Do you love visiting a place where you can witness those snow-capped mountain peaks and even those serene lakes, where the lush valleys stretch as far as your eyes can see? Well, if this is your inner desire, then you must plan a trip to the Paradise on Earth - Kashmir!
Kashmir is a place where there exists mosques and temples that stand tall as a testament to the rich cultural heritage. Moreover, if you’re a nature lover, Kashmir is worth visiting. Mainly, the stunning Dal Lake which is equipped with snow-capped peaks, and offers shikara rides. Furthermore, there’s a plethora of adventurous sides that an adventure seeker must try out including white-water rafting, skiing, trekking and whatnot.
The reason why you would love to visit Kashmir and even feel an urge to visit is the hospitality offered by the Kashmir people or the locals. They are eager to welcome the visitors with open arms and even share about their local culture and historical background. Furthermore, upon arriving in Kashmir, you’d experience a blend of delightful flavours that would not only satisfy your palate but even satisfy your soul.
Kashmir, which is also regarded as the “Paradise on Earth” is not just a random place to visit. But a place that is blessed with panoramic sights and sceneries that has a network of iconic rivers. Let’s explore each of those rivers below:
Jhelum River is also popularly known as Vyath by the local people and it is even regarded as the lifeblood of the Kashmir Valley. Furthermore, the Jhelum River originates from the sacred Verinag Spring, which flows from the heart of Srinagar. The serene waters flowing from the Jhelum River offer a truly captivating sight that is hard to forget. Not just this, the Jhelum River even lays its support to a diversified ecosystem that includes Mahseer and fish species. The beauty of the Jhelum River is showcased during the Shikara Festival.
Chenab River located in Kashmir is also popularly regarded as the Chandrabhaga river and hence it has the largest tributaries of the Indus River. Furthermore, the Chenab River has its origins from the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers in the Pangi Valley of Himachal Pradesh hence the name Chandrabhaga River. The main USP of ChandraBhaga River is its hydropower potential. Various hydropower projects have been built on this river, including the Baglihar Dam and the Dulhasti Power Station. Additionally, if you call yourself an adventure baby, then you must indulge yourself in White-water rafting, which feels equivalent to a haven for adventure enthusiasts. Not just this, if your main aim of visiting is spirituality, then there are ancient temples and shrines located alongside its banks.
Indus River is probably one of the largest rivers in Kashmir and hence it has its sources in the Tibetan Plateau. Not just this, the Indus River flows through the arid landscapes of Ladakh, sloping downwards while nurturing the high-altitude desert. Moreover, the Indus River supports a large ecosystem that includes some rare species including the Indus dolphins. This is because the floodplains of the Indus River serve as fertile land for agriculture, mainly in the lower reaches. Additionally, for your information, the Indus River in Hindu mythology is associated with various Hindu deities and hence is even considered a sacred river by the Sikhs.
The Lidder River is the tributary of the Jhelum River which makes the Lidder Valley picturesque. Not just this, water flowing through the Lidder River is often considered as the pristine water, as it is flanked by the snow-capped peaks, creating a serene and idyllic setting. Also, the Lidder River is even known for white-water rafting opportunities and hence is known for its trout fishing, which can be enjoyed by visitors. Not just this, there are several other opportunities that the visitors can probably enjoy at the Lidder River like rafting, camping and much more. Also, if your main aim of visiting is spirituality, why not visit the closely located ancient temples that are worth visiting?
Well, the Neelum River is even known as the Kishanganga River which originates from the Neelum Valley of Azad Kashmir. Not just this, the Neelum River originates from the stunning landscapes, that even includes the picturesque Neelum Valley and the historic town of Muzaffarabad. Furthermore, one thing for which Neelum River is best known is the crystal clear water and the quiet surroundings that make this river a popular destination for adventure freaks and nature buffs. The reason why many people visit the Neelum River is that it is a paradise with towering mountains, cascading waterfalls and even green meadows.
The Paradise on Earth, Kashmir is majorly known for its stunning natural beauty that’s unbeatable. One main reason why people love to visit Kashmir is due to the houseboat experience that they get there. This is truly unique and at the same time offers the most memorable experience in Kashmir. People usually prefer to stay in a traditional houseboat on Dal Lake.
Here are some of the top reasons why you must prefer to stay in a houseboat in Kashmir:
Staying in a houseboat is often peaceful as it is away from city life, on the lake. Can something be more rejuvenating and serene at the same time? Well, people usually book houseboat stays to get them away from the city’s hustle and bustle, where they can find themselves, which not only mends their soul but even their mental well-being. Moreover, the surrounding landscapes are so picturesque, that it is truly a mesmerising experience. Not just this, the calm atmosphere of the houseboat gives you a fair chance to relax on the deck, sip a hot cup of Kashmiri Kahwa and even enjoy the breathtaking surroundings while enjoying the views of the mountain.
Do you want yourself to be immersed in the serene environment of the houseboat? Well, if so then you should immerse yourself in experiencing the houseboat. Not just this, houseboats even give you a chance to witness the daily lives of the local people of Kashmir. This would even give you a chance to experience their hospitality and even savour the authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Moreover, houseboats even have a market that is beautiful and decorated in a highly immersive manner. You can buy items with intricate woodwork, and colourful carpets, that reflect the region’s artistic heritage.
If you and your partner are travelling together in the houseboat in Kashmir, then definitely you must experience it. This would bring you a perfect romantic getaway setting, enriched with a serene ambience. Moreover, the beautiful views of the surroundings would even make your day special. There are several houseboat surroundings and luxurious accommodations that create an ideal setting for the couple. Here, you and your partner can truly immerse and unwind, in a perfect manner to rewind and reconnect. Couples can enjoy candle-lit dinners in the leisure spaces, and even enjoy private time on the deck.
Traditional houseboats are designed in a very beautiful manner that creates a memorable experience. Furthermore, these traditionally designed houseboats are equipped with spacious rooms, comfy beds and even modern amenities that create a truly immersive environment. Not just this, houseboats are also equipped with modern amenities that are essential for a comfortable stay. There are ample options of houseboats amongst which you can choose from as per your budget and other preferences.
Kashmir is a land of breathtaking beauty and hence is majorly known for its rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the top signature dishes that you should not miss upon visiting this heavenly place:
Rogan josh, probably the regal dish of Kashmir is majorly known for its aromatic and rich lamb curry that is cooked in a yoghurt-based gravy. The meat of Rogan Josh is tender and hence is infused with a variety of aromatic flavours of cloves, cardamom and even cinnamon. Not only this, the colour of this dish is probably a distinctive red colour that comes with the usage of Kashmiri chilli powder. This powder even adds spice which gives a fiery kick to the gravy.
Dum aloo is a vegetarian dish that features tender potatoes that are cooked slowly in a creamy and rich gravy. To cook this dish, the potatoes are infused with the flavours of a variety of spices, yoghurt and even saffron. Moreover, these flavours render a truly delectable combination that is hard to resist to be eaten. This dish serves as the best combination to be served with naan or roti and hence a popular choice for vegetarians.
Have you ever heard about Yakhni? Well, it’s a flavourful meat curry that is made using tender lamb or mutton. Yakhni is cooked in a flavoured yoghurt-based gravy and hence is mainly served with naan or rice and hence is the most popular choice for any special occasion. Additionally, this dish is simple to make and at the same time allows the flavours of spices and meat to shine through.
Kashmiri Pulao is an aromatic pulao that is flavoured as it is enriched with saffron, cloves, cardamom and aromatic spices. Not just this, Kashmiri Pulao is served with Yakhni and Rogan Josh and hence is the most preferred choice during special gatherings or occasions. People often consider this as a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at either lunchtime or dinnertime.
Visiting Kashmir is almost incomplete if you don’t savour the Kashmiri Kahwa tea. This is a flavourful and aromatic tea that is mainly made using green tea, cloves, saffron, almonds and even cardamom. Not just this, Kashmiri Kahwa is a blend of spices and flavours, creating a warm and comforting drink that is just perfect to be drunk at any hour of the day.
Health Benefits of Kashmiri Kahwa
Kashmiri Kahwa is a fragrant and aromatic tea that is infused with ample benefits. This tea is a treasure trove of benefits, all thanks to the flavourful spices and green tea.
Some potential health benefits include:
Kahwa is an enriched drink and a powerhouse of antioxidants. Kashmiri Kahwa is a blend of ingredients such as cloves, cardamom and cinnamon. Drinking this tea not only helps fight against free radicals but also strengthens the immune system and keeps the body free from many kinds of illnesses. Not just this, Kashmiri Kahwa is also enriched with anti-inflammatory properties as it is a blend of spices such as ginger, and cinnamon which reduces inflammation in the human body, and makes the body immune to combat diseases.
As the Kashmiri Kahwa is a warm drink, it is evident that it aids in digestion. Moreover, there are spices in the drink, mainly cardamom and ginger which soothes the digestive tract. This in turn not only aids in eliminating issues like bloating but even helps in reducing indigestion and constipation. Moreover, the warmth of this tea can even help in relaxing the muscles of your digestive tract which in turn helps in making your digestive system well-functioning and on track.
Well, due to today’s hyper-connected world, many people are facing the issues of suffering from mental health. In such scenarios, it is always important to take steps that can eliminate your stress and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. Kashmiri Kahwa, surprisingly, is a good solution for it. Even if you sip this tea at least once a day, it keeps the capability to soothe and relax your mind, while being able to alleviate your stress and promote happiness in your mood. This tea is a blend of spices that not only boosts your mood but even helps in reducing the symptoms of depression, if any.
As the Kashmiri Kahwa is infused with a blend of spices and green tea, it not only enhances your metabolism but even reduces appetite, which in turn aids in weight management. Those who are working to manage their weight should make a habit of adding this tea to their daily schedule. Aiming to consume it at least once per day would work wonders.
This fact is undeniable that Kashmir is a blend of natural beauty and a paradise for shoppers. Here are some of the most renowned bazaars in Kashmir that are famous amongst the shopaholics. Let’s discuss about them in detail below:
Lal Chowk is mainly the heart of Kashmir’s bustling market scene. This historic square is surrounded by narrow and winding lanes that are surrounded by shops selling a wide variety of goods. Not just this, here you can find ample things that range from Kashmiri handicrafts such as Pashmina shawls, and even papier-mache items, fresh produce, and local delights. Additionally, for your information, Lal Chowk is evident during the festive season, when the market adorns intricate and colourful decorations and witnesses bustling activities.
If you prefer to witness and shop from the upscale markets, then you must visit the Residency Road. This market in Kashmir is mainly known for good quality handicrafts and also for woodwork. Also, the market is home to various government emporiums that offer a range of Kashmiri products at fixed price cards.
If you’re willing to just experience something unique in Kashmir, then why not visit the floating vegetable market? Well, you’ll find this market on Dal Lake, where you’ll see the local vendors selling fresh produce from their boats. This would be a truly immersive experience to watch a floating market that is set around a picturesque setting.
Different seasons come with different packing needs which ensures that your trip to Kashmir is comfortable. Let’s discuss what you must pack, season-wise:
If you’ve planned a trip to Kashmir during the spring season, then you must pack lightweight clothes like trousers, shirts, and t-shirts. However, it’s quite possible that you’d have to be prepared for sudden temperature drops, especially during the morning or evening time. Hence, it’s recommended to carry a light jacket with you. Also, carry comfortable footwear such as sneakers or hiking boots that would help you explore the sceneries comfortably.
If your visiting time to Kashmir is during the summer season, then definitely you must pack some lightweight clothes like dresses, shorts, and t-shirts. Also, carrying sneakers or sandals would be ideal for exploring the city comfortably. Not just this, there’s the possibility that sudden showers may occur anytime, hence keep an umbrella or a raincoat handy with you.
Autumn in Kashmir is beautiful to explore. Hence, you must pack some warm clothes like sweaters, jackets and even trousers. Also, you must carry a hiking boost along with you which would make it easier for you to explore the region’s scenic landscape.
Winter in Kashmir is just magical. During this time, you would witness snow-capped peaks, and frozen lakes which call for some warm clothes. You must necessarily be carrying heavy jackets, thermals, sweaters, and winter boots that would make it easier for you to enjoy the season comfortably.
