Nestled in the heart of Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam region, Aru village has earned the prestigious Adventure Tourism Award at the 2024 Best Tourism Villages Competition. This accolade highlights Aru's dedication to preserving its environment while championing sustainable adventure tourism. Launched in 2023, the Best Tourism Villages Competition honours villages that excel in safeguarding their cultural and natural heritage through sustainable tourism initiatives. This year’s edition witnessed an overwhelming 991 entries from 30 states and Union Territories, with 36 villages emerging victorious across various categories. Aru shone brightly in the adventure tourism category, celebrated for its exhilarating trekking trails, skiing adventures, and camping spots.
Surrounded by the Himalayas, Aru promises an idyllic blend of tranquillity and thrilling adventures, offering an escape for travellers seeking natural beauty and outdoor thrills. Here’s what makes this charming village a must-visit destination.
Aru village is renowned for its landscapes. The lush meadows of Aru, carpeted with wildflowers during summer, offer picture-perfect views and a peaceful atmosphere. A walk through the village reveals traditional wooden houses and local culture.
Nearby, the Aru Wildlife Sanctuary has various flora and fauna, including musk deer, leopards, and Himalayan black bears. For those who love photography, the sanctuary provides a wonderful opportunity to capture the region’s diverse wildlife.
Besides, Aru serves as the base camp for several treks, such as the Kolahoi Glacier Trek and the Tarsar Marsar Trek. These treks lead adventurers through alpine terrains, lakes, and snow-capped peaks.
Adventure enthusiasts will find Aru a paradise for trekking, paragliding, and horse riding. The region’s trails cater to beginners and seasoned trekkers alike. The Kolahoi Glacier Trek, for instance, is a challenging yet rewarding route that promises views of glaciers and mountains.
During winter, Aru transforms into a haven for snow sports. Skiing and sledging on its powdery slopes attract visitors seeking thrilling experiences amidst the snow-laden landscape.
For those inclined towards a more relaxed experience, fishing in the Lidder River is a popular activity. The crystal-clear waters of the river are teeming with trout, making it an angler’s delight.
Cosy homestays like Countryside Homestay or Mir Guest House provide visitors with an authentic experience of Kashmiri hospitality, complete with traditional meals and personalised service. For those seeking more comfort, mid-range hotels like Fimi Hotel and Arun Heights offer modern amenities and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Adventure seekers can opt for camping sites, where they can immerse themselves in nature and enjoy a night under the starry sky.
Best Time To Visit: Aru village is a year-round destination, offering a unique charm each season. Summer (April to June) is ideal for trekking, sightseeing, and exploring the lush green meadows. The pleasant weather and blooming flora make it perfect for nature lovers.
Monsoons (July to September) bring intermittent rainfall, enhancing the region’s natural beauty, but they may not be ideal for outdoor activities.
Winter (December to February) is the best time for snow sports enthusiasts. The village turns into a winter wonderland.
Spring (March) offers a delightful transition, with melting snow giving way to verdant greenery and blooming flowers.
Getting There: Aru village is located approximately 12 kilometres from Pahalgam and is easily accessible by road. The nearest airport is Srinagar International Airport, around 100 kilometres away. From Srinagar, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Pahalgam and then proceed to Aru.
Jammu Tawi is the nearest major railway station, about 250 kilometres away for those travelling by train. From there, taxis and buses are available to reach Pahalgam and Aru.