Pahalgam is known for many attractions including ancient temples, entry point of Amarnath Yatra.
Today is the first anniversary of the attack in Baisaran Valley of Pahalgam, in which terrorists had gunned down 26 people. Most of them were tourists. A few days after this accident, the government launched Operation Sindoor and the brave soldiers of the army entered Pakistan and destroyed many terrorist hideouts. Many airbases were also destroyed in this attack. For the families who lost their sons, brothers and husbands in the attack, April 22 will forever be recorded as a black day.
Pahalgam is a beautiful tourist destination in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated on the banks of Lidder river. A large number of tourists come here every year. This place is known for religious pilgrimage, natural beauty and traveling experience. After the terrorist attack, the administration has currently closed Baisaran Valley due to security reasons. Security has been strengthened there but tourists are not able to go there at present. This place is on the Amarnath Yatra route. There are many Bollywood hot-spots here, where many films have also been made. Many famous temples are also in Pahalgam. Come, on the pretext of the first anniversary of the attack, let us know why Pahalgam is special?
Why is Pahalgam special? Here are 10 big reasons
1: Major route of Amarnath Yatra
There are two main routes for Amarnath Yatra. One of the traditional routes passes through Pahalgam. Because of this, Pahalgam becomes a very important stop during the travel season. The entire journey route resonates with the sounds of Bol Bam, Har-Har Mahadev.
Pahalgam is the entry point of Amarnath Yatra. Photo: Getty Images
2: Ancient Mamleshwar Temple
Mamleshwar temple in Pahalgam is considered to be several centuries old. This is Shiva temple. This is a big center of faith for devotees. Many devotees visit here before Amarnath Yatra. This temple is at an altitude of 22 hundred meters above sea level. According to mythology, this temple is related to Lord Ganesha. It was here that Mother Parvati established him as the gatekeeper.
Mamleshwar Temple of Pahalgam.
3: Lidder River banks and beautiful valley
Lidder river flows around Pahalgam. The combination of river, mountains and greenery makes this place special. The weather here is often cool and refreshing. The water of the river is so clean that tourists are often seen staring at it.
4: Beautiful Baisaran Valley
Baisaran Valley is considered to be one of the most famous places of Pahalgam. The views of open green fields, pine trees and mountains make it special. Although it does not need any nickname but common Indians also call it Mini Switzerland. After the terrorist attack, there is security in this valley but there is a ban on the movement of tourists.
Baisarn Valley is also called Mini Switzerland. Photo: Getty Images
5: Horse ride makes the experience special
People go to Pahalgam and many nearby spots by horse or pony. This experience remains memorable for many people. The livelihood of the local people is also linked to this.
6: Nearby spots like Betab Valley, Aru
Some tourist spots in Pahalgam area reopened with time, like Betab Valley and Aru etc. Due to this, tourism has slowly started returning in the area. The movement of tourists has brought relief to the local people.
Aru Valley. Photo: Getty Images
7: Trekking and Nature Walk
In Pahalgam, options like short walks, forest paths and trekking are available. Such activities suit those who like peace and nature.
8: Great location for photography
Here the morning and evening light, river, mountains and trees together create a very beautiful scene. That’s why people making photos and videos also like Pahalgam. Nowadays such places are seen a lot in reels.
9: Hot-spot of Bollywood
Pahalgam and its surrounding valleys have long been considered suitable for film locations. Many films have been shooting here. For this reason, common people also have a desire to see Bollywood’s Kashmir. Parts of films like Betaab, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, Bajrangi Bhai Jaan, Highway, Raazi, Haider were shot here. It is said that the place was named Betaab Valley after the Sunny Deol-Amrita Singh starrer film Betaab.
10: Local Market and Kashmiri Culture
Pahalgam’s local market, handicrafts available here, small food shops and the hospitality of the local people also make it special. Tourism is not just visual. The atmosphere also matters a lot.
What is the condition of Baisaran Valley today?
Even after a year after the attack, Baisaran Valley remains closed to tourists due to security reasons. Special security arrangements have been made there but the movement of tourists is closed. Barricades and barbed wire have been installed at many places on the road. After the attack, the administration had closed many tourist places. With time some places opened but Baisaran Valley is still restricted. The road leading to Baisaran was not motorable earlier. Now the government is preparing to convert the track into a motorable road to make security arrangements and easier access to relief if needed. There was a delay in reaching relief after the attack.
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