Kashmir: My own story of heaven on earth
Whenever someone mentions Kashmir, a strange peace and joy fills my heart. There are some places that you just love, and some that make a permanent home in your heart. Kashmir falls into the latter category for me. It wasn’t just a journey; it became a part of my soul.
I’ve heard many people say that Kashmir is “heaven on earth,” but honestly, its beauty is hard to describe in words. It’s a feeling that can only be experienced by being there. The beginning of my journey felt like the fulfillment of a dream I’d held for many years.
First Jhalak: The Magic of Srinagar and Dal Lake
Our journey began in Srinagar. As soon as we left the airport, the air was distinctly cool and fresh. But the real magic began when we arrived near Dal Lake.
Dal Lake: It was evening. The sun was setting and the sky was ablaze with orange and red hues. When I first saw Dal Lake, it felt as if an artist had painted peace on a large canvas. Our accommodation was in a houseboat . Initially, I found it a bit strange to stay in a houseboat, but the experience there was unforgettable. The view of the lake from the windows of the wooden houseboats, on which beautiful Kashmiri carvings were made… It felt as if I was a part of some old story.
The next morning, I woke up early. There was a light fog over the lake. I took a Shikara ride . The hunting uncle was very friendly. He showed me the ‘Char Chinar’ situated in the middle of the lake. The sound of the Shikara as it gently touched the water was the most peaceful song in the world for me. The most fun was seeing the Floating Market . In the morning, people were selling vegetables, flowers and other items on the small Shikaras. It was all so organic and beautiful, something I had never seen before. I even got the chance to buy some fresh lotus flowers there.
Valleys of Romance: Pahalgam
Our next stop from Srinagar was Pahalgam . Leaving behind the tranquility of the lakes, we were now in beautiful valleys. The road to Pahalgam was so beautiful that we felt like stopping the car and just gazing at the view. Tall deodar and pine trees were all around.
Two places in Pahalgam touched my heart: Betaab Valley and Aru Valley .
Betaab Valley: It’s named after the film Betaab , and when you visit, you’ll understand why. Greenery all around, the fast-flowing waters of the Lidder River in the middle , and the shadow of the blue sky above. I rested there for a while on the grass. The sound of the Lidder River was a kind of calm commotion. I still remember, I was there writing my experiences in my diary, and a small herd of sheep passed by me. His voice and the fragrance of that season, it was all very personal and lovely.
Aru Valley: A little further up from Pahalgam is Aru Valley. This place is a little less commercialized, and that’s why I liked it more. The people here, their simple lifestyle, and the innocence on their faces made me realize how easy it really is to be happy. I ordered tea from a small chai-wala there . The chai in his hand and his smile both had true sweetness.
Barf Ka Sangam: Gulmarg
If you come to Kashmir and don’t see snow, your trip is incomplete. Leaving the greenery of Pahalgam, we arrived at Gulmarg , also known as the “Meadow of Flowers.”
Gulmarg’s biggest attraction is the gondola ride , Asia’s highest cable car. While the gondola was going up, the view from below was completely different. Tall trees were visible in small pieces. And as soon as we reached Phase 2, my mouth remained wide open. Snow all around !
Reaching there, I stopped for a moment. A fluffy white, silver-like shimmering snow. I picked up the snow in my hands and felt its coolness. I was in the Snow World of the stories I had read in my childhood . There, I had a snow fight with my friends and enjoyed walking on the snow. Walking on snow makes a unique ‘crunchy’ sound, which is very enjoyable to listen to. After getting off the gondola for some time, I saw a young local boy selling Kahwa (Kashmiri special tea). I bought a cup of Kahwa from him. The warmth of the Kahwa, the aroma of saffron in it , and on top of that the icy coolness of Gulmarg, this was a combination that I could never forget.
A Personal Touch: Love of Kashmiri People
The most beautiful thing I encountered during my entire trip was the Kashmiri people . Often, we’re so busy in big cities that we don’t have time to talk to strangers. But in Kashmir, everyone greets you with love and a smile.
In Srinagar, houseboat owner Iqbal Uncle treated us as if we were family, not just guests. He served us Kashmiri Wazwan (a traditional feast) and recounted his family’s tales. I still have the taste of his Rista (meatball curry).
Every little detail, like the hunter praising his Kashmir, or the small shopkeeper near the Pathar Masjid bringing us hot Kulchas and Sheermal without asking , was deeply personal and heartwarming. The beauty of Kashmir lies not just in its mountains and lakes, but in the hospitality of its people .
Conclusion: I am sorry.
Kashmir, you have taken up residence in my heart. You taught me how close peace and beauty can be. The waves of Dal Lake, the flowing waters of the Lidder River, and the snow of Gulmarg… they will all be with me forever.
My journey ends here, but my relationship with Kashmir is forever forged. If you, too, are tired of life’s grind and want to be with yourself for a few days, definitely visit Kashmir . Once there, you’ll discover what paradise is, and I speak from personal experience.
This blog is based on my personal experiences and sights I witnessed while traveling.The opinions, feelings, and experiences shared here are entirely personal. The blog’s purpose is solely to share travel inspiration and information. Please be sure to check local weather, safety precautions, and government guidelines before planning your trip. The views expressed in the blog do not necessarily represent the official views of any institution, organization, or authority.
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