There are several places of interest in Kashmir and Aru is one of them. Aru is a tourist spot that is located 12 Kms from Pahalgam. It is a breathtaking location that consists of scenic meadows, lakes and mountains. The Aru valley is very popular among tourists because it is peaceful and has a scenic beauty like other spots in Kashmir. This village is also a base camp for those trekkers who wish to go to the Kolahoi Glacier, the Tarsar-Marsar lakes and the Katrinag valley. Aru valley features nearly 20 alpine lakes as well as many peaks and meadows. The area is a delight to visit during the summer when the slopes are covered with blooms. In the winter, due to snowfall the Aru valley is covered with snow and becomes a wonderful destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Skiing and heliskiing activities are performed here during the winter.
The Aru valley is a wonderful destination and has something to offer to every kind of traveler. The activities that are possible here include fishing of trout in the Lidder River, trekking, hiking, horse riding, sightseeing and photography. This is therefore a tourist destination for the entire family during all seasons.
Sightseeing Destinations in Aru
Aru is essentially vast grassland that is surrounded by a valley and ravine on one side. The wonderful climate and picturesque location makes Aru one of the best destinations in Kashmir. There are several sightseeing attractions in and around Aru. The Lidderwat meadow, the Kolahoi glacier, Overa Aru Biosphere Reserve with endangered species of animals and the Lidder River and Sheshnag Rivers are some of the attractions. It is also possible to visit the attractions of Jammu from here.
The Kolahoi Glacier
The Kolahoi Glacier is a very popular tourist destination. In order to reach this place one has to go on a 24 Km trek to the Kolahoi Glacier. This is an arduous but rewarding trip. The Kolahoi Glacier is located at the head of the Lidder River. The trek will lead the traveler through picturesque locations. It is an amazing experience.
Overa Aru Biosphere
This is a wonderful place to visit and a great place for nature lovers. It is possible to spot rare species of animals and plants in this protected area. The reserve inhabits endangered species of animals such as Hangul, Brown bear, Himalayan Mouse, Musk Deer, Leopard, Snow Cock, Monal, Serow, Koklass, Hare, Rhesus Macaque, Grey Langur etc.
Lidderwat Meadow
This is a very popular place for trekking. Every step that is taken will reveal layers upon layers of beautiful scenery. If luck supports you then it is also possible to see the sight of a golden sunset behind the imposing Himalayan peaks.
Mansar Lake
The Mansar Lake is a strikingly beautiful lake that is located amidst lush green locales and forest covered hills. This is supposed to be a very holy place and considered by some to be as important as the Manasarovar Lake. The temple dedicated to Sheshnag is a very holy destination for newlywed couples. Temples dedicated to Lord Narasimha and Parvathi Shiva are located close to the lake. The lake is also an ideal spot for boating.
Surinsar Lake
Surinsar is yet another lake that is located in a beautiful location. The lake is surrounded by thick forests and sloping hills. The lake is filled with lotus blooms and looks like a water based lotus garden in the summer. The lake is believed to have been created by the warrior from Hindu mythology Arjuna, who created this lake by shooting an arrow through the earth. Both Mansar and Surinsar were formed this way.
- Also Read: Top Most Famous Lakes in Jammu-Kashmir
Hotels and Accommodation in Aru
Options for accommodation in Aru are very limited. Since Pahalgam is only 12 Kms from Aru, it is recommended that one stays at Pahalgam and then travel to Aru for sightseeing. Some of the hotels in Pahalgam are the Heevan Hotel, Grand Mumtaz Hotel, Hotel Hill Park, Paristaan Resort and so on.
Grand Mumtaz Resort
The Grand Mumtaz Resort is located in Pahalgam and boasts of a nine-hole golf course. The hotel has all modern amenities and well furnished rooms. The dining provided is also par excellence.
Hotel Hill Park
The Hill Park at Pahalgam is situated at a location that overlooks the River Lidder. This property is very close to important attractions like Gulmarg and breath taking places like Verinag, Sonmarg, etc. The rooms are well appointed and dining is of very good quality.
Hotel Mantoo Cottages
Mantoo Cottage is a quaint resort that is a homely retreat. Over the years it has grown into a full fledged family resort. It is also located in Pahalgam. It is beautiful during all seasons and offers excellent accommodation and food for its guests.
Paristaan Resort
Paristaan resort in Pahalgam is located at a very picturesque spot amidst lush green pine and cedar forests. Along the resort is a fresh water stream that originates from Sheshnag. The resort offers wonderful accommodation and wholesome food.
How to Reach Aru
By Air
The nearest airport is Srinagar domestic airport is connected to many airports of the major cities in India. There are regular flights between Srinagar and Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh. International travelers will have to get the get the connecting flights from the nearest international airport which is Delhi International airport. The distance from Srinagar to Pahalgam is 95 Kms.
By Rail
The main railways station in Jammu and Kashmir is the Jammu Tawi. There are several important long distance trains that connect this station with the farthest corners of India. So if you love travelling by train you could take the train to Jammu and Kashmir. The distance from Jammu Tawi to Aru is 255 Kms. You will be able to find taxis that ply from Jammu to Aru.
By Road
Srinagar is well connected to Chandigarh (630 km), Jammu (290 km), Delhi (876 km), Leh (434 km) and Pahalgam (96 km) by road. Pahalgam is also connected to all important cities in the state by road. The distance from Pahalgam to Aru is 12 Kms.
Best Time to Visit Aru
The best time to visit Aru would be during May to September in the summer. And since this is also a winter sports destination you could also visit Aru during November to February to really enjoy the winter destination.
