I love to visit KasThere are places you visit, and then there are places that stay with you. For me, Kashmir was both.
I had seen countless pictures of its snow-covered valleys, floating shikaras, and tulip gardens—but nothing prepares you for the actual moment when you step into Kashmir. It’s not just a destination; it’s poetry written by nature.hmir.
Day 1: Touchdown in Srinagar – Shikara Dreams Begin
As my flight descended into Srinagar, the first thing I noticed was how the snow-dusted mountains seemed to cradle the city. The airport was small, but the welcome was warm. I was greeted with a cup of Kahwa (traditional Kashmiri saffron tea), and in that moment, I felt the tension of city life just melt away.
I checked into a beautiful wooden houseboat on Dal Lake. Yes, a real houseboat—with carved walnut interiors and views that looked like paintings. Later that evening, I went for my first shikara ride. The still water, the soft sunset, the sound of the oar—magical doesn’t even begin to cover it.
Day 2: Gulmarg – Where Snow Meets Sky
The next day, we drove to Gulmarg, and I swear, it was like driving through a postcard. Pine trees wearing snowy coats, children throwing snowballs, and horses trotting on icy roads. I took the famous Gondola ride, which lifted me high into the clouds and dropped me into a world of white wonder.
At Phase 2 (Apharwat Peak), the air was thin and crisp, and I could see miles of untouched snow. I don’t ski, but I played in the snow like a kid. The laughter, the cold, the thrill—it was unforgettable.
Day 3: Pahalgam – Rivers, Pines & Silence
Pahalgam was my personal favorite. The drive itself was soothing—lush valleys, rivers running alongside, and apple orchards on both sides. We reached just before sunset, and I took a quiet walk along the Lidder River. No sound but water and wind.
The next morning, I rode a pony up to Baisaran, also known as Mini Switzerland. Green meadows (lightly dusted with snow), distant peaks, and not a soul in sight. Just me, the sky, and the sound of hoofs. It was pure magic.
Day 4: Srinagar Again – Gardens, Tulips & Spiritual Calm
Back in Srinagar, I visited the Mughal Gardens—Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi. Everything was in bloom—tulips, roses, and almond blossoms. Kashmir in spring is a symphony of colors.
I also visited Hazratbal Shrine, a peaceful and spiritually rich place by the Dal Lake. It was calm, dignified, and grounding.
Final Thoughts: What Kashmir Gave Me
Kashmir taught me the art of stillness. Of watching. Of just being.
Yes, it’s beautiful beyond belief—but it’s more than mountains and lakes. It’s the kind smiles of locals, the silent snowfalls, the taste of gushtaba and rogan josh, and the feeling that you’ve touched something timeless.
Every corner of Kashmir has a story, and somehow, in just a few days, it helped me rediscover my own.
If You’re Planning a Trip:
Best Time: March to May (spring), December to February (for snow lovers)
Must Try Food: Wazwan platter, Kahwa, Harissa (in winter)
Don’t Miss: Shikara ride at sunset, Gondola in Gulmarg, Baisaran in Pahalgam
Travel Tip: Respect the local culture, and let the pace of the place guide you
Kashmir isn’t just a place you visit. It’s a place you feel. And long after you’ve left, it stays quietly in your heart—like a song you can’t stop humming.