The origin of Sheshnag lake found its mention in the holy pilgrimage of Amarnath. While on his way to Amarnath Caves to reveal the secret of immortality to his consort Parvati, Lord Shiva abandoned the Sheshnag adorning his neck. After abandoning Nandi (bull) and the Chandra (crescent moon), he left Sheshnag (king of the snakes) here for complete seclusion.
Sheshnag Lake is one of Pahalgam's main attractions, the epitome of natural beauty and tranquility. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, this lake with green-colored water is home to various fish, including brown trout. Since the water of this lake is low in algal production, it is considered to be of high quality.
Located at an altitude of 3,353 meters above sea level, arriving here is an arduous task as it is a very long trek with steep climbs. The lake often appears to have chunks of ice floating in it.
Tarsar Lake keeps changing its color throughout the day, following sunrise and sunset. In contrast, Marsar Lake has blue water with rocky terrain surrounding it.
Chandanwari is about 15 Km from Pahalgam and is the base camp for the annually organized Amarnath Yatra. This place is also famous for riding sleds during the snowy winter. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and the gushing Lidder river flowing close by, it is an ideal place for a family picnic and enjoying the natural beauty. Chandanwari is covered with snow from November to May next year and is considered suitable for skiing. However, the best time to visit Chandanwari is between April and June, as the weather is perfect for sightseeing.
Betaab Valley is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pahalgam. Situated between the Himalayan ranges of Pir Panjal and Zanskar, it is named after the hit Bollywood blockbuster movie Betaab of 1983. The scenic area is breathtaking, surrounded by tall cedar trees, pine forests, and the Lidder River that flows 15 Km from Pahalgam. Offering numerous hiking and camping sites, the Valley’s vast fertile pastures, snow-capped mountains, and winding streams paint a stunning scenery enticing travelers and trekkers to explore the Pahalgam.
It has an archeological value proving human existence in this region from the Neolithic Age. Historical evidence suggests the Mughals have ruled the Valley since the 15th Century. Later a century, General Mirza Muhammad Haidar Dughlat, the Turko-Mughal Military, ruled over Kashmir first on behalf of Sultan Said Khan of Kashgar and then on behalf of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. After them, Ghiyas-ud-Din Zain-ul-Abidin conquered and ruled the Kashmir region for about 40 years, during which he was famous for promoting peace and harmony in Kashmir.
It is famous for its picturesque meadows and outdoor activities such as angling, horse riding, hiking, and trekking. During the winter months, the Aru Valley becomes an endless snow-capped winter wonderland, making it an ideal destination for skiing. The Aru Wildlife Sanctuary, spread over 511 km2, has an entrance fee, but there are no wild animals.
The Kolahoi Glacier, the highest mountain peak in Kashmir, is an overhanging glacier located on the Lidder River that flows through Aru and reaches Pahalgam, 21 km. On Sonamarg's side, 15 km away, it feeds the Sindh River. This pyramid-shaped peak was first climbed in 1912 by a British medical team headed by Dr. Ernest Neve. Although hiking is the only way to reach this glacier, you can also rent ponies or horses for certain parts of the journey. Hiking on such a glacier is strenuous and strongly not recommended for inexperienced tourists.
Poshwan Park is a well-known park in Pahalgam. A mere 5 min drive from Pahalgam and 8 min walking distance from Tarsar Marsar lake, tourists visit this park often and round the year. A visit to Poshwan Park is not without the delicious cuisines the place offers.
Lidder Amusement Park is one of the best amusement parks in Pahalgam, with rowing boats, miniature trains, bumping car & emergency rides, and other exciting swings and games. An amusement park with panoramic mountain views is the perfect way to spend a day outdoors. Fun-filled plays, rides, and entertaining activities await you on the lap of the majestic mountain—a popular place for children and adults, not just adults.
