I'm not one to write a review in Dad's Whatsapp-language, like OK. . K. .
I'll write you a proper Point Of View.
I approached a few travel agencies regarding my trip to Jammu & Kashmir. One o (Read More)f them was Kaspeiria Holidays (What does Kaspeiria mean anyway? Is it Latin for Kashmir?). They send me a travel itinerary and I eventually modified the program according to my taste. There was no pressure from their side, like most travel agencies do. Don't you just hate that? My travel buddies were my parents, so I needed to make sure that the program would suit them too. No problem at all, the agency made some great suggestions.
Kudos to Kashmiri-badaam-khanewala Ishfaq for remembering something I told him ages ago about absolutely Not wanting to go horse riding. Guess what, I went anyway. 1 win for Kaspeiria, because I recommend this activity.
Ishfaq took care of anything back office related, from explaining to booking the program. Ishfaq gives prompt replies and he really solves any issue. I'm still sorry for disturbing his sleep, but that shows how dedicated he is to his work. He also visited our hotel in Srinagar and reassured us of a hassle-free holiday. I didn't pay too much attention to the meeting though, because I got distracted by the chocolate cake (Free by the way ).
I have to admit, we started a bit slow at Srinagar airport. We had an early morning flight and a few hectic days before. We also needed a moment to take it all in. We were in Kashmir, which we only ever knew from television. We felt a bit guilty to our driver Sahil, whom was waiting for us outside. However that feeling was in vain, because Sahil is a man on a mission. He will make you feel comfortable in every possible way. He was patiently waiting for us in the drizzling rain. During the trip he would keep repeating his magic words; forget your worries, Sahil will take care of everything.
The spell worked, because I've never trusted anyone this much while being driven through the bends of the mountains. This mountain boy drives so smooth that I slept like a baby in the backseat. Until a hoard of goats woke me up.. They are literally everywhere :)
I enjoyed the fresh wind and spring water of the Kashmir valley. My group visited during Autumn, which the agency carefully reminded me of before. The view will be different than what you see on Google. Unfortunately our travel date was not flexible, but we visited in-between seasons, so the weather was surprisingly pleasant. Even in autumn I find the view unforgettable! The gardens are a must visit, Pari Mahal being my favourite. Note to take a short break at the Lidder river. Don't hestitate to ask questions about history or the present situation. Let the information enrich your knowledge.
Anyone from outside of India might be taken aback by the presence of the Indian Army on every corner. Don't worry, it's safe and the locals are nice. Even my family parties aren't as safe as the streets of Kashmir. The street vendors are annoying at best, but a Rishta Auntie is worse.
The shikara boat ride on Dal Lake was super relaxing. If you love old movies like me, remember the scene where Shammi Kapoor fell in the lake? Classic. I don't recommend doing those kind of movements on the boat though.
The cable car stops at 2 phases. I missed out on the glacier . The 2nd phase to the glacier was under construction. Oh well, instead I had more time to shoot a filmie reel. Be informed on constructions to avoid disappointment.
The road to Jammu was looong. I actually wish we took a flight. Nevertheless you will enjoy the transition of snowy mountain tops to greenery. The Vaishnodevi darshan was a perfect end to the trip!
I actually have more to tell, but I'm afraid to be banned from the internet.
Conclusion: I hope to visit Kashmir again during another season with Kaspeiria Holidays. ❄️