Aru Valley

Overview

Aru Valley, nestled 12 km from Pahalgam at an altitude of 7,800 feet, is a pristine meadow village at the base of the magnificent Kolahoi Glacier. This serene valley offers breathtaking natural beauty with its evergreen forests, gushing Lidder River, and panoramic mountain vistas, serving as both a tranquil retreat and gateway to multiple Himalayan treks.

Top Attractions in Aru Valley

Aru Meadows

Expansive green meadows dotted with wildflowers in summer, perfect for peaceful walks and spectacular mountain photography.

Lidder River

Crystal-clear glacial river flowing through the valley, offering opportunities for trout fishing and riverside picnics.

Kolahoi Glacier Trek Base

Starting point for the popular trek to Kolahoi Glacier, Kashmir's largest glacier nicknamed the "Goddess of Light.

Lidderwat

Beautiful camping site reached via a 10 km trek from Aru, featuring alpine meadows and pristine wilderness.

Tarsar Marsar Trek Route

Gateway to one of Kashmir's most beautiful twin lake treks, offering challenging but rewarding mountain adventures.

Shopping

Limited shopping opportunities include handcrafted woolen garments, traditional Kashmiri embroidery, local honey, dried fruits, and herbs sold by villagers. Small shops near the main entrance sell trekking essentials and handmade souvenirs. For more extensive shopping, Pahalgam markets offer greater variety of authentic Kashmiri handicrafts.

Dinning And Nightlife

Sample local cuisine at small eateries like Valley View Restaurant and Aru Cafe. Try Kashmiri specialties such as Rogan Josh, Wazwan dishes, and Kahwa tea. Most accommodations offer in-house dining with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Nightlife is virtually non-existent but evenings can be spent around bonfires under brilliant stars with occasional folk music performances by local artists during peak season.

Transportation and Safety Tips For Tourist

Accommodation

Limited but charming options include mid-range Hotel Heaven Retreat and Rohella Guest House, budget-friendly Hotel Pine Spring and Hotel Mountain View, basic government tourist huts maintained by JKTDC, seasonal camping sites operated by adventure tourism companies, and simple homestays with local families offering authentic Kashmiri hospitality and home-cooked meals.

Tourist season in Aru Valley

April-June: Spring blooms with moderate temperatures perfect for meadow walks and photography. July-September: Ideal trekking season with lush green landscapes though occasional rainfall can occur. October-November: Autumn colors transform the valley with fewer crowds and crisp mountain air. December-March: Heavy snowfall makes access difficult with most accommodations closed; experienced winter trekkers visit with proper equipment.

Safety Tips For Tourist

Register with local tourism office before undertaking treks. Carry necessary medications and appropriate clothing for sudden weather changes. Hire certified guides for all treks beyond the main meadow. Inform your accommodation about trekking plans and expected return time. Avoid wandering into restricted areas. Maintain environmental consciousness by not littering. Respect local customs when interacting with villagers.