Chandanwari – Pahalgam Travel Guide

Chandanwari is a beautiful spot and hill station located 16 km from Pahalgam in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir.is one of the base camps for the famous Amarnath Yatra, the other being Baltal from Sonamarg. Dense forests of pine and fir trees and beautiful valleys throughout the entire journey surround the road from Pahalgam to Chandanwari.

It's a peaceful destination in Pahalgam Valley, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. A starting point for Amarnath Trek is from July till August; you can go camping.

Surrounded by snow-capped Mountain ranges and green meadows, Chandanwari Pahalgam is a haven for those who like to explore nature's beauty, photographers, and adventure activities like Trekking. In winter, it transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, attracting thousands of adventure lovers for activities like sledging and snowball fights; now we are going to talk about the Chandanwari trek route, Snow in Chandanwari, Pahalgam tourist attractions, Best season to visit Pahalgam, Chandanwari sightseeing & Amarnath Yatra

About Chandanwari Pahalgam

In Jammu and Kashmir, it's a popular pilgrimage site for Amarnath, But for adventure lovers, it is also the base for trekking. It offers trekking opportunities from Chandanwari to Sheshnag Lake, with breathtaking landscape views.

It can be easily accessible by road from Pahalgam. Tourists can book taxis or buses from Pahalgam to reach Chandinwari or By Pony, and Trek Options are available.

There are a few famous attractions, Like Betaab Valley and Aru Valley. These tourist attractions offer natural beauty, spiritual significance, and trekking opportunities, which makes it the most popular destination for tourists and pilgrims visiting Kashmir.

Chandanwari is a stunning place in the beautiful hill station of Pahalgam and is perched at an altitude of 2895 meters above sea level. The place offers a calm atmosphere where you can relax and find peace away from the daily hustle of life. It has a moderate climate and can be reached via road from Srinagar. There is a small glacier called 'Chandanwari Glacier' where tourists can enjoy sledge rides. You can participate in several travel activities here, including trekking, snow sledging, and horse riding.

Not only natural beauty, but Chandanwari holds cultural and religious importance as the starting point of the trek to the Amarnath Cave Temple from July to August

Why Visit Chandanwari Pahalgam?

Chandanwari: If you are looking for a hidden gem in Kashmir, the Chandanwawi is perfect for exploring natural beauty, spiritual significance, and popular travel activities. Here are the top reasons why you must visit Chandanwari Pahalgam:

Gateway to the Amarnath Yatra

Chandanwari is famous for being the starting point of the holy Amarnath Yatra; the trek to the Amarnath Cave Temple starts Here.

Snow-Covered Beauty

In winter, the land transforms into a snow-covered paradise, which provides the options for the best snow activities like sledging, snowball fights

Perfect for Picnics and Relaxation

explore the mountain ranges of green valleys. Chandanwari is perfect for Picnics for Family and Honeymoon couples; just 16 kilometres from Pahalgam, Chandanwari is easily accessible by road.

Chandanwari and the Amarnath Yatra

Chandanwari is the starting point of the legendary Amarnath Yatra, one of India's most sacred Hindu pilgrimages. Every year, thousands of travellers visit for the spiritual journey to the Amarnath Cave from this serene valley in Pahalgam.

Situated almost 32 kilometres from the holy Amarnath Cave, Chandanwari is Jammu and Kashmir's first checkpoint on the traditional pilgrimage route. From here, you can trek through popular places, including Sheshnag, Panchtarni, and eventually, the Amarnath Cave,

For those not undertaking the Yatra, Chandanwari still offers a glimpse into Kashmir's spiritual energy and cultural richness.

Things to do in Chandanwari

It is a beautiful, offbeat place in Pahalgam renowned for its natural beauty and religious connection. Here are some of the activities which you can enjoy in Chandanwari

Trekking

you can enjoy trekking in Chandanwari, and here are trekking options for both beginners and professional trekkers. While hiking, tourists can explore its natural beauty, lush greens, majestic landscapes, and snow-covered mountains, as well as visit the Amarnath shrine.

Photography

on your visit to Chandanwari, don't forget to take your camera and capture vivid shots of the natural beauty of this place. Various sights here are worth capturing, such as vast scenic landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and crystal clear streams.

Visit Amarnath Cave:

 Chandanwari is the gateway to Amarnath Cave. Amarnath yatra commences every year from July till August. It is the annual Hindu pilgrimage in which thousands of Hindu devotees participate and visit the cave.

Pony Riding:

You can also enjoy a Pony ride in Chandanwari and explore its natural surroundings. These ponies can also be used to transport to reach Amarnath cave.

Know More About: Things to do in Kashmir

Travel Tips for Visiting Chandanwari Pahalgam

• Warm Clothing: Chandanwari can get quite chilly, even in summer. Pack:
• Warm jackets, Woolen sweaters, Comfortable trekking shoes
• Local Guides for Trekking: If you plan to trek to the Amarnath Cave or nearby areas, hiring a local guide will ensure safety
• Start Early in the Day: To enjoy Chandanwari without the crowds, start your journey early in the morning.
• Limited Facilities: Chandanwari is a remote area with limited shops and amenities.
• Permits for Amarnath Yatra: If you are visiting Chandanwari as part of the Amarnath Yatra, ensure you have the necessary permits

Where to Stay 

While Chandanwari doesn't have major accommodations, there are Guest Houses for Trekking travellers. The nearby town of Pahalgam, just 16 km away, offers many stay options that cater to all travellers. From luxury resorts to mountain views to cosy homestays and budget guesthouses, Pahalgam is the best base for exploring Chandanwari and surrounding attractions.

Weather in Chandanwari

Chandanwari enjoys cool and pleasant weather, especially between April and October. Days are mildly warm, while nights get chilly, with temperatures ranging between 8°C to 20°C. Occasional rain showers are common in spring, so carrying warm layers and waterproof gear is wise.

The best time to visit Chandanwari Pahalgam

The best time to visit is in the summer season from May to July. The place remains partially open in winter due to heavy snowfall.

Summer: It is the best season to visit Chandanwari and you can enjoy natural green meadows along with flowers, flowing streams, and snowy peaks. Besides, in the summer season, the Amarnath yatra begins and tourists can visit the cave and pay their respects.

Winter: From November to March, this place gets closed or remains partially open due to heavy snowfall. In winter, you can enjoy snow skiing and sledding.

Know More About: Best time to Visit Kashmir

How to reach Chandanwari

Chandanwari is 16 kilometres from Pahalgam and can be reached via road or flight.

By Flight: Srinagar Airport is the nearest airport to reach Chandanwari Pahalgam. After reaching the airport, you can travel via a taxi or cab to Pahalgam and then on foot or pony to Chandanwari.

By road: If you are travelling by road, you can book a cab or taxi from Srinagar to reach Anantnag. After reaching Anantnag, you can book another cab to Pahalgam and then travel by pony to Chandanwari.

By Train: The closest railway station is Jammu Tawi, approximately 285 km away. You can hire a taxi from Jammu or take a bus to Pahalgam.

Know More About: How To Reach Kashmir

Frequently asked questions

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