AR Bhat
“If there is a heaven on earth, it’s here, it’s here, it’s here.” – Amir Khusro, on Kashmir. Kashmir has been blessed with incredible beauty and thus is rightly called as “Paradise on Earth”. Kashmir with its magical beauty of Chinar trees that paint the entire valley yellow and red with the arrival of autumn, with its precious lakes that sparkle golden beneath the morning sun, and sapphire blue rivers that are born from the icy mountains do more than justice to the phrase “Paradise on Earth”.
With the magnificent Pir Panjal Ranges keeping a vigilant eye on the valleys below and the giddy scent of cypress tree bending in grace over meandering rivers and flourishing meadows, every corner of the Valley is filled with eye catching vistas like a postcard waiting to be sent to the world. The unimaginable beauty of lush, flourishing Valley of Kashmir is the epitome of soulful tranquillity that evoke the poet and poetry within you. The Valley of Kashmir make for perfect examples of rugged raw beauty with an untamed and unspoilt spirit. They rouse mysticism and echo natural splendour. The lakes in Kashmir are sparkling and clear, glistening and gorgeous. Srinagar city is home to the famous Dal, Wular and Nageen Lakes which are spectacular. Taking a boat ride on these lakes with majestic mountains playing guard as you enjoy the romanticisms of living a dream will surely make you experience Paradise. In winter, Kashmir turns into a mesmerizing winter wonder land. The pristine and pure white landscape fills your heart with a sense of peace and purity. Falling soft snowflakes on the stunning vistas is a sight only to be found in fairy tale books. For those who fear winters, fall or autumn is the best time to plan a trip to the Valley. The Valley greets you with vibrant colours. The camera happy tourist will be spoilt for choice and return home happy with a thousand different shades of Chinar trees. Second best to the colours of the Valley are its winds that are energetic and soft that make it the perfect time for a cup of Kawha or hot chocolate while taking in the mesmerising views. The blooming of the Tulips announces the arrival of spring. Bunches of colours fill the entire Valley. Kashmir also has the exclusivity of having the only Tulip Garden in India, a trip to the gardens should be a must do activity on your list of places to visit in Kashmir.
The hand carved wooden house boats are a throw back in time and a dream come true for the romantic at heart. It is an experience of a lifetime. Waking up on the Dal or Nagin Lake while staying overnight in a house boat gives you bragging rights for a life time. One doesn’t always have to travel to the Alps to enjoy a Gondola ride. In fact, a Gondola is one of the best ways to get close to the towering Himalayas offering a panoramic view of the snow-capped mountain as it goes higher and closer to the Apharwat Mountains.
Just like its luxurious decadent landscapes, the food in Kashmir is equally heavenly. The rich Wazwan cuisine boasts of delicious Rogan Josh, Ghoshtaba and other delectable dishes. Starting your day with a hot cup of Kahwah is an indulgence that can be experienced only in Kashmir. Follow it up with some Yakhni or Dum Aloo and enjoy some special Noon Chai as the sun sets. People make a place and as soon as you set your foot onto this stunning paradise, the shy and smiling Kashmiri people welcome you with immense warmth, love and togetherness. Kashmir is the fruit bowl of India. The apple orchards sitting pretty surrounded by snow-capped peaks rising above the horizon is a sight one can only savour in Kashmir. Kashmiri apples have gained popularity among the people across the globe for its unique delicious flavour. These apples are locally termed as Chunt. One can be sure to almost always hear apples and Kashmir in the same sentence.
Disclaimer: The viewpoints expressed by the authors do not necessarily reflect the opinions, viewpoints and editorial policies of Daily Gadyal
