A holiday in Kashmir is always a dream come true, more so when as an ardent golfer, you get the privilege of playing in a golf tournament in the placid Lidder Valley Course at Pahalgam.
It was indeed a pleasure participating in Golfing Paradise 2.0, held in Pahalgam between 12th -14th September 2025. Organized by Mr DP Singh of SARA Textiles Ltd who has been promoting Golf in Kashmir for a long time, I started from Delhi, fully equipped, carrying my golf bag with the arsenal of driver, irons, putter, wedges, etc.
As a Kashmiri Pandit, my attachment to my state is deep rooted and I step back to my childhood memories when we spent quality time with our grandparents during our vacations. My recent visit only rekindled the reminiscences of those childhood’s glorious time that I had spent in the valley. I have always been enamoured by Kashmir for its pristine landscapes, snowclad mountains, green carpeted meadows leaving an aura that lingers in the mind for a long time.
The drive from Srinagar to Pahalgam has always been amazing, with each bend revealing a new vista, the eyes treated to the rows of trees, laden with juicy apples, the atmosphere lending a sweet fragrance, the saffron fields and driving through the villages bustling with life. We were welcomed in Pahalgam by the babble of the Lidder alongside the nip in the air which was indeed refreshing.
I have played golf in many places including world class venues, but the Lidder Valley Course in Pahalgam remains unique and most extraordinary. Each fairway unfolds an amazing scenic beauty with lush green meadows. fenced by the tall pine trees, and the sun playing hide and seek from behind these towering trees. Each fairway had a different story to tell. Snow clad mountains bathed with bright sunlight, labyrinth mountain slopes twisting with intricate paths nearby, distant rumble of snow thawing, enhancing the wonderful backdrop for an ideal game.
It was indeed a wonderful experience from the thrill of teeing off, traveling the fairways, sinking the final putt, every moment will be cherished for a very long time. I have had similar experiences in the serene Royal Springs golf course at Srinagar.
Evenings had a different story to tell. Steaming cup of Kahwa, in erudite company which led to many healthy conversations, those laughs amidst sharing of memories, the sun sinking behind the mountains leaving behind the mountains in molten gold, shadows stretching across the valley – with time fleeting away into darkness. The next day, wake up again for another day of serene splendour.
Pahalgam, often referred to as valley of shepherds is nestled with snow clad mountains, crystal clear water of Lidder river, a landscape that is a treat to the eyes, wildflowers adding beauty to the lush green meadows, blooming orchards, pine trees, gazing horses, peaks dusted with snow, all adding up to make this place a wonderland.
I thoroughly enjoyed the wonderful hospitality of ITC’s Pine n Peak hotel. The staff were very courteous; service was prompt and food par excellent, with a taste that lingers on the pallet for a long time. The location is nestled amidst tall pine trees and scenic beauty rendering a very serene atmosphere.
On the way back from Pahalgam we visited Mattan, another interesting place of worship which was on our bucket list. Martand Temple, of 8th century vintage, built by King Lalitaditya Muktapida of the Karkota dynasty, it was dedicated to Lord Surya. Though only the ruins of the temple remain, having been destroyed by Sultan Sikandar, visitors can visit the ruins and enjoy the panoramic view, architectural wonder and rich cultural heritage.
As our holiday came to an end, we packed our bags, feeling both the body, mind and soul rejuvenated. The beauty of Pahalgam resonates with us, etched in our mind for a long time.
