Kashmir - Heaven On Earth

“If there is heaven on earth it is here, it is here “

I am sure you have heard and read it many times in your life, but you have to visit and explore Kashmir to actually feel it. This is what made me visit Kashmir.

Kashmir known as paradise on earth welcomes travellers all around the year.

Kashmir is the most beautiful but ironically the least visited. But when I visited I got mesmerised by the beauty of it.

Kashmir being the northern most state of India and it has been blessed with the beauty that makes it a perfect romantic getaway for couples. But there is a lot for adventure enthusiasts too. No matter what you want to do, what you want to explore there is always something for you as a traveller when you visit Kashmir.

Varying landscape of Kashmir won my heart as a traveller. Kashmir is a perfect place for both people one who lovesnature andalso for adventure enthusiasts. It was a perfect place for me as I love nature and I am an adventure junky too.

Kashmir is conquered by valleys for which it is known for the world over. When I visited the state of Kashmir I saw snow clad mountains, deep vibrant and colourful valleys of flowers, streams, rivers, freshwater lakes, green meadows. With loads of green meadows, lakes and trekking routes for travellers like me to relax and explore.

The state of Kashmir is also famous for its beautiful and natural scenery as if God came and painted this place. You will love saffron, vegetables, fruits and the variety of flora and fauna which covers throughout the valley.

There are a few places I loved the most during my visit. Some of them are

1.       Redefining beauty...the place known as Srinagar

Srinagar is the winter capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is the most beautiful place in the state. When I visited Srinagar I actually saw the authentic colours of the state. The Shikara ride, snow-capped mountains and serene water of Dal Lake made my first day in the state awesome. Loads of photographic locations, Loads of panorama moments are still fresh in my memories. At Srinagar, I saw the floating vegetable market a unique place to be. The flora and fauna of the place left me speechless. I even took a trek towards the Pir Panjal which is about 100kms from Srinagar. I just soaked in the beauty and relaxed in the lap of nature during my stay to Srinagar.

2.       Land of blessings......Jammu

The city of Jammu is blessed by the temple of Mata Vaishno devi. The city of Jammu which is the winter capital of the state is known for temples. I actually visited Jammu to seek the blessings and seek peace. I visited the Ragunath temple which is dedicated to Lord Rama. I also visited Bahu temple located in the Bahu fort which is also worth the visit. From the grand structure to the aquarium Bahu fort should be in the list of every traveller. For me, Jammu is the holy land and I recommend it to every traveller.

3.       Marked by adventure and excitement.....Gulmarg the place to be

A two hour drive from Srinagar took me to Gulmarg. I crossed several small villages and town on the way the beauty of the actual Kashmir and its home mesmerised me. As I reached Gulmarg panoramic views greeted me. Snow capped peak over the terraced fields was a sight to see. I loved my time at Gondola point where I played with the snow. Did not realise that I spent so much time there, but I loved every moment of it. I Took the Gondola cable car ride at Gulmarg which provided me with alot of photo opportunity. Gulmarg also provides loads of options for adventure enthusiasts’ right from skiing, trekking, mountain biking, snowboarding. Do visit Gulmarg if you love mountain adventure.

4.       The place of unflawed beauty.....Sonmarg

Memories of Sonmarg are still fresh in my memories. Sonmarg is 84kms from Srinagar. For the entire route, I was mesmerised by the serene river right next to the highway which leads me to Sonmarg. The flowing water, Pine trees made my drive enjoyable. I also visited Zojila pass which connects Kashmir to Ladakh. There were many excursions options and short treks available which took me to Gangabal Lake. I also visited the famous Baltal and Thajiwas Glacier. I always remember Sonmarg for the unmatched landscape and extravagant visual treat to the eyes.

5.       Where Nature meets Fun activities ......the place called Patnitop

Patnitop is 130 kms from Jammu and also known as “Patan da Talab”.

Patnitop is a place where I could actually appreciate the beauty of mother earth. It is a small town with very few hotels but that is what makes it beautiful due to less human intervention. When I reached the place cedar and Deodar was covered with snow turning the place in white forests. I also visited the famous Sanasar Lake which is just 20 kms from Patnitop. I was so soaked by the beauty of the place that it was difficult for me to leave the place and go to the next destination.

6.       Green meadows and serene beauty ......Exceptional town of Pahalgam

Pahalgam is 97kms away from Srinagar. While I drove from Srinagar to Pahalgam I came across the town of Pampore which is famous for its saffron Plantations. The view was just amazing with large stretches of land with saffron flowers. After I reached Pahalgam it was time to explore the valley on a horseback. So I moved places on hilly trails, streams and reached the place with vast grasslands called Baisaran or Mini Switzerland. The view was a treat for my eyes. The view of large grasslands along with Pine trees was just beautiful. Do not miss Pahalgam on your visit to Kashmir.

From the blooming spring to the beauty of winters Kashmir is the place to visit in any time of the year.

VISIT........FEEL.........TAKE AWAY THE MEMORIES OF LIFE TIME!!!!!!!

That is what Kashmir holds for you.....