Jab hum jawa honge, jaane kaha honge..
Lekin jaha honge, waha fariyaad karenge,
Tujhe yaad karenge…
Very few people from the 80s can forget a beautiful Amrita Singh singing these words to a handsome Sunny Deol at a landscape that was surreal. The Hindi movie Betaab starring these actors made the box office ring alright. But it did another great thing — make the valley in Phalagam it was shot in famous. So famous, that this valley soon got named after the 1983 film! This summer, say hello to Betaab Valley!
So gorgeous is the valley that many seasoned travellers cannot help but echo the thoughts of the famous poet Amir Khusrau, who said these words in awe of Kashmir, “Gar firdaus bar ruhe zameen ast, Hameen asto, Hameen asto, Hameen asto”, meaning “If there is paradise on this earth, it is here, it is here, it is here…”
So, join us as we set off on a beautiful journey to the Betaab Valley in Kashmir, exploring must-see places of Pahalgam on our way.
One of the three stunning valleys of Pahalgam in Kashmir, Betaab Valley was earlier known as Hagan Valley. After the Bollywood film Betaab became a box office hit, the name of the valley was changed to Betaab Valley, attracting travellers and film buffs alike! Situated in the Anantnag district of Kashmir, Betaab Valley is surrounded by pine and willow trees, with the Lidder River flowing smoothly next to it. The valley is a sight to behold with its gorgeous combination of lush greenery, bright blue waters and stunning white and brown mountains around.
There is a beautiful river that gushes and sweeps the Betaab Valley, making it even more irresistible to nature lovers. The 73 km long Lidder River is known for its clear blue waters that rejuvenate one’s senses. The river originates from the Kolahoi glacier at a height of 4653 meters and sweeps most of the Kashmir Valley, with its central portion at Pahalgam being a big tourist attraction. People can enjoy rafting and picnicking around this gorgeous water body or simply spend leisurely hours doing nothing but breathing in its beauty.
About 12 km from Pahalgam lies the lovely Aru Valley which is the base camp for trekkers heading to the Kolahoi glacier. However, if you are not the trekking kinds, then you can reach Aru and take in its fabulous surroundings—replete with lush meadows, the pristine Aru River and a mountainous landscape all around. Travellers can spend their time here by horse riding, fishing and doing photography among other activities.
A few kilometers from Betaab Valley lies the gorgeous Chandanwari. One can enjoy stunning views of the snow-capped mountains all around from an impressive elevation of 2895 meters. What is amazing about Chandanwari is that one can find snow even in the month of May! The glaciers melting in the Lidder River allow visitors to enjoy white nature at its best. Chandanwari is also the base point for pilgrims setting off for the Shri Amarnath Yatra. Apart from sightseeing and hiking, Chandanwari has several souvenir shops to buy local products from.
Known as Mini Switzerland, Baisaran Valley is a hilltop green meadow full of pine trees. It is a little offbeat and almost 12 km away from Pahalgam when compared to the other must-see places, but every bit worth covering the sceneic route for. The views of the snowy Himalayas from here are unparalleled and a little ahead lies the Tulian Lake, a dream for seasoned trekkers.
No trip is complete before one gets to try the local cuisine of a place. Once in Betaab Valley, Pahalgam, choose any of the several cafes and restaurants lining the area to bite into authentic Kashmiri food. From pulao, trout, rogan josh to dum alu, there is a plethora of delightful flavours waiting to burst in your mouth. Do not forget to sip on several cups of kahwa or the special tea of the region during your trip.
So head to the pretty Betaab Valley if you are a mountain and nature lover — this valley offers everything, scenic views, snow and memories for a lifetime.
Betaab Valley in Phalgam, Kashmir is named after the hit 1983 Hindi movie Betaab. The debut of actor Sunny Deol, Betaab was shot in this Kasmiri valley. It was earlier known as Hagan Valley.
It is best to visit Betaab Valley during June to September, when the weather is perfectly cool and pleasant.
From Betaab Valley, you can visit Aru Valley, Chandanwari, Baisaran Valley among several other places.
From lodges, inns, government guesthouses to good hotels, Betaab Valley has many options when it comes to accommodation for tourists.
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