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The Mughal Emperor Jahangir once remarked on the valley of Kashmir saying: If there is a heaven on earth, it is Kashmir. The valley of Kashmir lies settled high up between four of the world’s tallest mountain ranges: the Pir Panjal, the Karakoram, the Hindu Kush and the Himalayas, and is home to one of India’s most diverse eco-systems. Unfortunately however, political tensions have recently been responsible for the dwindling number of operational Kashmir tours and vacation packages. It is only now, over the last few years, that some sort of stability has been introduced to the region, and tourists have returned. While military presences and security in Kashmir remain on high alert, don’t be afraid to visit. Here are a few things for you to do on your trip to Earth’s own paradise: 1) House boating on the Dal Lake
The Dal Lake is touted to be one of the main reasons to visit Kashmir, and instead of just taking a short-lived boat ride out into the lake, you can hire a whole house-boat instead and live right in the middle of this pristine water body. Do it before the lake freezes up in winter, because winters in Kashmir can be severe enough for the locals, let alone tourists. 2) Gulmarg
Gulmarg literally translates to Pasture of Flowers. This particularly beautiful region of Kashmir lies in the Himalayas and is a neighbour to the notorious Line of Control between India and Pakistan. Foreign nationals require prior government permissions to visit certain sections of Gulmarg, and certain sections of it are closed to any visitors at all. Regardless, what can be seen of Gulmarg is truly a sight for sore eyes. 3) Thajiwas Glacier, Sonamarg
A day’s journey from Srinagar will find you in the district of Sonamarg, home to the Thajiwas Glacier. One of the world’s lesser known glaciers, as the case may be, but certainly not one of the lesser beautiful ones. A scenic four kilometre route traversed on horseback from Sonamarg will finally get you to the glacier, where sledging is a popular acitivity. 4) Amarnath Caves
The Amarnath Caves in Anantnag, Kashmir are one of India’s most popular pilgrimage destinations. Religious implications not considered, they are truly divine in their presence. Hundreds and thousands of devotees travel to Kashmir to greet Lord Shiva, the resident deity at Amarnath. So should you! With the political atmosphere of Kashmir being as volatile as it is, we suggest you book your vacation packages soon. Nothing would be worse than having to cancel your Kashmir tours due to a situation of civil unrest. Pack your bags, because it’s time to go north! ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Ninad Chaudhari works as a Web UI Designer / Developer with Cox & Kings. In his spare time, Ninad is an ardent photographer and loves the opportunities that vacation packages give him to pursue his passion. His albums are replete with pictures of Kashmir tours.
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