Essential beauty of kashmir

 

Essential  Beauty of Kashmir: A Journey Through Its Hidden Gems

Kashmir, often referred to as "Paradise on Earth," is a land of mesmerizing beauty, where the landscape is painted with verdant meadows, snow-capped peaks, shimmering lakes, and dense forests. Every corner of this enchanting region tells a story of nature's grandeur, from the well-known destinations to the hidden gems that remain untouched by mass tourism. Today we will take you on a journey through some of Kashmir's most beautiful and lesser-known places: Gurez Valley, Doodhpathri, Zabarwan Mountains, Yousmarg, Tosamaidan, Khimber, Kokernag, and Kousarnag. Each of these places holds a unique significance in the natural tapestry of Kashmir, offering a tranquil escape and a deeper connection to nature.

Gurez Valley: The Hidden Paradise of Kashmir

Nestled in the high Himalayas, close to the Line of Control (LoC), Gurez Valley is one of Kashmir's most remote and untouched regions. Known for its breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage, Gurez is a hidden paradise that remains relatively unexplored by tourists. The valley is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, with the Kishanganga River flowing through its heart, adding to its scenic charm. The landscape is dotted with traditional wooden houses, lush green meadows, and dense forests, making it a perfect destination for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Gurez is not just about scenic beauty; it is also a region steeped in history and culture. The local Dard-Shin people, believed to be descendants of the ancient Dards, have preserved their unique language and customs over the centuries. The valley's strategic location has made it a witness to many historical events, adding a sense of mystique to its allure. Visitors to Gurez can explore the picturesque villages, trek through the rugged terrain, and experience the warmth of the local hospitality, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Doodhpathri: The Valley of Milk

Doodhpathri, literally translating to "Valley of Milk," is a picturesque meadow located about 40 kilometers from Srinagar. The name Doodhpathri is derived from the white, frothy waters of the Shaliganga River that flows through the valley, resembling milk. This pristine valley is surrounded by dense forests of pine and deodar, with rolling meadows stretching as far as the eye can see. The beauty of Doodhpathri lies in its simplicity and tranquility, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Doodhpathri remains relatively untouched by commercialization, preserving its natural charm. The lush green meadows are perfect for picnics, while the surrounding forests offer opportunities for trekking and nature walks. In winter, the valley transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, attracting adventure enthusiasts for activities like snow trekking and skiing. Doodhpathri's serene environment and stunning landscapes make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the beauty of Kashmir.

Zabarwan Mountains: The Majestic Backdrop of Srinagar

The Zabarwan Range, a sub-mountain range of the Himalayas, forms the majestic backdrop of Srinagar, Kashmir's summer capital. Stretching over 32 kilometers, the Zabarwan Mountains are not only a scenic marvel but also hold significant ecological and cultural importance. The range is home to the famous Mughal Gardens—Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi—each offering panoramic views of the Dal Lake and the city of Srinagar.

The Zabarwan Mountains are covered with dense forests of pine, deodar, and oak, providing a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Hangul deer. The range is also a popular destination for trekking, offering several trails that lead to stunning viewpoints and serene landscapes. The Dachigam National Park, located within the Zabarwan range, is a protected area known for its diverse flora and fauna. For those who wish to explore the natural beauty of Srinagar beyond its lakes and gardens, the Zabarwan Mountains offer an exciting and enriching experience.

Yousmarg: Kashmir's Best-Kept Secret

Yousmarg, often referred to as Kashmir's best-kept secret, is a beautiful meadow located about 50 kilometers southwest of Srinagar. Surrounded by dense forests of pine and fir, and set against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains, Yousmarg is a haven for nature lovers. The Doodhganga River, with its crystal-clear waters, adds to the charm of this picturesque destination.

Yousmarg is less crowded than other popular tourist spots in Kashmir, making it an ideal place for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature. The meadows are perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and horse riding, while the surrounding forests offer excellent trekking opportunities. The Nilnag Lake, located a few kilometers from Yousmarg, is another hidden gem that adds to the beauty of this region. The tranquil environment and unspoiled landscapes of Yousmarg make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the lesser-known beauty of Kashmir.

Tosamaidan: The Enchanted Meadow

Tosamaidan, often referred to as the "King of Meadows," is one of the largest meadows in Kashmir, located in the Budgam district. The meadow, surrounded by dense forests and towering mountains, is a sight to behold, especially during the spring and summer months when it is covered with a carpet of wildflowers. Tosamaidan has a rich history, as it was once used as a pasture by the Mughal emperors for their horses.

 

 

The Ancient history of kashmir:

legend says that kashmir was crafted from a large body of water, there is a folk lore which connects kashmir back to thousand of years, a demon was killed by kayshap rishi a swami and hence freed kashmir and turned this enormous water body to a island. since then gradually there has been a formulation of tethering mountains and the swelling snow water rivers along the mountain beds. The different seasons of kashmir shaped and softened land fertile enough to raise many colorful fruits and valuable saffron.

The shikara's are the small boats which carry on a multiple of business in the lake from ferrying the people to the flower & vegetable vendors who keep the lake people engaged with their freshly homemade produce.

char chinaar

The above shot is captured in early morning at the place located on a tiny island inside dallake. "char chinar", the place of four chinars. the sky at dawn can be seen reflecting in the water below and the blue mountains drape the valley, a lone shikara left in the lake.

vegetable market

The above shot is also taken in early morning when the vegetable markets starts at Dallake. farmers who grow vegetables in their small yards, which are located inside the lake meet everyday at one place called "gudri" they come with their boats filled with  loads of vegetables. they sell their produce to shopkeepers & other vegetable vendors.

fisherman at work

It's not a easy life for fishermen, they have to stay in boats for most of the time & work hard during all seasons. In the above picture an old fisherman is pulling a net out of water expecting a good amount of catch. most of fishermen catch fish & later their wives or children sell them in market. in the back ground beautiful waters and huge mountain stands close by the lake.

making of harisa

Harisa is mostly eaten at breakfast during cold winters, it's made up of cooked rice & boiled mutton. some ingredients are also used for flavors. its all made by hand the mutton & cooked rice is grinded with wooden poles in big clay pots. the two men in picture are grinding the harisa. when it's ready it becomes like a fine thick paste & tastes fabulous, its served hot with kashmiri tandoor bread.

A scene from village life

Village life has always fascinated me since childhood, the people their simplicity & their living style. no one can escape the charm of  village life. In the above pic two elderly women are carrying drinking water from a nearby stream in copper pots. A horse cart filled with dung, old house made of mud & planks of wood.

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Save dallake save future of kashmir a report

a view of dallake from pari mahal

The dallake is the most splendid & beautiful lake in the capital city of Srinagar, it is located app 2kms to the north east of Srinagar.this deep lake is fed by many natural springs and few rivulets which pour in it near a village called taelbal.it is 6.4 kms wide from north to south and 4kms east to west.in the year 1884 the Dal was double of it's present size.at present it has shrunk further due to the encroachment.the water of the lake was so clear that people used to drink it and the kashmiri shawls and pashmina was washed in it to protect their bright colors it was very clean then,but now the water has become dirty and unhealthy because of huge quantity of sewage and garbage that go in it.now this lake is dying at very fast speed,dumping of garbage,cultivation of vegetables in & around Dal sewage water that flows in Dal,the uses of pesticides are causing havoc to this lake.

resident of  the lake

As there is a large population living on this lake so lot of garbage and pollutants go in it further weeds add to its misery.the LAWDA department (lakes and waterways development authority) has been plagued by corruption though they get lot of money by central govt and foreign agencies for cleaning & maintaining the beauty of this lake,but unfortunately these black sheep feed their own families on that money and only 3 to 5 percent of the money is spent on the cleaning of lake.the corrupt government of Kashmir has also played a major part in the decay of the Dal.

The director today addressed to people who were invited in the meeting to take this task on their own shoulders and don't expect much help from government,as we all know said the director that the dallake is a center of attraction in Srinagar,tourists come here they stay in beautiful houseboats & hotels around Dal and imagine if Dal will become a garbage dumping pit  no tourist will stay in Srinagar,Dal is a future of Kashmir look how many people earn in this lake from tourists ranging from houseboat owner to a small poor vendor who sells fruit or vegetable in a shikara.we have to save this place for our next generations to come,see how in many foreign countries they maintain their lakes and rivers the people love their country and they keep it clean so we have to do the same thing here.

No doubt Dal is the heart of Kashmir it is internationally known for it's beauty and houseboats,we should educate our people to take some time from their busy schedule and clean Dal voluntarily we should organize some campaigns were every person from each house should come and help in cleaning the Dal.if we don't come and didn't do it our self the Dal will be the thing of past buried in history.

Kashmir Tour

Dal lake in early Morning

Ruins of ancient sun temples at Avantipora

As the morning light falls on my land of Kashmir it is like a bride waking up from the deep slumber in Eden..my rich and beautiful land is a my life.the land so rich and so old, it's history is witness to many episodes of bloody wars, countless floods and famines, the changing of dynasties and emperors and finally it's struggle for freedom.the flowers which grow in its breast and the sweet smelling pink roses adorn its meadows Kashmir is a paradise.the placement of Kashmir on Indian map is on top. it is truly a crown of India.the kings and the queens the maharajas and their begums the mighty mougals had a deep desire in their hearts to visit Kashmir.they have heard about this beautiful land of Kashmir in their courts and during that time the road to Kashmir was very dangerous owing to the heavy snowfalls and deep gorges and tough mountainous terrain, the harsh cold weather took lives of many yet they didn't loose hope they took this peril and outplayed the death to see this land of eternal beauty which they had only imagined before in their dreams.same like today the people want to visit Kashmir rich of poor,they want to witness the beauty of this Eden which god has created with patience and time.it is like a nature pilgrimage for them.

we help our guests to plan trips to Kashmir and parts of ladakh,we make all necessary travel arrangements for them.whether you are planning your kashmir valley tour with your families or you are going  for your honeymoon or traveling for leisure or adventure,every one will enjoy the beauty and would like to share it once he will reach back home. over the years i have personally seen lot of people trying to come back every year & bringing along with them their families, friends,colleagues for kashmir tour

The scores grow every year the flow of people increases,  these people want to see this place again and again and also want to show it to the people who are close to them.they want to relax and enjoy the charm which draws them back every year. No doubt the people of Kashmir are very friendly and helpful.they love and respect their guests this is also other reason why people go back to Kashmir. when i am in Delhi far from my home some  of  my  friends often  ask me why Kashmir has got so  importance over the other Indian states? people really want to know more when I tell them i am from Kashmir. they want to know how it looks like, they want to listen about it,they will ask me about the beauty of  this land the snow peaks covered with pine forests,blooming of tulips,the saffron plantations,apple and almond orchards,meadows of Gulmarg,valleys of Pahalgam,the flowing ice cold waters of  Jehlum , Houseboats in dal lake the calm waters of Nigeen & Manasbal lake,morning mist over the shankracharya temple,mughal gardens with its manicured green lawns and bright flowers with the backdrop of green mountains and blue sky.

Kashmir is the most loved place for all Indians and foreign tourists it provides lot of natural attractions,sightseeing's and much more so come and embark on your nature pilgrimage were you will witness some of the most amazing and  beautiful creations of nature. Planning your travels can be a hassle esp for foreign travelers, because they don't know how to reach kashmir, kashmir is well connected to Airports like delhi, Mumbai, Amritsar, jammu, road connectivity is also good, another thing is to look at the season, kashmir gets very busy in spring season, finding  a accommodation or gondola ticket can become a problem, its better to sort it in advance by the help of a local guide or a travel agent. summer can be hot particularly the months of july and august, there is no rains season in kashmir, only rains are expected in march and early April, winters can be cold particularly the 40 day perios from 20 Dec to 31 jan, checkout other valuable information resource for Kashmir Ladakh travel