Kashmir

Kashmir is the northernmost geographical region of the Indian subcontinent. It is simultaneously one of the most beautiful and one of the most troubled places on this planet. We were lucky to have visited it during a relatively peaceful period in 2018.

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Srinagar

The first thing we noticed when we landed at Srinagar was how beautiful and peaceful it was. The second thing we noticed was how there were soldier practically everywhere. We were told that if you don’t come here during the middle of winter (as we had done), the flower bloom everywhere is a sight to see.

We parked ourselves at Fortune Resorts Heevan, which was a quaint place in a peaceful neighbourhood. I think we may have been the only guests there at that time.

We spent most of our first evening at Dal Lake. A place of unparalleled beauty. You can rent boats by the hour and along with a cup of Kahwa, off we went.

Since the lake was mostly empty, all we could hear was the sound of the oars hitting the water and the boat owner speaking occasionally.

As the sun set, the lake turned more beautiful and serene by the minute.

Soon, we approached a floating market. Sadly, most of the stores were closed.

I felt extremely sad leaving the lake at dusk. It was the most serene experience of my life.

Gulmarg

Next day, we went to Gulmarg, also called the Switzerland of India. It has a different type of beauty, not one I favour much. But kids can enjoy playing in the snow.

We took the gondola up to Apharwat Peak.

For some reason, the peak is full of Jain restaurants.

Pahalgam

For our last place to visit in Kashmir, we chose Pahalgam, a beautiful valley.

I explored the forest on horseback. It was harrowing; I felt the horse would slip down the leaf-lined steep inclines. The horse did lose his foothold a few times, but regained it each time after slipping down a few feet.

This beautiful place would soon be the venue for one of the worst massacres in modern Indian history.

With a heavy heart, tis closed our trip to Kashmir. I hope one day peace returns to this magical place and the people of Kashmir get what they deserve.