kashmir travel Dairy

A Traveler’s Journal of Srinagar, Kashmir

 

Dear Diary,

Today marks the beginning of my long-awaited journey to the heart of Kashmir. 

 

Day 1: April 15, 2024: I arrived in Srinagar around noon, greeted by a crisp, cool breeze and the sight of snow-capped mountains in the distance. The air here feels different—cleaner, purer, as if nature itself is welcoming me with open arms.

My journey started with a warm welcome from the team at Kashmir Ladakh Tourism, the travel company that will be guiding me throughout this adventure. They arranged a lovely homestay for me in a quaint house in the old part of the city, not far from the Dal Lake. The family running the homestay is incredibly hospitable, treating me to a traditional Kashmiri meal of Rogan Josh, Kahwa, and Kashmiri Naan.

In the evening, I took a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood, soaking in the sights and sounds. The narrow lanes, lined with traditional wooden houses and small shops selling local crafts, gave me a glimpse of the city’s rich cultural heritage. As the sun set, casting a golden hue over the valley, I felt a deep sense of peace. I can’t wait to explore more of this beautiful city in the coming days.

 

Day 2: April 16, 2024 – Discovering Dara Harwan and Dachigam

Dear Diary,

This morning, I set out to explore Dara Harwan, a serene village located about 15 kilometers from Srinagar. The drive itself was breathtaking, with the road winding through lush green meadows and apple orchards. Dara Harwan is a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with its picturesque landscapes and the tranquil waters of the Harwan Reservoir.

After spending some time in Dara Harwan, I headed to Dachigam National Park, which is just a short distance away. Dachigam, meaning "ten villages," is a haven for wildlife and nature lovers. I was fortunate enough to spot the endangered Hangul deer, also known as the Kashmir stag, along with a variety of birds. The park is a dense, green paradise, with towering trees, clear streams, and trails that lead deeper into the wilderness.

In the evening, I returned to my homestay, where the family had prepared a traditional Kashmiri Wazwan for dinner. The flavors were rich and exotic, a perfect ending to a day spent in the lap of nature.

 

Day 3: April 17, 2024 – Floating Market and Sonwar

Dear Diary,

Today was an early start. I woke up before dawn to visit the famous floating market on Dal Lake. The market is a vibrant, bustling affair, with shikaras (traditional wooden boats) filled with fresh produce, flowers, and handicrafts. It’s a sight to behold—the lake, shrouded in morning mist, with the shikaras gliding silently on its surface. The sellers, mostly local farmers, were incredibly friendly, offering me a taste of their produce as they went about their business.

After the floating market, I visited Sonwar, a neighborhood known for its beautiful gardens and historical significance. The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, Asia’s largest tulip garden, was in full bloom, a riot of colors spread out like a carpet before the mountains. I spent hours wandering through the garden, taking in the sight of thousands of tulips swaying gently in the breeze.

In the afternoon, I returned to the Dal Lake area and spent some time exploring the houseboats. The craftsmanship on these floating homes is extraordinary, with intricately carved woodwork and richly decorated interiors. I even had a cup of Kahwa on one of the houseboats, while the owner shared stories of the lake and its history.

 

Day 4: April 18, 2024 – Exploring Downtown and Rainawari

Dear Diary,

Today was dedicated to exploring the heart of Srinagar—Downtown and Rainawari. Downtown Srinagar, also known as Shahr-e-Khaas, is the oldest part of the city, where history breathes through the narrow, winding lanes. The old wooden houses with their distinct balconies, known as Jharokhas, tell stories of a bygone era.

I visited the historic Jamia Masjid, a beautiful wooden mosque with Indo-Saracenic architecture. The tranquility inside the mosque was a stark contrast to the bustling streets outside. From there, I wandered through the local markets, where the aroma of freshly baked bread from Kaandarwans (local bakeries) filled the air. I couldn’t resist trying some Girda and Sheermal, both traditional Kashmiri breads.

Next, I moved to Rainawari, a culturally rich neighborhood known for its blend of Hindu, Muslim, and Sikh communities living together in harmony. I visited the Raghunath Temple and the Gurdwara Chatti Patshahi, both places of great religious significance. The narrow lanes of Rainawari, with their colorful houses and vibrant street life, were a photographer’s delight.

 

Day 5: April 19, 2024 – Habba Kadal and Kashmiri Handicrafts

Dear Diary,

Today, I explored Habba Kadal, a historic area known for its cultural significance and traditional Kashmiri handicrafts. Habba Kadal is named after the famous Kashmiri poetess Habba Khatoon, whose verses continue to resonate in the valley.

The area is renowned for its Kashmiri shawls, Pashmina, and papier-mâché items. I visited several workshops where artisans were busy creating beautiful handwoven shawls, intricate papier-mâché items, and finely carved walnut wood furniture. The craftsmanship here is unparalleled, each piece reflecting the rich artistic heritage of Kashmir.

In the evening, I enjoyed a traditional Kashmiri tea at a local tea house, surrounded by the warmth and chatter of locals discussing the day’s events. The sense of community in Habba Kadal is strong, with people taking pride in their cultural roots and traditions.

 

Day 6: April 20, 2024 – A Day in Yousmarg

Dear Diary,

Yousmarg was the destination for today, and what a magical place it turned out to be! Located about 50 kilometers from Srinagar, Yousmarg is a sprawling meadow surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped mountains. The drive itself was a visual treat, with the road winding through picturesque villages and verdant fields.

Yousmarg is often referred to as "the hidden gem of Kashmir," and rightly so. The tranquility of the place is unmatched, with only the sound of birds and the distant rush of a stream breaking the silence. I spent the day walking through the meadows, absorbing the beauty of nature in its purest form. There were a few shepherds with their flocks, adding to the pastoral charm of the landscape.

The highlight of the day was a short trek to Nilnag Lake, a small, crystal-clear lake surrounded by dense forests. The reflections of the trees in the still water created a picture-perfect scene. As the sun began to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, I reluctantly made my way back to Srinagar, my heart full of the serene beauty of Yousmarg.

 

Day 7: April 21, 2024 – Gangabal Lake Trek

Dear Diary,

Today was a day of adventure—a trek to the stunning Gangabal Lake, one of the high-altitude alpine lakes in the Ganderbal district. The lake is nestled in the Harmukh mountain range, and the trek is considered one of the most beautiful yet challenging in Kashmir.

The trek started early in the morning, with a local guide from Kashmir Ladakh Tourism leading the way. The trail took us through dense forests, across gushing streams, and up steep inclines. The views along the way were breathtaking, with the Harmukh peak towering majestically in the distance.

After several hours of trekking, we finally reached Gangabal Lake. The sight of the pristine, emerald-green waters against the backdrop of the snow-clad mountains was worth every step of the journey. We spent some time by the lake, taking in the serene beauty of the place, before making our way back to the base camp. The trek was tiring, but the experience of being surrounded by such untouched natural beauty made it all worthwhile.

 

Day 8: April 22, 2024 – A Day of Rest and Reflection

Dear Diary,

After the intense trek to Gangabal Lake, I decided to take a day to rest and reflect on my journey so far. I stayed at my homestay, spending the day reading, writing, and simply enjoying the peace and quiet. The family at the homestay shared stories about the history of Kashmir, giving me a deeper understanding of the region’s rich cultural and historical tapestry.

In the evening, I took a short walk around the neighborhood, visiting a local park where children were playing and elders were gathered for their evening chat. The simplicity of life here, the strong sense of community, and the natural beauty all around have a calming effect on the mind and soul.

 

Day 9: April 23, 2024 – Exploring Manasbal Lake

Dear Diary,

Today, I ventured out to explore Manasbal Lake, often referred to as the "Gem of Kashmir." Located about 30 kilometers from Srinagar, Manasbal Lake is known for its clear waters and the abundance of lotus flowers that bloom in the summer. there is a nearby famous temple devoted to the kashmiri pundits by the name of kheer bhawani, every year there is a mela where many devotes gather to pay homage, later i went fishing in the lake and met some local fishermen which collect fish and their womenfolk sells the fish in bazaar. later i drove back to srinagar to enjoy a sumptuous meal comprised of kashmiri chicken curry and mutton gosh korma and haak saag.

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postcards from kashmir

Today i am posting some of the post cards from Kashmir. they represent the culture and lifestyle of people. before i show you the pictures, you might have already known something about kashmir, Right, Its was a vacationers dream place until it got tangled in political Tension till 2019, after 2020 things started to change in kashmir and peace prevailed in the valley. this year 2024 it saw the highest footfall of tourists as it has some beautiful mountain ranges, people who want to spend time in Mountains its perfect for them. Let's delve into some details;

Kashmir: Beauty and Culture

Natural Beauty: Kashmir is often referred to as "Paradise on Earth" due to its breathtaking natural beauty. It is characterized by lush valleys, picturesque landscapes, pristine lakes, and towering snow-capped mountains. Some of its key features include:

1. Dal Lake: The iconic Dal Lake in Srinagar is famous for its serene waters and floating gardens. It's a popular tourist attraction where visitors can enjoy Shikara rides and stay in houseboats.

2. Pahalgam: This charming hill station is surrounded by verdant meadows, thick forests, and the Lidder River. It's a starting point for trekking and adventure sports. places of attraction around pahalgam are Aru valley, Beetab valley, Chandanwari, Martand sun temples, Baisarn & kashmir valley. In  summers visit the Apple orchards to taste a freshly pressed apple juice from the Apple laden trees.
   

    

3. Gulmarg: Known for its world-class ski resorts, Gulmarg boasts stunning alpine landscapes and the highest golf course in the world. The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the highest cable cars globally and offers panoramic views. only drawback at gulmarg is hotels are over priced  in gulmarg, they are old, not well maintained and not worth the price you are paying, as Gulmarg is well connected to srinagar, A day trip is recommended to Gulmarg. other nearby places to Gulmarg is Botapathri & Drung. Botapathri is highly recommended to visit in summers, while Drung in winters to see the frozen waterfall.
   

   
   

4. Sonmarg: in kashmiri language known as the "Meadow of Gold," Sonmarg is renowned for its alpine flowers, glaciers, and trekking trails. It's a gateway to the Zoji La Pass, connecting Kashmir with Ladakh. Nearby attractions to sonmarg are Zero point, Thajwas Glacier, etc
   

    

    

    

Cultural Richness: Kashmir's culture is a blend of diverse influences, including Central Asian, Persian, and Indian elements. Its unique cultural aspects include:

1. Language and Literature: The official language is Urdu, but Kashmiri is widely spoken. The region has a rich literary tradition with poets like Lal Ded and Habba Khatoon contributing to Kashmiri literature.

2. Cuisine: Kashmiri cuisine is characterized by rich flavors and use of spices. Signature dishes include Rogan Josh (a flavorful curry), Wazwan (a multi-course feast), and various types of rice dishes like Dum Aloo and Yakhni.

3. Handicrafts: Kashmir is famous for its intricate handicrafts, particularly Pashmina shawls, paper-mâché items, carpets, and woodwork. These crafts reflect the region's artistic excellence.

4. Music and Dance: Traditional music and dance are an integral part of Kashmir's cultural identity. The region is known for Sufiana Kalam (Sufi music) and the vibrant Rouff dance.

5. Festivals: Kashmir celebrates a variety of festivals, including Eid, Navroz (Kashmiri New Year), and Shivaratri. The Tulip Festival and the Shikara Festival attract visitors from across the world.

Spiritual Heritage: Kashmir has a deep spiritual heritage, with numerous temples, mosques, and shrines dotting the landscape. Some notable religious sites include:

1. Shankaracharya Temple: Perched on a hill overlooking Srinagar, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and offers panoramic views of the city and Dal Lake.

2. Jamia Masjid: A magnificent wooden mosque in Srinagar, renowned for its Indo-Saracenic architecture and serene ambiance.

3. Amarnath Cave: A holy site for Hindus, this cave shrine houses an ice stalagmite that is worshipped as a representation of Lord Shiva.

4. Hazratbal Shrine: A significant Muslim shrine that houses a relic believed to be a hair strand of the Prophet Muhammad.

Kashmir's beauty and culture are intertwined, creating a unique and enchanting experience for visitors. The region's natural wonders, artistic traditions, and religious heritage contribute to its allure and make it a place of profound significance. However, it's essential to acknowledge that the region has also faced political challenges and conflicts that have affected its cultural landscape and daily life.

women cooking food at home

In kashmir women are sweet home makers its their utmost duty to take care of other family members and cook delicious food. Doesn't matter whether its a working women or a housewife the prime duty of women remains to look after their family. In the above picture the older lady is cooking "monje haakh" a vegetable dish which is eaten with rice. kashmiri love eating rice that's why they are called "batte mahnu" rice men.

in the saffron fields

Saffron is cultivated as one of the most expensive spice in the world, known for many beneficial uses it has demand in many countries. it is cultivated here in late summers and you can see in the picture how a family is involved in the farms, women & men work together to cultivate saffron. the saffron flowers look purple & beautiful.

Kangri or Firepot is a good friend for winters to give you company & warmth. a essential commodity for all people. as the winter gets colder & colder men take the kangri with burning coals under their poncho type garments to provide them warmth. Kangri is hand made mostly in the village households, thus generating a small amount of seasonal income for people. in the above picture we captured a kangri seller he is from the village and has come on with a bunch of kangris on his shoulder to sell them.

A little shepherd boy driving cattle home, the scene depicts a typical Kashmir village where in evening a little boy is bringing his flock of sheep home. during winter's children have long winter vacation & they also do household chores.

cricket bats "Made in kashmir"

 The cricket bat is a famous product made in Kashmir, the kashmiri willow is used to manufacture these bats. on the way to pahalgam you will see some small factories which manufacture the bats, later these bats are sold in Kashmir and in other parts of India. In the above pic a young man is showing us a newly made cricket bat.

floating market in Dal lake.

 The everyday vegetable market which starts early at dawn for few hours, farmers of the lake come with their loaded boats filled with veggies. it's a nice sight to make your morning beautiful.  visit us again for more pictures of kashmir for more information about kashmir ladakh tour drop us a mail  at  info@kashmir-ladakh-tourism.com

Kashmir, a better times

  Kashmir a better times

"There was once a paradise", said the old man, "where everyone wanted to live a peaceful life", then unfortunately it became a war ground, more than two decades of civil war has badly hit kashmir. it had drained the resources and hindered growth. there was fear and containment left in the heart of tourists. since past few years peace has prevailed in the valley, tourists are coming back to kashmir to enjoy it's beauty and wild valleys. now it is in the revival process a new beginning, a new life for the people and a new start for tourism.

kashmir has been an iconic place for shooting of movies in the 60's and later became famous with British families, who came here to spend their holidays.  The valley changes it beauty simultaneously with every season starting from the cold winters when it is covered with the shroud of snow and frost, people bear the cold in the hope of a better spring season. it reminds me of  a verse from Shelly's poem. "if the winter comes can spring be far behind". Winters slowly gives way to spring, it comes in full gusto flowers bloom and the mustard fields spread like the yellow carpet. Then the summer months fill the lakes and streams, people  eat fruits like watermelon & apples to keep their cool. again a seasonal change happens in September when it is time for autumn to shed the leaves of trees and dip them quietly in the lakes. Bright colored trees of autumn turn bare and sickly in cold winters, In every season nature shows its glamor and grandeur in kashmir. The bedazzling and bewildering valleys of kashmir remain a strong & succinct subjects of beauty for the observer, the fresh and crisp air flows from the meadows and tall pines while the streams, apple orchids, pink almond bloom and rice fields form a part of its rich diversity.

 

The valley is not just a destination of breathtaking landscapes but also a treasure trove of culture, arts, and history. From the tranquil waters of Dal Lake to the vibrant arts and crafts, from its deep connections with Bollywood to the historic visit of The Beatles, Kashmir is a region that has inspired artists, musicians, and travelers for generations. This essay explores the multifaceted beauty of Kashmir, highlighting its culture, heritage, arts, and the influence it has had on global pop culture.

Cultural and Historical Heritage of Kashmir

1. The Rich Tapestry of Kashmiri Culture:

• Kashmir is a region with a rich and diverse cultural heritage, influenced by its historical interactions with various civilizations, including the Persian, Central Asian, and Indian subcontinental cultures. The valley has been a melting pot of different religions, traditions, and languages, which have coalesced to form a unique cultural identity. The people of Kashmir are known for their warm hospitality, and the region’s culture is characterized by its traditional music, dance, and crafts.

• One of the most significant aspects of Kashmiri culture is Sufism, which has deeply influenced the region’s spiritual and cultural life. Sufi shrines, such as the Hazratbal Shrine and the Khanqah-e-Moula, are not only religious centers but also hubs of cultural activity, where traditional Kashmiri music, known as Sufiana Kalam, is performed. The Kashmiri language, with its poetic richness, is another vital part of the region’s cultural heritage, with poets like Lal Ded and Sheikh Noor-ud-din contributing to its literary tradition.

2. The Heritage of Kashmiri Architecture:

• The architectural heritage of Kashmir is a blend of Islamic, Hindu, and Buddhist influences, reflecting the region’s diverse cultural history. Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is home to several historic mosques, temples, and shrines that are architectural marvels. The Jamia Masjid, with its Indo-Saracenic architecture, and the Shankaracharya Temple, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of the valley, are iconic landmarks that symbolize the region’s religious harmony.

• The Mughal Gardens of Srinagar, such as Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi, are masterpieces of Persian-style landscaping. These gardens, built during the Mughal era, are characterized by terraced lawns, cascading fountains, and intricate designs, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Mughal architecture. These gardens not only showcase the aesthetic sensibilities of the Mughals but also enhance the natural beauty of Kashmir, with the Zabarwan Mountains providing a majestic backdrop.

The Bollywood Connection: Kashmir’s Cinematic Legacy

1. Kashmir in Bollywood Cinema:

• Kashmir has long been a favorite destination for Bollywood filmmakers, who have captured its stunning landscapes on celluloid, making it one of the most iconic locations in Indian cinema. From the 1960s to the 1980s, Kashmir was a regular feature in Bollywood films, with its snow-capped mountains, lush meadows, and pristine lakes serving as the perfect backdrop for romance and drama. Classic films like Kashmir Ki Kali (1964), Junglee (1961), and Silsila (1981) showcased the beauty of Kashmir, bringing the region into the living rooms of millions of Indians.

• The picturesque locations of Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg became synonymous with Bollywood’s portrayal of romance, and the iconic shikara rides on Dal Lake were immortalized in numerous songs and scenes. Kashmir’s association with Bollywood not only boosted its tourism but also cemented its place in the cultural consciousness of India. Even today, despite the challenges faced by the region, filmmakers continue to be drawn to the beauty of Kashmir, with recent films like Jab Tak Hai Jaan (2012) and Highway (2014) revisiting the valley’s stunning landscapes.

2. The Beatles and Ravi Shankar in Kashmir:

• The connection between Kashmir and global pop culture was further strengthened by the visit of The Beatles to India in the 1960s. While The Beatles did not directly visit Kashmir, their journey to India to learn Transcendental Meditation from Maharishi Mahesh Yogi had a profound impact on their music and spiritual outlook. During this period, the legendary sitar maestro Ravi Shankar, who had a deep connection with Kashmir, introduced George Harrison of The Beatles to Indian classical music. Shankar’s influence on Harrison led to the incorporation of Indian sounds in The Beatles’ music, creating a fusion that resonated with audiences worldwide.

• Ravi Shankar, who was born in Varanasi but had strong ties to Kashmir, often visited the valley for inspiration and spiritual solace. His music, deeply rooted in Indian classical traditions, was influenced by the natural beauty and tranquility of Kashmir. The collaboration between Ravi Shankar and George Harrison not only popularized Indian music in the West but also brought global attention to the cultural richness of Kashmir.

Dal Lake: The Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir

1. The Natural Beauty of Dal Lake:

• Dal Lake, often referred to as the "Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir," is one of the most iconic symbols of the valley’s natural beauty. Spread over an area of about 18 square kilometers, Dal Lake is a mosaic of pristine water, floating gardens, and houseboats, all set against the backdrop of the Zabarwan Mountains. The lake is not just a scenic wonder but also an integral part of the cultural and social life of Srinagar.

• The beauty of Dal Lake is best experienced during a shikara ride, where visitors can glide across the calm waters, passing by floating markets, lotus fields, and traditional wooden houseboats. The lake is also home to the Mughal Gardens, which are perched on its shores, offering spectacular views of the water and the surrounding mountains. In winter, the lake often freezes over, creating a surreal landscape that adds to its allure.

2. The Houseboats of Dal Lake:

• One of the unique features of Dal Lake is its houseboats, which have become synonymous with the Kashmiri experience. These intricately designed wooden houseboats are floating hotels, offering all the comforts of modern living while maintaining a traditional charm. Staying in a houseboat on Dal Lake is a quintessential Kashmiri experience, providing visitors with a chance to immerse themselves in the tranquility and beauty of the region.

• The houseboats, often family-owned for generations, are adorned with traditional Kashmiri handicrafts, including handwoven carpets, walnut wood furniture, and papier-mâché artifacts. These houseboats offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir, where art and craftsmanship are deeply valued. The gentle rocking of the boat, the sound of water lapping against its sides, and the panoramic views of the lake and mountains create an ambiance of peace and serenity that is hard to find elsewhere.

Kashmiri Handicrafts and Arts: A Testament to Creativity

1. The Art of Pashmina and Carpets:

• Kashmir is world-renowned for its exquisite handicrafts, which have been passed down through generations. Among the most famous of these are the Pashmina shawls, made from the fine wool of the Changthangi goat found in the high-altitude regions of Ladakh. Pashmina is known for its softness, warmth, and intricate designs, making it one of the most sought-after luxury items in the world.

• In addition to Pashmina, Kashmir is also famous for its handwoven carpets, which are considered some of the finest in the world. These carpets, known as Kashmiri carpets, are made using traditional weaving techniques and feature intricate patterns inspired by Persian and Central Asian designs. The process of making these carpets is labor-intensive, with each piece taking several months, or even years, to complete. The artistry involved in creating these carpets is a testament to the skill and dedication of Kashmiri artisans.

2. Papier-Mâché and Walnut Wood Carvings:

• Another significant aspect of Kashmiri handicrafts is papier-mâché, a craft that has its origins in Persia. The art of papier-mâché involves creating decorative items from paper pulp, which is then painted and lacquered to create vibrant and intricate designs. This craft is used to make a wide range of products, including boxes, trays, vases, and Christmas ornaments, all of which are characterized by their intricate patterns and bright colors.

• Walnut wood carving is another traditional craft that is deeply ingrained in Kashmiri culture. The region’s artisans are known for their skill in carving intricate designs into walnut wood, which is abundant in Kashmir. The wood is used to create furniture, panels, and decorative items, each piece showcasing the intricate patterns and motifs that are unique to Kashmiri craftsmanship. The art of walnut wood carving has been preserved through generations, with many families dedicating their lives to perfecting this craft.

Conclusion: The Enduring Allure of Kashmir

Kashmir is a region where natural beauty and cultural heritage are intertwined, creating a destination that is both enchanting and inspiring. From the tranquil waters of Dal Lake to the vibrant arts and crafts, from its deep connections with Bollywood to the global influence of Ravi Shankar and The Beatles, Kashmir is a place that has left an indelible mark on the world. Its landscapes are a testament to nature’s grandeur, while its culture and heritage reflect the creativity, spirituality, and resilience of its people.

For travelers, Kashmir offers an opportunity to explore not just its

 

on the way to pahalgam

Pahalgam and Gulmarg

Pahalgam and gulmarg are the two definite valleys which people visit. Pahalgam is a beautiful valley covered with tall mountains and river lidder runs through it. during hot summer's it provides as a refreshing & relaxing spot for the people of srinagar. adjacent valleys of aru and chandanwari provide breathtaking natural landscapes, wild charm and green forest lanes are immaculate with rows of pines and spruce. Beetab valley and Baisairn valleys are the reminiscent of the old bygone era in which English people used to amuse themselves in the pleasure of hunting and chasing wild bears, angling trout from the cold water streams and shooting the birds for a delicious meal. The mountain valley of lidderwat is accessible by a short trek from aru village. It falls on the trekking route to koholoi mountain the highest peak in kashmir.

For the golf enthusiasts gulmarg golf course is a cocoon filled with rich greens, wildflowers and adjacent old church. who wouldn't like to play a game of golf in this blissful environment where valleys and green meadows will give you the company and encourage you to be more close to nature. Gulmarg is a valley located high up in the mountains covered with tall pine and fir forests. This valley is known for large number of snowfalls. Every winter gulmarg hosts a number of events and winter sports activities, the skiers love to ski on the slopes of gulmarg. Gondola or cable car is a famous tourist vehicle, it ferries tourists high up in the affarwat mountains and from there they can enjoy some good views of the distant mountains and valleys.During all the winter months gulmarg is covered in thick snow but the hotels remain open for ski & adventure buffs. Summers provide a great views of the valley when the meadows turn into green carpets and sheep's graze in them. wildflowers grow along the paths and plants bloom everywhere. Gulmarg is most visited place in kashmir open throughout the year for tourists.

A beautiful view of gulmarg meadows in autumn

Sonmarg valley

The valley of sonmarg is a four hours drive from srinagar. tourists love to visit sonmarg because it offers some of the best views of villages and sindh river on whose banks this valley is located.It is also a favorite destination for the pilgrims going for amaranth cave pilgrimage. In winters it is cold and many hotels are closed there. So in summer months it receives the more amount of people who enjoy its cool weather and beautiful sights.The thajwas glacier is easily accessible by walk or pony ride, snow remains there almost for a year. Sonmarg was very beautiful and praised since older times and still now it has kept that unsurpassed charm which flourishes in its deep forests and ravines. a tour of sonmarg can be completed in one day, There are various activities which can be done at sonmarg like horse riding to thajwas, sightseeing tour to zero point on zojilla leh highway. trip to baltal the starting point of yatra. fishing in sindh river. there is a also a very beautiful park maintained by Jk government. to make a happy day in sonmarg don't forget to play in the cold water. besides this sonmarg is a very good place for photography and hiking.

Srinagar city

Srinagar, A very historic city in the heart of kashmir has seen many things changing from the local government to the partition of the nation. This city was formed on the banks of Dal & river jehlum. Many shrines and temples were erected in its different towns which signified the brotherhood of Hindu & Muslim communities living harmoniously in its lap. Today the city of srinagar is a hideout for many people who seek spiritual guidance. There are lots of Sufi shrines to visit also the Masjid of nowhatta which is one of the old mosque there. The shrines of shahi hamdan the spiritual guide and a Sufi saint who came to kashmir in earlier days. These shrines depict the faith of kashmiri people and are important for their religious duties. The Islamic architecture of these shrines is amazing with old world charm. Carved out of wood these holy places have stood witness to the cultural and religious metamorphosis of folks. Hazratbal is another historic holy shrine having the relic Plenty of devotees come here every friday to offer mid day prayers. So avoid going there on Friday you will face lot of crowd. Srinagar city has lots of markets where you will find different and unique merchandize, you will also find shops of tailors where they made custom clothing like made to measure and ethnic clothing's. you should visit these shops to get yourself a smart phiren or shalwar kameez.

Paddling a shikara in dallake

Enjoy A Pure Kashmiri Hospitality in Houseboats

Worried about accommodation in kashmir? there are some good hotels on boulevard road and in other posh locations of city like raj bagh, nishat, etc. Now five star hotels branded by the names of taj, lalit are also running in kashmir. If you don't have a bulgy pocket & don't want to stay in these high branded hotels, i would suggest you to stay in houseboat for at least one night to get the real feeling of kashmiri traditional hospitality. The service and food served in houseboats are great. these boats are moored at once place and remain stagnant, you have to ferry across the lake in a small colorful shikara to reach to a houseboat. generally the crossing is free if you are staying in one of the boats. A shikara trip of the lake can be a great highlight of your kashmir valley tour, you will closely observe the life of lake dweller's how they raise their children and how they manage to live on the waters.

Houseboats with flower lawns

Buy these things in Kashmir

• kashmiri handmade carpets remain the most loved possessions of art loving people around the world, they come in different variants made from  silk, wool and cotton. handmade in the looms and households of kashmiri village homes, these rugs take lot of time and patience before they become worthy of the beauty and intricate details of different designs and shapes. the artisans put lot of themselves in these carpets, they stay inside all wintery days knotting and weaving these colorful carpets.

• Paper machie is a very intricate and skillful work done by the artisans of kashmir. it was brought down from Persia as a mean to give new skills to unemployed Kashmir's. Slowly it found it's way in the international market. Paper is well beaten and smashed before the artist starts to paint it with his crafty hand.
•  Saffron is cultivated in kashmir, it is used here by the local chefs to prepare wedding dishes.

 Kashmir has seen lots of changes in these two decades, but it's beauty has remained unchanged there is still a fog covered dallake in the morning and fountains jetting in mughal gardens, fruit blossoms of vibrant colors decorating the trees and you can lost in the sweet songs of birds in evening as the sun goes down past the lake. come to kashmir ladakh tour and you will discover it's splendid beauty yourself.   

 

 

A traveller's journal of srinagar kashmir

Song of Spring

A typical spring in kashmir is a pleasant season when the things suddenly come to life after a long winters. A new hope of life arises with the sun glimmering through the dusky clouds and snow covered peaks. Spring here can't be portrayed in words it is only actions and images of nature. the rich smell of roses which bloom in different shades throughout summers or the flight of  a bulbul bird drapes among the leaves of Chinaar to escape from the cold showers. The blooming buds of flowers awake on the roar of a thunder.

Flower Mughal Gardens Of Kashmir

Since earlier days of my life i have been attracted by flower gardens, I remind the time going picnic with my school or a family excursion to a near by garden. Living in Srinagar kashmir there is no dearth of lovely gardens. Immaculate flowers adorning the boundaries of the carpeted garden, When in youth I and my friends skipped the school and found our ways to the garden, so i could say i have many attachments to the gardens of kashmir. The first garden i will take you today is nishat garden.. It is called baghi nishat by the locals. Everyone can visit it from morning till evening, there is only a small entrance fess applicable. while entering the garden a traveler is greeted with different range of flowers, and canals of water are flowing swiftly under the chinar trees. one could see lots of fruit trees in this garden mostly peach, plum etc. It is a terraced garden each terrace with different design of flower beds or depicting twelve patterns of zodiac.

Shikara's in the Lake

these wooden canopy boats  ferry tourists across the lake to houseboats, a shikara ride is a very nice experience to enjoy  culture and lifestyle of the people living on the lake.

Srinagar

A view of tulip garden srinigar

Historical places in srinagar city

About Srinigar

Area	2228Sq.Kms
Area under forests	380 Sq. kms
Latitude	Latitude: 34.08 N
Longitude	Longitude: 74.83 E
Altitude	1730 metres above sea level
STDCode	0194

A View of Nishat Bagh

A dive through gardens & parks

A drive through srinagar will take you by many parks and gardens, each richly decorated with beautiful flowers throughout all the seasons. during the evenings these small parks gather a large amount of local crowd who come here with their kids to enjoy & unwind. some of the few parks to visit in srinagar are
Nehru park- it is located on a small island in Dal lake, next to the boulevard road you can reach there by a shikara and enjoy your day there.activities like swimming,water skiing & boat riding can be done from there.
Pratap park- this park is located centrally in busy lal chowk. students from near by colleges,govt employees love to visit here. for many decades it has been a epicenter for many protests.
Duck park- it was build lately on the road which connects hazratbal via nishat, also called foreshore road. duck park is beautifully located on the banks of dal, and there ares some large ponds on the other side of the park. the peak of Mahadev looks more clearer and close from this park.
Dachigam national park: This beautiful wildlife park is located 22 kms from the city center of srinagar. it is curtained by lofty green zabarwan mountains, and the sarband lake which covers it's one end. mountainsides below the tree line are heavily wooded. Most of this consists of broad leaf species. Interspersed between these are alpine pastures, meadows, waterfalls and scrub vegetation. black bears, snow leopards, wild wolves, moose, are always on prowl here.

Spring Bloom in Kashmiri Garden

 

Things to eat around srinagar

Srinagar is a delight for food lovers with its splurging restaurants, food joints and local cuisine shops and stall, which can be found abundantly on every street, the smoke coming out from the barbeque shops selling mutton kebabs. The other delicacy which is mostly found in winter time is called Harisa.

 wazwan

Verinaag Spring

The famous spring of verinaag is located in Anathnag district. As "naag" means fresh water spring in the local dialect. People go there to drink it's water and contemplate on it's beautiful structure which was made by the mughal prince jehangir. a garden next to this natural spring which is of pre-Islamic religious significance yields beautiful colorful flowers which sway beautifully in the light summer breeze. verinaag is approximately 78 kilometers south-east from Srinagar. it is a nice place to go and spend your day there.

   

There are many more places to see in kashmir but it requires more time and patience, kashmir is all year round destination so come and discover kashmir with us.