“Gar firdaus bar-rue zamin ast, hami asto, hamin asto, hamin ast.” This is what a famous poet once said about the Kashmir – If there is a heaven on earth, it’s here, it’s here, it’s here.
The capital of Kashmir, Srinagar, is the very epitome of this heavenly beauty. This is why it enthrals the romantic at heart and makes for a great couple’s getaway. One may say that it is quite enough to be in Srinagar, to hold hands, and to gaze at the spendour that nature has bestowed upon mankind, but there is so much more that a couple can enjoy in a weekend in this city. Srinagar hotel packages for a weekend often include a number of these activities.
Stay In a Palace
Nothing beats romance in the Kashmir Valley. Add to it a royal stay and you know why these beautiful vistas are a favourite with honeymooners. The Gulab Bhavan, literally translated into a Palace of Roses, belonging to the Maharajas of Kashmir has now become The LaLiT Grand Palace Hotel. Stay in the opulent luxury of the LaLiT and visit the Sher Garhi Palace which now houses the administrative buildings of the Jammu and Kashmir government.
A La ‘Kashmir Ki Kali’
The best experience that a couple can have in Srinagar is spending some romantic time on the Shikaras or the wooden boats in the Dal Lake. Shammi Kapoor and Sharmila Tagore may be too old for your liking, but the romance of the Shikara and the magnificent views and the flower boats are quite endless. The presence of Nigeen Lake, Wular Lake, and Manasbal Lake apart from the Dal Lake have earned Srinagar the name “Venice of the East”.
Romance like The Royals
Srinagar is home to some of the most beautiful orchards and gardens in the entire country. Nishat Bagh or Garden of Delight was built by the brother of Mughal Empress Nur Jehan. The mesmerising views of this garden make for the perfect romantic stroll. A leisurely evening spent at the Shalimar Gardens is nothing short of an epic love saga. The vibrant blooms, the flowing fountains and the expansive lawns are the perfect place to romance with your beloved.
Pay a Floral Tribute
Kashmir is often referred to as the colourful valley because of the multitude of beautiful flowers that bloom here. A visit to the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is a must for couples who love the beauty and splendour of these blooms. A number of Bollywood songs have been filmed in these scenic settings. What could be a more appropriate place for romance to blossom?
Go Golfing
Srinagar throws up a number of relaxing activities for couples to indulge in. The green pastures are perfect for golfing. In fact, The LaLiT Grand Palace Srinagar itself is home to one of the best golf courses in the country.
Skiing in Gulmarg
For couples who are bonded by their sense of adventure, Gulmarg is a short distance away from Srinagar. It is one of the top skiing destinations in the country and is perfect for skiers of all levels. Before you head for a romantic skiing holiday in Gulmarg, do make enquiries if the routes are open and if the snow in Gulmarg has settled. Srinagar hotel deals often include a visit to Gulmarg.
Visit the Shrines
From the ancient and powerful Shankaracharya Temple to the most popular Kheer Bhawani Temple, from the holy Jamia Mazjid to the renowned Hazratbal Shrine, a visit to the sacred places of worship should be one activity that young couples may like to undertake.
