ABOUT PAHALGAM

Background

Pahalgam, a hill station perched high in the Himalayas at 2740 meters above sea level, is a dreamy location. It is 92 kilometers from Srinagar, and is located along the banks of the Lidder River. The Valley of Shepherds is located at the confluence of the Aru Valley and the Sheshnag River, and is surrounded by the Himalayan Range Mountains. This spectacular grandeur, surrounded by beautiful green meadows, snow-capped mountains, scenic valleys, and gushing rivers, has drawn travelers, trekkers, sport-lovers, and thrill-seekers alike. Pahalgam is so beautiful that even Bollywood is enamored with it. It has long been a popular site for filming films ranging from Betaab (1983) to Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015).

History

As per Archaeological evidence, the earliest human habitation in the region from the Neolithic Age was found at Burzahom in Srinagar, Bomai, and Pahalgam. The 'Valley of Shepherds,' as it is known locally, implies that nomadic shepherds have used the abundant pastures to feed their flock of sheep for ages. Hindu pilgrims have historically used the location as a transit route and rest stop on their sacred trip to Amarnath Caves. This ancient custom was first mentioned in Kalhana's 'Rajatrangini,' which was written in 1148. The most well-known account of Pahalgam's documentation dates from the Mughal dynasty. Francois Bernier's Ain-e-Akbari provides a detailed account of the Mughal administration. Therein is also mentioned the place en route to Amarnath Caves, Pahalgam.