Pahalgam- The Valley of Shepherds

 

What is a recipe of a perfect world class vacation? A place in the midst of a dense forests full of lofty trees, surrounded by snow clad mountain peaks on all sides, a white water river crossing the bottoms of the narrow valley, a weather which makes summer feel super cool and varied activities like golfing, angling, trekking and river rafting to provide thrills. It is hardly surprising that Pahalgam has been christened as a ‘jewel’ hill-station. This world famous hill station is in Anantnag District, 96 Kms. from Srinagar and located on the banks of river Lidder at an altitude of 7200 ft.

Due to pure, re-vitalizing and oxygen rich air it is considered one of the best health resorts in the country. And its lovely scenic locales make Pahalgam the most favorite location for filmmakers.

The place turns into a holy place in July-August with thousands of pilgrims arriving during Amarnath Yatra as it is the base camp of the annual pilgrimage.

Around Pahalgam are many places of interest, and since it is set between fairly steep hills, it is worth hiring a pony rather than walking. Pony fares are posted at prominent locations. The most stunning 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. Pahalgam has within it no fewer than eight tiny villages, one of which is Mamal. There is a small ancient stone temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, generally considered to be Kashmir's oldest existing temple, dating to the 5th century.

In 2004, an amusement park has come up. Six rides have been installed spread over an area of less than half an acre adjacent to the existing Pahalgam Club. The remaining area of the premises has been landscaped with local flora, which enhances the serene surroundings of Pahalgam. This is a part of the major eco-heritage projects undertaken at Pahalgam with a view to restore its pristine glory. Pahalgam has a bustling market place with eating joints and shops selling variety of products.

Once upon a time Pahalgam was known as shepherds’ village. Today it is an internationally renowned hill station.