River rafting in Pahalgam – status 2008 and the players involved
Sight seeing, pony-rides or do-nothing vacationing aside, what really can Pahalgam offer to visiting tourists? Come to think of it, Pahalgam has its own gold mine in the form of meandering river lidder, and miles and miles of it both from Aru and Chandanwari which offer a great, world class opportunity for river rafting. Thus far, it seems like the officials have failed to realize what they are sitting on. It has been left onto small time entrepreneurs to harness this opportunity. And like the story of rest of India, they are able to pull through, inspite of all the odds. But only till a point. Objections are now being raised from many quarters.
I am optimistic that its only a matter of time when the Pahalgam Development Authority, or Tourism Department or the Fisheries Department will put their act together and lay out a holistic plan which will benefit both the locals and the tousists, and put Pahalgam on the world map of premier river rafting destinations.
At its core, whitewater rafting is simply the act of taking a raft down through turbulent areas of a river. These turbulent areas are known as rapids. Rapids are classified by six categories. Category 1 is a smooth river with no rapids. The categories climb from their too Category 6, which is either impassible or should only be attempted by experts. Most river rafting trips occur on Category 3 and 4 rapids, where the turbulence gives you an exciting ride, but with limited risk. Pahalgam from Chandanwari to Nunwan offers all 6 categories of rapids.
There seem to be three major government agencies involved in the issue. Looks like while Tourism Department would like to encourage the activity, the PDA and Fisheries department hold an opposing view. Or atleast have expressed their cocerns, to make their side of the point. The concerns and issues are genuine, though not insurmountable. Yes, you don’t want to spread garbage, you dont want to effect fauna and fishes, you want to cover the risk via some insurance cover, or at least no-liability paperwork. But at the end of it, this all is doable with proper guidelines and implementation.
Rafting provides a big economic opportunity for locals. One way to handle this is to make co-operatives of local low income people, including ponywallahs, and have them operate the rafting agencies in collaboration with experienced tour operators. This will ensure that tourist’s share of disposable budget doesn’t only go to tour operators from outside. There should only be a handful of agencies allowed, and the bigger thing is that the annual contracts should be openly auctioned off. The generated revenue should be shared amongst PDA, Tourism Department and Fisheries or Forest department to provide for facilities. Forest department can get parking fees for vehicles, Fisheries department can get to sell fishing licences. PDA can get its share to keep the area clean and tourim department can promote the facilities internationally. So on and so on…
From a news coverage in GreaterKashmir dated 5/24/2008, this is how the players/interested parties stack up:
Pahalgam Development Authority
Chief Executive Officer, Pahalgam Development Authority, (PDA), Abdul Rasheed Parray said: “While the pollution caused by the rafting affects the flora and fauna of the region, the garbage damages the shores of the Lidder river as it is not being disposed off properly.”
Fisheries Department
Fisheries Department that has raised objections to the rafting in famous Lidder Nallah here citing “disturbance of fish habitat.”
Joint Director Fisheries, Kashmir, Showkat Ali said, “The rafting boats definitely affect the flora and fauna and disturb the habitat of the fish. The government should wake up to the call and instead select some other rivers for rafting.” According to Ali the rafting agencies are violating the Fisheries Act and are operating the rafting without getting no-objection from the department.
Ponnywallahs and locals
The ponnywallas and the residents here have also objected the rafting. “Pahalgam has its own charm and people don’t visit here for rafting, so tourism department should never have given the permission to the local agencies for rafting,” said Mohu-din a local.
Tourism Department
Director Tourism Farooq Shah, however disagrees that the rafting will create pollution. “If our youth want to earn their livelihood then why this fuss,” Shah said. He said the department’s job was only to register the agencies and the permission is given after due consultation with the PDA.
Rafting Agencies
However, the owners of the rafting firms said the rafting boats don’t create any pollution. “We fail to understand how the rafting boats can affect the fauna and flora of the place and destroy the fish habitat,” they said. They said it speaks volumes about the wisdom of the authorities when they say that the garbage gets dumped into the water. “There is no connection between garbage and the rafting,” they said.
Location
Earlier (2005-2007) the rafting was conducted in Pahalgam itself. But following objections by the CEO, PDA, the spot was changed to Batakote, 2 kilometers away from here. Even as according to the application received by the PDA CEO only six agencies have been given permission by the tourism department for operation of commercial rafting, there are 13 companies presently operating their boats. Besides, the agencies are operating more boats than permitted.
Ecological impact
Per PDA, though the agencies are strictly responsible for the disposal of the solid waste material and the cleanliness of the area, the tourism department is not taking any action against the violators.
On complaints about improper disposal of waste material, Tourism Department’s Farooq said, “The PDA has been assigned the job of looking after the proper disposal of waste material and it should create facilities to ensure pollution free environment.”
Insurance
Most of the agencies according to the sources in the PDA do not have a necessary insurance cover for the raft guides and clients against risk/accident.
Shah however asked the PDA not to allow any agency to operate boats that doesn’t have proper insurance documents and violate any of the guidelines laid down by the tourism department.
Tarrif
The agencies are also charging more than the tariff fixed by the tourism department.
Related posts:
- Yatri Niwas, a low-budget hotel for Pahalgam tourists
- Hotel assosiation against construction in Nunwan, Pahalgam
- Woodstock Hotel, Pahalgam in tie up with ITIL
- Trekking routes around Pahalgam to reopen
- New Chief Executive Officer, Pahalgam Development Authority
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July 14th, 2008 at 1:49 pm
Earlier, Pahalgam used to have only 10-13 boats. Bt now their number has touched 40-45. Out of the total tourists coming to Pahalgam, 90 per cent are doing rafting
- Mohammed Ibrahim Raina, owner of a rafting boat in Pahalgam
August 17th, 2008 at 9:36 pm
White Water Rafting In Pahalgam.
Kashmir is known not only for its natural beauty but a number of other things also. One of them is adventure tourism. In fact, adventure tourism in Kashmir is one of the major draws for the tourists. An array of options exists in the valley for the adventure loving visitors. Some of the places in the valley where the adventure sports facilities are available are Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Pahalgam, Drass, etc. The mountain ranges as well as the gushing rivers of the valley provide abundant opportunities for adventure tourism in Kashmir.
The challenge of the turbulent rivers is no less than that of the rugged mountains. The icy heights of the Himalayas are the source of some of India’s mighty rivers. Fed by innumerable streams they race along tortuous boulder strewn beds, cutting deep gorges and breaking into silvery white rapids.
With the intricate network of mountain rivers flowing through a myriad of different colours of rocky gorges, forests, flowers and high mountain villages, the Lidder River Pahalgam provide ideal locales for the perfect water adventure.
The sport of white water river rafting calls for a triumph over the swift swirling river as it gushes past spectacular mountains. It is practised mainly in the upper reaches where the water is wild and white as it frothes and foams, crashing against narrow gorges, rocky outcrops and falls at deep gradients.
As with trekking, mountaineering and other sports, river rafting too has been classified and graded in terms of degrees of difficulty. The suitable period for river running depends on the adequacy of water volume. Thus April to September are most appropriate. The equipment required is ordinary outdoor gear, goggles, antiseptic cream and a liking for getting wet.
By .Mountain Magic Trek,n,Tours
Pahalgam
Phone.243255
211076
August 30th, 2008 at 6:54 pm
Pahalgam is great place to do the rafting and we have 8 boats.
phone is 01936-243072
September 1st, 2008 at 5:38 pm
Shooting the rapids,
We now offer white water rafting trips down the Lidder River in Pahalgam, Kashmir. The season for rafting is May to August and the trips go for 30 minutes and approximately 3 kms. It is a beautiful trip winding down the Lidder River through the natural forests and down the exhilerating rapids.
No experience required all training provided. Each boat takes 6 passengers with 2 rafting guides with helmets and life jackets provided. Available for anyone over 12 years old.
By-Himalaya Fun N Tours
Pahalgam
call-243072
March 17th, 2009 at 7:44 am
KHALID GUL
Srinagar, Mar 11: The commercial rafting operators of J&K today resolved to promote and develop rafting in all the feasible parts of the state.
The operators formed an association under the name J&K Commercial Rafting Operators Association to explore the possibilities of introducing the rafting wherever possible in the state.
The oper;ators unanimously elected Muhammad Ibrahim,Raina , Muhammad Yusuf Hakeem, Ishfaq Khan and Murad Bhat as President, Vice President, Secretary General, Joint Secretary and Treasurer respectively. Many owners of the different travel agencies were elected as Executive Members of the association.
The members said the rafting which was one of the most exiting and thrilling adventure sport was introduced very recently in Kashmir and had now about 13 registered rafting companies operating in diffident parts of the Valley.
Like other travel trade companies, the rafting companies suffered the huge financial losses in 2008 due to Amarnath land row.
“Rafting played a lead role in developing the adventure tourism and is in the process of attracting more tourists to the places where it is run,” the association said.
The association has decided to explore the possibility of introducing rafting in other white water rivers of J&K in 2009 and will also organize a Grand Rafting Marathon from Langabal to Botakot in the Lidder river in May 2009.
March 28th, 2009 at 5:29 am
white water rafting is one of famous rafting in pahalgam.
and really enjoy ful for the tourists.
so do it dont miss.
March 28th, 2009 at 9:17 pm
As for i know about the white water rafting,all these guys are working hard but same time they are also pullling eachother legs and they have be one.
March 29th, 2009 at 8:49 pm
The white water rafting will started in mid April.
March 30th, 2009 at 4:25 am
Phalgam is known for best trekking area,you can have days hikes,horse riding and fishing,more and you will know youself.
March 31st, 2009 at 5:45 am
Mike,
are there alot of NEW…. places to Stay ?
i dont know ….
were but i have understood its just booming up there.
in Hopes people do read this Site
why dont you list a few (that you know are Safe 1st Hand)
and as far as being rich….
be rich from heart and the rest will follow
Blessings Josie Hakeem
April 15th, 2009 at 11:27 am
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April 17th, 2009 at 6:05 am
KROA to start river rafting at Pahalgam ahead of schedule
Srinagar, Apr 10: Looking forward to a good tourist inflow this season to Kashmir, the local rafting operators have decided to start the river rafting at the famous tourist resort Pahalgam soon.
This was decided at a meeting of operators held under the banner of Kashmir Rafting Operators’ Association (KROA).
The thirteen-member executive committee of the association decided that the rafting would be started on Lidder at Yenner village in Pahalgam “as early as possible.”
The meeting was informed that the members had already submitted applications to the directorate of tourism (Kashmir) seeking permission. “The applications are under process in the department,” the members said, while requesting director tourism Farooq Shah to look into the matter and expedite the grant of permission.
The members said the river rafting had become one of the most exciting and attractive segments of adventure tourism in the Valley particularly at Pahalgam.
“Thousands of enthusiastic tourists, both men and women, love to take a joyride on rafts during their visit to Pahalgam,” they said, adding that like Gondola at Gulmarg, river rafting at Pahalgam was catching up fast among domestic tourists.
The association requested the government to give some incentives to operating agencies “who have invested huge amount on raising the expensive equipment.”
“Last year we suffered extensive financial losses in the wake of land controversy. We appeal to the government to compensate us for those losses,” they said.
Meanwhile, the association has decided to launch an awareness drive on water pollution. “The association would hold a rafting rally on Jehlum, Lidder, Sindh and other rivers in the Valley very soon,” the members said.
The association has also planned to organize a crisis management training program for the dwellers living in low lying areas where the floods frequently occur.
The association also stressed upon the tourism department to organize professional raft guide courses so that the local unemployed youth could be trained to exploit fully this hitherto neglected adventure sport.
April 17th, 2009 at 10:55 pm
Yenner is before Pahalgam,it about 15 k.m.so it not really at Pahalgam.
Everyone had been stressed last year 2008,it is whole Kashmir.
June 10th, 2009 at 9:35 am
When the Yatra will started this year because i really would love vist to Amarnath.
June 10th, 2009 at 6:20 pm
what is weather look likes now in and i do need warm cloths and what else?!Thanks
June 10th, 2009 at 7:56 pm
I am thinking how safe it is yatra time to vist Kashmir but how many days it will take to walk to Amarnath from Pahalgam or from baltal,whatever is easy way to get there.
I would like go to Pahlagam and then started from there,like to do some few day walks or camping arround in Aru valley.
June 10th, 2009 at 9:56 pm
The Yatra is supposed to start June 15; however there are clouds over the start date due to heavy snow (as stated by SASB); the other school of thought is that its getting delayed due to protests taking place in the valley.
The Yatra will continue till August 5.
If you are already not there, just plan to be in Pahalgam and stay there for a couple of days. You will surely find a window to travel further to Amarnath. Registering for Yatra is highly recommended.
As of now its slightly chilly in Pahalgam, but it can get really cold on the way, especially if it starts to snow or rain. You would need to stay overnight in tents; you will be provided with thick comforters there; but plan to take your own sheets and take good, water proof clothing. Take a flashlight, first aid, usual stuff you would take on a hike/trek. But you will get plenty of food and drinks on the way, so don’t worry on that account.
Its very safe; don’t worry on that aspect (you have more chances of getting run down by a car when you go for a walk tonight, than anything happening in Kashmir).
If you are very atheletic and have built up high altitude stamina, you can do the entire trip back and forth from Pahalgam in 2 days. Locals and “pony-wallahs” are actually able to do that days on end! But lets get realistic – plan on 2-3 nights of halt if the weather is kind. The way to Amarnath, if you have a religious motivation, and actually even more so if you have adventure in mind, is via Pahalgam route. Baltal route, no offense, is phoney.
Planning to spend a few days in Pahalgam is an excellent idea. Its a retreat! Stay there, walk around, hike to Baisaran, or stay a night at Aru (not sure how much of a company you will have there at nights). Just chill – eat out, meet people. Enjoy nature. No place like it.
June 10th, 2009 at 10:56 pm
Looking forward and thanks.
June 11th, 2009 at 10:17 pm
Hello,
Just want know that why in kashmir,the strikes and closed every day,it not good for biz. and people of the valley.
we read everyday about the weekly strikes,so how long it is going on,do people enjoy it!!
It makes toursits off from visting the valley.Thanks
June 14th, 2009 at 12:17 am
Hello,what about river rafting in Pahalgam,is it in Pahalgam or before,is it good time to do river rafting this time of year?
Anyway we will see!
June 14th, 2009 at 12:46 am
Strike is a way of protest against authority – which is common all over India, but more so in Kashmir. Its an accepted feature of how Democrary works. But its also kind of funny – you express anger and protest by further harming your interests.
If its spontaneous and expresses how a mass of people think, its one thing. But many a times, shopkeepers and offices don’t want to take a chance against the political workers, and kind of go with them and shutter their operations.
The worst kind is when it keeps dragging. Hopefully the current protests in Kashmir would end soon as almost everyone, from the State Government to the Federal Home Minister have moved against the Army men who went over board.
People don’t enjoy it – like I said, its just an expression of protest (may be some people do like it not to have to work as well!)
Its bad for the business for sure as it creates a lot of uncertainity. The day may not be too far away when people realize that should only do as little as possible to adversely effect their own business and financial interests and find other democratic means to express protest.
Well, about river rafting – currently River Rafting is conducted from Nunwan, which is a few kilometers short of Pahalgam. The timing could not be better – its June, the warmest of the months, when the weather generally is very kind as well.
June 14th, 2009 at 5:59 am
well it great to hear all this information.thanks
June 15th, 2009 at 10:46 pm
How is the weather in Pahalgam and Baltal,hope the rain will stop very soon.
June 15th, 2009 at 10:48 pm
i just heard that the yatra has stop near baltal?
June 15th, 2009 at 10:49 pm
what about Pahalgam route is open or only Baltal.
June 15th, 2009 at 10:52 pm
What about the fresh snow fall,when the weather will better,hope soon.
Thanks
June 15th, 2009 at 10:57 pm
I just want do a 3days trek to Aru and lidderwhat,kolhi and because i am planing to stay for 4 weeks in kashmir and Amarnath.
Hope that the weather will be better and nore sunshine.
June 15th, 2009 at 11:12 pm
what about the strike is still on or it is off beause lots of my friends want vist kashmir valley.
June 16th, 2009 at 4:15 am
The sparkling streams,the happy murmuring of myriads brooks,the limpidity of its sheety lakes and the sublime beauty of the mountain tarns,the splendour of snow coverd sunny flower-laden highlands and meadows.
Arround Phalgam there are many places of interest,and if made as the base there several historical places of great importance,trekking routes and high altitude lakes for adventure.
these places,water bodies offer virgin and panoramic views and novel vistas bestowed by nature.
June 16th, 2009 at 8:11 pm
In yatra time it not good time to go for a long trek,only you can do the short walks and day hikes,that is best thing to do at yatra time.
After or before yatra,you can do long and short treks and camping,you go walk to Aru village,unless you do yatra to Amarnath cave.
June 16th, 2009 at 8:20 pm
Hope the weather will good soon,so all the yatras will be from Pahalgam but might take more one weeks but now you do yatra from Baltal.
June 16th, 2009 at 10:05 pm
Pahlagam is bit cold at moment because of the rain and the yatra will soon from Pahalgam rout,so please bring the warm cloths,like jackets,sweaters etc.
June 16th, 2009 at 10:07 pm
Everything is ready for all the yatra but we all pray for the weather.lets hope the weather will good and warm and hot.
June 16th, 2009 at 10:09 pm
You can enjoy the white river rafting and much more.
June 16th, 2009 at 10:17 pm
Pilgrims take a taxi 16kms to Chandiwari then they walk or take a pony to the cave and back which takes at least 2 days with an overnight stay in either Shishnag or Panchtarni. It is a trip not for the faint hearted as it is quite arduous though the faithful in their devotion to Shiva push on regardless and always make it.
June 16th, 2009 at 10:30 pm
The valley has inspired poets and enchanted everyone who has witnessed it, drawn eulogies from monarchs and wonder from the connoisseur, is now yours at its best. Srinagar with its little bazaars, climb up to the hills where Shankaracharya a 1500 year old temple is, picturesque Moghul gardens, Dal & Nageen lakes and much more. Pahalgam a valley of Shepard’s is a resort that has at its heart a cascading mountain stream flanked by the majestic Himalayas. Treks and walks abound in all directions. At Pahalgam, nature at its finest stretches out in all directions. At 9000 feet, Gulmarg is almost unbelievable. Nestled on top of soaring mountains, suddenly, there is the most picture-book meadow your eyes have ever seen. Gulmarg offers golf, Gondola ride and much more. Kashmir every time you see it, it seems even more beautiful and enchanting.
June 17th, 2009 at 8:03 pm
The weather has been not good,it just rains everday and been fresh snow falls.
June 18th, 2009 at 1:34 am
How is the weather now in Kashmir,hope that will better soon.thanks
June 18th, 2009 at 1:35 am
It did had fresh snow fall!
June 18th, 2009 at 1:36 am
I am looking forward go See shiva in Amranath cave.
June 18th, 2009 at 1:53 am
According to an ancient tale, there was once a Muslim shepherd named Buta Malik who was given a sack of coal by a sadhu. Upon reaching home he discovered that the sack, in fact, contained gold. Overjoyed and overcome, Buta Malik rushed back to look for the sadhu and thank him, but on the spot of their meeting discovered a cave, and eventually this became a place of pilgrimage for all believers. To date, a percentage of the donations made by pilgrims are given to the descendants of Malik, and the remaining to the trust which manages the shrine.
Yet another legend has it that when Kashap Reshi drained the Kashmir valley of water (it was believed to have been a vast lake), the cave and the lingam were discovered by Bregish Reshi who was travelling the Himalayas. When people heard of the lingam, Amarnathji for them became Shiva’s abode and a centre of pilgrimage.
June 18th, 2009 at 2:01 am
Wazawan is usually served at weddings and parties. The most commonly served items are rista (meat balls) made of finely pounded mutton and cooked in a gravy; seekh kababs, tabak maz, or flat pieces of meat cut from the ribs and fried till they acquire a crisp crackling texture, roganjosh, which owes its rich red colour to the generous use of Kashmiri chillies. Yakhni, a cream coloured preparation of delicate flavour, is made with curd as a base. Gushtaba, which is the last item to be served in a traditional wazawan, are meatballs moulded from pounded mutton like large-sized Rista but cooked in thick gravy of fresh curd base. Dam-Aaloo and chaman are the commonly served vegetarian dishes – to serve more than this would indicate an unseemly tendency on the part of the host to economize!.
June 18th, 2009 at 2:25 am
Martand, located atop a plateau, close to the township of Anantnag, has a temple dedicated to Surya, the “Sun God”. Built by king Laitaditya Muktapida (7th to 8th century AD), it is a medieval temple with a colonnaded courtyard and the shrine in its centre. The temple complex has 84 columns and offers a commanding view of the valley of Kashmir.
June 18th, 2009 at 8:10 am
The Himalayan pilgrimages are the oldest organised travel system, evolved over time by Hindu sages and embodying the spirit of wander, adventure and spirituality.
June 18th, 2009 at 8:57 pm
I am looking forward to do the yatra.
June 18th, 2009 at 9:03 pm
Srinagar is one of the most frequently visited destinations in India and a big hit with the honeymooners who find the serene environments and the picturesque surroundings at Srinagar very enticing. There’s ‘something’ in the landscapes and the atmosphere of the place that makes the couples shed their inhibitions and express their love for each other with a gay abandon. No wonder, Srinagar is sometimes called the “Lovers’ Paradise” and the “Number One Honeymoon Destination of India .
June 18th, 2009 at 9:13 pm
Gulmarg, the most exotic ski resort in the Himalayas, has been a favoured winter destination for many years. The first ski club of India was set up by the British here in 1927. Gulmarg’s position as a prime ski destination has been reinforced at two functions held in the national capital recently.
June 18th, 2009 at 9:15 pm
The Jama Masjid at Nowhatta, in the heart of the old city, is the other important mosque in Srinagar at which thousands of people congregate for the Friday prayers. Of imposing proportions, the mosque is built around a courtyard and is supported by 370 wooden pillars
June 18th, 2009 at 9:18 pm
The sixth Sikh guru travelled through Kashmir, stopping to preach occasionally. A gurudwara has been built at the exact site of each of these halts. The most important one among these is Chhatti Padshahi gurudwara, situated near the Kathi Darwaza, in Rainawari, Srinagar, which is held in great reverence by devotees of all faiths
June 19th, 2009 at 2:21 am
Kolohoi Glacier, situated up the Lidder Valley, just below Mount Kolohoi, is currently a hanging glacier. It is basically hollowed out from global warming, the Asian brown cloud, and local environmental factors associated with mountain hydrology. According to the mountaineers from Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering (JIM)in 2008, the glacier has receded by half since 1985. The glacier is not safe to study because it is hollow and in places has 200 foot deep crevasses. The sounds of cracking can be heard from either side of the ice field, which indicates an imminent collapse. The preferred method of approach for viewing is to take the right side. This approach offers less boulder fields on the approach, and the occasional goat/horse/cattle herder can be approached for cheese and Kashmiri tea on the way. Reaching Kolohoi, trekking up the Lidder Valley, you will encounter some of the most difficult terrain in the western Himalaya, but the views are breathtaking.
June 19th, 2009 at 5:55 am
Kahwah is a traditional green tea recipe from Kashmir. The tea is made from green tea leaves with saffron strands, cinnamon bark and cardamom pods.Some varieties are made as a herbal infusion only, without the green tea leaves. Generally, it is served with sugar or honey, and crushed nuts, usually almonds or walnuts. There is another form of tea that is quite famous amongst the locals, its called ‘Namkeen Chai’ or ‘Nun Chai’. It is pink in color and is also called Pink Tea. It is made from black tea, cardamom, various spices, salt and bicarbonate of soda. Also people like nune toath and dum toath which are very famous among sufis. Nunetoath is nunechai without milk and Dumtoath is strong form of Kahwah.
June 19th, 2009 at 8:28 pm
Kashmiri food is suitable for all palates. Predominantly non-vegetarian, “Wazwaan” as it is called is the royal cuisine of Kashmir. Described by the author Salman Rushdie in his book, Shalimar the Clown, Wazwaan is a banquet of thirty-six courses minimum and sixty courses maximum. It’s a preparation of a number of spicy meat dishes served with traditional rice by professional chefs called “Wazas”. Kashmiri wazwaan has its origin in Persia and is almost always served in Kashmiri marriage parties. It also has some interesting vegetarian options like dum-aloo and ‘chaman’ (cooked cheese). Among the popular non-vegetarian delicacies are curd based Gushtaba, chilli-flavoured Rishta and Roganjosh
June 19th, 2009 at 10:33 pm
The main attraction here is the Gondola. Finished in 2004, it runs up to 3995 meters. A sight seeing trip to the top of the gondola will cost you Rs. 300 for Stage one and Rs. 800 for stage two(inclusive of the cost of Stage one) for a return trip; singles (for skiiers for example!) are half the price, with a day pass available for 1200rs. You can decide whether you wish to go to Stage two when you have reached stage one. Stage two is at a much higher elevation, right on the hill top and is clearly visible from the Gulmarg taxi stand.
June 20th, 2009 at 11:20 pm
The Yatra is only from Baltal yet but the weatheris better than last week,it is warm and sunshine.
June 20th, 2009 at 11:51 pm
Amarnathji yatra holds great significance for the devotees, especially of Lord Shiva. It is believed that an ice Shivalinga forms in the cave of Amarnath in every lunar month. The Shivalinga starts taking shape on the first day of the bright half of the month and forms fully on the full moon day and then begins to dissolve on the no moon day. There are four to five ice figures resembling various deities inside the Amarnath cave. As per the custom, the largest one is believed to be of Amarnath (Lord Shiva), one on its left of Lord Ganesha and ones on the right of Parvati and Bhairava respectively.
June 21st, 2009 at 9:30 am
The holy Yatra to Amarnath glamoured the tourists when they are moving by helicopter passing through the tremendous wilderness, mountain and rambling forest. We are one of the best service providers with exciting helicopter rides to Amarnath. We are the best in market for helicopter Amarnath Yatra. Our helicopter services start from Sonmarg to Amarnath and Srinagar to Amarnath.
June 21st, 2009 at 9:31 am
This is another route trek to reach to Amarnath from Jammu with a total distance of about 400 Kms. It is here on this trek route the visitors experience Jammu & Kashmir as a heaven or a paradise on earth while passing through the natural bounty of beautiful valleys, steeped mountains that make Amarnath Yatra memorable throughout the lifetime. The important destinations covered under this route are Udhampur – Kud – Patnitop – Ramban – Banihal – Kazi Gund – Anantnag – Srinagar – Sonamarg – Baltal. The width of the pebbled road is somewhat narrow in comparison to Pahalgam route.
June 21st, 2009 at 9:34 am
Yatra will begin from 15th of June and will conclude on Raksha Bandhan which falls on 5th of August.
June 21st, 2009 at 9:37 am
Because of the unpredictable weather conditions, which often are wet and extremely cold during the Yatra period, pilgrims are advised to carry rain coat, woollen clothing, small umbrella (with head elastic band and strap around chin), walking stick , dry fruits, torch and personal medical kits etc.
June 21st, 2009 at 9:53 am
As you walk through the trek, you may face the scarcity oxygen; that is why it is advisable to increase your body efficiency of oxygen through deep breathing exercise or through Yoga exercise like Prana Yam.
June 21st, 2009 at 9:56 am
Thanks Pandit,all this use all Holy cave Yatras.
Dhar
June 21st, 2009 at 7:09 pm
Please Pandit,we want more about Holy Amarnath cave on this site and it helps us know about more.
Boombole
June 21st, 2009 at 7:21 pm
Every year lakhs of pilgrims visit this holy shrine. The yathra to Amarnath begins at Srinagar on the month of shravan. Subsequent halts are at Avantipur, Brijbihara, Martand, Pahalgam, Chandanwadi, Wavjan and the Mahagunus Pass. From here, the Amarnath cave is reached on the full moon day, and the pilgrimage is complete, the more common practice is to begin the journey from Pahalgam.
Shri Amarnath Welfare Committee undertakes welfare activities regarding provision for boarding and lodging facilities free of cost on the route to the cave shrine.
June 21st, 2009 at 7:27 pm
Amarnath – One of the holy trinity, Shiva is a living god. The most sacred and most ancient book of India, the Rig Veda evokes his presence in its hymns, Vedic Myths, rituals and even testify to his existance from the dawn of time. Legend has it that Shiva recounted to Parvati the secret of creation in a cave in Amarnath. Unknown to them, a pair of doves eavesdropped on this conversation and having learnt the secret, are reborn again and again, and have made the cave their eternal abode. The annual yatra to Holy Amarnath Cave, situated at 14000 ft. The intending pilgrims are allowed to perform darshan from Ashard Purnimashi to Shravan Purnimashi which course spreads over a month or so.
June 21st, 2009 at 7:58 pm
The story narrated by people about the discovery of this Holy Cave is of a Gujjar ( shepherd) Buta Malik . He is given the credit of discovering this Holy Cave . Story goes like this , that a saint gave Buta Malik a bag full of Coal. On reaching his home when he opened the bag , to his utter surprise the bag was full of gold coins . This made him overwhelmed with joy. He ran to thank the Saint . But, what he found was that the Saint had disappeared . Instead , he found The Holy Cave and Shiv Lingam there in . He announced the discovery of this to the Villagers. Then onwards this has become the sacred place of Pilgrimage .
June 21st, 2009 at 9:39 pm
The Nubra valley lies in the north of leh and is accessible over the Khardungla pass 5600 Mtrs which is one of the highest motorable roads in the world.
The valley is on the trade route from leh to Khangar via Samsar and Karakoram pass. Apart from unparallel trekking opportunities. The valley have several Buddhist Gompas Diskit Gompa is 350 years old and is situated on the highest point near the village in which there are about 120 Resident Buddhist Monks.
Nubra valley is also known for its double humped bacterian camels. The camels are led in the forest to graze during summer and brought back during winter season.
June 21st, 2009 at 10:36 pm
The farthest and the most isolated part of the Suru Valley, Rangdum is an elliptical expanded plateau surrounded by colourful hills on the one side and glacier encrusted rocky mountains on the other. Situated 130 kms South- east of Kargil, it falls midway between Kargil and Padum. Due to its remoteness from inhabited parts either of Suru or Zanskar, the areas wild beauty is almost haunting, while its isolation is near perfect even as the unpaved Zanskar road traverses its length. The chief attraction of this area is an imposing 18th century Buddhist monastery with lots monks in residence. Perched picturesquely atop a centrally rising hillock which is entrenched around by the bifurcated course of a wild mountain stream, the Rangdum monastery has the aura of an ancient fortification guarding a mystical mountain valley. The villagers are descendents of the monastery’s agricultural, serf-tenants, who do not own any land in the region. The monastery enjoys perpetual and unalienable ownership of the entire valley including the fields tilled by the villagers, the pastures, hills and even the streams. Rangdum also serves as an important trekking base. The most popular trek from here leads to Henaskut near Lamayuru, across the spectacular gorge of the kanji valley.
June 24th, 2009 at 2:46 am
Discovery of Holy Cave
The story narrated by people about the discovery of this Holy Cave is of a Gujjar ( shepherd) Buta Malik . He is given the credit of discovering this Holy Cave . Story goes like this , that a saint gave Buta Malik a bag full of Coal. On reaching his home when he opened the bag , to his utter surprise the bag was full of gold coins . This made him overwelmed with joy. He ran to thank the Saint . But, what he found was that the Saint had disappeared . Instead , he found The Holy Cave and Shiv Lingam there in . He announced the discovery of this to the Villagers. Then onwards this has become the sacred place of Pilgrimage .
The ancient epics narrate an other story which goes like this. The valley of Kashmir was under water .It was a big lake. Kashyap Rishi drained the water through number of rivers and rivulets . In those days Bhrigu Rishi came that way on a visit to The Himalyas. He was the first to have Darshans of this Holy Cave . When people heard of the Lingam, Amarnath for them became Shiva’s abode and a Centre of pilgrimage . Since then Lacs of devotees perform the pilgrimage through tough terrain and avail eternal happiness.
The trek to Amarnath, in the month of sharavan ( July–August) has the devout flock to this incredible shrine, where the image of Shiva, in the form of a Lingam, is formed naturally of an Ice Stalagmite, which waxes and wanes with the Moon’s cycle . By its side are fascinating, two more Ice Lingams, that of Maa Parvati and of their son, Ganesha .
June 24th, 2009 at 2:50 am
Because of the unpredictable weather conditions, which often are wet and extremely cold during the Yatra period, pilgrims are advised to carry rain coat, woollen clothing, small umbrella (with head elastic band and strap around chin), walking stick , dry fruits, torch and personal medical kits etc.
June 24th, 2009 at 9:19 am
Keep a slip with your Name, Address and the name of accompanying yatri in your pocket
Take water bottle , dry fruit, and baked grams with you during journey.
Keep some cold cream or vaseline with you to protect skin from cold winds
Take a little relaxation on steep inclines and don’t exert yourself too much .
Yatris are advised to follow the instructions issued by Yatra Administration.
It is requested that do provide all needful help to the co-devotee travelling with you.
Perform yatra with a pious mind and keep enchanting “Om Namah Shivay” all the way.
During the Yatra from Pahalgam onward , keep your clothes and eatables in plastic bag to avoid the things being drenched during the rain
Carry some common medicines such as Glucose, Disprin etc. with you for immediate relief.
Sari is not suitable dress for the Yatra .Ladies should not wear saris as it may be very inconvenient. Salwar kameej, pant shirt or Track suit will be very comfortable.
Keep the horses / ponies with your luggage and Coolies along side as it is difficult to trace them in case you are separated from them. More over you may need some of those useful items from luggage any time at a short notice.
Best suitable shoes are Hunter shoes and most comfortable Dress is woollen track suit.
The best way to perform Yatra is to keep a steady and slow pace. Don’t exert more by fast walking . The moral of the story of Hare and tortoise is best applicable here.
June 25th, 2009 at 8:38 am
Holy cave is situated at end lidder valley at the height of 3888 Mts. 12755.7504 feets above sea level and 46 Kms from Pehalgam and 14 Kms from Baltal. From Pehalgam it is 5 Days return journey and Baltal is 28 Kms return journey and takes almost 12 to 16 hours by trek Subjected to weather and trek conditions. The Holy cave was re-discovered by Buda Malik who was given a big of charcoal by the Saint near the Cave. When he reached home and gave the bag to his father. The Surprised when the saw a bag full of Gold Coins. They run Back near the cave to thank the saint but the sant had disappeared instead they found only ice Shiv Lingam there only. And they announced the discovery to their villagers. Another option from Baltal is Helicopter for that purpose you have to contact us advance for reservation. For elder people who wish to perform yatra by DHANDI should also contact in advance for reservation.
July 1st, 2009 at 9:36 pm
This is The Cave which was chosen by Bhole Shankar for narrating the secrets of immortality and creation of Universe to Maa Parvati ji. The story goes like this. Centuries ago Maa Parvati asked Shiv ji to let her know why and when He started wearing the beads of heads (Mund Mala). Bhole Shankar replied when ever you are born I add one more head in my beads. Maa Parvati said,”My Lord, my body is destroyed every time and I die again and again, but you are Immortal. Please let me know the secret of this.”Bhole Shankar replied that it is due to Amar Katha.”
Maa Parvati insisted that she may be told that secret. For long Shiva ji continued postponing. Finally on consistent demand from Maa Parvati He made up his mind to tell the immortal secret. He started for lonely place where no living being could listen it . He choose Amarnath Cave. In preparation to that He left His Nandi (The Bull which He used to ride ) at Pahalgam (Bail gaon). At Chandanwari He released Moon from his hairs (Jataon). At the banks of Lake Sheshnag He released the snakes. He decided to leave his Son Ganesha at Mahagunas Parvat (Mahaganesh Hill ). At Panjtarni, Shivji left the Five Elements behind (Earth, Water, Air, Fire and Sky) which make living being. He is the Lord of these elements. It is believed that as a symbol of sacrificing the earthly world, Shivaji and Maa Parvati had Tandav Dance. After leaving behind all these, Bhole Shankar enters the Holy Amarnath Cave along with Parvati Maa. Lord Shiva takes his Samadhi on the Deer Skin and concentrate. To ensure that no living being is able to hear the Immortal Tale, He created Rudra named Kalagni and ordered him to spread fire to eliminate every living thing in and around the Holy Cave. After this He started narrating the secret of immortality to Maa Parvati. But as a matter of chance one egg which was lying beneath the Deer skin remained protected. It is believed to be non living and more over it was protected by Shiva-Parvati Asan (Bed). The pair of pigeons which were born out of this egg became immortal having listened the secret of immortality (Amar Katha).
Many pilgrims report seeing the pair of pigeons when they trek the arduous route to pay their obeisance before the Ice-Lingam (the phallic symbol of Shiva).
July 12th, 2009 at 12:27 am
Arun, thanks for the feedback. Pahalgam.com currently indeed has a mixture of old and new pictures. Will try and update with some of the newer ones. You are welcome to Register as an Author on this site and contribute your views since you recently visited Pahalgam. You can also upload pictures if you have some.
July 20th, 2009 at 8:13 pm
I am really sorry that did not upload new photos yet but i will have more time this week and then download the new photos.Thanks
Arun
Punjab
August 26th, 2009 at 10:16 pm
To all – please do not leave any comments of personal nature on this site. All comments of this nature have been removed, and will not be approved.
If any such comment has been overlooked, please contact admin at admin[a] pahalgam.com.
August 30th, 2009 at 11:01 pm
Please, as much as anyone can understand the emotions behind leaving comments of personal nature – this site is really about Pahalgam. And this post is about River Rafting activities in Pahalgam so that visitors to Pahalgam can benefit.
There is the entire World Wide Web (Internet) with all its blogs and sites that can be used for giving personal feedback on some topic (a useful site is http://www.yelp.com).
As a matter of policy, the personal comments have to removed.
Thanks for understanding!
September 11th, 2009 at 5:30 am
i am taking 16 people to Kashmir.
please tell me is there any permits i must have before raftig?
also please Advise me on the Safty in Kashmir at this time i am looking on the net and see alot of things.
we also would like to Stay close to Pahalgam but not in the Small town unless there is space for belly dancing,yoga, and just room for 16 Women.
we need lots of bathrooms also can we order our fishing lic on line?
if anyone would like to talk with us about your rooms
and or permits you may put it here on this site. or write
Josie Della Casa
at
Whatsunique@yahoo.com
Thank you and Blesings to you and yours
Josie
September 12th, 2009 at 11:15 am
Unbelievable!!!
Thank you so much for all the Support and ” Understanding”
i never thought i would get so many emails
as some of you asked… We will be doing Tours in India and Kashmir
in 2009.
This year in Oct/2009 and March 2010 ( new dates not released yet)
We will be touring all of North India,and Kashmir and will also visit
Kashmir, Rajasthan, and Delhi, on our Shopping Tour’s
Please use the email provided in this Blog ( freeindiatours@yahoo.com)
We are looking for a few Honest Men and Women
to work with us In Kashmir.
We are looking to fillthese nee at this time :
1-introduction to Islam and the True fundamentals
2-Prayer
3-Bathing , Ect )
4-Cooking Class’s
5-Folk Dancing
6- manufacturing outlets( will be doing alot of Shopping
7- Guest Homes/Hotels
8-tour operators
please feel free to write;
Josie Della Casa at
freeindiatours@yahoo.com
We at Free India Tour’s really do appreciate all of your Support
i have been truly Gifted. Thank you for all of your emails
Joy to all
Josie
October 14th, 2010 at 5:15 am
Hello, i appreciate article. I’m certainly also a blogger however realize its tough to get my own information out there. Still seeking to work on website placement and so on. I’ve subscribed and also hope to check up on your blog now and again
January 7th, 2011 at 3:31 am
http://www.riverraftinginindia.net/ – Central Himalayan Adventure offers to the adventurous traveller to enjoy the thrill of white water river rafting in India. The most popular river rafting places are Garhwal Himalayas, Uttarakhand in India. And if you also wanna to enjoy camping in rishikesh or stay in a riverside camps situated on sandy ganga beach. The camps at Rishikesh are very much environmentally friendly. People say rishikesh rafting is most enjoyable river rafting in india.
Central Himalayan Adventure are a Rafting Tour Operator conducting Rafting and Camping in Rishikesh.
January 27th, 2011 at 2:59 am
http://www.raftinginrishikesh4u.com- Rishikesh has become a main hub of river rafting in Rishikesh, North India. It’s an adventure sport best enjoyed at a white sand beach next to the river. Rafting in Rishikesh, River Rafting in Rishikesh, white water rafting in rishikesh, riverside camping, camping in rishikesh and rishikesh rafting camps.
March 28th, 2012 at 2:50 am
We propose to visit Pahalgam 14-15th June, 2012. A group of 17 who are families. Can you suggest, the place of rafting, charges, contact and whether it is safe to go for river rafting. Can some one send me the Photos, of river rafting.
May 9th, 2012 at 8:12 am
http://Www.pahalgam.com