Chandanwari is a scenic valley near Pahalgam best known as the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra and as a popular spot for snow play and river views. Located at a higher altitude than Pahalgam town, it often holds snow longer into the season, making it attractive for visitors who want easy access to snow without long treks. The Lidder River flows forcefully through rocky terrain here, creating striking landscapes and cool, refreshing air. In peak months, travelers enjoy short hikes, sledging, and photography along the riverbanks and slopes. During the Amarnath Yatra season, Chandanwari becomes a busy transit hub, with tented facilities and pilgrims passing through towards the sacred cave. For the rest of the year, it offers a quieter mountain experience and a sense of being closer to the high Himalayas.
pahalgam, Kashmir
April to October, with late spring and early summer often offering snow patches; Yatra season has a very different, busier character.
4.6/5
Chandanwari sits at a bend in the valley where the Lidder River carves through rocks and boulders, flanked by steep slopes that rise towards higher Himalayan terrain. The atmosphere is distinctly cooler and more rugged than Pahalgam’s main town, with a greater sense of being in true mountain country. Facilities include seasonal stalls, simple shelters, and parking zones that support both tourists and pilgrims. When snow lingers, sections of the valley become informal play zones for families eager to experience snowballs and sledges. At quieter times, the sound of the river and views of distant ridges dominate, offering a refreshing break from lower-altitude crowds.
Walk along designated trails by the river for views and photos.
Enjoy snow play and sledging when snow is present.
Observe Yatra preparations or movement during pilgrimage season.
Have tea or snacks at simple stalls while taking in the scenery.
Combine with a day itinerary that includes Betaab Valley or Pahalgam main.
Combine a morning visit to Betaab Valley with an afternoon trip further up to Chandanwari for snow play and river views.
During non-Yatra months, plan a relaxed Pahalgam stay with one full day covering Betaab Valley, Chandanwari, and nearby river viewpoints.
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pahalgam, Kashmir, India
April to October, with late spring and early summer often offering snow patches; Yatra season has a very different, busier character.
Chandanwari has a colder climate than Pahalgam, with shorter summers and longer, snowier winters. Even in warmer months, temperatures can drop quickly in the evenings. Conditions can be harsh and unpredictable at times, particularly during shoulder seasons and Yatra periods when high passes are still chilly.
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