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Route · Kashmir
Pahalgam to Aru is a 12 km drive up the West Lidder valley through pine forest, 30–40 minutes by union taxi. Fit walkers can hike it along a forest trail in about 3–4 hours, and ponies are available.
Photo: KennyOMG · CC BY-SA 4.0 · CommonsEvery way to go
| How | Time | Cost, indicative 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Union taxi | 30–40 min | ₹1,200–2,000 return per car |
| Shared taxi | 40 min–1 h | ₹100–200 a seat |
| Walk or pony | 3–4 h on foot | Free on foot; pony ₹1,200–2,000 |
Pahalgam's taxi union runs fixed-rate trips to Aru from the main stand, often combined with Betaab Valley and Chandanwari in a full-day package. Rates are printed on the stand's list. Srinagar taxis generally cannot do this run. Agree waiting time if you are returning the same day.
In season, shared taxis sometimes run between Pahalgam and Aru, mainly in the morning, used by villagers and trekkers. They are not guaranteed; ask at the stand the evening before. A good option if you are staying overnight in Aru with light luggage.
A forest trail climbs gently from Pahalgam along the West Lidder to Aru, passing meadows and herders' camps. It is a fine half-day walk for fit hikers. Ponies can carry luggage or riders. Take a guide if unsure of the path, and avoid walking alone late in the day.
At each end
Photo: Unknown author · CC0 · Commons
The shepherds' village where the two Lidder rivers meet
Photo: KennyOMG · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Commons
Trailhead village for Lidderwat, Kolahoi and Tarsar
Questions
About 12 km up the West Lidder valley, 30–40 minutes by taxi. Walking the forest trail takes 3–4 hours for fit hikers.
Union taxis charge fixed rates, roughly ₹1,200–2,000 for an Aru return, or more as part of a full circuit including Betaab Valley and Chandanwari. Rates are printed at the Pahalgam taxi stand.
Yes. A trail through pine forest along the West Lidder takes 3–4 hours, gaining a little over 200 m. It is a pleasant walk for fit hikers. Carry water, start early and consider a local guide.
Snow can close it for days or weeks between December and March, depending on clearance. In late autumn and early spring it is often open but icy. Check current status in Pahalgam before you travel.
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