Name: Betaab Valley
Rating: 4.2

Betaab Valley, Pahalgam Overview

Betaab Valley, also known as Hajan Valley or Wadi-e-Hajan, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Located 15 km from Pahalgam in the Anantnag district, the valley is renowned for its picturesque surroundings, featuring tall deodar trees, pine forests, and the Lidder River flowing through its heart. Named after the Bollywood movie Betaab starring Sunny Deol and Amrita Singh, it lies on the route between Pahalgam and Chandanwari, serving as a key stop for pilgrims undertaking the Amarnath Yatra.

The valley is one of the three prominent valleys in Pahalgam, alongside Aru and Chandanwari, and is characterized by sprawling meadows, snow-capped mountains, and winding streams. It is also a popular base for trekking and camping, offering trails to explore nearby regions and pristine wilderness. Visitors can enjoy activities like nature walks and picnics, with open spaces and tranquil spots perfect for relaxation. Its serene landscapes, cascading streams, and role as a gateway to the Amarnath Yatra make Betaab Valley a must-visit destination.

History of Betaab Valley

The Betaab Valley, a part of the Kashmir region, was ruled by the Mughals since the 15th century. In the latter part of the 15th century, the Turko-Mughal Military General- Mirza Muhammad Haidar Dughlat ruled here, first on behalf of Sultan Said Khan of Kashgar and then on behalf of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. The valley was then known as the Hagan Valley or Hagoon. After the popular Bollywood movie 'Betaab', starring Sunny Deol and Amrita Singh was shot here, the valley came to be known as the Betaab Valley.

Bollywood Connection of Betaab Valley

The Betaab Valley has been linked with the Indian film industry since years. Other than being featured in the movie Betaab, scores of other films have been shot here including Aarzoo, Kashmir Ki Kali, Silsila, Kabhi Kabhi, Satte Pe Satta and the more recent films such as Rockstar. This link between the valley and the films shot here especially appeal the tourists.

Things To Do at Betaab Valley

Tourists visit the Betaab Valley mainly to witness the picturesque scenes here. The valley is rich in pine and deodar trees, colourful huts, Walnut and Willow trees and a plethora of other colourful flowers. Along with that, you can also find lots of species of birds chirping around.
The Betaab Valley is an ideal place for horse riding. You can hire horses by the hour and enjoy the fun-filled rides.
The valley is also a popular campsite of travellers from America and Europe, as it also serves as a base for trekking and further exploring the mountains.
The half an hour walk along the river Leddar here is also a good option. You can also view the majestic Amarnath mountain range in the backdrop. An island on Lidder, a one and a half kilometre walk from the valley, is full of willow trees and is a pleasant place to be at.
Local Kashmiri dresses are available on rent for just INR 60 per dress, so do not forget to rent a dress and get yourself clicked amidst the beautiful valley.
There is an amusement park for kids as well, wherein they can enjoy fun rides.
Baisaran and Tulian Lake are the few nearby attractions that you can visit too.

How to Reach Betaab Valley

The Betaab Valley is at a walkable distance from Pahalgam. If you are visiting the valley from Srinagar, you can catch a Pahalgam-bound bus from the JKSRTC.