The Mystique Called Kashmir

Landscapes that seem straight out of fairy tales, people who make you feel welcome, and experiences that leave you wanting for more—Kashmir still holds its sway over those bitten by wanderlust.

- Japleen Kaur

KASHMIR. THE bare utterance of the word is cue enough for emotions to run high and debates to follow. But many of the prejudices that form the basis of these heated discussions are proven unfounded for those who’ve seen the Valley with their own eyes. For only when one travels here does one understand why Kashmir is still called jannat or heaven on earth.

Within a short while of our flight taking off from Chandigarh, snow-capped peaks begin to appear beneath us—first the Dhauladhars and then the Pir Panjal ranges. You get a bird’s eye view of the highest mountain of the Indian side of Jammu & Kashmir as well—the twin peaks of the Nun Kun massif. Do remember to try to ask for a seat on the right-hand side of the plane to really savor the sights.

The drive from the airport to our base, Fortune Resort Heevan, Srinagar takes us by the breathtaking Dal Lake—a sight that cannot be justified by its pictures. Srinagar has major Mughal influences that are apparent in its many gardens, each more beautiful than the other. I stroll through Shalimar Bagh for a good hour, gazing at the fountains, marveling at the variety of flowers, the detailing on the walls, and the looming mountains behind.