Buses from Shar Bus Stand

About Shar

Shar, situated in the Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir, is famous for its natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural heritage. The city is surrounded by lush green valleys, snow-capped mountains, and picturesque lakes, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

One of the main attractions of Shar is its serene and peaceful environment. The city is nestled amidst the beautiful Himalayan Mountains and is known for its cool climate and fresh air. The scenic beauty of the region, with its abundance of pine and cedar forests, adds to the charm and tranquility of the place.

Shar is home to several historical and religious sites that attract tourists from all over the world. The most famous among them is the Avantipora ruins, which consist of two ancient temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. These temples, dating back to the 9th century, showcase exquisite architectural brilliance and stand as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Another prominent attraction in Shar is the famous Shadab Valley. This picturesque valley is located at an altitude of 3,500 feet above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and meadows. The valley is adorned with colorful flowers, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.

For adventure enthusiasts, Shar offers various trekking and mountaineering opportunities. The region is dotted with numerous hiking trails that lead to pristine lakes, dense forests, and snow-clad peaks. Some popular trekking routes include the Tarsar Marsar trek, Kolohoi Glacier trek, and the Amarnath Yatra, which is a holy pilgrimage to the sacred Amarnath cave.

To reach Shar, you can fly to Srinagar International Airport, which is the closest airport to the city. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Shar. The city is well-connected by road to other major cities in Kashmir, including Srinagar, Anantnag, and Pahalgam.

If you prefer traveling by bus, there are regular bus services from Srinagar to Shar. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Kashmir Valley. The bus stand in Shar is located in the city center and has a well-maintained timetable for convenient travel.

In Shar, there are several places of interest that you can visit during your trip. Apart from the Avantipora ruins and Shadab Valley mentioned earlier, some other notable attractions include the Tarsar Lake, Martand Sun Temple, and the scenic hill station of Pahalgam.

The Tarsar Lake, located at an altitude of 12,000 feet, is a crystal clear glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It is a popular camping site and offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere for nature lovers. The Martand Sun Temple, also known as the Sun Temple of Anantnag, is a Hindu temple dedicated to the Sun God. It is famous for its architectural grandeur and intricate stone carvings.

Pahalgam, situated just a short distance from Shar, is a popular hill station known for its lush green meadows, gushing rivers, and picturesque landscapes. It is a paradise for adventure seekers and offers activities like horse riding, trekking, and white water rafting. The famous Betaab Valley, named after the Bollywood movie "Betaab" shot there, is another must-visit attraction in Pahalgam.

In conclusion, Shar-Pulwama district is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural heritage. With its serene environment, pleasant climate, and various tourist attractions, it provides an ideal getaway for travelers seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating vacation. From ancient temples to pristine lakes and snow-clad mountains, Shar has something to offer to every visitor. So, plan your trip to Shar and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of this mesmerizing region.