Betaab Valley

The natural beauty of the valley of Kashmir is well known widely and has deservedly won high praise from travelers, since time immemorial. The state is almost mountainous with stretches of valleys, snow-capped alpine mountains and shimmering rivers and lakes. And Betaab valley, is one of such picturesque spots and a tourist destination in Kashmir. It is situated at a distance of 15 kilometers from Pahalgam in Anantnag district.

Previously known as Hagoon or Hagan Valley, the valley got its present name 'Betaab valley' when Sunny Deol and Amrita Singh starrer famous blockbuster movie 'Betaab' was released. The movie was shot extensively in this area. It lies between the two Himalayan Ranges- Pir Panjal and Zanskar. The word Betab literally means eagerly waiting for something, something making restless by its attraction.

Archaeological survey of India explains the existence of early man of the Neolithic Age in the region of Pahalgam, Bomai and Burzahom. Betab Valley which forms the part of the Kashmir area was ruled by the Mughal Kings in the 15th century.

A small beautiful valley is surrounded by dense pine and deodar forests, lush green meadows, snow-covered mountain peaks from three sides and a huge gorgeous stream bisecting the valley. This valley, which is the mouth of Lake Sheshnag, is towards northeast of Pahalgam and falls between Pahalgam and Chandanwadi. It is en route Amarnath Temple Yatra.

There is a beautiful park 'Batote Park' in the valley which is nicely maintained and also a nice place for peace lovers. It is situated right by the river bank.

One of the most picturesque spots of Kashmir, it is a great place for photography. It is also a great place for morning & evening walks. The valley is also the right place for horse riding. One can hire horses here by the hour.

.Apart from being a place with impressive landscape, the valley is favorite campsite of travellers from America and Europe as it is also serves as a base for trekking and exploration of the mountains. The valley is a walk-able distance from Pahalgam. The valley should be visited in April-May to savour its full beauty. Since, Pahalgam serves as base camp sfor pilgrims proceeding to the shrine of Lord Shiva at Amarnath and treks to the higher mountains, Every year in July and August, the Valley is thronged with thousands of pilgrims.

Baisaran and Tulian Lake are few nearby attractions that can be visited. From the Betaab valley one can see Pandava Gufa. Here Pandavas stayed when they were in exile.

The entry fee for Betaab valley is 20 Rs.