Why Should Kashmir Be on Your Travel Bucket List? kashmir

Kashmir is very popularly called as the “Paradise on Earth” where every square inch of Kashmir is filled with beauty from the breathtaking mountain ranges covered in snow to the pristine lakes and rivers. Traveling, exploring and living are all necessary in Kashmir. Experiencing is another feeling that draws tourists round the year from all parts of the world. Your memory will be filled with the best days and beauty of Kashmir. It is located in between the Pir Panjal Mountain range and the Great Himalayas described with breathtaking beauty and unmatched simplicity.

However, why should Kashmir be on your travel bucket list? Let’s explore and find answers to why visiting this charming valley is a must-do activity for all visitors.

Kashmir is regarded as one of the planet’s most breathtaking locations. It is a treasure of natural wonders that offers breathtaking views of lakes, verdant alpine meadows, stunning valleys, and the tallest and highest peaks in the world. Travelers have always been drawn to Kashmir to know about its rich historical and cultural legacy. It’s also likely that you’ve heard a lot of tales about how beautiful Kashmir is. Many people choose these Kashmir tour packages to plan their trip to this beautiful destination.

Here are a few reasons that will make you fall in love with Kashmir.

Tabak Maaz on my wazwan platter

Table of Contents

Bless your taste buds with Kashmiri Cuisine

Kashmir’s cuisine is as unique as its name. The authentic taste of Kashmiri dishes such as Goshtaba, Mujh Gaad, Yakhni, Matschgand, Qeleeya, Rogan Josh, Syun Pulaav, Biryanis, and Dum Aloo cannot be replicated elsewhere; instead, you must explore the valley’s unique spices with your spoons to truly experience the flavors. A visit to Kashmir would not be complete without the “Wazawan,” which are variations on mutton prepared in various gravies.

Thrilling Adventure Activities

Among its breathtaking surroundings Kashmir provides several adventure activities for those seeking adrenaline rush. There are several heart-pounding activities to be had in this breathtaking destination such as white-water rafting in the roaring River Lidder or Indus and treks like Kashmir great lakes trek & Tarsar Marsar trek in the gorgeous Himalayas.

Gulmarg skiing

Gulmarg which is also referred to as the “Switzerland of India,” is a skier’s paradise. Gulmarg has some of the best skiing in the nation with its beautiful mountain views and pristine snow slopes. The ski slopes at Gulmarg are likely to please whether you know skiing or not. A week is enough to learn and glide through the snow.

Kashmir
Photo by Bhavesh Sawant on Unsplash

Historical Landmarks

There are many historical sites and architectural marvels in Kashmir that are just waiting to be discovered. The region is rich in history, so explore the historic remains of the Martand Sun Temple which dates to the eighth century, or visit the towering Mughal gardens of Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh.

Warm Hospitality of the locals

The warm hospitality of the people of Kashmir is one of the things that you will remember most from the trip. The people in the area are well-known for being kind and giving so you will always feel at home the moment you arrive. The kindness of Kashmiris will be remembered whether you are dining in a native home or lodging on a houseboat on Dal Lake.

Shikara Rides That Are Romantic

The Shikara ride is a different feeling that is offered at Dal Lake and is also referred to as the “Jewel in the crown of Kashmir.” You will sail in a traditional Kashmiri boat with the Himalayas in the backdrop which is a truly magnificent experience and this is enhanced by the floating marketplaces, the reflected reflections of the houseboats, and the rhythmic sound water flowing.

Shikara rides in Kashmir
Photo by imad Clicks on Unsplash

Discover the saffron fields

Pampore is the only place where saffron is grown except Spain and Israel. Kashmir does not only hold the honour of being one of these two locations but it also produces the world’s best saffron. Kashmir’s stunning valley is adorned with saffron which is the costliest spice in the world and is prized for its exquisite flavor, scent, and 100% purity. When the vivid purple saffron flowers bloom, Kashmir is painted with unique hues and a dreamy atmosphere of lavender color.

See the renowned cricket bat manufacturing around the globe

Sangam lies forty kilometers from Srinagar, the hidden world of the Kashmiri cricket bat and willow makers. Several of these factories manufacture bats for several well-known cricketers as well as for export. Once more, Kashmir is among the few locations on Earth that produce the best willow wood.

Saffron fields of Pampore in Kashmir

Take a sip of “Kawah” or “Noon” Chai.

During the biting winter, Kashmiri Kahwa tea is a fragrant, healthful tea that is blended with subtle flavors of whole spices. Boiling green tea leaves are infused with saffron strands, cinnamon bark, cardamom pods, and sometimes Kashmiri flowers for a light and fragrant flavor. When visiting Kashmir, you must try it with honey and crushed nuts. The Noon Chai, a salty pink tea prepared with milk and butter, is another excellent choice for individuals who enjoy trying out new and unique tea varieties.

Purchase Kashmiri items.

Our hearts are captivated by Kashmir’s Pashmina shawls, Shahtoosh shawls, and stoles, but you may return with so much more. A variety of items found exclusively in Kashmir include walnut wood carvings, papiér-maché trinkets, red Kashmiri chilies, antique maps of the region, unique green tea leaves, woven carpets known as Namda, willow baskets, walnut wood articles, lac decorations, and “Doda Sapphire.” If you’re flying home, stop at a neighborhood bakery or Kandur Wan to get some mouthwatering Girdas, Kulchas, and Lavasa.

Gulmarg arrived with crowds and excitement

Experience Gulmarg’s Panoramic Gondola Ride.

How would you like to look down from above the clouds at the peaceful lakes and breathtaking mountains blanketed in glistening snow? Nice to the eyes, isn’t it? For this reason, you ought to experience the Gondola ride in Gulmarg Valley. The official cable cars of Kashmir are Gondolas. It is the second-highest cable car in operation worldwide. This trip will take you high into the sky to give you a bird’s eye view of the Gulmarg valley, which is either covered in a thick layer of snow or verdant foliage. Having a “cloud nine” vibe!

Shop walnut woodwork

For Kashmiri artisans, walnut woodworking is a vital art form, and the main market in Srinagar is likely to have an abundance of these exquisite hand-carved pieces. One can acquire wooden cutlery that has a straightforward design. More detailed carvings of leaf designs, dragons, and grape bunches can also be seen on wall plaques, screens, and other pieces of furniture. Thus, make room in your luggage for your memento made of walnut wood.

Picnic along Dudhganga River

Most travelers to Kashmir will stop at the well-known locations of Gulmarg and Sonmarg, but not many are aware of Yusmarg, which is a valley home to the Dudhganga River. It takes almost one hour to get from Srinagar to Yusmarg. Though the valley’s first sights will be verdant meadows sprinkled with daisies, your adventure doesn’t have to end here. I advise getting on a horse and riding down a steep hill to the Dudhganga River’s banks. This hidden gem of the Kashmir Valley is a great place to rest on a boulder and take in the wind, dip your feet in the crystal-clear, cool water, or search for the ideal pebble. Travel tip: Avoid swimming at this location due to the strong Dudhganga currents.