Despite being in international news for all the wrong reasons, the disputed region of Kashmir India boasts some fascinating cultural heritage and spectacular seasonal landscapes. The region is also renowned for its textiles and crafts. While Kashmir tourism both ebbs and flows in line with the current political climate, there is no escaping that the Kashmir valley has much to offer the adventurous tourist.
Most significant for Kashmir tourism is the exceptional beauty of the Himalayas India. Boasting no less than 3 Himalayan ranges, the Karakoram, Zanaskar and Pir Panjal ranges transcend a majestic and un-spoilt natural beauty. The dramatic seasons contribute to some stunning scenery. The snow capped mountains give birth to great rivers that flow through the Kashmir valley. Winter brings blanket snow cover, while spring time sees replenished rivers, fertile green rice fields, blooming flowers and shimmering lakes. Autumn meanwhile displays vibrant colors reminiscent of a Canadian fall. March to October offers the best time to visit.
Vibrant and diverse culture can be found throughout the Kashmir valley and remarkably the region speaks of unity and a common celebration of all religions. Kashmir is certainly a spiritual place. Many come on pilgrimage to climb the steep mountain passages to pay homage to their god at one of many shrines and monasteries located at high altitude. For Hindu’s the Vaishno Davi temple is one of the oldest shrines in India and is located around 5,300 feet high in the Jammu Kashmir valley. Meanwhile many also visit the mythical Amarnath shrine. For Indian Muslims, the region holds the sacred Charar-e-sharief shrine.
With such stunning scenery it’s no wonder that outdoor adventure activities are popular. All inclusive guided treks are a popular way to explore the stunning Himalayas India. A 2-3 night 5 star trek in the Mughal fashion comes complete with camp cots, tables, chairs and willing porters.
The verdant Kashmir valley and roaring river systems make for some excellent white water rafting on the Indus and Zanskar rivers. A Kashmir tour incorporating rafting trips offer half day up to 6 day trips, where daily rafting and night time camping lets you explore the picturesque Zanskar valley. With an excellent network of fresh mountain rivers and streams, fishing, and in particular trout fishing, makes this an angler’s dream. A combination of a trekking and fishing Kashmir tour for the more adventurous lets you reach high altitude lakes up to 14,000 feet above sea level and an abundant amount of brown and rainbow trout. For the sea faring, accommodation can be in one of Kashmir India’s famous deluxe house boats.
Being famed for its alpine and Himalayan mountain ranges Kashmir India attracts ardent mountaineers from all over the world. The Kolahoi peak, known as the Matterhorn of Kashmir India stands at 5,425 meters while the Pir Panjal range boasts two peaks, the Tattakuti and Sunset. For the more technically competent, expeditions to the Zanskar range offer various peaks over 6,500 meters high including the famous peaks of Nun (7,135 m) and Kun (7,077 m). Week long expeditions can be arranged with both local and international Kashmir tour operators.
Of course if that all sounds too much, in Gulmarg, is one of India’s premier ski resorts. All equipment is modern and can be rented. The Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering offers 10 day and 21 day beginner and advanced ski courses. Gulmarg has both downhill and cross country ski slopes.
Colorful, rich and spiritual with the soaring Himalayas India on its door step, Kashmir tourism has much to offer. For many it remains a destination just waiting to be discovered.
