Mountains Over Beaches: Vikas's Review of a Family Trip to Kashmir with Thrillophilia
It was a cosy weekend morning when Vikas and his family were enjoying delicious snacks. Vikas was reading the newspaper when his wife broke the silence.
“I’m tired of the same old vacations,” she said. “I love visiting peaceful and beautiful destinations, but not a beach this time please.”
Vikas looked up, intrigued. “How about the mountains? It'd be scenic and relaxing.”
Their teenage daughter, who had been checking out travel blogs online, immediately jumped in. “What about Kashmir? I’ve been reading about it - it has amazing lakes, gardens, and most importantly...snow!”
Meera quickly looked up recent travel blogs. “And there’s so much to do...We can visit the famous botanical gardens, take a houseboat ride on Dal Lake, and even take the famous gondola ride in Gulmarg.”
“Can we stay on a boat?” their younger son asked, looking up with gleaming eyes. “That would be fun!”
With a shared sense of excitement, the family finalised Kashmir as their final destination for a perfect family getaway.
Gateway to Paradise
The Awasthi family’s dream vacation in Kashmir began in Srinagar, which welcomed them with breathtaking sights of tall mountains and valleys.
“Wow, look at that!” the little boy exclaimed, amazed at the majestic view. The crisp mountain air felt like a refreshing change from the urban hustle they had left behind.
Their first stop was Nishat Bagh, one of the most famous Mughal gardens in Kashmir. Vikas and his family were stunned by the cascading fountains, manicured lawns, and vibrant flowers in the garden. The family walked along the garden’s pathways, taking a look at the rows of tulips and fragrant roses set against the fascinating backdrop of the lake.
“It feels like we’ve stepped into the land of beauty,” Vikas remarked, impressed by the beauty of the landscape. Their daughter, a photography enthusiast, snapped pictures of the colourful roses and tulips, getting excited about the likes she'd get on Instagram.
Next, they visited Pari Mahal, which was built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperors. "Do you know it's also called by the name Palace of Fairies?" Vikas asked his kids while admiring the panoramic views of the lake reflecting the shadows of the surrounding mountains. "It’s like we’ve stepped into a past dimension," the boy said, marvelling at the stunning beauty of the place. The kids explored the ruins in wonder, taking in the sense of history that filled the air.
The family then visited Hazratbal Shrine, which their guide told them was one of the most famous spiritual sites in Kashmir. "The white marble facade appears to be in such stark contrast to the surrounding snow-capped mountains," Vikas's wife remarked. The Awasthi family spent a relaxing time among the lush greenery and found the ambience to be calm and reflective. "This looks like a place where one could meditate for hours at a stretch," Vikas said, absorbing the spiritual significance of the site.
Later that day, they also enjoyed a traditional Shikara ride on Dal Lake. As the boat sailed across the crystal clear water, the reflections of the mountains, and floating gardens, created a mirror image of the landscape. “It’s as if we’re floating on a big sheet of mirror,” their daughter said, finding herself lost in the beauty of the moment.
Meadows of Gold and White
Awasthi family's next adventure was all set to unfold in Sonamarg, a breathtaking valley in the Himalayas, also known as the 'Meadow of Gold'. As if they weren't fascinated enough by the views in Srinagar, they got a chance to enjoy a drive to Sonmarg. They passed by winding rivers, majestic mountains, and vast wildflower fields that stretched as far as they could see.
Upon reaching Sonmarg, they took a pony ride up to the Thajiwas Glacier. The ride offered them great views, but the glacier left them in absolute awe. The sight of the snaking stream flowing through valleys encircled by the snow-clad peaks looked like something out of a fairytale.
"This looks unreal," Vikas said, looking at the landscape.
Next, the family visited Gulmarg, known for its scenic Gondola ride. The cable car took them to Mount Apharwat, from where they enjoyed admiring the panoramic views of the snow-covered slopes.
"It feels like we’re at the top of the world!" their daughter spoke in excitement, mesmerised by the stunning views. At the summit, the family marvelled at the endless snowfields and towering peaks. The kids quickly jumped into the snow, tossing snowballs. “I've always wanted to beat you in a snowball fight!” their son shouted.
They even watched the paragliders soaring through the sky. "Look at them gliding over the winter wonderland!" Vikas's wife said, captivated by the sight.
A Journey to Remember
On the last leg of their vacation in Kashmir, the Awasthi family visited Chandanwari. They found the place to be surreal, as the peaceful atmosphere made it the ideal spot for reflection. “It’s surreal to be here, no wonder why hundreds of pilgrims visit every year,” Vikas said, taking in the serenity.
Back in Srinagar, they also enjoyed a Shikara ride on Dal Lake. As the subtle sun bathed the lake water in an orange glow, it felt like an experience out of a storybook. “I haven't had an experience this magical anywhere else before,” Vikas's wife said. “It was a nice choice to come here!”
Their final stop was Lal Chowk where they indulged in a shopping spree and browsed through a variety of souvenirs. "These will remind us of our memorable time in Kashmir for many years to come," their daughter said, checking out a traditional shawl.
Finally, as they packed their bags to leave, Vikas smiled, “Am I the only one who feels like this wasn't enough? We definitely need to come back.”
Everyone agreed, of course!
Read More: Thrillophilia Kashmir Reviews