Kashmir, the paradise on earth, with azure skies, falling leaves, snow-capped mountains, cool breeze and the Chinar beckons the tourist like no other place in India. The placid waters of the Dal Lake, floating shikaras and well laid out gardens all add to the romantic ephemeral charm of the land called Kashmir.
The Journey – Winding Roads and Breath-taking Natural Beauty
It was early in the morning when we started from Jammu. There was a slight drizzle, but the weather cleared after a while. Such changes in the weather are a common phenomenon in the valley. After crossing the 2.5 km long Jawahar Tunnel, we finally entered Kashmir.
The road to Srinagar is a scenic but difficult drive due to the winding roads. I marvelled at the giant pine trees which lined the road. On the way, we crossed small towns each offering its own appeal to the visitor – Qazigund, famous for its dry fruits; Anantnag, a historic town with numerous springs; Avantipur and its famous temples; Pampore, renowned for its saffron.
Finally, after almost eight hours of drive, I reached Srinagar. At first glance, it looked like a fortress which had been taken over by the Army. At every corner and junction there was armed personnel giving the city a kind of forbidding look, but as we drove through the Badami Bagh Cantonment, the place began to take on a more hospitable hue.
We had booked a hotel near Dal Lake – the customary spot where all tourists stay.
Dal Lake – The Jewel of Kashmir
I began my tour from the Dal Lake which is the main attraction of Srinagar. The residents of the lake have lived here since ages.
Dal Lake is integral to the tourism of Kashmir and is called “The Jewel in the Crown “. The water of the lake is crystal clear and is interspersed with floating gardens where one gets to see pretty lotus flowers blossoming in all their glory. It is also an important source of income for the locals who fish and harvest plants in its fertile waters.
A fascinating aspect of the Dal Lake is the floating vegetable market. It’s a treat to see locals vigorously bargaining and conducting the brisk business of buying and selling their wares. After our trip to the floating markets, we went past the ‘Char Chinari’ – an island with four huge Chinar trees- very picturesque and alluring.
House Boats And Shikaras – An Abode For Honeymooners
The houseboat booked for us was called ‘The Shining Star’. The entire interiors had intricate wooden carvings and Kashmiri furnishings. I was fascinated by the boatman who was an all-in-one personality – a wonderful host, a great cook, a helpful guide and above all an adept boatman
After spending a lovely night on the houseboat, we hired a shikara early next morning to go around the Dal Lake. It was a great experience. These small boats seating two to eight people glide effortlessly under the skilful manoeuvrings of the boatman. Daintily decorated it gives a ‘honeymoon’ feel to its occupants and that's why tourist make sure to include it in their Kashmir honeymoon packages beforehand.