Oh Kashmir — You Stole Our Hearts, Then Broke Them Apart

  Journey to the 'Heaven on Earth'

At airport - just before catching the flight

I remember, around December last year, my brother-in-law suggested, “Let’s go on a trip during the summer vacation—either to Shimla or Kashmir.” I agreed instantly, and soon we all decided to visit Heaven on Earth—Kashmir.

Amma in Tulip garden

It was tulip season, and the kids had their vacation. We planned to go right at the start of the holidays, hoping to catch a glimpse of some snow as well. Eventually, even our parents joined in as well. We were all counting down the days, and finally, the day arrived. All nine of us woke up way earlier than needed, full of excitement.

View of Himalayas from airplane

I fell in love with Kashmir the moment I saw it from the flight. The unexpected sight of the snow-covered Himalayan mountains took my breath away. It felt surreal. That one view made me fall in love with Kashmir instantly.

And it only got better from there.

Beautiful Pahalgam and the Hidden gem - Baisaran Valley

At Baisaran valley- Pahalgam

On Day 2, we had a trip to Pahalgam as per our itinerary. Our destination was Aru, Betaab, and Chandanwari Valleys (commonly known as ABC Valley). But on the driver’s suggestion, we added the “mini Switzerland” of Kashmir—Baisaran Valley—to our list.

To get there, we had to take a 6 km pony ride—it was the only way. We all climbed onto our ponies, not knowing we were about to have quite an adventure. 

My 8yr old enjoying her pony ride

Whole gang on the way to Baisaran

Even my 8-year-old daughter was incredibly brave. She was giving us tips on how to sit properly on the pony! She did an amazing job. We rode through hills, muddy trails, and rocky paths—and finally arrived at the most stunning valley we saw in all of Kashmir: Baisaran Valley.

Surrounded by tall pine trees and with snow-capped mountains in the distance, the place felt like something out of a dream. We spent a long time there—just soaking it in, chatting, wearing traditional Kashmiri outfits, and capturing memories.

As enjoying in Kashmir outfit

Humanity That Touched Us

I must say something about the people of Kashmir—they were warm, helpful, and genuinely kind. You can feel the sincerity in the way they speak and act. Whether it was the horse riders, restaurant staff, or drivers, everyone treated us with love and kindness.

During the horse ride my father-in-law backed out within a few seconds, but the rest of us went ahead. Though we were a bit worried about leaving him behind, our driver took exceptional care of him. He bought him lunch, gave him a small tour around the area, and treated him like family—all without us even asking. It was such a thoughtful gesture, and it truly reflected the warmth and hospitality of the people we met in Kashmir.

Another incident that stays in my heart: we had accidentally left a handbag at a restaurant—though we realised it almost immediately, we had already switched to a union cab and begun our journey to Pahalgam. Going back wasn’t practical at that point. We called the restaurant, worried and anxious, but the staff calmly reassured us:

“You won’t lose anything in Kashmir. Trust us, your bag is safe.”

And they were right. Our driver later picked up the bag, and once we returned, it was handed over to us—completely intact, not a single item missing.

That’s the kind of experience we had in Kashmir.

With Bob the snowman😀

One Week Later, Everything Changed!!!

Just a couple of days after we returned home, we heard devastating news. In the very same spot that had stolen our hearts, 26 innocent civilians were killed in a terrorist attack. Fathers, sons, husbands... Families destroyed. People who had only wanted to spend time with their loved ones in one of the most beautiful places in our country.

Is it too much to dream of seeing the beauty of your homeland? These were families who had saved up to show their children and parents the magic of Kashmir—and they were met with brutality. There were newlyweds. There were children. Innocent lives, lost for no reason.

My niece and daughter enjoying the snow

It gives me chills even now—realizing that could have been us. We were right there, exactly one week before. My 8-year-old was there. My teenage niece. Three senior citizens were part of our group. We just escaped… but did we really? This could have been any of us. Unarmed. Defenseless. In our own country. Where are we truly safe?

My heart also aches for the people of Kashmir. The horse riders had told us they earn just around ₹8,000 a month during the short tourist season. That’s their only livelihood. Now, after this tragedy, who knows how they will survive? These are innocent people too—children, elders, families who rely on tourism for their very existence. And they treated us like their own.

Amma's first snow experience

In laws 1st snow

Kashmir gave us unforgettable memories: first snow for most of us, its majestic beauty, its kind-hearted people, and moments we’ll cherish forever. But it also reminded us how fragile peace can be. How quickly joy can turn into grief. And how, sometimes, even paradise can carry heartbreak.

The whole gang with lots of memories💚