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Fallen Leaves in the Valley of Beauty and Guns

Dal Lake

Whether it is between the rulers, nations or politicians, the fight for Kashmir is a cruel way to hurt nature. When it reaches its peak, the nature gives back something more disastrous like the floods of 2015. Yes Kashmir is the place of heavenly beauty for centuries. But it is also a place for cold blooded wars, political instability and what not.

Fallen Leaves

How Carelessly imperial power vivisected ancient civilizations. Palestine and Kashmir are imperial Britain’s festering, blood-drenced gifts to the modern world. Both are fault lines in the ragng International conflicts of today – Arundhati Roy

The first look of Kashmir is of course, its snow covered peaks and valleys even in the spring season, the time which we chose to visit. By February, the harsh winter was over and summer was on its way. The area around Srinagar, the capital of Kashmir was cold, but without any snow. Like most of the South Indians, the visit to Kashmir was indeed a dream come true even though it was a brief one.

First Glimpse of Kashmir

First Glimpse of Kashmir

It was not the perfect time to visit Kashmir because of the simple fact that ethnic beauty of the valley was not at its best. The Chinar trees which has become an integral part of Kashmir was leafless and was waiting patiently for the summer to come. The gardens were yet to blossom with flowers, again, waiting for the summer. So altogether, Summer and Autumn season are the best ones for Kashmir. Still the valley had its own uniqueness. No wonder generations are craving for this nature’s treat.

Dal Lake, The Jewel in the crown of Kashmir

Dal Lake

Dal Lake, The Jewel in the crown of Kashmir

The capital city Srinagar, is famous for this beauty. A ride in Shikara or House boats is one of the most common tourist attraction in the Dal Lake. The most scenic view of this lake can be witnessed from Mughal Gardens- Shalimar Bagh and Nishant Bagh. There are various small islands in the middle of lake. The most famous of those being Island of Char chinar which has the 4 Chinar trees.

 
See more photos from Kashmir
 

Gulmarg, The meadow of Flowers

Gulmarg Town

Gulmarg Town

In fact it was flowerless and full of milky white snow. After a ride of 56 KM from Srinagar which includes a path for 4 wheel drive through the snow, we reached the hill station of Gulmarg. The first experience of Snow is always very exciting. Plenty is not sufficient, it was covered with snow everywhere. Walking in the snow requires the big boots which the visitors can easily rent out including the thick fur coats. The temparature barely touches 2 degrees even in February.

There are a number of Leisure and adventure activities in Gulmarg including the exciting Gulmarg Gondola cable car ride. In the history, it is also the place Pakistan had tried to capture but was defeated by the Indian Army who took control over Gulmarg. Several BSF men can be seen stationed there. The walk through the snow meadows will make you eager for the hot tea and coffee which are sold in little shops. Dont miss the yummy maggi noodles which is also served hot in these shops.

Sonamarg, The meadow of Gold

Near Sonamarg

Near Sonamarg

Not as big as the Gulmarg, Sonamarg has its own unique snow covered hills which has a great scenic views. The view of the lake , partially covered with Snow from the wooden bridge was quite mesmerizing . A good hiking trip awaits the visitors in Sonamarg towards the Thajiwas glacier. Pony riding is also possible but it is always good to give our legs a fair chance. Up in the hills, you will experience perfect tranquility.

Sonamarg

View from Sonamarg

Though very brief, one dream has opened the gate for another to explore more of this Heaven on earth.As Robert Plant said, “Kashmir is my last resort. I think if I truly deserve it one day, I should go there and stay there for quite a while. Or if I really need it at any point, it should be my haven, my Shangri-la”.

 

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