With picturesque landscape, snow clad mountains and beautiful lakes, Kashmir is definitely heaven on Earth. Even though the weather remains extremely cold during January and February, the paradise on Earth remains a hot spot for tourists. As Led Zeppelin once quoted “it still remains the Shangri-La for most Kashmiris”. Here is a list of five least explored tourist destinations in Kashmir.
Sang-e-Safed Valley
Also known as the White Rocks, this oval shaped meadow is situated 10 kms away from the Yusmarg Valley of Jammu and Kashmir. Mostly visited as a picnic spot, this picturesque location is well known for the dense pine tree forest, sparkling meadows and the base to the Mount Tatta Kutti. Other nearby areas of tourist interests include Haigin (4 km from Yusmarg) and Liddermar meadows.
Pakharpora Shrine
Popularly known as the holy mausoleum of Syed Balkhi, the Pakharpora shrine is a pilgrimage in Yusmarg. Syed Balkhi was a noble follower of the patron saint of Kashmiris, Sheikh Noor-ud-din. The shrine has been inviting devotees from all over the country to help them seek prosperity, specially during the Urs celebration. Even after 600 years of its erection, the holy shrine still stands at its place. It was built as a homage to one of the holy saints of Sufism, Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani. The saint also propagated rishisism in the valley. Also, you will find some rare trees at the shrine, which aren't found anywhere else in Kashmir. The Muslim community considers this ancient shrine to be one of the holiest places
Nilnag Lake
The spectacular lake is situated amidst towering mountains, acres of grassy meadows and pine trees. Just an hour's drive from Srinagar, a simple long walk in the area is an experience to remember. The blue colour of the scenic lake shines bright from far away. If you are daring enough, a 13 km trek upward the lake takes you to a point where you can witness some of the most scenic views.
Warwan Valley
The valley situated at an altitude of 7000 feet offers spectacular views of clear skies, greenery as well as waterfalls. The only catch is to reach the valley by crossing the Margan Top, from where one can see the Nun Kun Peak on a very clear day. The valley is located between Kashmir and Ladakh. At night, you can clearly see the magnificent snow peaks of the Zanskar range. If you are lucky, you may also end up hearing the echoes of shepherds who take their sheep back home.
Doodhpathari
Craving for some quality milk while exploring the valley of Kashmir? Well, just 40 kms away from Srinagar, Doodhpathari is full of lush green meadows, thus locals from nearby areas get their cattle here to graze so that quality milk can be derived. The sight of a herd of cattle grazing is one moment definitely needs to be captured. One can stay in a house boat at the Dal lake and take a trip to the picturesque Doodhpathari.
If you haven't visited the exotic Kashmir, you must do it at least once. After all, there is just one heaven on Earth.
You may also like:
