Chandanwari

Pahalgam Base

With a distance of just 16 kilometers between the two places, a drive from Pahalgam to Chandanwari takes you through a scenic route, offering breathtaking views of Lidder Valley and other surrounding peaks. Pahalgam also serves as the base camp for the famous Amarnath Yatra.

Amarnath Yatra Starting Point

Chandanwari serves as the starting point for the Holy Amarnath Yatra and the valley witnesses thousands of devotees every year during the time of the pilgrimage. The trekking journey from Chandanwari to the Amarnath Cave takes you through a challenging terrain.

Betaab Valley

Named after the Bollywood movie, “Betaab”, this iconic valley is a popular picnic spot and a haven for photography enthusiasts. Betaab Valley is famous for its beautiful views and scenery, attracting the attention of Indian filmmakers with many iconic movies being shot there.

Snow Bridge

The natural snow bridge formed during winter is a major tourist attraction at Chandanwari. This unique phenomenon is a highlight for tourists who visit the valley during winter and even early summer, as the bridge is still present at that time.

The historical and cultural significance of Chandanwari is associated with the Amarnath Cave, where the ice Shiva Linga is present. The cave and the pilgrimage are mentioned in ancient Hindu scriptures, and the temple is considered as one of the holiest Hindu shrines. The annual Yatra attracts devotees from all across the country, making it a significant event in the region.

Kashmir is also a melting point of various cultures. The hospitality and traditions of the local Kashmiri folks add an additional layer of cultural richness to the area.

Aru Valley

One of the most beautiful valleys in Kashmir, Aru Valley serves as the base camp for many treks like the famous Tarsar-Marsar Trek, as the Aru Village is located at the foothills of the Himalayas. With its picturesque meadows, Aru Valley is a great spot for camping and horse riding, along with trekking.

Lidder River

Arising from the Kolhoi Glacier, the Lidder River flows through Aru Valley, Pahalgam, and Lidder Valley. The river offers an epic white water rafting adventure as well as a relaxing activity like trout fishing if that’s something you would enjoy. You can also enjoy a leisurely picnic along the banks of the river, while you enjoy the views of the Pir Panjal mountain range.

Baisaran Valley

Often referred to as Mini Switzerland due to its resemblance to the gorgeous country, Baisaran Valley is an off-beat tourist destination in Kashmir. The meadows are surrounded by dense pine forests and serve as campsites for Tulian Lake trekkers. At the Baisaran Valley, you can enjoy activities like ziplining, zorbing, as well as horse riding.

The rich culinary traditions of Kashmir are reflected in the cuisine of Chandanwari. One can taste Kashmir’s popular, lip-smacking dishes such as Rogan Josh, Yakhni, Goshtaba, and Dum Aloo with Kashmiri Kulchas and steamed rice. Do not forget to try out Kashmir’s famous spice-infused tea called Kahwa to experience a unique blend of taste and tradition. 

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Chandanwari is from April to October, due to the pleasant weather and accessibility to the region.

Acclimatization: In order to avoid altitude sickness, take your time to get acclimated to the high altitude and the cold climate before exploration.

Permits: Make sure to get the necessary permits for the Amarnath Yatra if you wish to take part in the pilgrimage.

Clothing: Wear warm clothes and bundle up in layers during winter. Carry warm clothes like thermal wear and woolen clothing even during summer, as the temperature might drop significantly.

Local guides: Hire a local guide to get a better understanding of local customs and traditions, and also get valuable insider information about the region for an enhanced experience.

Chandanwari, with its natural beauty, historical importance, and fun adventures, offers a unique experience to its visitors. Whether you are planning to go on a pilgrimage to the Amarnath Cave or soak in the local culture and natural beauty while you explore the valleys, Chandanwari is a destination that offers a memorable journey in the heart of Kashmir.