Jammu and Kashmir · 5 destinations & hidden spots
15 km northeast of Pahalgam, Anantnag District, Kashmir
Originally known as Hajan Valley, this postcard paradise was renamed after the iconic 1983 Bollywood film 'Betaab' shot here. Located 15 km from Pahalgam, the emerald meadow features willow-lined walking paths, wooden footbridges crossing glacier streams, and panoramic mountain backdrops.
Aru Village, 12 km from Pahalgam, Kashmir
Located 12 km upstream from Pahalgam at 7,920 feet, Aru is a peaceful village overlooking the Aru River basin. Surrounded by pine forests and wooden Gujar huts, it serves as the premier base for wilderness expeditions to the Kolahoi Glacier, Tarsar-Marsar alpine lakes, and Katrinag peaks.
5 km uphill from Pahalgam town, Anantnag District, Kashmir
Perched 5 km up on the hillside above Pahalgam, Baisaran is famously called 'Mini Switzerland' due to its vast undulating green lawns, ringed by dark cedar forests and snow-crested mountain backdrops. Visitors reach the meadow via horseback pony trails or scenic forest hikes, enjoying zorbing and zip-lining.
16 km from Pahalgam on Amarnath Cave route, Kashmir
Situated 16 km from Pahalgam at 9,500 feet, Chandanwari is famous for its natural snow bridge across the Sheshnag stream and as the official launchpad of the annual pilgrimage to the Holy Amarnath Cave. In summer, visitors sledge across residual snowbanks and hike toward Pissu Top.
Yanner Rafting Point, Lidder Valley, Pahalgam, Kashmir
Originating from the high Kolahoi Glacier, the crystal-blue Lidder River carves through valleys of pine and boulders. Between Yanner and Rafting Point, adrenaline seekers tackle thrilling Grade II to IV rapids, while downstream tranquil pools offer world-class fly fishing for wild brown and rainbow trout.
