Emperor Jahangir once said about Kashmir:
“Agar Firdaws ba roy-i zamin ast, hamin ast-u hamin ast-u hamin ast,”
Meaning, “If there is Paradise on earth, it is this, it is this, it is this.”
And he was absolutely right.
As I am a big fan of Bollywood, I always enjoyed watching movies since childhood. Apart from the craze for actors, I was also fascinated by the beautiful locations shown.
The green valley, relaxing snowfall, pristine water and the mesmerizing beauty of Kashmir always made me fall in love with it and it became my dream to visit this paradise once in my lifetime.
With tension going on in Kashmir for many years now, it felt difficult to fulfill my dream. But as it said, if you truly wish for something, the universe helps to conspire it. And, so my dream came true.
We went for our honeymoon to Kashmir 3 years back in April- May month and had an unforgettable memory.
Our trip was safe and memorable. The guides, local people and staffs were quite co-operative and helpful.
#Journey Begins
We went to Kashmir from Delhi by a direct flight. The aerial view is spellbindingly beautiful.
The snowy mountains and the green valley from above are captivating.
#Places to visit in Kashmir
1)Dal Lake
Located in Srinagar, experience staying in a houseboat in this idyllic lake. We enjoyed our stay especially the morning breeze in houseboat balcony with a healthy breakfast and a dazzling view.
The shikara ride is also available which you should not miss as it will take you to a ride of this lake where you can witness local shops, souvenirs, food on the go.
It is quite exciting to see that the Dal Lake is a city lake where people reside, shop and do all the things just like any civilization.
So enjoy devouring some authentic food and shop while riding. Pashmina shawls, Kesar, woolen clothes, and many more markets are there.
Also Read: Nainital- Escape to the City of Lakes
Houseboat in Dal lake
2)Gulmarg
Known as the ‘meadow of flowers’, Gulmarg is around 55km from Srinagar. It is surrounded by lofty mountains and is a popular skiing destination.
The Gondola cable car ride is the best thing to experience as it is full of adventure and fun. There are 2 levels, the first is at approximately 3100 meters and the second is at 4000 meters above the sea level.
At the first level, you can find many food stalls and rides to enjoy. At the second level, we actually felt a bit hot and removed our jackets. My dream of playing with snow got fulfilled here.
*Note: Do walk from car stop to the entry point of the ticket counter which is approximately 1.5 km. Do not entertain any guide or horse rider as it will really pinch on your pocket with a minimal benefit.
Gulmarg first level
3)Pahalgam
The way to Pahalgam from Srinagar has a picturesque view. It is surrounded by Lidder Lake and Betaab Valley.
I thought Gulmarg was enough to charm me, but then the beautiful valley of Pahalgam took my breath away with its charisma.
The horse ride to the top of the valley was quite adventurous and the guide makes sure that we are comfortable and adore the place.
Once reached on top, you will find a breathtaking view. No doubt, it is called the ‘mini Switzerland’.
Also, on the way to Pahalgam, you can visit Martand Sun Temple, a marvelous architecture of ancient times and Bismil song of Haider movie was shot here.
Also Read: Shimla Travel Diaries from Delhi – Itinerary and Budget
View this post on InstagramPahalgam!!!
A post shared by Jenifer $ayyed
(@shaandaar_jenie) on Jul 21, 2016 at 10:44am PDT
View this post on InstagramSun temple- Bismil song of Haider movie shooted here #kashmir #subhanallah
A post shared by Jenifer $ayyed
(@shaandaar_jenie) on May 28, 2016 at 10:27pm PDT
4)Sonmarg
Kashmir didn’t stop surprising us as it has Sonmarg, the golden meadow in the picturesque valley to show us.
Surrounded by snow-clad mountains and greenery, Sonmarg offers various adventure sports and a captivating vista of the Thajiwas glacier.
One can reach there by horse ride or cab. We enjoyed playing sledge ride and devouring Maggi with a hot cup of tea.
Remember the last scene from the movie Bajrangi Bhaijaan, that’s Sonmarg! It is indeed a heaven for both nature and adventure lovers.
Sonmarg is open only 2-3 months for tourists due to avalanches.
*Note: Take a horse-ride instead of a car, as it will be fun and less costly.
View this post on InstagramSonmarg!
A post shared by Jenifer $ayyed
(@shaandaar_jenie) on May 5, 2016 at 6:12am PDT
5)Srinagar
Kashmir trip cannot be complete without visiting Srinagar famous tourist places.
If you are not staying in a houseboat, at least make sure to do Shikara ride and spend the evening at Dal Lake.
The city offers some beautiful places which include:
- Gardens- Nishat, Tulip, Shalimar, and Chashm-e-Shahi which are pleasing to eyes. We missed famous Tulip garden for a day as it is opened only for the month of April.
- The soulful Hazratbal Mosque which is known to contain the sacred hair of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
- Ancient temples
- Apple Orchards
- Saffron fields
View this post on InstagramShikara Ride!
A post shared by Jenifer $ayyed
(@shaandaar_jenie) on Jun 16, 2016 at 7:59am PDT
Garden
#What to Eat?
- Do try the famous Kashmiri Wazwan cuisine, but remember it is too much even for 2 people, also the cost is high.
- Kahwa tea- local green tea.
- Kashmiri Pink Chai
#Save money on holiday destinations
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Happy Traveling!
