Chandanwari

Chandanwari is the end of the road above Pahalgam, 16 km up the valley of the Sheshnag stream. It is the starting point of the traditional Amarnath Yatra route, which climbs from here past Pissu Top and Sheshnag lake to the cave shrine.

For day visitors the attraction is snow. Avalanche snow often bridges the stream here until June or later, and in May the snowfields come right down to the road. It is the easiest place near Pahalgam to stand on snow in late spring.

Getting there

Tourist vehicles from Srinagar, including your package car, are not allowed beyond Pahalgam. Aru, Betaab Valley and Chandanwari are served only by the Pahalgam taxi union at fixed, posted rates, paid locally — not included in any operator’s package price, ours included.

During the Yatra — usually July and August — Chandanwari becomes a busy pilgrim camp and access for regular tourists can be restricted. Combine it with Betaab Valley, which is on the same road.