Name: Pahalgam
Rating: 4.2

Aru Valley, Pahalgam Overview

Aru Valley, situated in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir is a serene and enchanting tourist attraction located 12 km from Pahalgam. This tranquil hill station is nestled amidst green grasslands with a stunning view of the majestic Himalayan ranges. The valley serves as a base camp for numerous treks. It also provides opportunities for skiing, heli-skiing, horse riding, wildlife and bird watching. Aru Valley's natural beauty and adventure offerings make it an appealing destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

At the heart of Aru Valley lies its pristine meadows, misty valleys, and snow-capped mountains, making it an ideal spot for a picnic. This small village serves as the starting point for famous treks like the Sonamarg trek and the trek to Kolahoi Glacier, catering to trekkers of all expertise levels. Moreover, camping and fishing are other popular activities to be enjoyed here. Aru Valley also offers an exhilarating bird's eye view of the stunning landscapes with its paragliding experience. Additionally, the valley boasts enchanting waterfalls and crystal-clear water streams that add to its natural charm.

Must Know Before You Visit Aru Valley

Note :

Aru Valley does not require any specific permits unless you are planning to engage in activities like trekking to restricted areas or fishing.
Check the current weather conditions and road accessibility before planning your trip, especially during the winter season
It is recommended for visitors to hire a taxi or private vehicle from Pahalgam as public transportation options such as buses or shared cabs to Aru Valley are limited.
Certain areas within Aru Valley may have restrictions or limited access due to their ecological sensitivity or security concerns.
The only network available in Aru Valley is BSNL postpaid network.

Aru Valley Highlights

1. Trekking

Aru Valley is a popular base camp for treks like the Kolahoi Glacier Trek, Tarsar Lake Trek, Vishansar-Kishansar lakes trek, and the Katrinag valley trek. There are several smaller trekking trails, su (Read More)ch as the Green Top which can be completed in a day. Lidderwat is a longer trek of about 8kms away which requires 2 days to complete. It's advised to hire a guide for longer treks.

2. Camping

Camping facilities are not available in Aru Valley, but arrangements for camping can be made through local residents or travel agencies if informed in advance.

3. Horse Riding

Horse riding in Aru Valley is a popular activity. There are pony owners available who can take you to the viewing points and the actual spot of Aru Valley. While fixed rates may not exist, it is commo (Read More)n to negotiate the price. The cost of the pony ride can typically range from 500 to 800 INR, depending on your negotiation skills and the duration of the ride. However, once you are in the valley itself, the route is manageable and doesn't necessarily require a pony.

4. Paragliding

In Aru Valley, you can enjoy paragliding experiences at different price points. For a shorter duration, there is a paragliding option available for 1000 INR per person. Additionally, there is a longer (Read More) 15-minute paragliding experience priced at around 2700-2800 INR, which is negotiable. Depending on your negotiation skills, you may be able to bring down the cost to around 1500-1750 INR. This price usually includes the cost of a horse ride, which is around 300 INR, taking you to the top and optionally dropping you back down. Moreover, paragliding in Aru Valley is a seasonal activity available during specific months of the year, usually from April to July.

5. Skiing & Heli-skiing

Aru Valley's natural beauty combined with the thrill of skiing and heli-skiing during the months of winter, usually from December to March, makes it an ideal destination for skiing enthusiasts seeking (Read More) an unforgettable experience amidst snowy slopes and stunning mountain landscapes. Moreover, heli-skiing takes the adventure to new heights, allowing visitors to access untouched and remote terrains by helicopter.

6. Picnic Spot

Aru Valley serves as an idyllic picnic spot, offering a perfect setting for spending quality time with family and friends amidst nature's beauty. With its picturesque landscapes, lush meadows, and gur (Read More)gling streams, the valley provides ample space for setting up a delightful picnic.

Read More on Aru Valley

Tips For Visiting Aru Valley

1. The horse owners will flock you and quote a high price for the horses claiming that it featured in the movie "Bajarangi Bhaijaan". However, don't be fooled and bargain properly before starting the ride.
2. If opting for activities like skiing, make sure to confirm price beforehand.
3. If you want to explore the place in a cab, you need to hire it from the marketplace in Pahalgam. Outside taxis are not allowed in Aru Valley.
4. Wear comfortable shoes as you need to walk a lot in Aru.

How to Reach Aru Valley

To reach Aru Valley, situated 12 kilometers from Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, you can hire a taxi or private vehicle from Pahalgam itself. The road begins near the Pahalgam Police Station and offers picturesque views throughout the 12-kilometer journey which takes around 45 minutes to complete. Public transportation options like buses or shared cabs are limited, so it is preferable to travel in your own vehicle or hire a private taxi from Pahalgam.

It's important to note that Srinagar taxis are not allowed to go to Aru Valley. Taxi fares for a round trip from Pahalgam to Aru Valley typically range from 1000 to 1500 INR depending on the cab type, travel time, and negotiation skills.

Moreover, during winter, the road conditions become narrow and steep. Hence, visiting Aru Valley in March is a safer option when the snow starts to melt. It is advisable to check road accessibility and weather conditions before planning a trip to Aru Valley.

Best Time to Visit Aru Valley

The best time to visit Aru Valley is from May to November, during the summer and autumn seasons. The weather is pleasant, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the valley's natural beauty. Winter months also attract enthusiasts as Aru Valley transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing and snowboarding. However, it is important to check weather conditions and road accessibility during winter due to potential restrictions caused by heavy snowfall.

Is it Safe to Visit Aru Valley?

Aru Valley is considered safe to visit, with tourists generally feeling secure in the area. Despite concerns about militancy and military presence in Kashmir, Pahalgam, including Aru Valley, is regarded as one of the safer places to visit in the region. Personal experiences of visitors highlight the peaceful atmosphere and minimal military presence in comparison to Srinagar. This provides reassurance to travelers, emphasizing the safety of Aru Valley as a tourist destination.

Is Aru Valley accessible during the winter season?

Yes, Aru Valley is accessible during the winter season. In fact, it transforms into a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The valley receives a significant amount of snow, making it ideal for activities like skiing and heli-skiing. However, it is important to note that road conditions and accessibility may be affected by heavy snowfall during this time. It is advisable to check the weather conditions and road status before planning a trip to Aru Valley in winter.

Are there any accommodations available in Aru Valley?

Yes, Aru Valley offers a range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and needs of visitors. You can find several hotels, homestays, and guest houses that offer comfortable but basic lodging facilities along with meals for guests. It is advisable to make advance bookings, especially during peak seasons, to ensure a hassle-free stay in Aru Valley.

Are there any high-altitude alpine lakes in Aru Valley?

Aru Valley in Kashmir is home to several high-altitude alpine lakes, nestled amidst the breathtaking Himalayan landscape. Among the notable lakes in Aru Valley are Katernag, Tarsar, Marsar, Deodsar, Basmai, Surmasar, Hapatsar, Harnag, Yamsar, Khemsar, Sonasar, Munwarsar, Chansar, and more. These lakes add to the scenic beauty of the region offering a tranquil experience for nature lovers.