Introduction

The area around Pahalgam has some of the finest nature walks, day-hikes, treks and pony-treks that may be done in Kashmir. There are narrow trails through thick cedar forests, by fast flowing streams, over open grasslands, past small lakes - and all this is under the gaze of majestic snowclad mountains. Some of the popular hikes and treks from Pahalgam are to the meadow of Baisaran and then on to the Tuliyan lake that remains frozen for most of the year; there is the trek to the Tarsar and Marsar lakes; to the Kolahai glacier which is the source of the river Lidder; and to the Harghagwan lake. These treks are either day ones or take two to three days. Longer treks that take four to six days can be done from Pahalgam to Sonamarg or to Panikher in the Zanskar valley (which is via the lake of Sheshnag).

The Aru biosphere has musk deer, brown bear, leopard, and the koklas and monal pheasants. The village of Aru, where many migrant Gujjars camp with their flocks of sheep and goats, is also the first stage from Pahalgam to the trek to Lidderwat and to the Kolahoi glacier. An excellent day walk or horse-ride from Pahalgam, much of this is along the river Lidder. The right bank of the river has a lesser used and somewhat more difficult path. There is also a less used, and more difficult path, on the right bank.

Almost all of these trails can be covered on horseback – and horse-riding is one of the popular outdoor activities in Pahalgam. You can hire ponies by the hour or by the day and the attendants also act as guides.

Special Attributes

Excellent treks and riding trails

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Comfortable but conservative

Connectivity

Walking and horseback

Enjoyed by

Nature and sport lovers, and general interest

Exposure

Yes

Avoidable Season

December, January and February

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

None as such

Tip

Take the services of a 'gillie'

Type of site

River bank