Nestled among an array of lush green Pine trees on the Rajwas plateau, adjacent to the beautiful Lidder river, WelcomHotel Pine n Peak is the only branded well known 5 Star Property in Pahalgam (as of now). Here’s a quick review of my recent stay at the property.
Booking
Being at a famous Hill station, room rates are higher than it’s city counterparts as usual.
Base category room rates usually start at 20K+taxes & move higher during peak winter snow/summer seasons. Rates usually include Complimentary Breakfast for 2 Adults. Our family of 2A+2C did avail complimentary breakfast without any issues.
Booked the base category room with Pine & Gulistaan view for 2 Nights using 23200 ITC Green Points per night despite lean season via ITC Hotels app. Taxes were also settled by ITC GPs during check-out, making it a totally Zero out of pocket expense.
Check-in
Checked-in during evening. Just gave the IDs for check-in, as the reception executive sent us to the nearby Lobby level Saahil Lounge to enjoy evening Tea/Kahwa & light snacks. By the time we came back, room key was promptly handed over.
We were given an option to choose 1 level-up room during check-in & after seeing both, we opted for the upgraded adjacent room that came with balcony as the upgrade.
The Property
The Food
Evening at Saahil Tea Lounge comes with a limited but comforting spread—Tea, Kahwa, small sandwiches, and cookies. But the real treat? The stunning open balcony view, perfect for unwinding.
Morning at WelcomCafe Lolaab is a feast with a South Indian live counter and a serene garden view overlooking the Lidder River. Don’t miss the Beetroot Halwa (served on select days) and the Coconut Cookies – both are simply delightful!
ITC Hospitality
During check-out, I had a brief but warm conversation with the Hotel GM, Mr. Puran Mia. As a thoughtful gesture, he offered me a pack of their famous Walnut Pie (pictured), a specialty of the property that’s hard to find elsewhere. True to his words, this desi ghee-infused, cake-like delight tasted absolutely divine.
Service at the hotel was nothing short of exceptional. When my room key didn’t work, a replacement arrived in under two minutes. The same efficiency applied to every request – whether for water bottles, accessories, or extra towels. Swift, seamless, and truly impressive!
Sightseeing
- Pahalgam Market: 1.8 Km
- Baisaran Valley: 5 Km
- Aru Valley: 9 Km
- Betaab Valley: 12 Km
Aru & Betaab valley can be covered in one go via Taxi. Fixed rates apply whether you book from Market or Hotel (maybe at a premium in Peak season over fixed rates). If booked from Hotel also, vehicle comes from the market taxi stand only & payment is to be settled to the Taxi driver directly.
Baisaran & Betaab valleys are a must visit in Pahalgam. Horses for Baisaran are available from the Hotel gates also, but quote higher prices. Better to book from nearby Pahalgam market.
Walking from the Hotel to Market and vice-versa should be avoided at night, as the road becomes too dark & lonely during this time (specially in off-peak season).
Bottomline
This property offers breathtaking views of lush green pine trees and a beautifully maintained garden, Gulistaan. The service was exceptional, with a highly courteous staff that went above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay.
The only downside? Even in the lean season, it felt slightly overpriced.