Aru Valley

Aru is a village, tourist spot in the Anantnag District of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It lies 53 km from Anantnag city, the district headquarter. It is located around 12 km from Pahalgam, 11 km upstream from the Lidder River. Noted for its scenic meadows, lakes and mountains, it is a base camp for trekking to the Kolahoi Glacier, Tarsar Lake, Marsar and Herbaghwan Lake. The village lies on the left bank of the Aru river, which is a tributary of the Lidder river.Jammu & Kashmir’s biggest Fodder Seed Product Station is also located in the Aru village.Aru Valley Pahalgam is a well-known tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir and is situated in the Anantnag district around 12 kilometres away from Pahalgam. A hidden gem and off-the-beaten-path location in Jammu and Kashmir is Aru Pahalgam. The valley, located distant from the bustle of city life and nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, is a stunning and tranquil setting. The valley was created by the confluence of two streams, one from the Lidder River and the other from the Aru Glacier. Additionally, Pahalgam sightseeing is peppered with charming villages, flower-filled fields, and woods of cedar and pine. It is one of the well-known valleys in Pahalgam’s ABC Valley. Valley of Aru Pahalgam is a well-liked trekking location and is renowned for its beautiful scenery. The settlement of Aru also serves as a starting point for hikes to Tarsar Lake and the Kolahoi Glacier. The valley is a sought-after location for adventure lovers because it has numerous additional little walking trails. A number of glaciers, alpine meadows, and streams may be found in the Aru Pahalgam. The Valley is renowned for its wildlife, which includes some rare and threatened species like the red fox, snow leopard, and Asiatic black bear. Pahalgam’s Aru Pahalgam is a lovely village where you may unwind and enjoy yourself.

History and Heritage
The history of tourism in Aru Valley can be traced back to the early 20th century when Kashmir became an escape for British colonialists during the summer months. The valley's cool climate and picturesque landscapes were a perfect retreat from the scorching heat of the Indian plains.
After India's independence in 1947, Kashmir, including regions like Aru Valley, began attracting tourists from across the country. Pahalgam, which serves as the base for Aru Valley, gradually developed into a popular tourist town. Infrastructure improvements during the 1960s and 1970s, such as better roads and increased accommodation options, made Aru Valley more accessible and comfortable for visitors.

Geography and Climate
Situated about 12 kilometres from Pahalgam, Aru Valley lies at an altitude of approximately 2,400 metres above sea level. It is characterised by lush meadows, pristine rivers, and snow-capped peaks. The valley serves as the starting point for treks to Kolahoi Glacier and Tarsar-Marsar Lakes among others.
The climate in Aru Valley is temperate. Summers (June to August) are mild and pleasant, making it the best time to visit, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, and the valley is blanketed in snow, offering stunning landscapes.

Flora and Fauna
Aru Valley boasts an incredibly rich biodiversity. The region is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the elusive Himalayan brown bear, the rare musk deer, and a vibrant bird population. The forests surrounding the valley are dense and teeming with unique Himalayan flora, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.

Local Cuisine
Aru Valley has a unique cuisine that is a blend of Kashmiri and Tibetan flavours. You can try local dishes like Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, and Yakhni, a must-try for food enthusiasts.

Things to do
Trekking and Hiking: In Aru, hikers and trekkers can find sanctuary. You can walk to Green Top and Base Camp if you only have a day. Another nice place you could go to is Lidderwat. However, it will take two days to walk there. You must travel the 8 miles from Aru To Lidderwat in one day. Spend the night at Lidderwat and return the next day. You’ll need to hire guides for this walk. The Tarsar Marsar Trek and the Kolahoi Glacier Trek are further options from the Valley. All of these multi-day hikes require guides because they are all multi-day treks.
Sightseeing: Visit Betaab Valley: This beautiful area is near Aru and has the moniker “Betaab'' after the Bollywood film that was shot there. It gives shocking views of the Lidder Stream, knolls, and snow-capped mountains. Discover Lidderwat Valley: Take a walk through the beautiful Lidderwat Valley, which is eminent for its dazzling knolls, spouting streams, and breathtaking Himalayan sees. Photography: Photographers can find many options at Aru. Take pictures of the gorgeous scenery, colourful flowers, snow-capped mountains, and the local culture. Don’t forget to take pictures of the valley’s stunning sunrise and sunset views.

Best time to visit Aru Valley
The best time to visit Pahalgam Aru Valley for sightseeing is from July to September, but if you're interested in skiing then you should plan a trip during the winter instead from Nov-March.

How to Reach
Aru Valley is located almost 12 kilometres from Pahalgam, and it takes 30 minutes approx. to reach it. You can hire a taxi or any other private vehicle from Pahalgam to reach Aru Valley.