Plethora of magnificent beauty cradled in the lap of majestic Himalayan range, Kashmir is known as the Switzerland of Asia for a reason. Both geographically and climatically captivating, the scenic splendor of Kashmir attracts tourist not only in India but from over the world. The lingering cold breeze in the lush green valley and a warm cup of traditional kahwah tea imprints an everlasting impact in the minds of the visitors. While the most of Indian states experience scorching heat in the month of June and July, Kashmir offers the travelers a gently cold summer that is perfect to put on your winter cloths while walking down the Foreshore road watching the sun slowing hiding behind the mountains.
The charming nature when combines with the architectural wonders of the Mughal gardens add to the beauty of Srinagar city. Houseboats, which were introduced by the British businessman pre-independence, offer an experience of a 5-Star hotel with a picturesque view of Dal Lake but for a pocket friendly adventure nothing is as soothing as letting your fingers glide through the Dal water and looking at the peaceful and pristine lofty mountains while sitting in Shikara boat.
Gulmarg, a popular skiing destination remains covered with snow throughout the year, has the world’s second highest operating cable car ride at the height of 4390 ft. Gulmarg and Pahelgam are also the home to adventurous sports like white water Rafting in summers and skiing in winters which creates an adrenaline rush and thrill in venture seekers. Sonamarg, the land of gold surrounded by majestic glaciers and serene lakes casts subtle spells on the visitors.
Although Kashmir is famous for its scenic attractions but it is the people of Kashmir that makes it real heaven on earth. They are very different from the way they are pictured by the media. They welcome the tourists with open arms and great hospitality. The Kashmiris, unlike the political strife that their state has been under, are very peaceful and generous.
Intensifying the grandeur of the great Himalayas and Pir Panjal mountain range, the city offers a sublime aura of culture and tradition. The ethnicity of Kashmiri cultures can be witnessed in the traditional clothing which is a long lose robe called Pheran accompanied by the silver jewellery showcasing an immaculate precision and skilled craftsmanship and one cannot resists oneself from putting on these costumes and capturing the moment to relive it again.
Once wore by the royals and elites, Kashmiri pashmina and shahtoosh shawls are the perfect example of skillful handicraft which is marked as the finest yet the most expensive. The hand knotted carpets usually made of silk and wool bearing fascinating floral designed with Persian influence makes them stand out of many other traditional wares in the world. Other handicrafts made by the Kashmirs are the basketry, carved wooden furniture from the walnut timber and beaten silver and copper wares.
While Kashmir serves as a perfect destination for shopaholics to buy anything and everything from their list of must-buys, it also presents an array of finger licking dishes to the foodies. Traditional Kashmiri Gastronomy is a mélange of spices and flavor that will leave your stomach full and your taste buds craving for more. The Zaeka-e-Kashmir provides mouth watering and aromatic delicacies for the meat lovers. Rogan josh, goshtaba and ristas are some of the scrumptious food item made with lamb meat as a chief ingredient. The Kashmir cuisine also offers the world famous wazwan, a multi-course meal, the preparation of which is considered an art and a point of pride in Kashmiri culture and identity.
The enticing weather of Kashmir makes possible the growth of the most exotic spice Saffron or Zafran. A hundred Kg of fresh flowers yield about three Kilograms of dehydrated stigmas, which constitute the finest and the most expensive saffron, called "Shahi Zafran" which is mainly grown in Pampore district. Not only Zafran, Kashmir is also famous for producing quality dry fruits and honey.
Don't be Afraid stop thinking pack your bag and go for it explore the beauty of kashmir.