Kashmir - a paradise on earth
The Farsi poet once said - Agar firdaus bar roo-e zameen ast, Hameen ast-o hameen ast-o hameen ast in the context of Kashmir. It translates as - if there were a paradise on earth, it is here! Truly blessed by mother nature - its gorgeous landscapes, glacial fed rivers, valleys, snow capped or rocky mountains, little streamlets, abundance of flora are a treat to the eyes and the soul. Why then would we ever want to wash our hands off it. No way! This time around - May 2024, we decided to cover offbeat Kashmir as we had visited the regular tourist spots back in 2004/05. The holiday was an extension after P's conference. We had over 10 days with us. We roped in a friend this time who was keen on visiting Kashmir on condition that we accompany her. For the plan P contacted a Himalayan Travel Expert Kiki Mathawan ( www.travelthehimalayas.com/kiki ) and explained what we had in mind. He was quick to revert with a detailed itinerary which included 'offbeat Kashmir' and a customize