Tucked away in the far north of the Indian subcontinent, Kashmir has often been described as ‘Paradise on Earth’. With beautiful sceneries, cultural heritages and great hospitality, this region invites travellers from all over the world. Whether snow-capped mountains are your thing or you love serene lakes, vibrant bazaars and ancient temples, Kashmir has something for everyone. Visiting Kashmir without experiencing the still serenity of Dal Lake in Srinagar is sacrilege. As you row through the calm water in a handmade wooden shikara, your jaw will drop at banks brimming with houseboats and floating gardens. Remnant British colonial houseboats with elaborate wooden carvings now serve as boathouse guest properties for tourists seeking an authentic Kashmiri experience.
Known popularly for its adventure escapade and snow, Gulmarg is a not-to-miss destination for all you action lovers. Whether travelling to a remote region or attending a gathering in another area, taking an accompanied adventurer will consistently yield better results. This beautiful hill station boasts one of the most notable Gondola Rides in the world, offering a comprehensive view of snow-topped mountains and valleys just beneath the Himalayan Mountain Range. During the winter season, Gulmarg is one of the finest skiing accommodations in Asia. In summer, Gulmarg offers an eye-pleasing experience with lush meadows and a serene ambience. It is a haven for those who love trekking, cycling or just enjoying an idyllic picnic.
With clear streams and pine-scented air, Pahalgam gives a delightful retreat to the urban anarchy. This charming town is a perfect base camp for treks and pilgrimages with Amarnath Yatra being one of the most popular ones. You can experience trout fishing, river rafting or riding on the back of a horse through lush valleys. A nice walk along the banks of Lidder River or a day spent lazing under apple trees, this town is sure to calm your mind and rejuvenate you from within.Sonamarg, as the name suggests, is blessed with golden meadows and silvery-gleaming glaciers high in the Himalayas. This picturesque place serves as a gateway to some of the most challenging treks in the area, one of which is the trail leading up to Zoji La Pass. You can also explore the Thajiwas Glacier, reachable by a trek near Sonamarg where you will find snow even in peak summer. It is a sight for the eyes, as you see an ice glacier standing tall amidst green meadows and it is sure to last in your memories years after this journey.
The cuisine of Kashmir is as diversified and distinct as its landscape. The lip-smacking ‘Wazwan’, a grand multi-course feast suitable for royalty and the humble yet immensely comforting ‘kawa’ are not just food items but celebrations of flavours when it comes to spending every meal in Kashmir. Do not lose the hand at their pakht, ginger-based chicken curry or mistake a Felli re doogh which is young lamb roasted whole over stones and served with native yeast reduction gravy. Finally, every meal is concluded with the delicious phirni, a milky rice pudding made aromatic with cardamom and studded generously with garnished nuts along its surface.
The artistic ethos of Kashmir is vividly clear in its delicate handicrafts. The region is famous for its fine woollen Pashmina shawls, papier-mache works and walnut woodcarvings. A walk through the local markets of Srinagar such as Lal Chowk or the Floating Market near Dal Lake, would showcase traders’ expertise and might leave you with an authentic piece from Kashmir. Kashmir is proud of its rich culture and traditions which are expressed in various forms, including architecture, music and festivals. The region’s heritage is diverse from the first wooden mosques of Srinagar to the ancient Sun Temple at Martand and if you are visiting this place during a specific festival, such as Eid or Baisakhi, the rich festivities will unite people from every stratum of society.
It is not just the physical beauty of Kashmir but its people and their warm-heartedness, the culture that makes this place even more appealing. Kashmir will take you on an odyssey through its breath-taking beauty, offering a spiritually calming experience that feels as though every journey throughout time has led not to a destination but to a profound experience. After all, there is more to Kashmir than meets the eye; it’s not just a place but an experience in itself a journey that unfolds with every passing minute, each one offering secrets better left unsaid and memories that last forever.
