From alpine meadows to hidden valleys, explore the otherworldly beauty of Kashmir beyond the usual trails.
From ancient times, many poets have confessed
their love for Kashmir and have time and again said that if there is heaven on earth, it is Kashmir. And truly so, owing to its picturesque landscape and warm people, there is no other destination one could rather be. But there is more to Kashmir than Dal Lake.
Pahalgam
Cupped by Lidder Lake and Betaab Valley, Pahalgam gives the joy of visiting deep valleys. It is famous for river rafting at Lidder Lake, golfing, and shopping for traditional Kashmiri items. Not far from the capital of Kashmir, Srinagar, the best time to visit is from February to June.
Gulmarg
It is known as the snow paradise or the meadows of flowers and is a skier's favorite destination. It is also popular for having one of the world’s longest and highest ropeways with an aerial distance of approximately five kilometers. The interesting fact is that snowfall is regular, even during summer.
Sonmarg
Known as the meadow of gold, its charm lies in the snow-clad mountains and green grasslands. The activities one can enjoy are river rafting, zorbing, and trekking. It is also the base point for starting the Amarnath Yatra. One of the other attractions is the fauna that is in full bloom from May to June, with variegated flowers, sycamore, and alpine flowers. A must is a trek to the Thajiwas Glacier.
Leh Ladhak
This place is on the list of every biker and travel junkie. From the clear water of Pangong Tso Lake to the mesmerizing magnetic hills and the ever-blue sky, there's so much in here to make one fall in love with the place. Even the calm, peaceful monasteries and mystique are lovable. The best time to visit is from April to May.
Pulwama
Best known as the city of color burst, thanks to the cultivation of saffron and its various fields. Almost 40 kilometers from the summer capital of Kashmir, it is also often referred to as Anand of Kashmir or Dudha-Kul of Kashmir, owing to its high milk production. It also has plenty of trekking trails starting from the city and leading into the beautiful valley of Kashmir. It is the best place for mountaineering and trekking in the summer and skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
Hemis
It is unexplored, and not much is known about Hemis. It houses many monasteries and national parks, which makes it a must-visit for a wildlife enthusiast, as you can spot Snow leopards and Bharals here. It is located in Leh district, around 40 kilometers southeast of Leh town. It is also famous for the Hemis festival, wherein you can see monks wearing long horns and dancing to music.
This heaven has a lot left to explore, witness, and cherish for life.
