A Visit To The Paradise On Earth, Remembering Kashmir Through A Picture Story

Disclaimer: Originally published in April 2017. It is being republished since it still remains an interesting topic till today. 

Kashmir, a paradise on Earth is one place you never want to return from. Poet Amir Khusrow wrote something golden long ago. It goes like this,

“Agar firdaus bar roo-e zameen ast,
Hameen ast-o hameen ast-o hameen ast.”

This translates to “if there is any paradise on earth, it’s here in Kashmir”. This, in fact, is something magical to be ever written about an even more magical place like Kashmir.

I happen to visit J&K a few years back and even now the pictures get me all nostalgic. I don’t know if it’s possible for someone to miss a place. But sometimes, the pictures do make me want to take a trip to Kashmir again.

When I visited Kashmir and took a Shikara ride in Dal Lake and a peaceful walk in Srinagar, I never wanted to come back. Even as a 16-year old I could feel the magic of nature.

Now, I understand that wouldn’t be the most logical idea, especially now. Every day we see something or the other happening in Kashmir; violence, attacks and whatnot. This is so ironic, a place so soothing and peaceful like Kashmir has witnessed the most severe killings and violence.

But then again, isn’t it human nature? To do what they’re advised not to!

This is why I thought of taking another trip to Kashmir. Only that this time it’ll be a virtual one, here tag along:

So, when I landed at the airport a storm welcomed me. And there blew my dream of staying at a Shikara boat hotel. *sigh*

Also, since I visited in the month of March, a gloomy weather welcomed me.

Well, if you think Delhi winters are the worst, think again! Kangri or Jangri is essential to survive in Kashmir, even in the month of March.

And oh, the view from the topmost Gandola station in Gulmarg!

Hey, check out: Cycling Amongst The Birds In Bharatpur: We LivED It With This Picture Story

Sight-seeing in Srinagar is insightful too.

And here’s a Gondola view of shepherds’ houses covered in snow.

I can never have enough of Gulmarg, nope!

Is it just me or everyone loves these Autumn trees?

Little hill top houses, remind me of the Alia Bhatt starrer ‘Highway’.

Oh, man! Kashmir, why so beautiful?

Picture Credits: Yogita Rathore

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