Aru valley is a beautiful place located 12 km away from Pahalgam in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. This serene and scenic village is a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers who want to enjoy the true beauty and charm of Kashmir away from the chaos and crowds of popular tourist places.
Aru Valley is nestled between snow-capped mountains and dense grasslands. This valley is the meeting point of two branches of the Lidder River which originate from the north and west of the village.
Aru valley is also a starting point for a trek to Kolahoi Glacier. Adventure enthusiasts can go for trekking from Aru Valley to Sonamarg which will be completed in three days.
The valley is also protected by a wildlife sanctuary, as the valley is home to some of the distinct species of wild animals such as brown bear, black bear, Musk deer, leopards, Snow leopards, and wolves.
Aru valley is also famous for camping activities. Trekkers and nature lovers can enjoy camping here amidst lush greens, snow-covered mountains, and crystal-clear streams.
You can visit Aru valley in summer when the weather is cool and pleasant so you can enjoy different activities. in winter the land freezes due to snowfall which becomes a skiing paradise for ski lovers.
Things to do in Aru Valley Pahalgam
Aru Valley offers a variety of travel activities for tourists of all ages and interests. Some of the activities that you can experience in Aru Valley are
- Horse Riding- Horse riding in Aru Valley is a popular tourist activity that allows tourists to witness the beauty of this valley in a exciting and unique way. You can enjoy the picturesque views of Aru Valley with lush meadows, pine forests, and alpine landscapes on horseback.
Pony riding allows you to immerse in the natural beauty of this village with a glimpse of local culture and surroundings.
The best time to do horse riding in Aru Valley is from March to November when the weather is warm and the horses are available.
- Camping- Camping in Aru Valley is a wonderful opportunity to disconnect from the stress of daily life and reconnect with nature in a serene setting that provides mental peace.
Aru Valley is a camper’s dream place as it provides various camping sites which are surrounded by mighty mountains with fresh meadows and sparkling streams.
Camping in Aru Valley is a beautiful experience to enjoy the solitude and pure beauty of this village with a touch of local culture and cuisine.
There are various camping sites in the Valley where tourists can pitch their tents. These sites offer basic facilities such as clean water and restrooms.
The best time to go for camping in Aru Valley is from May to September when the climate is comfortable and the nights are clear.
- Photography- Whether you are a professional or an amateur photo lover, the Valley offers a wealth of photography opportunities as the valley is blessed with breathtaking natural beauty such as dense meadows, snow-clad mountains, and clear streams.
With its varied light conditions from soft morning tones to golden sunset hues, Aru Valley offers captivating photography conditions.
- Skiing – Skiing in Aru Valley is a delightful experience to enjoy winter and snowfall. It is an adventurous activity that offers enchanting views of this beautiful valley. The best time to enjoy skiing in Aru Valley is from December to March when the weather is cold and the snow is frozen which is perfect for skiing.
- Fishing- Fishing in Aru is a peaceful activity to enjoy the beauty of water and wildlife. Trout fishing is the primary activity in Aru Valley attracting anglers from far of places. The best time to enjoy fishing in Aru Valley is from April to October when the weather is warm and the fishes are active.
Best time to visit Aru Valley
the Valley is a year-round destination for travelers. However, the best time to visit this village depends upon your preferences and the type of activities you want to enjoy.
Spring(march to May)
Spring is the most ideal time for visiting this beautiful Valley as the weather is mild with blossoming flora. This season is best for trekkers, nature lovers, and bird watchers as the valley remains alive with colorful and lush flowers. Trout fishing is also mostly done in the spring season as the weather is favorable and fish are active.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the peak tourist season in this beautiful Valley as the temperature is warm and the valley is vibrant with lush meadows. This valley is most verdant in the summer season and is perfect for camping, horse riding, and trekking.
Autumn( September to November)
In the autumn season, the weather in Aru is relatively cool with clear skies. This season is a transition from monsoon to winter and the valley is adorned with golden and red hues. This season is ideal for trekking and camping as the weather is crisp and the views are eye-catching.
How to reach Aru Valley from Pahalgam
The Valley is situated 12 km away from Pahalgam town. You can reach Pahalgam by air, road, or rail from any city in India.
By road- the distance between Srinagar and Pahalgam is 95 km and from Jammu it is 255 km. You can book a cab or private car from Srinagar or Jammu to reach Pahalgam. The road to Pahalgam is well-maintained and scenic passing through the towns of Anantnag, Bijbehara, and Mattan. Once you reach Pahalgam, you can take a pony ride to reach thisValley which will take one hour to reach. You can also book a taxi to this valley which will take about 30 minutes to reach.
By Air- Srinagar International Airport is the nearest airport to Pahlagam. You can take a flight to Srinagar from Mumbai, Delhi, or any other city. From Srinagar, you need to book a cab to reach Pahalgam which is 95 km and will take you 3 hours to reach.
By rail- the nearest railway to Pahalgam is Jammu Tawi which is about 255 km away. you can take a train to Jammu via Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh or any other city in India. From Jammu Tawi, you can book a bus or taxi to reach Pahalgam which will take 7 hours to reach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Aru Valley?
The best time to visit this Valley depends on your preferences. Spring and summer (March to August) are popular for pleasant weather and outdoor activities, while autumn (September to November) offers vibrant foliage. Winter (December to February) is ideal for snow-related activities.
Are there accommodations available?
Yes, there are accommodations available in this Valley ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Camping is also a popular option for accommodation, offering a closer connection to nature.
do I need a permit to visit Aru Valley?
no special permit is required for Indian nationals to visit this Valley. However, foreign tourists may need to check the latest regulations and secure any required permits due to the sensitive nature of the location near the Line of Control (LOC). It is always advisable to check the latest travel advisories and regulations before planning a trip.
what is the entry fee for visiting?
Visitors need to pay Rs. 25 per head to enter Aru valley.