Aru Valley

Overview

Aru Valley is a stunningly beautiful and relatively secluded valley located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Known for its picturesque landscapes, lush meadows, and tranquil environment, Aru Valley is a popular destination for nature lovers, trekkers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Here is a comprehensive overview of Aru Valley:

Geography and Location

Location: Aru Valley is situated approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from the town of Pahalgam, which is a well-known hill station in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. It is accessible via a scenic drive from Pahalgam.
Altitude: The valley is located at an altitude of around 2,400 meters (7,874 feet) above sea level.

Features and Attractions

Scenic Beauty: Aru Valley is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. The valley is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, dense pine forests, and expansive meadows. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills, lush green grasslands, and clear, sparkling streams.
Aru River: The valley is named after the Aru River, which flows through the area. The river adds to the valley’s charm, providing opportunities for fishing and enjoying the serene riverside environment.
Trekking and Hiking: Aru Valley serves as a starting point for several popular treks. Notable treks include:
- **Aru to Betaab Valley Trek: This trek leads from Aru Valley to Betaab Valley, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and meadows.
- **Aru to Kolahoi Glacier Trek: This challenging trek takes you to the Kolahoi Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in the region. It offers spectacular views and a chance to experience high-altitude trekking.
Wildlife and Flora: The valley is home to diverse flora and fauna. Visitors may spot various species of birds, butterflies, and small mammals. The meadows are often dotted with wildflowers, adding to the valley’s colorful landscape.
Camping: Due to its serene environment and scenic beauty, Aru Valley is a popular spot for camping. Many travelers set up camps in the meadows to enjoy the natural surroundings and the starry night sky.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Summer (May to September): The best time to visit Aru Valley is during the summer months when the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This is also the best time for trekking and outdoor activities.
Autumn (October to November): Offers cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors. The weather is generally clear, making it a good time for sightseeing and trekking.
Winter (December to February): The valley experiences heavy snowfall, which can make travel and trekking difficult. However, the snow-covered landscape is beautiful and offers opportunities for snow-related activities.
Spring (March to April): Spring brings blooming flowers and gradually warming temperatures. It is a pleasant time for trekking and exploring the valley before the summer rush.

Day 1 :

Kathmandu to Pokhara (By flight or Bus)

Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu, you are welcomed by the team and then you will be transferred to your hotel. This trail goes through Ghorepani Poon Hill. Normally, the trek starts like Phokhara to Nayapul and ends like Phedi to Pokhara.

Day 2 :

Drive to Nayapul and trek to Ulleri

While early travel tended to be slower, more dangerous, and more dominated by trade and migration, cultural and technological advances over many years have tended to mean that travel has become easier and more accessible. The evolution of technology in such diverse fields as horse tack and bullet trains has contributed to this trend.

Day 3 :

Trek to Ghorepani

The Palace of Fifty five Windows: This magnificent palace was built during the reign of King Yakshya Malla in A.D. 1427 and was subsequently remodeled by King Bhupatindra Malla in the seventeenth century. Among the brick walls with their gracious setting and sculptural design, is a balcony with Fifty five Windows, considered to be a unique masterpiece of woodcarving.

Day 4 :

Early trek to Poon Hill for Sunrise, Back to Ghorepani and Trek to Tadapani

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts.

Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast of the Semantics, a large language ocean. A small river named Duden flows by their place and supplies it with the necessary regelialia.

Day 5 :

Tadapani to Chomrong

Even the all-powerful Pointing has no control about the blind texts it is an almost unorthographic life One day however a small line of blind text by the name of Lorem Ipsum decided to leave for the far World of Grammar.

Day 6 :

Chomrong to Dobhan (Dovan)

The Big Oxmox advised her not to do so, because there were thousands of bad Commas, wild Question Marks and devious Semikoli, but the Little Blind Text didn’t listen.

Day 7 :

Dovan to Deurali

When she reached the first hills of the Italic Mountains, she had a last view back on the skyline of her hometown Bookmarksgrove, the headline of Alphabet Village and the subline of her own road, the Line Lane. Pityful a rethoric question ran over her cheek.

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How fit do I need to be to do this trek?

Annapurna Base Camp is a Grade B or a moderately difficult trekking route. So any fit person can do this trek, even if you do not have any previous experience. You should be aware of what to expect and mentally prepare for it. Then, as long as you will to, you can.

How long do we walk every day when doing Annapurna Base Camp trekking?

On average, you walk about 4 to 6 hours per day. One or two days can be as less as 3hrs and one or two days can be as long as 7hrs.

What is the highest altitude reached in this trek?

The highest altitude reached is 4190m. This is the elevation of Annapurna Base Camp. ABC is the highest we will climb in this trek.

What about battery charging and hot shower facilities?

Yes, you can charge batteries en route. Charger should be brought. There are hot shower facilities as well. You may have to pay certain amount for both ($1-$2). Negotiate. Also, hot water facility could be free at lower elevation.

Are there ATMs on the way to Annapurna Base Camp?

No. There are no ATMs on this trek route. You will have to draw enough cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu. There are a number of ATMs in these cities. Everything is paid in Nepali rupees. So money should be exchanged before the start of the trek.

What about internet access?

Yes. Internet can be accessed in most places. Sometimes, there might be some technical problems. Internet in Nepal is not as fast as you are used to and at times you can just lose connection.

Is it necessary to hire Guides/trekking agency for Annapurna Base Camp trekking?

Not really. It depends on you. If you want, ABC trekking can be done independently. You could hire a guide and a porter by yourself instead of going through an agency or not hire a guide at all. Although, not having a guide can be a little problematic during off season.

It really depends on you. Is it your first time in Nepal? How confident are you of being able to find your way around? How pressed on time are you? If you go through an agency, it will be costlier but everything will be planned. You will only have to come, trek and return.

How much do guides and porters cost?

For Annapurna region, pay for guides range from $20 to $30 per day and porters take $15 to $25 per day.