Kashmir. It mesmerize you whichever season you go. More so in spring. It is picture perfect!
We had written about it and had strongly recommended to be there in our posts 8 Charming Spring getaways in India and 7 Unknown hill getaways to escape Indian Summer. We walked the talk and were there last week for a quick trip. What a spectacle it was!
Our main aim was to see the Magnificent tulip garden, the largest in Asia in Srinagar. We had read a lot about it. When we heard that the garden is thrown open to visitors, we were there to check out ourselves. Along with Tulips we also made sure we visit the snow washed Gulmarg. Our initial plan of going to Gurez valley could not happen due to snow-covered roads. We settled for a trip to charming Pahalgam.
If Srinagar was mesmerizing as usual with vast Dal lake, the lovely lake road, gardens. Gulmarg was the stunning snow queen! Then the drive to Pahalgam was the most colorful we have ever seen……yellow of mustard competing with white of apple orchards. Yes, blooming yellow fields of mustard with snow caped mountains in the backdrop was stunning. Fragrant white flowers of apple trees added its own beauty to the landscape.
We were lucky to have the best of the weather on first three days. It was sunny and beautiful in Gulmarg. Only on the day of our departure, there was a drizzle.
Contrary to all media reports, it was peaceful throughout our stay. Yes, there were some minor skirmishes and those were in small pockets which did not affect much.
Check out these pictures and you will agree with us. It is a paradise. Please click on the pictures to see them in larger size.
The mountains peeping through the clouds…….before landing!
Dal lake with mountains in the background
Dal lake from the sky……..from the top of Shankaracharya Hill
Riot of colours – Tulip Garden, Srinagar
Tulip Garden from the sky………from a vantage point on the way to Taj Vivanta
The road to snow haven aka Gulmarg!
The Snow Haven – Gulmarg!! This was a pristine meadow when we were there in August 2013
Gondola ride, Gulmarg. Notice the snow cover all around!
Yellow, Green and White with a dash of blue! – On the way to Pahalgam. Pir Panjal ranges in the background
Pahalgam – And quiet flows Lidder with Pir Panjal ranges in background
Martand Sun temple, Kherbal. A medieval temple built in the 8th century. Incidentally the song “Bismil” in the film “Haider” was shot here.
Go to Kashmir now if you can.
Before the Tulips wither.
Before the crowds arrive.
Before the snow melts.
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