Nestled at an elevation of 2740 m and a distance of 95 kilometers from Srinagar, the place is abundant in dense forests, lakes, crystal clear streams, and meadows of flowers. Excursions from Pahalgam are as intriguing. The meadows have served as the magical shooting location of numerous Bollywood movies. There are many blessed sites around Pahalgam where adventure enthusiasts can go for trekking, trout fishing, golfing, and white water rafting against the backdrop of the Himalayan ranges or stay in a cottage beside the river
Here is List of Famous Places to visit near Pahalgam
1. Baisaran
Baisaran is a beautiful large meadow a few km from Pahalgam. The meadows are fringed by pine forests with snow-clad mountain peaks in the backdrop. The vast area is perfect for picnics and fun times. The beautiful valley is a 5 km trek from Pahalgam. Only ponies and by foot can you arrive in the new heaven.
Tourist Attractions in Baisaran
The place’s attractions are green surroundings, snow-capped mountains in the backdrop, and pure mountain air. Camping is a popular adventure sport here. Trekkers to the picturesque Tullian Lake pitch their camps at Baisaran and rest before continuing their tough commute to the scenic lake. The Tullian Lake, nestled at 3684 m, is a high-altitude lake snuggled against the backdrop of the snow-covered mountain peaks of Pir Panjal.
The Kashmir Tourism Department has taken initiatives to develop the area. Here various activities are provided. Zorbing, rolled in a giant plastic ball, is an adventure few brave souls can stomach.
Best time to visit
The weather of the place remains pleasant in every season. A delightful and mild climate is experienced here from April to June. Those wishing to see snowfall can visit this place between November and February. The months of July and August witness thousands of pilgrims making their way across the valley to Amarnath. However, the duration from mid-April to mid-November is considered best for visiting Baisaran.
How to Reach Baisaran
- By Flight: Srinagar international airport is the closest international airport. Pahalgam is 92 km from Srinagar airport. Taxis are easily available from the airport to the hill station. From Pahalgam, Baisaran is 5 km away. The road to the meadow is quite steep. Ponies and horses make the commute. Trekking is a pleasant way to reach.
- By Train: Udhampur Railway station is the nearest train connection. The railhead is at a distance of 173 km. Taxis, state-owned buses, and coaches travel on the route from the railway station.
- By Road: Baisaran does not have navigable roads. Ponies and on foot are the only two options. Srinagar is 96 km from Pahalgam. State bus services are available from Anantnag, Jammu and Srinagar. Private taxis are also available for the commute. Transport service is restricted on the route during the Amarnath yatra. Special yatra coaches are made available from Jammu and Srinagar for the convenience of the yatris.
2. Chatpal
Chatpal is one of the unexplored paradises. It is a perfect location in South Kashmir, in the Shangus district. It is endowed with lush green forests, lofty mountains, melodious springs bustling with milky white water gushing down the mountainous terrain, and a serene ambiance, a blissful change from the chaos of cities. The beautiful environs can only be justified by saying it’s a fairytale vacation in the lap of the Himalayas.
Tourist Attractions in Chatpal
There are no prominent tourist attractions, but they provide peace and serenity. Moreover, the breathtaking locale is a perfect getaway to spend some memorable time in the lap of the Himalayas.
One can go trekking around the woods of Chatpal or spend the evening with the friendly local people. The apple and walnut trees are a pleasant sight. Devoid of electricity, one can savor the silence of having a candlelight dinner and snuggling up in cozy blankets.
Best time to visit
Chatpal is a remote, undeveloped location. A pleasant and mild climate is experienced here from April to June. Those wishing to see snowfall can visit this place between November and February. Rent out the government bungalow any time you visit. Unfortunately, not many accommodations are available, and the weather is unbearable most of the time.
How to Reach
- By Flight: Srinagar Airport is the international and domestic air connection near Chatpal. 90 km away, the airport offers flight connections from all over India. The village is only accessible by road. To reach the offbeat location, tourists should take the Anantnag-Chitergul road. A local jeep to Achabal and a private jeep can be hired for further traveling to Chatpal. From the airport, it is a 3-hour trip.
- By Train: Jammu Tawi Railway station is the train connection near Chatpal. The distance is around 330 km. to reach Chatpal, travel via the Anantnag-Chitergul road. Further, a local jeep takes you to Achabal. A private jeep can be hired for further traveling in the serene village.
- By Road: Chatpal is easily accessible by road. Tourists should take the Anantnag-Chitergul road; a local jeep takes you to Achabal. A private jeep can be hired for other traveling. The duration of the journey is approximately one hour.
