Honeymoon is the most beautiful and an awaited vacation for every couple. If this dreamy phase begins in a dream-like location, the memories become even more cherishable. Considered to be paradise on earth by many poets, Kashmir has caught the fancy of romantic souls for decades now.
Save few years of political unrest, it has always been a filmmakers’ delight and honeymooners’ first choice. But Kashmir has much more than just rich culture, snow-capped mountains, lustrous lakes and glistering glaciers for couples to soak themselves in.
Read on to know what makes Kashmir so special and why it should definitely be on your list of destinations while planning for your honeymoon.
A true Kashmir-style honeymoon is incomplete without a stay in the famous houseboats on the Dal Lake. This should definitely be on your list if you want to experience the Kashmiri culture.They come in various sizes- two, three or four rooms, fitting various budgets, either simple or luxury. The elaborate and fancy ones are decorated with the famous Kashmiri rugs and other artefacts. But make sure you book these when you book the entire trip, as the best ones might be already taken if you decide to go for an on-the-spot booking.
Shikaras have always been popular, but they became associated with "romantic" especially after Shammi Kapoor, sitting on a shikara, wooed the beautiful Sharmila Tagore in Kashmir Ki Kali. Shikaras are to Kashmir, what Gondolas are to Venice. Cruising over the Dal Lake, which is the lifeline of Srinagar, making waves in a beautiful shikara is much more than a romantic affair. It multiplies the effect of love that is glorified in the serene beauty of the surroundings. Blossoming gardens of lotus and water-lily add to the splendour of already stunning lake.
If you wish to explore the Kashmiri culture to the core, you can plan some time to take a look at the local mosques and temples. Their unique architecture and the whole Kashmiri ambience will be an experience in itself. The most famous ones are the Shah Hamdan and Jamia mosques in Srinagar that have wooden structures that have been enthralling visitors since decades. Another popular place to visit is the Hazratbal dargah in Srinagar that has a welcoming, serene and cosy feel. The historical Shankaracharya temple, dating back to 200BC, on the Zabarwan hill in Srinagar is worth a visit too. The carvings and craftsmanship in the structure will leave you spellbound. Visiting holy places might not be your idea of a spending a day of your honeymoon; however, the experience will be unique and divine without a doubt; something that you would not want to miss.
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Sonmarg, literally meaning the meadow of gold, is probably the most picturesque spot in Kashmir. Despite the hordes of tourists flocking every year, it is not crowded. If you wish to add a little adventure to your romantic vacation, you must visit Sonmarg as it is the base for many treks. You can go for a hike towards Pehalgam, or try skiing and sledging at the Thajiwas glacier and the Apharwat peak. These snow sports are open from April to July, so make sure you check the dates before you book.
Nature has blessed Kashmir with its choicest best, be it mountains, lakes, streams, flowers, or the cheerful people wearing fascinating Kashmiri clothes and jewellery. If you wish to experience the culture completely, there are numerous places (like the Mughal gardens) where you can actually try out the local attire and click pictures. Romantic walks at twilight by the Dal Lake will be your most fond memory for life. You can explore the local markets and shop for exotic pashminas and papier-mâché artefacts.
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Whether you are a foodie or not, you cannot go without trying their local cuisine. Right from the sweet, warm Kahwa (special Kashmiri tea) to their Nadir Yakhin (unique lotus stem dish) and the numerous non-vegetarian options, or just the humble paneer gravy, there is nothing that will not pleasantly surprise your taste buds. It would be a huge bonus if you get to experience a Kashmiri wedding, so you can experience their traditions and the customary feasts.
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No destination can be quite as captivating for your honeymoon as Kashmir. It provides all the colours and moods for a perfect romantic holiday. With something to offer in every season, Kashmir provides an enchanting deluge of romance all year long. Have you finalised your honeymoon plans yet? If not, Kashmir should definitely top your list of options.