Kashmir: The beauty that remains under all the tribulations

Kashmir Valley, famous for its natural beauty and grandeur as ‘Switzerland of the East’, is a land of salubrious climate, meandering rivers, lofty waterfalls, deep blue lakes, sweet springs and alpine forests surrounded by flowering meadows and picturesque snowcapped mountains ranges which makes it an ultimate tourism destination of the continent. 

The Valley of Kashmir is surrounded by an unbroken ring of mountains which give it the character of an enclosed feature. The scenic valley of Kashmir is well known throughout the world for its natural beauty. Here, nature has been prodigal enough in crowning this ancient land with all its splendor and glory. Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Srinagar attract visitors from all over the world. Its lakes, green meadows, dancing and foaming streams, majestic forests full of fir and pine, snow-capped peaks are common attractions to the outsider.

In her valleys grow the rarest of trees and herbs, including the most precious of all flowers - the Zaafran (Saffron). In her forest are found the best pines and deodars. From her orchards come apples, apricots, pears, walnuts and cherries of different kinds. On her green meadows graze the lambs bearing the most exquisite wool. 

Her Dal lake and her house boats, Gulmarg and her glaciers have made her an international tourist spot. However, tourism of Kashmir Valley has become victim to the undulations and disturbances of insurgency, political instability, infrastructural bottlenecks as well as poor socio-economic background of people.

Srinagar

Srinagar is blessed with breathtaking beauty which makes it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kashmir and also in entire India. The Shikara boats, plush houseboats, snow mountains and the sparkling water of lakes come together to bring the picture of authentic Srinagar come alive. 

Other attractions of Srinagar for tourists are Jama Masjid, Shankaracharya temple, floating vegetable market and Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary. Sports enthusiasts have also a variety of options such as bird watching, water skiing in Dal Lake and Nagin Lake, golfing, Trekking and boating on shikara.

Where to stay: The Orchard Retreat & Spa

Nestled in a serene apple orchard in the Srinagar, The Orchard Retreat & Spa is Paradise Reimagined. Srinagar, long known for its stunning beauty and legendary charm is the perfect setting for The Orchard Retreat & Spa.

Located just 40 minutes away from Srinagar International Airport, overlooking the breath taking Zabarwan Hills and Mount Mahadev, this stunning property offers design with luxury and  exclusive comfort. 

Enjoy features such as Butler Service Swimming pool, Massage, Private villas, Spa and Steam showers. The Orchard’s unmatched level of service, amenities and 24 hours security surveillance will turn your stay into an unforgettable experience.

Gulmarg 

Known as ‘The Meadow of Flowers’ is of exceptional beauty,  located at a distance of 56 kilometers from Srinagar at an altitude of 2,690 meters above msl. 

Originally called as ‘Gaurimarg’ by the shepherds, this world famous winter tourist spot was named Gulmarg by Sultan Yusuf Shah in 16th century, who was inspired by the sight of its grassy slopes adorned with wild flowers. 

Gulmarg was the favorite haunt of Emperor Jahangir who once collected 21 varieties of different flowers from here. The prime tourist attractions to the tourists travelling to Gulmarg include skiing, golf and Gondola lifting. Besides, it serves as a trekking base for Khilanmarg, Nanga parbat and Pir Panjal range. 46 1.4.5 Sonamarg.  

The famous Sind River flowing through the heart of this meadow offers ample opportunities for fishing to the tourists. Besides, Sonamarg is also an important trekking base for Vishansar lake, Kishansar lake, Gadsar, and Gangbal making it an interesting place to visit.

Where to stay: The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa

A world away from the ordinary, this 85 key resort is framed at every vantage point by nature at its most spectacular. The world’s highest ski lift, the Gulmarg Gondola – which takes you to Kongdoori Mountain, is only a short walk away. 

Meadows and forests that have enchanted travellers for centuries wait to be explored by trekking enthusiasts and undying romantics. Clad in locally sourced pine and slate, the resort is built in a style true to the architectural heritage of Kashmir. 

In every way the indoors mirror the beauty of the outdoors. Speciality restaurants, a Sheesha lounge, a well-appointed spa and a heated swimming pool are amongst the necessary luxuries in place. 

Add to these other thoughtful additions like our children’s club, a mini theatre and a dedicated Activities Concierge and you will find The Khyber is a resort at par with the best in the world.

Pahalgam

Situated at the confluence of Sheshnag lake and The Liddar river, is one of the most beautiful tourist spots  of Kashmir which remains cool even in the summer heat and the temperature rarely touches 25º. 

This is extremely popular among tourists for its outdoor activities like fishing, horse riding, and golf and trekking. It also serves as a base camp for many expeditions and excursions like Kolahoi Glacier, Sheeshnag, Sonmarg and the Amarnath Yatra. 

Under the shadow of tall pine trees with the flow of crystal clear water, Pahalgam offers several tourist attractions like Baisaran meadow and Beetab Valley which are the dream of every tourist visiting Kashmir.

Where to stay:  Welcomhotel Pine-n-Peak

WelcomHotel Pine-n-Peak, Pahalgam celebrates the beautiful valley of Pahalgam in the most pristine form. Located atop the Rajwas Plateau, WelcomHotel Pine-n-Peak’s pristine beauty remains untouched by the chaos of the market and ensures that the best views are accorded to WelcomHotel Pine n Peak, including the shimmering Lidder River and snow topped mountains playing with the sunrays, bathing the valley in different hues throughout the day. 

Escape to the valley of shepherds with a Winter Retreat - the perfect way to experience the beauty of Pahalgam. Enjoy Luxurious accommodation, picturesque views, daily lounge hour, savings on Food & Beverages and more. Snuggled in the layers of untouched snow and fir laden paths, the property boosts of 80 rooms, suites and cottages. 

The three dining outlets, overlooking the garden and the river, Lolaab - All Day Dinning, Saahil - Tea Lounge, Gulistan - Open Garden offer mutli-cuisine delicacies. Anjuman Banquet Hall, a true representation of the beautiful city has a capacity to host up to 100 guests. 

Along with the most magnificent views of the beautiful city, one can enjoy a game of golf at the nearby Pahalgam Race Course, or shop from the finest shopping arcade of Pahalgam, or enjoy a day of fishing in the Liddar River.  

Whatever your reason for visiting Pahalgam is, a stay at WelcomHotel Pine n Peak will make sure you take back home memories to last a lifetime.