgam is one of those places that you can visit any time of the year. March to June is a perfect time to experience the valley’s lush greenery and to escape the heat of the plains. During winters, Pahalgam turns into a snowy paradise with temperatures ranging from -4 to 5 degrees Celsius. Monsoon weather in Pahalgam brings about a whole new charm to the valley, making it a good time to visit. However, it is advised that you check the road conditions with the authorities in advance.

Places to visit in Pahalgam

From pristine lakes to cascading waterfalls and lush meadows to gorgeous valleys, there are plenty of places to visit in Pahalgam to keep you entertained.

Betaab Valley

Betaab Valley derives its name from a romantic hit made back in the 80s, and without it, sightseeing in Pahalgam is incomplete. With the Lidder River flowing right through the valley, it offers the most beautiful meadows in Kashmir.

Aru Valley

A popular spot to go for picnics, camping, and enjoying the natural beauty of Kashmir, Aru Valley is 25 km from Zostel Pahalgam. Taxis are readily available, but a 1-2 hour long scenic hike is what we would recommend.

Hike difficulty: Easy

An old stable in the meadows of Aru Valley

Amarnath Caves

Perhaps the most sought-after tourist places in Pahalgam by pilgrims, Amarnath Caves are also known for their scenic beauty. Trekking all the way to the caves treats you to fantastic valley and mountain views, sprawling meadows, and a spiritual connection with the place.

Trek duration from Pahalgam: 3-4 days

Trek difficulty: Easy-moderate

Chandanwari

One of the best places to visit in Pahalgam in one day, Chandanwari is the starting point of the Amarnath Cave trek. If you are not taking the yatra, you can visit Chandanwari for easy access to snow in winter or grab some street food from local vendors.

Things to do in Pahalgam

Pleasant hikes, multi-day treks, adventure sports, and more! There are so many things to do in Pahalgam throughout the year.

Water rafting

Want to paddle through gentle rapids, the greenest meadows, and the snowy mountains of Kashmir? You can do so and more, just 25 km from our all-new Zostel Pahalgam. Lidder’s scenic stretch through lush Aru Valley is an ideal place for beginners.

Charges: INR 1800-3500, depending on the duration.

Hike to Baisaran Hill

Baisaran Hill is a green and serene meadow surrounded by snow-topped peaks and a standing army of pines. Try delicious delicacies from shacks, chill in the meadows, and enjoy spectacular views. You can reach here by taxi, but taking a 1-2 hike is one of the best things to do in Pahalgam.

Hike starting point: Pahalgam Market

Hike difficulty: Easy

Lush meadows of Baisaran Hills

Trek to Sheshnaag Lake

Home to the king of the snakes, Sheshnaag Lake is surrounded by snow-topped mountains that are yet unclimbed. The 4-5 hour trek starts from Chandanwari, which offers a tiring trail till Pissu Top. After this patch, it’s a cakewalk going through gorges, meadows, and waterfalls. When you reach the scenic lake, you will realise why it’s one of the best places to see in Pahalgam.

Trek difficulty: Moderate

Play golf at Pahalgam Golf Course

Known for its challenging layout, stunning scenery, and well-maintained greens, Pahalgam Golf Course offers a variety of golfing packages. You might not know how to swoop shots like Tiger Woods, but you will be amazed to see the natural beauty around it for sure.

Skiing in Pahalgam

Pahalgam in winter turns into a winter wonderland. And with lots of snow comes lots of snowy adventures like skiing. With gentle slopes and powdery snow, it’s a great spot for beginners.

Charges: INR 1500-2000 per day, depending on the course.

Best Restaurants in Pahalgam

A visit to Kashmir is incomplete without stuffing your mouth with delicious Kashmiri delights. So, we have prepared a list of the best restaurants in Pahalgam that offer the finest gastronomic experience.

Paradise Restaurant

Located in Chandanwari, Paradise Restaurant looks brilliant with a traditional Kashmiri wooden decor. But the restaurant is famous for more than good looks. They serve mouthwatering Wazwan dishes and vegetarian delicacies.

What to try: Kashmiri pulao, rogan josh, and biryani.

A plate full of Kashmiri Pulao

Cafe Log Inn

Great ambience, finger-lickin’ good food, and great coffee, this place has everything. Located in the market area, Cafe Log Inn serves pizzas, cakes, and your favourite coolers.

What to try: Cold Trout with Nadru, Phirni, and hot or cold coffee.

Sifar

Want a fine dining experience with gorgeous mountain views? Head to Sifar to try Italian, North Indian, Kashmiri, and Turkish cuisines. The indoor decor is elegant, but we recommend the outside sitting area for the best experience.

What to try: Adana kebab, chicken kanti, sabz bahaar, and chocolate coma.

Dana Pani

With great food and even greater service, Dana Pani is one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Pahalgam. It’s a cosy spot on the banks of Lidder and a great place to have North Indian lunch or dinner or both.

What to try: Paneer bhurji, Rajma, and Kashmiri thali.

The Capital Grill

Humble interiors, cosy vibes, and great food, the Capital Grill is known for all these qualities. They have a long list of veg and non-veg options that you can try. Apart from this, grilled foods are a speciality here.

What to try: Paneer tikka masala, paneer lababdar, and grilled chicken.

A bit about Zostel Pahalgam

With a 2-storeyed villa surrounded by snow-covered mountains, Zostel Pahalgam welcomes you for a nature retreat like no other. It’s a great hub for backpackers, looking to explore Pahalgam’s untouched nature coves and laidback lifestyle. Along with private rooms and lively dorms, this Zostel offers space to unwind with fellow travellers, a cafe to take care of your hunger pangs, and a bonfire area for those late-night conversations and jamming sessions. To make the most of your trip to Pahalgam, hike to the pretty meadows, try thrilling adventure sports, and enjoy the silence of the mountains. Check out Zostel Pahalgam here.

Lively common spaces at Zostel Pahalgam

Private room and dormitory at Zostel Pahalgam

So, now you are all set to explore one of Kashmir’s finest valleys. All you have to do is bookmark this travel guide to Pahalgam and live it, now!