Kashmir Chapter 1 : Heaven on Earth

Nestled amidst the mighty Himalayas, Kashmir transforms into a mesmerizing winter wonderland this time of the year. As the snowflakes descend, the valley dons a magical cloak of white. Visiting Kashmir during this season gave us an unforgettable experience, with every corner oozing enchantment and beauty. This is my third trip to Kashmir in 30 years, but it’s been on my bucket list to visit Kashmir during this time of the year. This week, I had a chance to spend four days (yes, an express trip) amidst this beautiful valley.

We spent a day in Srinagar, and this blog showcases some of the visuals from this city. We had a lovely boat cruise on the Dal Lake, which is at the heart of Srinagar, often referred to as the jewel of the city. Stretching over 15 kilometers, this water body is adorned with intricately carved houseboats, floating gardens, and vibrant Shikaras gliding across its shimmering surface. We also visited two famous temples of Kashmir, which are documented in Chapter 4 blog.

Next, we spent a day in Gulmarg, which emerges as a winter wonderland when the cold season descends upon the Himalayas. We had a fantastic time snowmobiling, sledging, skiing, and just enjoying the fresh snow. Click the link to Chapter 2 Blog to see pictures from the Gulmarg trip.

Lastly, we spent a day in Sonamarg, which can easily be dubbed the ‘Switzerland of India.’ Sonamarg in winter is a sight to behold, as its landscapes transform into a mesmerizing canvas of snow-clad mountains, frozen lakes, and glistening glaciers. One of the most enchanting aspects of Sonmarg in winter is the sense of solitude and serenity that pervades its snow-covered landscapes. You can see the visuals in Chapter 3 Blog.