Detailed Guide to Visit Pahalgam in October – Places to Visit and Things to Do in Pahalgam

Planning to explore all the beautiful places to visit in Pahalgam in October? Or want to experience the fun and thrill of enjoying all the things to do in Pahalgam in October? Well, if such is your plan, you have probably made the best travel plan in your life! While Pahalgam needs no introduction to the visitors, the month of October adds more charisma and beauty to this scenic hill station town in Kashmir.

( Horses graze along beautiful the lidder stream in Pahalgam countryside travel destination of Jammu and Kashmir, India )

Since this month is the peak of the autumn season in the valley, you will be greeted with deciduous trees adorning the region in a vibrant tapestry of red, orange, and yellow leaves. This change in foliage adds a touch of magic to the already breathtaking scenery. As you explore all the places to visit in Pahalgam in October, you will find the fallen leaves carpeting the ground, creating a serene and bucolic atmosphere.

Moreover, as in this month, the atmosphere remains very clear with the temperature being at a moderate level, visitors get to enjoy all the things to do in Pahalgam in October thoroughly. The pleasant climate makes it an ideal period to participate in most of the fun and exciting outdoor activities. Starting from sightseeing to river rafting in the Lidder River, and trekking to pristine lakes to laze around the scenic valley, October is surely the best time to visit Pahalgam with family and friends.

Places to Visit in Pahalgam in October

Chandanwari

Chandanwari probably tops the list of places to visit in Pahalgam in October! Visiting this wonderful valley is like moving into a picture-perfect autumn wonderland. The landscape transforms right into a kaleidoscope of warm colours as the leaves of the bushes turn from green to all the possible colours of nature. The picturesque meadows and forests set against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayan Range make it even more irresistible to resist the charm and appeal of Chandanwari.

( A beautiful place in the heights of Pahalgam, surrounded by the mountains, greenery, snow, with lidder river racing down through the rocks. )

Also, as the temperature remains moderate with a clear blue sky, you will surely enjoy the enchanting views all around Chandanwari. You can also indulge in an array of things to do in Pahalgam in October while enjoying the scenic views here. And if you are on your honeymoon trip or a photography excursion, you will surely fall in love with the beauty of Chandanwari this month!
Betaab Valley

Visiting Betaab Valley in October could be the best thing you will do while searching for places to visit in Pahalgam in October. Come this month, the valley turns into a riot of different colours you can think of. While the mountain peaks at a distance might appear whitish, the locales will showcase the purest form of green. Since autumn has already made its way, you may also find the leaves turning red and golden yellow while strolling around Betaab Valley.

( Beautiful View of Betab Valley during winter season, near Pahalgam, Kashmir, India )

Moreover, chances are there that you would find the valley secluded in October as most of the visitors to this region usually step out to enjoy all the things to do in Pahalgam in October. If this happens, you would be the luckiest among all to enjoy the pristine beauty and heartwarming views of Betaab Valley while being away from the crowd. Also, make sure you take some time to capture the magical beauty of Betaab Valley and click some captivating pictures while getting soaked with its pristine beauty.
Aru Valley

Aru Valley undergoes a pleasant change in October. This is the time of the year when autumn has already started pampering the valley making it a treasure trove of all scenic beauty and natural wonders. Be it the lush pine or deodar forests, the mighty peaks surrounding the valley or the temperature range; everything gets so lively and heartwarming in this month. Well, this is the reason you will always find Aru Valley in the list of captivating places to visit in Pahalgam in October month!

( Horses grazin at Aru Valley Near Pahalgam )

What honestly sets Aru Valley aside in October is its serene ambience. The valley sees fewer tourists for the duration of this time, allowing you to fully immerse yourself amidst its untouched beauty. And while here, you can enjoy a range of tourist activities. Whether you want to laze around, take leisurely walks, try photography, or simply enjoy its scenic beauty, this valley will prove that it is one of the most pictorial places to visit in Pahalgam in October.
Tulian Lake

Visiting Tulian Lake in Pahalgam throughout October is a magical experience! Nestled in the coronary heart of the picturesque Himalayan mountains, this high-altitude glacial lake takes on a captivating transformation at some stage in this time of the year. The panorama is painted in a stunning palette of natural colours and you have to include this site in the list of places to visit in Pahalgam in October. Visited by visitors from all walks of life, this scenic lake has something or the other for everyone.

( Tulian lake view in Pahalgam)

While nature lovers find the beauty of this lake to be magical, adventure lovers find the trek to the lakeside extremely enthralling! Honeymooners find this lakeside extremely romantic and for nature lovers, it is a hotspot to click some amazing pictures. Well, irrespective of which type of traveller you are, you will surely love your experience with Tulian Lake in October month.
Kolahoi Glacier

Since it is the month of October, Kolahoi Glacier is one place that you cannot miss out by any chance! A star in the list of places to visit in Pahalgam in October, this is the month that attracts thousands of visitors to this valley glacier. A perennial source of water to the Jhelum and Lidder rivers, this is also considered one of the sacred sites by the locals.

( Man trek in Kolahoi Glacier )

Visiting Kolahoi Glacier has its charm in October. As you approach closer to the glacier, you will find the lush green colour of Mother Nature becoming more alluring and getting you soaked in it. The clear blue sky overhead will be your host while the meandering waterways protruding out of the glacier will satiate all your yearnings. Adding more, if you are an adventure enthusiast, you can take part in an exhilarating 7km trek to reach the Kolahoi Glacier from a base camp. If you have more time, you can extend the trek to explore some other places to visit in Pahalgam in October along with Kolahoi Glacier.
Baisaran Valley

What if we tell you that you can enjoy the beauty and magical experience of being in Switzerland while searching for the best places to visit in Pahalgam in October? Though you may find it hard to believe, once you visit the Baisaran Valley, you will find it coming real! Backdropped by scenic mountains of the Himalayan Range and dotted with never-ending lines of pine, fir, and deodar trees, the beauty of this valley resembles much of Switzerland, and hence it is called the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’.

( Baisaran Valley( Mini Switzerland) Pahalgam, Kashmir. )

October is the month that makes this valley even more magical. The entire valley starts wearing multiple colours while you will find a crispy charm all across. The atmosphere gains much clarity and you can enjoy undisturbed views of the Himalayas and its snow-capped peaks. This is also the time that beckons trekkers from all over the world to indulge in an exhilarating trek that goes 7.5km upwards.
Pahalgam Golf Course

Seated at an altitude of 2,400m above sea level, Pahalgam Golf Course is a testimony to how beauty meets with elegance! An 18-hole golf course, it is one of the most scenic, highest, and appealing golf courses in the world. Spread across a vast expanse of plain, the golf course is also known to offer some of the best views of the Pahalgam region and the confluence of the Aru and Sheshnag rivers.

( A view of the Golf Course )

Whether you are a professional golfer or a new one, you must visit the Pahalgam Golf Course as it is revered as one of the most scenic places to visit in Pahalgam in October. Also, during this month, you will find golfers from different corners of the world enjoying their games while adoring the beauty of Pahalgam! The course also serves as a leisure spot with fun and recreational centres for its visitors.
Lidder River

The gushing Lidder River is a major lifeline to the locals of Pahalgam and its nearby region. Originating from the celestial Kolahoi Glacier, this river is among the most promising places to visit in Pahalgam in October. As it meanders down from its glacial source, it creates a magical spell all across. Its crystal blue water against the October views and vistas makes it even more gorgeous.

( Pahalgam is a scenic village where Lidder river flows along the valley. Women can be seen washing clothes at the banks of the river. )

Whether you are seeking leisurely moments, romantic moments, fun moments, or enthralling moments, Lidder River will serve your purpose. Simply sit along the river banks, click pictures, try river rafting, or try our trout fishing, you won’t find any dull moments while having a tryst with the gushing Lidder River in Pahalgam in October.
Mamaleshwar Temple

Be it historical or religious reasons, the pious Mamaleshwar Temple will always stand out as one of the most sacred places to visit in Pahalgam in October. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, legends have it that this is the exact spot where Lord Shiva offered the elephant head to his son Lord Ganesha. Owing to this, Mamaleshwar Temple is considered as a devout place of worship among the Hindus.

( This temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and stands across the Kolahoi stream up towards the mountain. )

Nestled amidst the lush green foliage of Pahalgam with the towering Himalayan peaks as the backdrop, the temple premise is also known for offering stunning panoramic views. Adding more, there is the peaceful and tranquil ambience around the temple that makes it one of the most serene places to visit in Pahalgam in October month!
Sheshnag Lake

Nestled amidst majestic mountains and scenic meadows, the Sheshnag Lake is also called the ‘Lake of the Seven Serpents’. Reaching an elevation of 11,000ft, this alpine lake is known for its enchanting beauty and pure blue water that reflects the clear blue sky overhead. The feel and experience it creates is truly magical and cannot be found anywhere else in the entire world.

( Panoramic view of Kashmir mountains around Sheshang lake in India. )

Revered as one of the most stunning places to visit in Pahalgam in October, the lakeside also serves as a stopover for the pilgrim participating in the sacred Amarnath Yatra. Moreover, with the advent of October, the lakeside becomes even livelier with fresh blooms and evergreen patches along its banks. While here in October, you can even choose to sit in utmost silence and enjoy the hymns of the water flow and treat your soul with a quiet and calm ambience!
Pahalgam Club Garden

Located right in the heart of Pahalgam, the Pahalgam Club Garden is the most colourful place you will find among all the places to visit in Pahalgam in October. Beautifully maintained and dotted with vibrant floral species, you would probably find more than 50 different shades of nature while enjoying the beauty and charm of this garden.

( View of Pahalgam Club Garden )

Adding more, the Lidder River is flowing nearby which upholds the beauty of the Pahalgam Club Garden even more. The manicured lawns, walkways, and other leisure options in the park make it the ultimate place to unwind and relax for a while. And yes, as you are planning to visit this garden in October, be sure to get infected with the magical beauty of Pahalgam Club Garden!

Things to Do in Pahalgam in October

Local Sightseeing

Pahalgam is a hill station that is steeped with history, natural beauty, and plenty of other tourist attractions. Though you can visit most of these attractions within a day, you will surely lose track of the time once you start visiting these places. Such is the beauty and appeal of Pahalgam’s tourist attraction points.

( Local Sightseeing in Pahalgam )

Having said this, local sightseeing should be the first among all exciting things to do in Pahalgam in October. Visit the many scenic valleys, go to temples, watch the sunrise followed by sunset, or simply sit in your comfort zone to witness the day pass by. You will surely enjoy every bit of your local sightseeing in Pahalgam.
Trekking

Visiting or exploring a place has its own fun and excitement quotient. However, if you have to traverse through challenging or rugged terrains to reach your desired place, the happiness gets double-fold in no time! Furthermore, if you are an adventure enthusiast, you will know how exciting it gets after you hike or trek through challenging terrains and rugged trails.

( Trekking in Pahalgam is a great way to explore short treks to beautiful landscape and high altitude alpine lakes. )

While scrolling for the most exciting things to do in Pahalgam in October, you must indulge in trekking or hiking in the valley. Trek to the celestial Kolahoi Glacier to witness its magical beauty. Trek around Baisaran Valley to unravel its scenic galore. Or trek across Betaab and Aru valley to get pleasantly lost amidst the clutches of Mother Nature. As a hill station, Pahalgam has trekking trails that can suit everyone; from easy to challenging.
Trout Fishing

The gurgling Lidder River in Pahalgam is a hotspot for angling; especially for trout fishing. The lower part of this river serves as the best place for the anglers who throng this place from different parts of the world and try their luck. Brown and rainbow trout are the most commonly found species in Lidder Rivers.

( Trout Fishing in the River )

If you are among the fun seekers who wish to try luck in trout fishing, Pahalgam is the place for you. There are even tours that offer this kind of fishing or angling experience to those searching for exciting things to do in Pahalgam in October. During this month, the water level remains moderate and the fish population stays very stable.
River Rafting

Pahalgam is one of the most fascinating river rafting destinations in India. The gushing Lidder River offers some of the most adrenaline-pumping rapids. One can also find lower-grade rapids suitable for beginners or casual rafters. Whether you are an experienced rafter or have never had rafting experience, you will surely love the fun and thrill of rafting in Pahalgam.

( Rafting on a mountain river )

River rafting is one of the most popular things to do in Pahalgam in October. However, since the water level of Lidder River goes down this month, you should be well-informed as the activity might remain closed in October month. But since you will be travelling with us, we will keep a close eye on river rafting in Pahalgam, and let you know beforehand whether you will be able to enjoy this experience or not.
Golfing

Who knows if you could be the next Tiger Woods! Sounds crazy, right? Well, while you search for some of the most unique things to do in Pahalgam in October, you will find golfing as a common option in all the lists. And why not it would be such when Pahalgam is the home of one of the finest, highest, and most scenic golf courses in the world?

( Beautiful view of playing golf )

Located at a height of 2,400m above sea level, the Pahalgam Gold Course boasts of its alluring charm and beauty. An 18-hole course, this golf course has attracted even the top-notch players to fly down here and enjoy golfing in this course. You can also visit this course in October and experience this sport in the way it is meant to be.
Mountain Biking

Exploring the hills and plain on wheels has its fun and excitement. And while in Pahalgam, you must try mountain biking to delve deep into remote villages, scenic meadows, lush forests, and much more. Though a hill station, mountain biking gets more exciting in October as the weather remains pleasant, the trails remain obstacle-free, and the ambience remains dry and safe for riding bicycles.

( Tourist riding an adventure big bike motorcycle on tuff and bumpy road on rock mountain in clear beautiful lightning to explore the world, with copy space )

Mountain biking is fun in Pahalgam as the valley is fringed with infinite natural as well as man-made marvels. But what makes this activity one of the most enjoyable things to do in Pahalgam in October are the different options. Starting from Pahalgam, you can embark on mountain biking expeditions that will take you to Srinagar, Gulmarg, and other scenic destinations around.
Religious Tours

Pahalgam holds a prominent place among the Hindu pilgrims as it serves as the base point of the holy Amarnath Yatra. The hill station is also dotted with several other religious sites that have their own significance and religious values among the devotees. Be it the Mamaleshwar Temple or the Aishmuqam Dargah, many such sites attract devotees from all across the globe.

( The holy shrine of Amarnath Ji, or Amarnath Temple, is located at an elevation of 3,888 meters approx, about 29 kilometers from Pahalgam )

If you are searching for some of the religious things to do in Pahalgam in October month, you must embark on these religious tours. In addition to devotion and sanctity, these tours also serve as great options to explore, discover, and enjoy the pristine beauty of Pahalgam.
Horse or Pony Rides

The hilly people may not always have access to modern vehicles, but that doesn’t mean they don’t move around. These people mostly rely on nature to offer them ways to traverse safely and access other places. And while in Pahalgam, you will find horses or ponies serving these purposes for the locals.

( Tourists enjoying horse ride )

Horse or pony rides are the most thoroughly enjoyed things to do in Pahalgam in October month. In this month, the terrain remains mostly dry reducing the risk of slipping or roads getting covered with snow making them inaccessible. Also, since this is the peak autumn season in the valley, you will get to encounter the pristine beauty of Pahalgam from a close hand.
Nature Photography

Nature photography is surely one of the most exciting and enjoyable things to do in Pahalgam in October. Though this hill station is a scenic treasure trove during all the months of the year, October brings in a new and irresistible charm across the entire valley. During this month, nature gets painted with all the hues and shades making them a treat for the photographers.

( A Himalayan River Passing Through Aru Valley Near Pahalgam )

Whether amidst the towering peaks or across the pictorial meadows, photography this month allows you to click some of the most striking snaps of the great Himalayan Range, Pir Panjal Range, and Lidder River along with a list of other fascinating tourist attraction points in Pahalgam.
Explore Local Life

While in Pahalgam, you must try to delve deep into the local lifestyle and culture to know more about the locals of Pahalgam. Being almost away from the rest of the world, the locals in this region live their lives with utmost joy and happiness. Mingling with these locals will help you to understand their lifestyle and culture better.

( Beautiful scenic view: woman shepherd with two dzo (hybrid yak) against the background of colorful mountain. )

Also, while here, you must try out the local culinary delights and visit the bustling marketplaces in Pahalgam. These will offer you livelier glimpses of the food habits or food culture of the locals along with having a first-hand experience of the art and craft of the locals. Exploring local life is among the most unique and least enjoyed things to do in Pahalgam in October.

How to pack for Pahalgam in October

Planning to discover and explore all the beautiful places to visit in Pahalgam in October? Or all the exciting things to do in Pahalgam in October is there in your mind? Well, in either of the scenarios, you must know that October is among the best months to visit this scenic hill station in Kashmir. The month is uniquely marked by pleasant weather, a clear atmosphere, moderate temperature, and unlimited fun-frolic.

While packing for this month you must keep in mind that you must be extra cautious with your clothes and other warm wears. As mentioned, though the temperature remains moderate, visitors from plains or other low-altitude areas might find it difficult to withstand such a low-temperature range. Hence, packing enough warm clothes; woollen and other heavy jackets, would help you stay warm and enjoy all the beautiful places to visit in Pahalgam in October month. Other accessories like trekking shoes, thick pair of socks, hand gloves, etc. would also provide you additional warmth while touring around the places or enjoying the things to do in Pahalgam in October.

Additionally, you should also carry good quality water bottles, plastic bags to collect all the waste or leftover foods, skin moisturisers and other lotions, a basic first-aid kit, and other similar hand items. Also, carrying common medicines for headaches, body pain, indigestion, fatigue, vomiting tendencies, and other such ailments could rescue you from many unforeseen situations.

How to Reach Pahalgam in October

By Air:

Located almost 91km away from Pahalgam, the Srinagar International Airport serves as the nearest airport to reach Pahalgam by air. The airport has direct or connecting flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chandigarh, and others. Most of the primary air carriers in India have flights from this airport. Once you reach the airport, you can avail local taxi or cab services to reach Pahalgam by road. Local buses are also available at regular intervals.
By Train:

A train journey to Pahalgam would not be possible as the hill station does not have a railway station. However, the Jammu Tawi Railway Station which is located around 220km away from Pahalgam could help you in planning to reach Pahalgam by train. Since the station has a good number of trains plying in and out from across various Indian cities, you can easily book train tickets to reach Jammu Tawi Railway Station from your origin city.

Once you arrive at the station, you can hire cabs and taxis, or even the local buses to reach Pahalgam and start on your quest to explore all the scenic places to visit in Pahalgam in October.
By Road:

As you are planning to enjoy all the fun things to do in Pahalgam in October, you must know that a road journey to this gorgeous hill station this month could be the experience of a lifetime. During this season, the journey is accompanied by great visuals and sceneries. While the snow-capped peaks at the distance will keep you glued, the lush locales along the roadways will usher more life into you. As you will be approaching Pahalgam, you will witness an awe-inspiring change in the terrain along with scenic valleys catching all your attention. This surely promises a memorable trip wherein you also get rewarded with a list of places to visit in Pahalgam in October month.

Where to Stay in Pahalgam in October

Pahalgam is dotted with plenty of stay options. Being one of the most popular and scenic hill stations in the country, this region has hotels and other stay options that can easily fit into all types of budgets. Whether you want luxurious hotels or affordable rooms, local lodges or homestays, you will find ample options while planning to enjoy all the exciting things to do in Pahalgam in October month. However, since you will be embarking on your trip with us, you need not bother much about how or where to find suitable stay options. But, if you planning to explore all the places to visit in Pahalgam in October, you must start searching for stay options before your travel date as this month is considered one of the peak tourism months in the valley.

Also, since tourism reaches its peak this month, you may find the booking cost on the higher side. At times, the local vendors might ask you for additional charges. We suggest you consult with our sales team to know the apt prices for hotel and other bookings before you make any.

Mobile Connectivity in Pahalgam:

BSNL: You can count on BSNL’s network to provide reliable connectivity and 4G services at all the major spots in Pahalgam in November, ensuring you stay connected while enjoying the various activities in the area.
AirTel: AirTel is renowned as the most dependable service provider in Pahalgam, holding a strong reputation for both mobile connectivity and 4G services. Nonetheless, when venturing beyond the primary tourist areas, you might encounter some network distortion.
Jio: Jio is another service provider offering dependable services in Pahalgam, with their internet services earning a reputation for reliability in the area. However, similar to other providers, their connectivity may experience challenges when you venture away from the central locations in Pahalgam.
Vodafone: If you are already a Vodafone customer, it’s advisable to stick with their services. However, for those who are not Vodafone customers, we do not recommend opting for their services, as they do not enjoy a particularly favourable reputation in Pahalgam and its surrounding areas.