Where is Aru Valley located?

Aru Valley is located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is situated around 12 km from Pahalgam.

What is the best time to visit Aru Valley?

The best time to visit Aru Valley is during the summer months, from April to June, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. September to October is also a good time, during autumn when the valley is adorned with vibrant colors.

What are the popular activities to do in Aru Valley?

Visitors to Aru Valley can indulge in trekking, horse riding, and nature walks. It's also a great place for camping and photography enthusiasts.

How can one reach Aru Valley?

Aru Valley can be reached from Pahalgam by road, which is well-connected to Srinagar (approximately 100 km away). The nearest airport is Srinagar Airport, and the nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi Railway Station.

What are the nearby attractions to Aru Valley?

Nearby attractions include Betaab Valley, Lidder River, Kolahoi Glacier, and Chandanwari. These places are within a short distance from Aru Valley and are often covered on day trips from Pahalgam.

Is Aru Valley safe for tourists?

Aru Valley, like most parts of Jammu and Kashmir, is generally safe for tourists. However, it's always advisable to check the current situation before planning a visit and to follow any local guidelines or advice.

What should I pack for a trip to Aru Valley?

Depending on the season of your visit, pack comfortable clothing, especially if you plan to trek or engage in outdoor activities. Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and sturdy shoes are also recommended.

Are there accommodations available in Aru Valley?

Yes, there are various accommodation options in Aru Valley ranging from guesthouses to hotels and resorts. It's advisable to book in advance during the peak tourist season.

Can one visit Aru Valley as a day trip from Pahalgam?

Yes, Aru Valley is close enough to Pahalgam to visit as a day trip. Many tourists prefer to stay in Pahalgam and explore nearby areas like Aru Valley during their stay.

What makes Aru Valley unique?

Aru Valley is known for its stunning natural beauty, surrounded by lush meadows, pine forests, and the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. It offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Aru Valley

Overview

Aru is a village and a beautiful tourist spot in the Anantnag District of Jammu and Kashmir. Also known as Adu in Kashmiri, the village lies about 12 kilometers from Pahalgam and is well-known for its scenic beauty. It is the base camp for various trekking spots like Tarsar-Marsar Lake and Kolhoi Glacier. The village is nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas and is situated to the left of the Aru River. Aru village is also home to Jammu & Kashmir’s biggest Fodder Seed Product Station. Aru Valley is part of the ABC sightseeing ( Aru, Betaab, and Chandanwari ) in Pahalgam.

The Aru Valley is famous for its scenic beauty, offering breathtaking views of its beautiful meadows, majestic mountains, and placid lakes. The Valley was formed due to the conjunction of two streams, one flowing from the Aru Glacier and the other from the Lidder River. Aru Valley offers a range of activities for tourists like fishing, trekking, hiking, horseback riding, sightseeing, and photography. During winter, the valley receives heavy snowfall, covering the vibrant green meadows with pristine white snow. The weather is perfect for activities like skiing, heli-skiing, and snowboarding.

Apart from its picturesque views, Aru Valley is also an abode to rare and endangered wildlife. Critically endangered animals like the Kashmir stag and globally threatened bird species like the Egyptian vulture can be found in the Overa-Aru Biosphere Reserve. Other endemic species that can be found in the biosphere reserve include Kashmir musk deer, Himalayan Serow, Asiatic black bear, and Himalayan brown bear.

The best time to visit Aru Valley for sightseeing is from July to September. If you plan to indulge in activities like skiing, winter is the ideal time for a visit.