kashmir tourism with our family

 A journey to Kashmir, often referred to as "Paradise on Earth," is a captivating and awe-inspiring experience. This tour blog aims to capture the essence of this beautiful region in 5000 words, taking you through the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable memories of a trip to Kashmir.

 Arrival in Srinagar

Our adventure begins as we land at Srinagar's Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport. The moment we step out of the airport, we're greeted by the refreshing, crisp mountain air, and the sight of the majestic Himalayan mountains.

After checking into our houseboat on Dal Lake, we take a shikara (traditional wooden boat) ride through the serene waters, passing floating gardens, and marveling at the intricately designed Mughal gardens on the lake's shores.

 Exploring Srinagar

The second day is dedicated to exploring Srinagar's cultural heritage. We visit the historic Shankaracharya Temple, perched on a hill offering panoramic views of the city. Then, we head to the enchanting Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, two Mughal gardens that are marvels of landscaping and design.

We end the day with a visit to the local markets, where we shop for exquisite Pashmina shawls, rugs, and handcrafted souvenirs.

Gulmarg - The Meadow of Flowers

An early morning drive takes us to Gulmarg, a charming hill station known for its rolling meadows and panoramic vistas. The Gulmarg Gondola, one of the world's highest cable cars, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

We spend the day trekking, horse riding, and taking in the beautiful landscapes. The Gulmarg Golf Course, one of the highest in the world, is a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.

Pahalgam - A Trekker's Paradise

A scenic drive brings us to Pahalgam, a picturesque town set along the Lidder River. Pahalgam is a trekker's paradise, and we embark on a trek to Aru Valley, surrounded by lush green meadows and snow-capped peaks.

We also explore Betaab Valley, named after the Bollywood movie "Betaab," which was filmed here. The valley's crystal-clear streams and dense pine forests make it a serene spot for relaxation.

 Exploring the Lidder River

Today, we engage in activities along the Lidder River. White-water rafting is a popular option for thrill-seekers. We also visit the ancient Mamleshwar Temple, located in a serene forested area near Pahalgam.

In the evening, we take a stroll along the river, enjoying the cool mountain breeze and the sound of gushing water.

 Sonamarg - The Meadow of Gold

Our next destination is Sonamarg, "The Meadow of Gold." The journey is an adventure in itself as we traverse winding mountain roads and cross numerous scenic viewpoints. Sonamarg is the base for treks to several high-altitude lakes.

We embark on a horse ride to the Thajiwas Glacier and take in the breathtaking views of pristine landscapes. Camping in Sonamarg under the starry sky is a unique experience.

 Kargil - The Land of Warriors

Our journey continues as we head towards Kargil, a town renowned for its historic significance during the Kargil War. En route, we pass through Zoji La, a high mountain pass, which offers spectacular views.

In Kargil, we visit the Kargil War Memorial, a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers. The town itself is steeped in Tibetan culture, and we explore local markets and monasteries.

 Leh - The Land of Lamas

We leave Kargil behind and make our way to Leh, the capital of Ladakh. The road trip is an adventure in itself, as we cross more high-altitude passes, including Namik La and Fotu La.

In Leh, we take a leisurely stroll through the Leh Market and immerse ourselves in the vibrant local culture. The rest of the day is dedicated to acclimatizing to the high altitude.

 Monasteries of Leh

Leh is home to several beautiful monasteries, and today, we visit some of the most iconic ones. The Thiksey Monastery is perched on a hill and is a striking sight with its white buildings and golden spires.

We also explore Hemis Monastery, known for its annual Hemis Festival, and Shey Monastery, which houses a massive gold-plated statue of Lord Buddha.

 Nubra Valley - The Desert in the Sky

We embark on a journey to the mesmerizing Nubra Valley, known as the "Desert in the Sky." The drive takes us through the famous Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world.

In Nubra, we visit the ancient Diskit Monastery and explore the Hunder Sand Dunes, where we can go on a camel safari amidst the stunning landscapes.

Turtuk - A Hidden Gem

A hidden gem in the Nubra Valley, Turtuk is a remote village that was opened to tourists only recently. The village provides an insight into the Balti culture and lifestyle, and we interact with the friendly locals.

The landscape here is surreal, with terraced fields, apricot orchards, and breathtaking views of the Shyok River.

 Pangong Lake - The Blue Gem

Our next destination is the iconic Pangong Lake, made famous by the movie "3 Idiots." The journey is a long but picturesque drive, taking us through the Chang La Pass.

Upon reaching Pangong, the crystal-clear, ever-changing colors of the lake leave us spellbound. We spend the night at a campsite by the lake, stargazing and sharing stories around the bonfire.

 Return to Leh

After a serene morning by Pangong Lake, we drive back to Leh. On the way, we make a stop at the picturesque village of Changthang, known for its pristine beauty and nomadic lifestyle.

Back in Leh, we indulge in some shopping for traditional Ladakhi handicrafts and souvenirs.

 Back to Srinagar

Our journey in Ladakh comes to an end as we board a flight from Leh to Srinagar. In Srinagar, we take a shikara ride on Dal Lake one more time, reminiscing about the unforgettable experiences of the past two weeks.

 Departure

On the final day of our Kashmir tour, we bid adieu to the enchanting region, carrying with us memories of its breathtaking landscapes, warm people, and rich culture.

conclusion

Kashmir is not just a destination; it's an experience that stays with you for a lifetime. This 15-day tour blog captures only a fraction of the region's beauty and diversity. A visit to Kashmir is truly an exploration of paradise on Earth.