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Offbeat Jammu & Kashmir

Aru Valley

Jammu & Kashmir, India· Last updated

Aru Valley, offbeat Jammu & Kashmir — landscape view
Aru Valley — photo 2
Aru Valley — photo 3
Best time
April–October, with June-September the main trekking season for Kolahoi and the Great Lakes.
Getting there
Srinagar Airport, approx. 100 km.

Nearest Airport

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Aru Valley sits a short drive from Pahalgam, a meadow village that serves as both a scenic destination in its own right and the primary trailhead for two of Kashmir's most significant treks — the route toward Kolahoi Glacier and the broader Kashmir Great Lakes circuit. The valley's open grazing meadows, framed by pine forest and mountain views, offer genuine reward for casual visitors, while its trekking infrastructure serves those attempting the more demanding routes beyond. Aru Valley suits both relaxed day-trippers from Pahalgam and serious trekkers beginning multi-day journeys — pony rides across the meadow, quiet walks, and simply enjoying the valley's pastoral scenery fill an easy day, while those continuing toward Kolahoi Glacier or the Great Lakes face a genuinely demanding, multi-day undertaking.

Nearby highlights

Aru Meadow

The village's central grazing meadow.

Kolahoi Glacier Trek

A significant multi-day trek starting from Aru.

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

A longer, more demanding circuit beginning in this valley.

Pahalgam

The nearest significant town, a short drive away.

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How to reach Aru Valley

Nearest Airport: Srinagar Airport, approx. 100 km. Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station, approx. 105 km. By Road: From Pahalgam, drive to Aru Valley, roughly 12 km, taking approximately 30-40 minutes.

Best time to visit

April–October, with June-September the main trekking season for Kolahoi and the Great Lakes.

Where it is

Packages that cover Aru Valley

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