Dal Lake – Heart of Srinagar

Jamia Masjid in Srinagar is a grand, centuries-old mosque located in the heart of the Old City, known for its unique Indo-Islamic architecture and serene courtyard. The structure features hundreds of wooden pillars, high ceilings, and a spacious open square at its center, creating an atmosphere of calm despite being surrounded by busy bazaar lanes. The mosque’s design reflects traditional Kashmiri craftsmanship, with intricate woodwork and a multi-tiered pagoda-style roof rather than typical domes. During prayer times, the mosque fills with worshippers, but at quieter hours, visitors can walk silently through the corridors and soak in the peaceful ambiance. The surrounding area is also rich in local markets, offering spices, copperware, textiles, and everyday goods. For travelers interested in culture and history, Jamia Masjid provides a powerful window into Srinagar’s spiritual and social life across generations.

Aru Valley is a scenic side valley near Pahalgam, known for its quiet meadows, pine forests, and role as a base for multiple treks in the region. Unlike the more crowded main Pahalgam stretch, Aru feels like a small mountain village with a cluster of guesthouses, homestays, and open fields surrounded by high ridges. The village is a starting point for treks to destinations like Tarsar, Marsar, and Kolahoi Glacier, attracting both serious hikers and casual walkers. Even without trekking, visitors can enjoy gentle walks, pony rides, and riverside relaxation with cooler temperatures and less noise. The mix of small-scale tourism and traditional village life gives Aru a laid-back, authentic charm. For travelers seeking a slightly offbeat yet accessible base in the Pahalgam region, Aru Valley is an excellent choice.

Chandanwari is a scenic valley near Pahalgam best known as the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra and as a popular spot for snow play and river views. Located at a higher altitude than Pahalgam town, it often holds snow longer into the season, making it attractive for visitors who want easy access to snow without long treks. The Lidder River flows forcefully through rocky terrain here, creating striking landscapes and cool, refreshing air. In peak months, travelers enjoy short hikes, sledging, and photography along the riverbanks and slopes. During the Amarnath Yatra season, Chandanwari becomes a busy transit hub, with tented facilities and pilgrims passing through towards the sacred cave. For the rest of the year, it offers a quieter mountain experience and a sense of being closer to the high Himalayas.