Pahalgam in Winter

Made famous by the eponymous Bollywood film called Betaab, the Betaab Valley is another one of the most famous attractions and places to visit in Pahalgam, especially during winters. Flanked by dense forests of deodar and pine, with the Lidder River flowing right through the middle, the valley is enthrallingly beautiful. Visiting Betaab Valley allows travelers to experience the enchanting beauty of Pahalgam in December, when the valley is covered in a blanket of snow, creating a mesmerizing winter wonderland.

Considered to be one of the three angelic valleys of Pahalgam, the Betaab Valley is home to verdant meadows, gushing streams and stunning natural vistas. It is also a famous trekking base and camping site, especially for those who are on their way to the holy Amarnath Yatra.

Location: Near Pahalgam, Hajan, Jammu and Kashmir 192126

Ranking amongst the top places to visit in Pahalgam in winter, the Tulian Lake is located between the Zanskar and Pir Panjal Mountain ranges. While the lake remains a sparkling blue color with chunks of ice in it for the majority of the year, it becomes completely frozen during the winters, making it a sight just out of fairy tales.

Situated at an altitude of over 12,000 feet from sea level, this lake is accessible by a two-day trek, which becomes even more adventurous during the winters when the surroundings are all covered in snow. In addition to enjoying views of the pine forests covering it, you can also capture great sights of the mountains from this alpine lake. For those seeking a romantic adventure, Kashmir packages for couple often include visits to such breathtaking alpine lakes, offering a perfect blend of serenity and adventure.

Location: Pahalgam, Anantnag District, Jammu and Kashmir - 192126 

An epitome of natural beauty, tranquillity, and serenity, the Sheshnag Lake is undoubtedly one of the best attractions and places to visit in Pahalgam during winter. With the snow-capped mountains acting as a backdrop and the dense alpine meadows surrounding it, the Sheshnag Lake is a paradise for adventure and nature enthusiasts. While exploring places to visit in Jammu, such as the majestic Vaishno Devi Temple, the historic Raghunath Temple, the serene Mansar Lake, and the stunning Patnitop, you can also plan a visit to this breathtaking lake to experience the perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty.

This glacial lake has bone-chilling waters, and is accessible by a trek. Many people also believe that the lake is the abode of Lord Sheshnag, and therefore, consider the Sheshnag Lake quite holy. During winters, this lake gets completely frozen, and the region around it also experiences quite a heavy snowfall.

Location: Anantnag District, Jammu and Kashmir - 192129

Plan Your Trip: Things to Do in Pahalgam in Summer

Amongst the most famous temples and Places to Visit in Pahalgam in Winter, the Mamleshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the Lidder River, the temple is believed to have been constructed in 400 AD, by the then King Jayasima. It is also one of the few temples in the region that have been constructed completely out of stone, and is amongst the more significant places of worship here.

While the interiors of the temple are home to a pure gold shrine, the exteriors tend to get fully covered with snow in winters. It is believed that the temple is located at the site where Lord Ganesh sat as a door guard for Goddess Parvati, as a means to prevent Lord Shiva from getting inside.

Timings: 06:00 a.m. to 08:00 p.m

Considered to be one of the best amusement parks in the region, complete with paddle boats, bumping car rides, miniature railways, swings, and a myriad of other games, rides and attractions, the Lidder Amusement Park is one place that you must definitely visit in Pahalgam in winter.

Tucked in the lap of the snow-capped mountains, the park also offers some of the best views of the surrounding valleys, rolling hills and meadows. Located on the banks of the Lidder River, the Lidder Amusement Park transforms into a winter wonderland during the peak cold season, with the entirety of it covered in fresh snow, which also adds a certain charm and magic to spending the day here.

Timings: 10:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m.

Situated over the picturesque Lidder River, Kolahoi Glacier is one of the most pristine Places to Visit in Pahalgam in Winter. Predominantly a hanging glacier, the Kolahoi Glacier is also known for offering some of the most unparalleled views of the snow-capped mountains that surround the region.

This glacier is accessible by trekking, the terrains of which are not only quite challenging, but very beautiful at the same time. Considered to be the trek of a lifetime, you get to pass through high altitude alpine forests, through thick layers of snow, amidst varying terrains and stunning views, all of which get even more difficult during the winters. If you're planning a trip to Kashmir in winter, this trek is one of the best ways to experience the region's untouched beauty.

Location: Himalaya Range, Pahalgam, Kashmir Valley

• Carry jackets with good insulation, and layer your clothes properly.

• Drink plenty of warm water to keep yourself hydrated.

• Pack a medical kit with prescribed medicines and basic first aid.

• Carry a thermal flask, sunscreen, and moisturisers in your backpack,.

• If trekking, make sure to get spikes and crampons for a good grip on snow trails.

• Wear waterproof shoes and carry a rain poncho for safety.