Like all other sectors travel and tourism was hit hard since early 2020. The lockdown followed by increasing cases of COVID left people in panic and opting out of any travel – official or personal. But the fact is, this aided to lot of budget options in line for people who are willing to travel. The reason was obvious ‘something is better than nothing’. I am particularly talking about the places and people who do not have other source of income like Kashmir where tourism is everything for locals.
Travel during COVID? Why do you want to take the risk? – is the common question that comes when talking of a travel plan. But honestly, is it worth waiting for the perfect time to travel? I think no!
It was late 2020 when I decided on not waiting for the right time and dust my backpack to bring it back to life. Every season has beautiful shades that makes any place beautiful. We have heard much about the summer in Kashmir with orchards in full bloom, Juicy peaches, walnuts and red apples being harvested and the majestic Chinar trees that provides shade to name a few. The winter in Kashmir is no competition, the snow-clad mountains and snow carpets all around you, literally makes you believe you are between the clouds. KASHMIR, is the most beautiful and breath-taking place I have seen. No arguments on why it is called ‘Jannat-E-Benazir’ - the Paradise on Earth.
I wont say its easy to travel around in Kashmir. Unlike other tourist places in India, Kashmir has some restrictions and high alert zones. I will be mentioning those towards the end of the itinerary.
Day 1 : Bangalore - Srinagar
The place has more than food and scenery to offer. I met some of the most welcoming, warm and friendly people in Kashmir.
We started our journey on 28th December 2020 from Bangalore. The fastest and easiest way to reach Kashmir is to take a flight. Average charges for a Bangalore-Srinagar flight is 6000-7000 Rupees (usually connecting flight through Delhi).
Being on budget we opted for a hotel close to the tourist attractions yet reasonably priced.
It is always better to make reservations and pre-book day tours if it is your first time in Kashmir as there are multiple things one need to be aware of like the night curfew. In fact we were surprised to see all the shops shut before 7:00 PM.
Day 2 : Srinagar
Destination 1 - Shankaracharya Temple
It is situated on top of the Shankaracharya Hill on the Zabarwan Range. The temple is at a height of 1,000 feet and has around 250 steps to reach the shrine. The entrance to the hill is guarded by Army and vehicles are not allowed after a point. Photography is not permitted inside the temple and it is advised to leave mobile phones and cameras in the vehicle.
As we reached the foothill it started snowing making the path even more beautiful. The View from the hill top is splendid, it renders panoramic views of the entire city and the famous Dal Lake.
Destination 2 : Dal Lake
To return from Dal Lake without embarking on Shikara ride will be unjustness to yourself. It is the right blend of nature and adventure as it will truly take you to a different space where people depend of the lake for their livelihood. The ride in it self if unique. 3 hour ride can cost you anything between 3000 to 4000 and don't forget to enjoy some pakodas and Kahwa Chai from the floating cafes and to tip the guides who paddle the boat.
Destination 3 and 4: Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh (Gardens)
All gardens in this line are laid out by Mughals in the 16th century. If you are short of time, choose one of the gardens as the others offer almost similar scenery.
Destination 5: Zero Bridge
Well this was not part of the plan, but we decided to explore this bridge as it was walk able from our hotel. The Zero Bridge is an old wooden arch bridge on Jhelum River which was opened in 1950. It is perfect for an evening stroll.
Day 3: Srinagar - Tangmarg - Gulmarg
We started our journey after breakfast with the pre-booked cab service provider. For backpackers and budget travelers it will be convenient to take a bus to Tangmarg market, from where mini coaches and jeeps frequently shuttle between Tangmarg and Gulmarg. If there is heavy snowfall, people who take cars cannot go to Gulmarg as there are chances of accidents, however they can park their vehicles in Tangmarg and take the jeep service which will cost an average of 3000 to and back. Also buy shades and rent boots (jackets are optional) from Tangmarg as Gulmarg is usually very cold in the night.
In our case I would say it was a good decision that we choose private cab as the Srinagar highway was closed due to an attack which made us take a different route to reach Gulmarg. The journey which typically takes around 2 hours took us more than 4 hours. We generally do not understand the heat of tension due to attacks when we hear about these sitting in different part of the country. The journey however, changed the definition of touristy Kashmir for us. we saw the villages, kids grazing cattle's, small industries and tea stalls.
Day 4: Gulmarg
Gulmarg needs no introduction. It is a known skiing destination and hence is most prefered by adventure junkies during winter. Try and get a guide before you reach Gulmarg as there will be many locals waiting to escort you and charge hefty fees. We arranged for a guide for two whole days and the fees was 1000 rupees.
The accommodation we chose was a reasonable place with decent service. It is always advised to book the hotels inclusive of breakfast so that you don't miss or delay first meal of the day. After a wholesome buffet breakfast we went to Gondola stage 1. the ticket charges are 700 per head. There are different types of show activities at Gulmarg like snow bikes, Skiing, Snowboarding, etc.
Gondola ride and snow activities
We had some hot daal and rice for lunch.... light food kept us on the go throughout the trip.
During our stay, the weather dropped to -15 degree during the night. the hotel provides, hotwater, electric blankets and room heaters.
Day 5: Gulmarg - Srinagar - Delhi - Bangalore
The place has more than food and scenery to offer. I met some of the most welcoming, warm and friendly people in Kashmir.
Challenges: Check for any curfews, avoid spacial days to travel and be aware that only post paid mobile networks work in Kashmir.