ARU VALLEY
Jammu and Kashmir
Aru is a tourist spot in the Anantnag District of Jammu
& Kashmir, India. It is located 12 km from Pahalgam, 11 km upstream from
the Lidder River. Noted for its scenic meadows, lakes and mountains, it is a
base camp for trekking to the Kolhoi Glacier and Tarsar Lake. The village lies
on the left bank of the Aru river, which is a tributary of the Lidder river.
Aru Valley is a small yet self-sufficient scenic village
located 12 km from Pahalgam. The drive up to the village is alluring too. The
location of the village among the grasslands, make this place a tourist
delight. It is reachable by walking along a mountain path. The village also
serves as the start point for trekking to Kolahoi glacier. Another long trek
for the serious trekker is to Sonmarg, which can be covered in 3 days! Besides,
the valley is also known to be a good site for camping.
Here, you can have a glimpse of Kolohoi Peak, 5370 meters. Another trek from Lidderwat leads to the most desired twin Lakes, Tarsar 3794mtrs & Marsar 3788 meters (2-3 days trek).
Overlooking the majestic snow-capped peaks of Himalayan
Range, Aru Valley is a pristine scenic village situated in the region of
Trans-Himalaya. Clear blue canopy over the head, misty surroundings, whispers
of the native pines and conifer forests and beautiful meadows create a
captivating diorama for travelers thronging the place. Though the village is
the smallest hill station in the state, but still its breathtaking beauty and
interesting activities like trekking, hiking, and horse riding make it one of
the most popular tourist places to visit in Pahalgam.
An excellent choice for both leisure seekers and adventure lovers, Aru Valley enriches the glory of Jammu and Kashmir tourism by being the starting point for trekking expeditions to Kolahoi Glacier and Sonmarg. Apart from the trekkers, the village also caters to the skiing desires of tourists who love to visit the place during winters. Aru Valley is located at a distance of about 12 km from Pahalgam.
Tourism
The Aru
valley is noted for its scenic meadows.It is popular among the tourists for its
peaceful environment and scenic beauty.The village is a base camp for trekkers
to the Kolahoi Glacier, the Tarsar-Marsar lakes, and the Katrina valley. It is
also a base for the treks to Lidderwat, the Vishansar-Kishansar lakes, and
Kangan.The Kolahoi is the largest glacier in the Kashmir Valley, and is located
near Mt. Kolahoi (5425m), the highest peak in the Valley. A number of hotels,
restaurants and huts are available for boarding and lodging.
There are
about 20 alpine lakes, peaks, and meadows around the Aru Valley. In the
winters, when Aru receives heavy snowfall, skiing and heliskiing are practiced.
Other popular tourist activities include fishing of trout in the Lidder river,
trekking, hiking, horse riding, sightseeing, and photography.
The Overa-Aru Biosphere Reserve is located 76 km from the state capital Srinagar. It has the status of a Wildlife sanctuary and is spread over an area of 511 km2. The altitude ranges from 3000–5425 m above the sea level. It is famous for several rare and endangered species.
