A popular meadow with dense forests on all sides, Baisaran valley, in south Kashmir’s Pahalgam, has been the ‘mini Switzerland’ for Indian tourists for long, until terror struck. On April 22, six terrorists opened fire on innocent tourists who were vacationing in the valley which reportedly killed 26, and injured many. What was supposed to be a relaxing afternoon quickly turned into a fateful day, one of the most lethal terror attacks in India since 26/11. Let us know everything about Baisaran valley – where is it and what made it an easy target for the attacks.
Where is Baisaran valley in Pahalgam, Kashmir?
About 90 kilometres from the Srinagar International Airport, Pahalgam is a popular hill station in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district in south Kashmir. The valley is surrounded by dense forests on all sides, along river Lidder. The valley is also known as the ‘Valley of Shepherds’ and is home to the famous Hindu shrine, Amarnath Cave Temple.
#baisaranvalley. Kashmir. Had been there 2 years before with family. Can’t imagine today this tragic incidence has happened at the same place. My heart goes out to the victims, their families and all those tourist civilians who lost their life🙏 pic.twitter.com/MabmrYmG5F
— Rakesh Banerjee (@RakeshB41201077) April 22, 2025
It is a much-loved tourist destination for housing several popular tourist spots like the Aru wildlife sanctuary, the scenic Betaab Valley, Tulian Lake, among other places. The Baisaran valley is another well-known spot here which attracts many tourists.
Located 5 kilometres from Pahalgam, Baisaran valley is a meadow that is a popular trekking spot and can be reached only on foot or on ponies ferrying tourists. It is referred to as Mini Switzerland’ because of the long, dark meadows and dense pine forests on all sides. Many trekkers also camp here.
How did the Pahalgam terror attack happen?
On Tuesday, April 22, a group of gunned terrorists descended the valley through the forests between 2.45 and 3 pm, and opened fire on the tourists there, killing at least 26, mostly tourists, and injuring many others. Eyewitnesses at the spot said that the gunmen were dressed in military uniforms, and when they opened fire, it led to panic among the guests.
What made Baisaran valley an easy target for the Pahalgam terror attacks?
Tourists embark on the trek for the adventure itself. Since no motor vehicles are allowed on the route, visitors can only access the place by foot or on ponies. This makes this steep valley isolated, especially in case of unexpected events, such as this attack.
Baisaran Valley, Pahalgam pic.twitter.com/fXAU0vG17K
— cunty little sushi (@sparklemidi) June 4, 2024
Local authorities are shocked as to how one of the most popular tourist spots in the area could become the ground for such an attack. The Baisaran valley is also one of Kashmir’s most peaceful destinations. Security forces, as well as local authorities are investigating the incident.
