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Tabish Khan

10 Places to Visit In Kashmir

by Tabish Khan August 13, 2020

Kashmir is a magical place, where your inner soul gets connected to the beautiful fantasy world. This heaven on earth is full of lush pastures, tall mountains, dancing rivers and a lucid air. From a solo trip to family vacations, Kashmir is a must to visit place. This valley of mountains has a little of everything to offer to its visitors.

A solo walk through lush green meadows of Kashmir will help you to find your real persona. The crown state of India, Kashmir is one of the most recommended holiday destinations that one can look for.

There are various untouched heavenly places to visit in Kashmir that are hidden in the quietude of the valley, waiting to hear your footsteps.

To calm your wanderlust we have compiled the list of 10 best places to visit in Kashmir. Scroll down, read it and let us makes your holiday the everlasting one

1. Explore the unique Verinag

Let us start the list with one of the most ambient places of the Kashmir-Verinag. It is the main sources of River Jhelum and is located in district Anantnag. The place is full of chinar (maple) trees and gushing blue water. Verinag is blessed with unmatchable Mughal Garden which is the best place to shed of your stress and all worries. To visit this place you can simply book a cab from Srinagar and for your ease you can have a night stay in the best hotels of verinag. So, this time if you are visiting the Kashmir don’t forget to explore this lesser know ancient place.

2. Capture the beauty of Chatpal

So, have you heard about this place before? Well, ya this place belong to Kashmir only.

If you are looking for something quiet and calm, Chatpal is the place for you. Surrounded by tall lush green mountains, the clear blue skies and bright sunshine, this place is blessed with everything that will refresh your mood. The untouched natural beauty, fused with the melodious sound of an ever-flowing stream, chirping of happy birds and the rustling leaves of beautiful pine trees makes it a destined place to be explored. This mesmerizing place is located in the Anantnag district of Kashmir. You can easily visit this place through Anantnag-Chitergul road. So, this time try to explore this hidden gem of Kashmir.

3. Live a day at Daksum

Located at an altitude of about 8,000 feet, Daksum is a picturesque hamlet present in the middle of Bhringi River Valley. This offbeat place is surrounded by a lush coniferous forest and a flowing stream. The scene of small wooden huts lined up on banks of the river, add charm to this place. Daksum can make you talk the nature. You can visit anytime to this gorgeous place but April to September is the best time for holiday.

4. Time to see Yusmarg

Yusmarg, the ‘Jesus Meadow’, should be counted in the list. This place has a story to narrate, according to the common folktale Jesus once stopped in Yusmarg along with his followers while he was travelling the world. A place full of green meadows with pines in the background will lead you to the frozen lake, which is worth to travel miles. You can reach this beautiful destination simply by booking a cab via Srinagar. From yusmarg you can explore different places like Nilnag Lake, Sang e Safed, Tatta kutti mountain range and Tosa Maidan.

5. Travel to dramatic Bangus Valley

Bangus valley is all about green… Large green meadows surrounded by alpine and deodar forests can be your dream place. During summer, the whole Bangus valley turns into a beautiful colorful flowery carpet. To visit this place you need to go for permission from army officials but trust me it is all worth. It is such a romantic destination; you can have an aromatic talk with the special person of your life under the blanket of stars. Don’t forget to take your tent along as you cannot find any hotel there but all you can enjoy is sweet and cold water of Dodkol and hot water of Bangus spring.

6. Green Meadows of Doodhpathri

Doodhpathri is a place that changes its color according to the season i.e., snowy white in winters and bowl of green in summers. This treat to eyes is close to Srinagar and is blessed with a stream with milky white water (that is why named as doodhpathri). To reach this dreamy place you can simply book a cab fro Srinagar. If you wish to stay there you can book igloo type wooden huts, trust me it going to be fun.

7. Home of fishery – Kokernag

Kokernagh is the hidden gem of Kashmir located in district Anantnag. This place is home to the biggest trout fishery of Asia. Kokernag forms wide flow of hen shaped of springs and that is why this name it gives to the place. If you are a non- vegetarian and a fan of fresh trout and mountain air than this place is for you. At kokernag you can explore the waterfall, Botanical garden and beauty of Achabal.

8. Lolab Valley, Kashmir

Think about district Kupwara, what comes in your mind? Strike, fear, turmoil? Well, it is beyond that … Lolab valley is the most beautiful destination that one can wish for. Most of the people are not aware of it due to the lack of information. Kashmir Tourism, however, assists you readily if you want to visit Lolab Valley. This place is approximately 170 km from Srinagar; it takes 5 hours to reach Chandigam. I’m sure you will get surprised by seeing the fascinating beauty of the Lolab Valley.

9. Rice bowl of Kashmir – Pulwama

Kashmir is beyond Pahalgam and Gulmarg. Pulwama is a place in Kashmir where one can witness natural beauty to a greater extent. Located at a distance of 40 kms from Srinagar, this place holds a unique attraction for tourists. This saffron city offers beautiful weather, pleasant odor saffron fields and great hospitality. One cannot have enough of the saffron fields and the rich culture in Pulwama. To see different colors of Kashmir you can visit anytime but April to October is the best time to visit Pulwama.

10. Anantnag – Home to Temples

Let us close the list with the land of ancient monuments- Anantnag. A divine place full of flourishing gardens and freshwater springs, Anantnag has much to offer you. Right here, you get to enjoy the comfort of a city and the essence of nature. Besides, if you are fond of monuments and architecture this is a place worth capture. On this land of temples, you can find a connection with the magical pre-world. This place is all about calm and peace. Surely, our list of 10 places to visit in Kashmir would be incomplete without mentioning this one!

So, how was the read? We tried to compile most beautiful and offbeat gems of Kashmir for you, as Kashmir is more than Pahalgam, Gulmarg and Mughal Gardens. This time if you are planning to visit heaven on earth, try to unbox these beautiful destinations. If you have a certain query regarding your visit, feel free to write us in the comment section below.

August 13, 2020 0 comment

The 10 Best Luxury Resorts in Kashmir: Perfect Holidays Avenues for a Wonderful Stay in 2020

by Tabish Khan July 13, 2020

written by Tabish Khan

Kashmir a place where mountains dance in the melodious breeze of exceptional temperature, Kashmir a place where every small creature holds a novel beauty, Kashmir a place where the tinkling sound of streams is eternal, Kashmir a place where the chirping of birds is a treat to ears… These are just a few but you can have tremendous reasons to visit heaven on earth “Kashmir”. It is definitely bliss owing to the presence of breathtakingly beautiful places like Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Sonmarg.

Every year thousands of tourist’s, nature lovers and adventure seekers visit Kashmir to enjoy scenic landscapes, freshwater lakes and verdant valleys. There is never a second option if you want to enjoy a beautiful and reasonable holiday. There is no doubt, its scenic beauty will make you forget everything but your holiday experience is incomplete without a cozy place to rest.

So before you book your tickets to the beautiful journey of your life take a break and check out the list of 10 best luxurious resorts in Kashmir.

1. The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa-Gulmarg

Let us start the list with the most lavish resort of Kashmir – The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa. This resort is counted as one of the most luxurious resorts of Kashmir. Located in between the lush green spaces of Gulmarg, this resort has everything beautiful to offer you. The ambience of the rooms is dazzling and bless you a homely feeling. Besides great food and marvelous hospitality one can enjoy the adventurous activities near this resort. So, to live the experience of both the worlds (luxurious and comfort), you should definitely say yes to booking.

Nearest Places you can visit

Alphater Lake, Rani Temple, Outer Circle Walk, Apharwat Peak, etc

2. Hotel Comrade Inn

If you are planning your stay in the heart of Kashmir “Srinagar”, then the Hotel Comrade Inn is an ideal choice to explore. Hotel is located just at the bench of Dal Lake and its interior designing will make you land in the dreamy world. This budget-friendly 3-star hotel will provide you with professional services with extra care and love. The tastefully decorated hotel is full of modern amenities that you may require on your travels. So, if you are looking for a comfortable stay away from home you should click to book this hotel soon.

Nearest Places you can visit

Dal Lake, Tulip Garden, Botanical Garden, Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashme Shahi.

3. Nedou’s Hotel

To have the unique holiday experience one should try 120 years of hospitality service. Yes, you heard it right… For over 120 years Nedou’s have been serving to both national and international guests at their deluxe hotel in Gulmarg. Due to its goodwill and recommendable services, this hotel always makes its place among the top hotels of Kashmir. Their USP is that they provide skiing services in winters and golf services in summers. If you are planning a Honeymoon trip to Kashmir than a book this hotel without a blink as it is an ideal romantic destination for couples.

Nearest Places you can visit

Gulmarg Meadows, Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, Strawberry Valley, etc

4. The Orchard Retreat & Spa-Srinagar

Located in Srinagar within 5.3 km of Hazrabal Mosque, the Orchard Retreat & Spa provides the most beautiful and well-maintained accommodation for the guests. From striking garden to novel outdoor pool, this place has everything modern in the kitty. Besides comfort and hospitality, this place is known for the delicious food menu. You can enjoy your yummy food at the highly spacious balcony.

Nearest Places to visit

Nehru Park, Pari Mahal, Hazratbal Mosque, Shalimar Bagh, Hari Parbat, Roza Bal Shrine, etc.

5 . Grand Mumtaz Resorts-Gulmarg

From Srinagar to Gulmarg every outlet of Grand Mumtaz Hotels or Resorts is famous. If you are looking for fully furnished deluxe rooms then Grand Mumtaz Resort is the best option for you. Here, each room window will make you to enjoy panoramic views of the alpine forests and snow-capped mountains. Their highly qualified staff will make sure you get a comfortable arena with every possible facility. You can even check reviews and ratings before saying yes to this place.

Nearest Places

Gulmark Golf Course, Alpather Lake, Mamaleshwar Temple, Chandanwari, Betaab Valley, etc.

6. The Kashmir Orient

Kashmir Orient is the newly established alluring and dazzling hotel, located at Dalgate, Srinagar. This vibrant color combination with exclusive and novel interior designing can make anyone to love this comfy place. With the hot sip of aromatic Kashmiri Kehwa, you can enjoy the morning view of “Floating gardens” from your window. Besides,flawless customer service and jaw-dropping settings set this place apart from other hotels. The hotel works fully to cater to the needs of esteemed guests.

Nearest Places

Downtown, Mughal gardens, Dal Lake, etc

7. Batra Hotel

This is an ideal hotel for a vegetarian traveler. Nestled at a few steps away from Dal Lake, this award-winning 4-star hotel in Srinagar, is famous for providing mouth-watering vegetarian cuisines. From the best vegetarian food to cozy rooms this place has everything to offer you. Besides, one can enjoy free parking, Wi-Fi services and Gym services. All the rooms of this hotel carry taste Kashmiri culture and heritage with it.

Nearest Places

Shankaracharya Hill, Jama Masjid, Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden, Pari Mahal, etc.

8. Hotel Greenwood’s Inn

This hotel is the best option for those travelers who have a very strict budget. It is located 1 Km always from Dalgate i.e, Ishber Nishat. The locality of this property is totally mesmerizing and you will witness glittering colors of nature through the balcony. However, you may not have heard about this place before but I assure you greenwoods can be a friendly escape when you don’t want to spend much on accommodation.

Nearest Places

Shankaracharya Hill, Nishat Bagh, Harvan Bagh, Dhara, etc

9. The Heritage by Heaven

This place is the place for those who are really fond of Kashmiri heritage. This luxurious hotel is loaded with traditional wood architecture and walnut wood carvings. Heritage Heaven is situated at Shivpora, Srinagar and should be counted in the list. Perfect for families and even for solo travelers, you will be surprised at the caring hospitality.

Nearest Places

Srinagar, Pampore, Highway, etc

10: Ahsan Mount Resort-Sonmarg

Let us conclude the list with the most breathtaking and remarkable resort of Kashmir- Ahsan Mount Resort-Sonmarg. This resort will offer you an incredible experience during your trip to Kashmir. In fact, this resort is a perfect blend of luxury and nature where you can enjoy the panoramic sight of glaciers, mountains and green landscapes. The place is calm and keeps you away from daily hush and rush of life.

Nearest Places

Thajiwas Glacier, The Western Mountains, Krishnasar Lake, Vishansar Lake, etc.

Phew! Such a long read? Well, it is not over yet, scroll down and know about places you must visit at Kashmir:

Srinagar: Visit for Mughal Gardens, Historical Shrines and unique architecture of Downtown
Gulmarg: Visit for lush green meadows, skiing and Snow
Sonamarg: Visit for snowy glaciers
Pulwama: Visit for natural springs and orchids
Phalgham: Visit for picturesque views
Anantnag: Visit for old temples
Baltal: Visit for beautiful landscapes
Dachigham: Visit for natural flora and Fauna
Dhara: Visit to trek
Kupwara: Visit to see Lolaab Valley

Things you must carry for a Trip to Kashmir

You may already know what to carry and what not but keep this in mind that Summers in Kashmir are different from your typical summers in the plains. Therefore, before you say yes to packing, you must know what type of clothes to carry that would suit the climate of Kashmir. Here is a list of some important things you should pack along:

Cotton Clothes: As temperature ranges from 25-35 degrees.
Woolens: As nights are cooler that one would even expect
Umbrella and Raincoats: As you light showers of rain are quiet common
Trekking Boots: As there are many mountains to explore
Camera: As there are many places worth to capture

This was all from the snowcapped mountains and green meadows of Kashmir. If you are planning to spend sunny summers here at Kashmir, then you should definitely check-out the above-mentioned resorts. Enjoy your trip with most comfy and secure resorts…

July 13, 2020 0 comment

8 Best Trekking Places in Kashmir

by Tabish Khan July 3, 2020

written by Tabish Khan

Bored of lockdown? Why not do something exploratory and adventurous? This is the best time to explore snow-capped mountains, rugged landscapes and lush green forests of the Kashmir valley. Trekking to the unsung chained mountains and forests of the valley will allow you to discover the length and breadth of the place in adventurous ways.

Kashmir a place where everything starts with beauty has a lot of untold stories to narrate which you can hear through the strings of its forests and mountains. These dense forests and tall mountains can make anyone walk along. Trekking to picture-perfect meadows of this world will leave you mesmerized and fascinated. So, what are you waiting for?

Experience this beautiful experience by trekking the land of mountains and lakes, as today I have complied list top trekking destinations in Kashmir for you.

Set your traveler, Pack your food, Scroll down and enjoy your roller coaster read:

1. Adventure to the frozen Alpather lake

Ok! So, let us start the list with the most remarkable trekking destinations of Kashmir. The frozen Alpather Lake. Way to this lake assures you a fascinating dreamy journey which you can never forget. Trekkers… A trek to Alphather Lake is just a thrilling journey. This lake remains frozen from November until mid-June, its matchless landscapes, lesser crowds and a similarity to the famous Lake Louise of Canada makes it the best destination for any trekker.

Location:

Resting at a height of 3943m above sea level, this beautiful and chilled lake is situated at situated 13km away from Gulmarg. One can also catch a glimpse of the majestic peak of Nanga Parbat from the serene Khilanmarg meadow, situated a few kilometers from Gulmarg.

A glimpse of your Trek:

You’ll be greeted by matchless scenes of the entire valley comprising snow-clad mountains and lush green meadows.

Best Time to go:

The best quality about this place is you can trek the lake throughout the year as it remains frozen from November till mid-June. So, if you want to enjoy the frozen lake with snowy backdrop pack your bags soon, don’t miss this opportunity as these mountains are calling you. You can simply complete a trek to this beautiful lake in one day.

2. Explore the Beauty of Narang Mahlish

Your trek to Narang Mahlish is filled with delightful trail throughout the year. Moving on from the valleys to the foothills of mountains, the Narang Mahlish trek is one of the best and stunning treks for this summer lockdown. Its scenic beauty will provide you with a novel view of lakes and meadows.

Location:

This iconic beauty is located at Naranag-Trunkhol-Gangabal-Naranag, with an altitude of 3800m/12467.192ft.

A glimpse of your Trek:

It will take you six days to reach your dreamy destination. During the trek, you will encounter dense pine forests, green meadows and never-ending mountains.

Best Time to go:

Summers are the best time to amuse these greeny darlings of nature. Trekking to the twin snow-capped pools of Gangabal and Nundkol, which is situated in the lower regions of Mount Harmukh, guarantees you stunning perspectives on all grounds.

3. Tarsar Marsar Lake

If I would have to recommend the most thrilling trek place at Kashmir it will be Tarsar Marsar Lake. Velvety grasslands and captivating scenery of the Kolahi Mountains make trekking to Tarsar Marsar a pleasant and delightful experience. Trekking to Tarsar Marsar Lake is going to take your heart to the most wished imaginable world.

Location:

This “Switzerland of India” is situated 5 km from Sundarsar, with an altitude of 4114.8m/13,500 feet. Trek to Tarsar Marsar Lake will allow you to romance with the beauty of the valley like never before.

A glimpse of your Trek:

This seven-day trek will provide you an opportunity to explore the beauty of crystal lakes along with the lucid blue sky. Any trekker will get bamboozled with the magnificent beauty and peace of the lakes. Tarsar Marsar is a place blended with all beautiful aspects of nature. Trust me; if you are thinking to explore the novel place of Kashmir then you should count this place in.

Best time to visit:

You can plan your trek from July to mid-September; however, I would suggest the best time is July only. During this time snow of high never-ending mountain, chains start to melt giving you breathtaking scenery to live. Besides, wildflower bloom acts as a cherry on the cake. Don’t miss it as Tarsar Marsar is calling you.

4. Trek to Naranag Gangbal Lake

Harmukh, Gangabal Lake is more beautiful than pictures. Its magic scenery of picture-perfect majestic lake against the backdrop of the mighty mountain is all a trekker can ask for. Trekking to Gangabal Lake promises a delightful journey through the meadows of Naranag, which is fascinating for any nature lover.

Location:

This magic lake is situated at Naranag-Trunkhol-Butsheru-Gangabal-Naranag with an altitude of 3600m/11811.02ft.

Glimpses of Your Trek:

Five days Trek to Gangbal is going to give you lifetime beautiful travel experience. The trek will include beautiful gorges and ridges, pleasant weather, striking landscapes and much more. So, if you are a nature lover this place is for you as it one of the most enthralling treks in Kashmir.

Best Time to visit:

One can trek anytime to this beautiful place of Kashmir but May to October is the best time to visit. Trek to Gangbal Lake is a truly heavenly scene where one side of the lake opens out to lush meadows while the other is overlooked by mountains covered by playful clouds.

5. Thrill with Vishansar Naranag Trek

Trekking to Vishansar and Naranag via Nichnai Pass is full of thrill and surprises. This place is nestled in the powerful Himalayas, where you can search for your inner soul. Trek offers picture-perfect views of snow-clad mountains, colorful meadows and alpine forests along the trail.

Location:

This heart of nature is located at Srinagar at an altitude of 13713.91/4180 meters. Explore the captivating Vishansar Valley, also known as “valley of medicinal plants”, with all your heart.

A Glimpse of Your Trek:

The eight-day trek will be full of high altitudes, wildflowers, green landscape, snowy mountains, medicinal plants and beautiful Vishansar Naranag Lake.

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit this calm and magical place of Kashmir is June to September. So, what are you waiting for? Enjoy this summer with the renowned beauty of Vishansar Naranag.

6. Kolahoi Glacier Trek

Our list goes on with the most thrilling destination which is Kolahoi Glacier. Journey to this legendry glacier is going to be a trek of a lifetime for you. This glacier has its charm, one gets different air to breathe. There is something magical with this gift of nature that one could hardly resist to feel it.

Location:

This hanging glacier is located at Aru Pahalgam of Kashmir valley, with the altitude of 5,425 m (17,799 ft).

Glimpses of your Trek:

The five-day trek to Kolahoi Glacier is a gateway to more than 25 stunning alpine lakes and innumerable high-altitude ponds. The route is full of greenest meadows, sprawling banks of Lidder River and wide-open Himalayan valleys. During your trip, you’ll be greeted by acres and acres of stunning coniferous forests that extend as far as the horizon goes. The end pint of the trek is, of course, the wonderful and breathtaking Kolahoi Glacier.

Best time to visit:

This place is always ready to catch the attention of the visitors throughout the year but to make your journey memorable you should visit between April-August.

7. Trek to Kashmiri Alpine Lakes

Exploring the high-altitude lakes nestled in the Himalayas is the Kashmir Alpine Lakes Trek. This journey is all about knowing the secrets of majestic lakes in the puzzling land including the Dal Lake in Srinagar.

Location:

To feel the beauty of this awesome place you have to travel to Sonamarg with an altitude of 4140 meters/13582.68.

A glimpse of your Trek:

Fifteen-day Trekking in Kashmir to these lakes is all about rejuvenating track into popular as well as unexplored lakes, namely Vishansar Lake, Krishnasar Lake, Yamsar Lake, Gadsar Lake, Satsar Lake, Nandkol and Gangabal Lake and many more. Trekking in Kashmir to these immaculate lakes is memorable, and it promises to be picture perfect for you.

Best time to visit:

To enjoy the pleasing beauty of Alpine lakes, July and August are the best time of the year. Pack your bags and let your soul explore the picturesque beauty of the valley.

8. Trek to Sheshnag Lake and Betaab valley in Pahalgam

Think of exploring thousand-year-old lake… Sounds exciting? Well, Sheshnag Lake is your endpoint. This lake is one of the most attractive trekking destinations for all lovers. From religious to spiritual this place holds many untold secrets.
Location:
The Sheshnag Lake lies in close vicinity to Pahalgam, at an altitude of 3590 m.
A glimpse of Your Trek:
Through this two day trek, a traveler will be delighted with deodar trees standing tall against the Himalayan Mountains and the Lidder River which is home to brown trout fish. The reflection of surrounding meadows on the crystal clear water of this lake will be treat to your eyes. According to Hindu mythology, the lake gets its name from Sheshnag—the lord of snakes. As per them, the lord himself dug this lake.
Best time to visit:
The valley attracts a lot of trekkers in March – November, but this place offers its best aura in the winter season as you will get the opportunity to ski on this frozen lake and curl up in the tiny mountain huts. So, these winters don’t miss to enjoy the full glory of Himalayas.

Things to take along:

To make your trekking hurdle free here is the checklist for you:

Trekking Shoes
Backpack
Walking pole
Head Torch
Water Thermos
Energy bars
First Aid
Nutritious ready to eat food

If you are trekking the first time please scroll down and read the following tips:

Don’t drink water in an erratic pattern
Never rest too much as your body will cool down
Don’t carry any unnecessary weight along
Always keep your body hydrated
Fill your backpack with munching items
Carry sunscreen and a lip balm with you
Try to hire some professional trekker

This was all about thrilling and adventurous trekking journey. I know after reading this you are already energized to rock and roll your destination. It is time to Pack your backpack and explore the Kashmir.

July 3, 2020 0 comment