This post is specifically I am writing for people who want to travel Kashmir Valley but due to concerns; they are not willing to take risk.
First and foremost; let me tell you - It is undoubtedly "THE HEAVEN ON EARTH"!!!
The region is in very much peaceful in recent times to travel; though once you land in Srinagar, you will find so many Military men around and may be feared. But as soon as you leave Srinagar; you will be at ease of experiencing real beauty of Kashmir.
The major reason for recent change is that local people have understood that Tourism is the only way for their survival. Hence, they are co-operating with local police to maintain law & order situation in the valley. Personally, I have never experienced such Hospitality from other tourist destinations.
Travel Plan & Things not to be Missed:
Plan for minimum of 6 days to cover Srinagar, Pahalgam & Gulmarg region (2 days each).
Srinagar:
- The main attraction of Srinagar is Dal Lake and to explore its beauty one must stay in Houseboat (instead of any hotel in city) for Boarding. Of course the Houseboats are stand-still unlike Kerala backwaters; the experience of resting in Houseboat is Royal.
- You can take Shikara Ride for roaming in Dal Lake (hourly basis) and explore Market, Garden, Restaurants, etc. on Lake. Fares for the same are regularised.
- Mughal Gardens in the city
- 1 Day trip to Sonmarg (70 km from Sirnagar). Get a ponny ride there to see the spots. (Negotiate well with ponny riders; here prices are not regulated.)
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| Dal Lake |
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| Houseboat |
Pahalgam (90 km from Srinagar):
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| Pahalgam |
- You can take Ponny Ride for one day sight seeing.
- Also, hire a taxi for points which are not covered by Ponny Riders.
- Note that, Pahalgam is a starting point of Amarnath Yatra. So, in summers there will be high rush.
- En-route to Pahalgam; one can see Saffron farms, Apple Gardens & factories of Cricket Bats. Also, taste the local drink "kawa".
Gulmarg (45 km from Srinagar):
- Gondola (Cable Car) is must which goes up to 3300m height.
- If you travel between Dec-Mar; the whole town will be snow capped. Also, in these months one can enjoy skiing.
- Avoid taking sledging rides.
- During snow fall season; you can get overcoat and gumboot on hire easily for a day or two.
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| Gulmarg |
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| Gondola (Cable Car) |
There are 2 kinds of beauty about Kashmir. One in summer when everything is so colourful & mesmerizing and one in winter when everything around will have a snow cap.
One best thing for Maggi lovers is that; you will find Maggi wherever you go in the valley; even at the height of 3300m.
Also, for liquor lovers; pack your favourite brand in your luggage itself from home. You may find expensive & very difficult to get.
So I sum up here to have your wonderful journey to Heaven!!!
GO FOR IT!!!
