Kashmir, region of the northwestern Indian subcontinent. The term “Kashmir” denoted only the Kashmir Valley between the Great Himalaya Range & the Pir Panjal Range. Kashmir is situated in Region of Xinjiang to the northeast and the Tibet Autonomous Region to the east, and two neighbouring Indian states Himachal Pradesh and Punjab to the south, by Pakistan to the west.
“ Agar firdaus bar roo–e zameen ast, Hameen ast-o hameen ast-o hameen ast. English Translation: If there is a paradise on earth, It is this, it is this, it is this” by Amir Khusrau.
Here are the 10 reasons why everyone should Kashmir in 2020
1. The natural beauty
It doesn’t matter where we Humans go we are always attached to the Nature.We start with the mesmerising Gardens in Srinagar like Shalimar Garden and Nishat Garden or the Pari Mahal located at the top of the Zabarwan Mountain and the Chashme Shahi famous for its spring water which is considered very beneficial for health or the Badam Vari which has so many Almond trees all over or the Apple Gardens which offer the best of apples to the whole India and the spectacular Dal Lake which has its lovers all over the world. The capital Srinagar has so much to offer.
2. Houseboats of Dal lake
Dal Lake is also known as the “Jewel in the crown of Kashmir”.It is integral to tourism industry in Kashmir. Houseboats cover an area of 18 sq. km. Although it has various attractions but the Houseboats and Shikaras are famous among them. There are several kinds of Houseboats with the most exquisite and expensive being the Houseboats of the Golden Lake which is a part of the Dal Lake.Apart from staying in the Houseboat you can have the privilege of visiting the Floating market, Floating gardens which blossom with Lotus flowers, Char Chinar and various other attractions of the lake it. Going in a Shikara is a experience which you ll never forget in your life.
3. Gondola and Golf course in Gulmarg
Gulmarg is a town in Baramula District in Jammu & Kashmir. The famous Gondola in Gulmarg is the world’s largest operating cable car. The two staged cable car carries around 600 people per hour to and from Kongdoori Mountain peak, a shoulder of nearby Afarwat Peak(13,780ft.).
Next most attractive thing in Gulmarg is the Golf Course which is counted as the largest 18-hole golf courses in the country. Gulmarg is also a popular Skiing Destination. It is the heartland of “Winter Sports in India” where heli skiing is also performed by people from all around the world.
4. Wonderful climate.
Plan your trip to Kashmir in the scorching heat of summers when the temperature rises up to 40 degrees in most parts . Kashmir is cool even in the harshest of summer and you can visit this valley between April and june to see the blooming flowers, green meadows, and Chinar trees and lot more. Overall you can get the experience of new phase of spring in Kashmir valley. If you plan your trip in Winter Season then you will enjoy beautiful snowfall that would be an incredible experience and for that you have to plan your journey early in the year. The snow laden mountains fill the region with spectacular surroundings and the snow capped trees look awesome. Also, you can enjoy the most stunning views of sunrise and sunset at famous Dal Lake in heart of the Srinagar city.
5. Adventurous Trekking points
Located in the Great Himalaya and Pir Panjal mountain range, Kashmir Valley is the best place for camping, trekking, and mountaineering. While traveling to this beautiful land, you will witness the eye catching views of mountains, lakes, and meadows. Walking around the foothills, Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is popular among tourists where you will cover the lakes of Gangabal, Kishansar and Vishansar that are close to the Harnukh Peak. Aru-Valley,Tarsar Marsar, Kolahoi Glacier Trek and Yousmarg Trek are yet another challenge for trekkers. Kashmir is the best place for trekkers where adventure is unlimited.
6. Delicious cuisines of Kashmir
Kashmir is a very popular for street food and restaurants that offers mouth-watering cuisines to satisfy your taste buds. Many visitors come here to try a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian delights in Kashmir. Take a sip of Kahwah and Noon Chai which you won’t find elsewhere. If you are non-vegetarian, try Rogan Josh, Yakhni,Rista,kababs and so many for an awesome taste. Vegetarians can try haakh, Paneer Chaman, Kashmiri Saag, and Nadur daal.
7. Wildlife Tours
The beautiful wildlife of Jammu and Kashmir reward the nature seeker with views of vast topography as well as the rarest species of wildlife. The state has many national parks and sanctuaries, aimed at protecting some of these endangered species. Lucky visitors can catch a glimpse of the hangul (Kashmiri stag), leopard, wild cats, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan marmot, musk deer, and a species of wild goat. Himalayan birds, like pheasants, the golden eagle and the bearded vultures can also be spotted. Add these natural forests to your must see list.
. Dachigam National Park
. Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve
. Hemis High Altitude Wildlife Sanctuary
. Kishtwar High Altitude National Park
. Overa National Park..
8. Inexpensive trip.
Although Jammu & Kashmir is an all season visiting place but best month to visit Kashmir is the last week of September and the first week of October. This time it is out of season and a the climate that time is very pleasant. since kashmir is a tourist place therefore there are a lot of hotels throughout the State. You can book hotel online for the best of prices. Travelling in Shared Taxis are convenient as well as cheap and while shopping the local market has a lot to offer and a good bargaining can save a lot of bucks.
9. Shopping
Shopping in Kashmir is one of the most common things to do. And its not just antiques and other souvenirs. Tourists here can shop for famous Kashmiri handlooms and Pashmina shawls, antique copperware like samovars, Namda carpets, local garments called pherins, and the world renowned Kashmiri saffron. There are flowers, dry fruits, and vegetables sold on the shikaras in Dal Lake. shopping here will be an incredible experience that too at lower prices.
10. Amarnath cave
Taking a pilgrimage to Amarnath Cave is among the most religious things to do in Kashmir. The Amarnath Yatra is done to worship the ice stalagmite called Shivalinga. It is said that Lord Shiva “Hindu God”, explained the secret of life and eternity to Goddess Parvati. The Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage takes place during the month of July – August. This 45-days Shravan Mela (Yatra) is dedicated to Shri Amarnath Ji. “Hindu God”,
Amarnath Yatra is one of the most renowned Pilgrimage center in whole of India.
