Lidder River - Where Beauty Flows

Anantnag

Overview

Lidder River is an important river in Kashmir valley of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a 73 km long river that originates from the Kolahoi Glacier at an elevation of 4653 metres and runs through an alpine meadow Lidderwat. It is the second major tributary of Jhelum River, Sindh River being the first one. Lidder meets Jhelum in Gurnar Khanabal village at a height of 1615 metres from sea level. The important tourist destination Pahalgam forms the central Lidder Valley as the river covers a 30 km area in this tourist place. The colour of the water of the river is crystal blue and looks extremely gorgeous.

Weather

Winter (November to February)

Cold temperatures between 0°C and 10°C, with frequent snowfall. .

Spring (March to April)

Warming temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 20°C, with melting snow and blooming flora. .

Summer (May to June)

Pleasant weather, 15°C to 25°C, ideal for outdoor activities.

Monsoon (July to September)

Heavy rainfall, temperatures between 10°C and 20°C, lush landscapes, but potential travel disruptions.

How to Reach

By Air

Nearest Airport Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (Srinagar Airport), about 90 km away from Lidder River. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to Pahalgam, which is the base for reaching Lidder River. .

By Road

From Srinagar: Lidder River is accessible via National Highway NH-44. A drive to Pahalgam takes around 2-3 hours. Regular bus services and taxis operate between Srinagar and Pahalgam. From Jammu: You can travel via NH-44 (Jammu-Srinagar Highway) towards Srinagar and then continue to Pahalgam. The distance from Jammu to Pahalgam is around 250 km and can take approximately 8-10 hours by road.

By Train

Nearest Railway Station: The closest station is Jammu Tawi, about 255 km away from Pahalgam. From Jammu, you can take a taxi or bus to Pahalgam. Once you reach Pahalgam, the Lidder River flows through the region, and you can easily visit its banks or plan activities like fishing, rafting, or camping.

Best time to Visit

Spring

The weather is mild and pleasant, and the valley is full of vibrant colors as the flowers bloom. It's a great time for hiking and trekking.

Summer

The weather is warm and comfortable, and the valleys are full of lush greenery and blooming flowers. It's a great time for activities like trekking, golfing, and horse riding.

Monsoon

The town receives moderate to heavy rainfall, making the lush green valleys come alive.

Winter

The town is covered in a thick blanket of snow, making it a great time for activities like skiing and sledging.

History

The river originates from Kolahoi Glacier near Sonamarg and gives rise to Lidder Valley. It runs southwards through the alpine meadows of Lidderwat in the region of Aru, from which it got its name. It covers 30 kilometres (19 mi) before reaching Pahalgam where it joins the major tributary of the East Lidder from Sheshnag Lake. It then runs westwards until it meets the Jhelum River at Mirgund Khanabal near Anantnag. It has crystal blue-coloured water and Pahalgam is situated in the centre of Lidder Valley.

Explore the tours

Tour

💖Golden Memories: A 7 -Day Dreamy Honeymoon in Kashmir

7 days 6 nights

0 Review

from

₹20,000 ₹19,500

🌿Kashmir Wilderness Escape: A 7-Day Camping Adventure Tour

7 days 6 nights

0 Review

from

₹30,000 ₹29,000

🏕️ Wild Kashmir: A 5-Day Camping & Adventure Tour

5 days 4 nights

3 Reviews

from

₹22,000 ₹21,000

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Enchanting Kashmir: A 7-Day Family Tour

7 days 6 nights

0 Review

from

₹35,000

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Memorable Getaway - A 5-Day Family Tour in Kashmir

5 days 4 Nights

0 Review

from

₹20,000

🦌 Wild Wonders: A 5-Day Nature and Wildlife Adventure

5 days 4 Nights

0 Review

from

₹15,000

The City Maps

Frequently Asked Questions

What activities can I do at the Lidder River?

When is the best time to visit the Lidder River?

How can I reach the Lidder River?

Is fishing allowed in the Lidder River?

Are there any accommodation options near the Lidder River?

Flora Fauna

Deodar Cedar

These tall, aromatic trees are commonly found along the banks, known for their evergreen needles and durability.

Blue Pine

Characterised by long needles and large cones, these pines are prevalent in the surrounding forests.

Chinar Trees

A symbol of Kashmir, Chinar trees have broad leaves and vibrant autumn colours, thriving near riverbanks.

Brown Trout

Common in the river, these fish are a popular species for anglers due to their size and the clear, cold waters they inhabit.

Himalayan Black Bear

Often seen in nearby forests, these bears rely on the river ecosystem for food and water, particularly during warmer months.

Musk Deer

Found at higher elevations around the river, these shy animals are known for their distinct scent gland and are a rare sight.

Snow Leopard

Although elusive, snow leopards inhabit the upper regions near the Lidder River, preying on smaller mammals.

Himalayan Monal

This colourful bird, the national bird of Nepal, can occasionally be spotted in the dense forests along the riverbanks, feeding on insects and plants.

Adventures

White-Water Rafting

Known for its exhilarating rapids, the river provides an ideal location for white-water rafting, catering to both beginners and experienced rafters.

Fishing

The river is famous for its brown trout, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts seeking a peaceful yet exciting experience

Trekking

The surrounding landscapes offer numerous trekking routes, allowing adventurers to explore the scenic beauty of the Lidder Valley

Photography

The breathtaking views along the river attract photographers aiming to capture the stunning natural beauty of the region.

Myths

Origin Linked to Hindu Deities

According to local belief, the Lidder River is said to be blessed by the Hindu goddess Parvati, wife of Lord Shiva, who is said to have a connection with the river. It's often considered sacred by the local population, and pilgrims believe that the river carries spiritual purity.

Healing Powers

Many locals and pilgrims believe that the water from the Lidder River has healing properties. Bathing in or consuming its water is believed to cure various ailments and bring spiritual blessings.

Connection to the Holy Amarnath Yatra

The river runs through Pahalgam, a key stop for pilgrims on their way to the Amarnath Cave. It is often believed that the river was a route taken by Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati on their journey to the Amarnath Cave. Pilgrims often pay respect to the river as part of their spiritual journey.

Haunting Spirits

In some local folklore, it is believed that spirits or supernatural beings reside near certain parts of the river, particularly in dense forests or secluded areas along the banks. These stories have been passed down through generations, adding an air of mystery to the river, especially after dark.

Videos

Video of Lidder river

Discover the stunning beauty and adventure of Lidder River, a picturesque destination perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

Nearby Places

Baisaran - Mini Switzerland of India

Aru Valley - Your Mountain Escape

Betab Valley - Haven of Peace

Pahalgam - Valley Of Shepherds

Inside Places