“From the roar of waterfalls to the whisper of shikaras — Day 6 flowed like poetry through Kashmir’s heart, where every turn revealed a story, and every silence held peace.”
🌄 Morning Bliss in Tangmarg – When the Himalayas Whisper “Good Morning”
Our second morning in Gulmarg began with a sense of calm.
We woke up at Beigh Resort, a cozy stay nestled in Tangmarg — a little before Gulmarg, yet equally surrounded by the magic of mountains.
🌤 A Window View Worth Waking Up For
At 6:30 AM, our alarm gently broke the silence. As I drew the curtain aside, the view outside almost felt unreal. The Pir Panjal Range, part of the mighty Himalayas, stood tall and silent. Its snowy peaks shimmered in the soft light. We had missed the golden sunrise, but the glowing white ridges still filled our hearts with peace.
Suchismita and I stood by the window, brushing our teeth and gazing at the scenery. Beside us, the kettle boiled water for our first tea of the day. The room heater, which kept us warm through the cold night, finally took a rest.
Titli, still wrapped in her blanket and enjoying the comfort of the electric bed heater, refused to get up. It was a perfect lazy mountain morning.
☕ A Slow, Cozy Start
Unlike the previous day, there was no rush to catch the Gondola. Our local car (JK04-4902) was scheduled for 9:30 AM, so we had plenty of time to enjoy the quiet. The plan for today was simple — visit Drung Waterfall, explore Tangmarg’s village beauty, and see the Chill Point in Gulmarg before returning to Srinagar for an evening Shikara ride at Dal Lake.
While Suchismita and Titli got ready, I stepped outside with my constant companion — the Nikon Z50. The morning air was crisp, and the world around was waking up slowly. The rooftops of nearby houses slanted like temple spires, designed to help snow slide off during winter. A few locals passed by, wrapped in pherans, greeting each other with a warm smile.
🍎 Tangmarg in Morning Light
Yesterday, we arrived at Beigh Resort around 4:30 PM, tired and hungry. We didn’t notice much then. But in the daylight, the place looked breathtaking. Right in front of the resort stood the owner’s Kashmiri-style house, elegant and grand like a palace.
On the right, a small apple orchard was bursting with life — the trees were covered with red velvet blossoms, marking the early signs of spring. To the left, the Pir Panjal Range framed the horizon, glowing under soft sunlight. The whole setting looked like a postcard.
After spending some quiet time with my camera, I returned to the room. Suchismita was ready, Titli was sipping her favorite Chantu Sharbat, and the geyser had already filled the bathroom with steam. Soon it was my turn to get ready.
🍽️ Breakfast Before the Journey
By 8:45 AM, we were all downstairs for breakfast.
The spread was simple but delicious — Aloo Paratha, pav with nuts, soup, watermelon, boiled eggs, and black tea without sugar. For Titli, they kindly prepared egg bread, just as we requested. Everything was warm, tasty, and full of homely flavor.
It felt good to start the day like this — slow, calm, and beautifully peaceful.
🚗 The Road to Drung Waterfall – Through Pines, Stories & Snow
After breakfast, it was time to check out.
The hotel boys helped us with our luggage, which we kept safely beside the reception. Our driver, Zubair Bhai, was supposed to collect it later when we finished our local sightseeing.
🕤 Ready to Roll
As planned, our local cab (JK04-4902) honked right outside the resort gate at 9:30 AM sharp.
Unlike yesterday, today only the driver bhai joined us — the other two, his brothers, would meet us later at their home village, which was also on our route.
Our driver, whose name I sadly can’t recall, was not just a driver — he was a guide, storyteller, and a kind-hearted soul.
On our way to the Drung Waterfall, we got to know him better. He told us how life in Kashmir changes with the seasons. During harsh winters, when the valley sleeps under heavy snow, he travels to Bangalore, where he runs a small catering business. Once spring returns, he comes back home to drive tourists and help them explore his homeland.
At home, he lives with his mother, two sisters, and a younger brother — being the eldest, he shoulders the family with pride and calm dignity.
It’s always fascinating how every road in Kashmir not only leads to a new view — but also to a new story.
❄️ Drung Waterfall – The Frozen Symphony of Tangmarg
The drive from Beigh Resort to Drung Waterfall took about 30 minutes.
Along the way, we passed through pine forests, snowy meadows, and winding mountain roads. Even in late March, small patches of ice still clung to the roadside, glistening like pieces of glass under the sun.
When we reached the waterfall, the first thing we heard was the soothing roar of water echoing through the forest. It wasn’t frozen now, but still breathtaking — a living sculpture of nature.
🌊 About Drung Waterfall
📍 Location: Near Drung village, about 16 km from Gulmarg and 3 km from Tangmarg.
🧊 Winter Magic: In January–February, the waterfall freezes completely, creating a spellbinding wall of ice and icicles.
🏞️ Year-Round Access: You can visit anytime — winter for the frozen charm, summer for a refreshing mountain escape.
💡 Man-Made Beauty: The waterfall’s flow is controlled from a small hydroelectric dam atop the hill.
🎿 Things to Do: ATV rides, sledding, light trekking, exploring small caves, or simply enjoying a picnic by the riverside.
🎥 A Reel, A Fall & A Kind Gesture
We spent a wonderful time at Drung — clicking photos, capturing videos, and soaking in the view.
A friendly local offered to make a reel on my phone for just ₹100. He even tossed handfuls of roadside ice into the air to create a “snowfall effect.” The result was magical — pure Kashmir!
However, in that playful moment, a small accident happened.
A chunk of ice accidentally hit Suchismita’s spectacles, and the frame cracked, causing one glass to fall out. Anyone who wears glasses knows that sudden panic — your world literally blurs. Our spare pair was packed away with the luggage at Beigh Resort.
But that’s when our driver bhai became an angel.
Without hesitation, he took out Feviquick from his car, gently fixed the frame, and placed the lens back with care. Within minutes, everything was fine again. We were amazed — not just by his quick help, but by his kindness and calm.
Kashmiri people are truly some of the most helpful and warm-hearted souls we’ve met.
After that, we took a slow walk near the roadside — touching the snow, breathing in the crisp air, and feeling grateful for the simple goodness of the day.
🎬 Watch the Journey:
➡️ Gulmarg to Drung Waterfall – Scenic Tangmarg Drive & Hidden Beauty | Kashmir Vlog: Day 6 Ep 1 – Coming Soon
🌾 Through Tangmarg’s Heart – A Glimpse into Kashmiri Village Life
The road ahead wound gently through the valley, carrying us from Drung Waterfall toward our next destination — Chill Point. On the way, we took a detour through the local villages of Tangmarg, where the real charm of Kashmir quietly lives on.
🏡 Village Visit – The Warmth Beyond the Snow
As our car rolled into the village lanes, we were greeted by a scene straight out of a painting — children waving from rooftops, women tending to gardens, and the faint scent of wood smoke curling from chimneys. It was a slice of life untouched by rush or noise.
Everywhere we looked, ice-clad hills framed the horizon, and crystal-clear water channels traced their way alongside narrow paths. A large open ground echoed with laughter as children played cricket, their voices carrying across the snow-lined air.
The houses, each one crafted with care and tradition, reflected the deep connection between the people and their land. Every brick seemed to hold a story — of winters survived, and of memories built through generations.
👨👩👦 A Family Connection – Tangmarg’s Hospitality
Our driver bhai was joined here by the two brothers we met earlier during Gulmarg sightseeing. It was heartwarming to learn that all three were relatives of Zuied Bhai, and this was their own village. They even showed us Zuied Bhai’s house, although he was away ensuring Gondola tickets for other guests.
Before continuing our journey, they proudly pointed out their own homes — each standing gracefully amid apple trees and snow patches, a living example of Kashmir’s simple yet profound beauty.
📹 Watch the Journey:
🎬 Tangmarg Unfiltered – Local Village Life & Scenic Beauty | Kashmir Vlog: Day 6 Ep 2 – Coming Soon
🏔️ Gogaldara Chill Point – The Hidden Snow Paradise Near Gulmarg
Leaving the village behind, we continued our drive toward Chill Point, a peaceful hideaway tucked among the serene hills of Tangmarg. Every curve of the mountain road unfolded like a new painting — rolling slopes, scattered pine trees, and glimmers of snow catching the morning sun.
🌿 A Pause in Time – Serenity Beyond the Crowd
When we finally reached Gogaldara Chill Point, silence greeted us — not emptiness, but a peaceful hush that only the mountains can offer. Unlike the crowded spots of Gulmarg, this place felt untouched and raw, an offbeat gem still waiting to be discovered.
It’s one of those rare corners of Kashmir where time seems to slow down. You can simply stand still and breathe, letting the wind and the view fill the silence.
🌄 Nature’s Playground – For Soulful Wanderers
Gogaldara Chill Point in Tangmarg is known for its scenic beauty, gentle trails, and panoramic views. It’s ideal for a quiet escape — whether you’re into nature walks, soft treks, photography, or simply watching the clouds drift across snow-brushed peaks.
During winter, the area turns into a small snow playground with chances for sledging and birdwatching — you might even spot the Himalayan monal or koklass pheasant if you’re lucky.
📍 Location & Local Efforts
Situated near Tangmarg in the Baramulla district, this hidden spot lies close to Gulmarg but away from the usual tourist rush.
Locals have begun offering basic amenities like tea, maggi, momos, and washrooms, making it easier for visitors to stay longer and enjoy. There’s also growing hope here — a wish that more travelers come, helping the region get the attention and development it truly deserves.
☕ A Moment to Remember
We spent almost 45 minutes here, capturing photos, recording reels (this time, our friendly local videographer refused to charge anything!), and savoring the simple joy of hot maggi and local momos amid the snow.
Every moment felt personal — a quiet chapter in our Gulmarg story made possible by Javed Bhai, the one introduced by our ever-smiling Zuneid Bhai from Day 5. Their coordination turned every sight into a smooth, heartwarming experience.
📹 Watch the Journey:
🎬 Gogaldora Chill Point – Hidden Snow Paradise Near Gulmarg | Kashmir Vlog: Day 6 Ep 3 – Coming Soon
🧣 From Wool to Wonder – The Making of Pashmina Elegance
After our peaceful morning among the hills, it was time to return to Srinagar.
Yesterday, Zuneid Bhai had dropped us at Beigh Resort, carefully managing our room bookings and ensuring everything went smoothly. True to his promise, he coordinated today’s transfer as well.
As per plan, Javed Bhai called our local driver to fix the pickup point — near Beigh Resort but right on the main highway. Before heading there, he stopped by the hotel to collect our luggage. Around 1:30 PM, we met Javed Bhai once again, after finishing our Chill Point visit.
🤝 The Warmth Beyond Words
Our farewell with the local brothers and driver bhai was full of gratitude and smiles. Their sincerity was unmatched.
I handed them ₹4,500 for two days’ service — but not before they once again refused any advance. They always said, “Sir, only pay if you’re satisfied.”
That honesty and simplicity stayed with us.
🚗 Return to Srinagar – A Journey Through Heritage
By late afternoon, we began our drive back toward Srinagar. None of us had eaten lunch yet, but hunger took a backseat when we stopped at a renowned Pashmina Shawl showroom along the way.
Inside, a quiet world of artistry unfolded — threads of tradition spun into timeless beauty. The air carried the soft rhythm of spinning wheels and the faint scent of dyed wool.
A craftsman demonstrated each stage — spinning, weaving, and hand-dyeing — explaining how every shawl took weeks, sometimes months, to complete.
🕰️ Threads of History – Kashmir’s Timeless Craft
The story of the Pashmina shawl dates back to the 15th century, when Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin brought skilled weavers from Central Asia to Kashmir.
Even earlier, in the 14th century, the revered Sufi saint Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani is said to have introduced the fine Ladakhi goat wool to the valley — the beginning of Kashmir’s rich shawl-making legacy.
Centuries later, these shawls became symbols of royalty and elegance, prized across Europe in the 19th century for their warmth, softness, and intricate craftsmanship.
🎥 Captured Moment
A short video recorded the scene — the artisans’ hands moving gracefully, each gesture full of patience and pride. Watching them work felt like watching history breathe.
📹 Watch the Journey:
🎬 From Wool To Wonder – The Making Of Pashmina Elegance | Kashmir Vlog: Day 6 Ep 4 – Coming Soon
🌅 Back to Srinagar – A Sunset Story by the Dal
By 3:30 PM, we were back at Hassanz Enclave, Srinagar, after a scenic drive from Gulmarg.
This time, we could finally admire the road views we had missed earlier. When we left for Gulmarg on Day 5, it was still dark — the sunrise hidden behind clouds and the rush to secure Gondola tickets clouding our thoughts. But today, the drive felt calm and rewarding, with the Pir Panjal mountains glowing under soft afternoon light.
🏡 Our Stay at Hassanz Enclave
Our room was on the first floor, offering a beautiful panorama — the cityscape of Srinagar, the glimmering Dal Lake, and the distant Zabarwan Mountains.
The room was spacious, with an extra bed already arranged for Titli. After a quick check-in, we left our luggage behind and stepped out again within fifteen minutes — ready to continue exploring.
🍛 Lunch Stop – A Taste of Kashmir
On our way from the hotel to Dal Lake, we stopped at a local restaurant for lunch.
The menu was simple: Kashmiri Biryani and chicken curry — flavorful, though not extraordinary. Still, every bite carried the taste of Kashmir, rich in aroma and memory.
🛶 Shikara Ride at Dal Lake – The Evening Glow
As the sun dipped toward the horizon, we reached Dal Lake, Ghat No. 19, for our long-awaited Shikara Ride.
Our package included 90 minutes on the water. Though the boatman gently suggested adding another hour for a little extra, we chose to stay within our plan — and still covered all the highlights, including the charming Meena Bazaar Floating Market.
💧 The Magic of the Water
The Shikara glided quietly across the golden lake.
We passed floating gardens, rows of elegant houseboats, and reflections of the mountains stretching across the still water. The city felt far away — replaced by the soft rhythm of the oar and the call of distant birds.
In those moments, Srinagar truly felt like Venice in the Himalayas — calm, romantic, and timeless.
📸 A Memory to Hold
Photography, short videos, and reels made this evening unforgettable. Every frame carried a piece of peace — the golden hues, the rippling water, and the gentle smile of our boatman.
🌇 The Essence of Dal – Peace, Reflection, and Culture
A Shikara ride on Dal Lake is more than just a boat trip — it’s an emotion.
The soft motion of the boat and the surrounding beauty create a sense of serenity that words can’t fully describe.
Blue water, green mountains, and the reflection of the fading sun turn every moment into poetry.
It’s also a window into Kashmir’s unique life on water — where families live, shop, and work across floating markets and gardens.
🕰️ Quick Travel Tip:
- ⏱️ Duration: 1 hour (₹700–₹1,000) | 30 minutes (₹400–₹700)
- 🌸 Best Time: Spring (April–May) or Summer (June–October)
- 🌇 Best Experience: Sunset — when the lake glows gold and pink
🎥 Watch the Journey:
📹 Dal Lake Dreams – Shikara Ride In Kashmir’s Evening Glow | Kashmir Vlog: Day 6 Ep 5 – Coming Soon
📹 Floating Market Magic at Meena Bazaar – Exploring Culture in a Shikara | Kashmir Vlog: Day 6 Ep 6 – Coming Soon
🌙 Evening Return & Reflections – Srinagar
After the ride, we took a local auto back to the hotel for ₹150. Interestingly, autos in Srinagar run on meters just like Kolkata taxis — and the fare matched exactly. We reached the hotel around 6:30 PM, a little tired but peaceful. The evening moved slowly — brewing tea in the room, opening a packet of biscuits carried from Kolkata, and letting the soft hum of Srinagar fade into silence.
🌙 The Night of Eid
That night carried a special calm — March 30, 2025, the evening of Eid. The crescent moon had been sighted, and our driver Zuneid Bhai had some last-minute shopping to do for the celebration. He left early to join his family, promising to pick us up around 12 noon the next day.
Our plan for tomorrow was simple — a gentle morning walk to the Tulip Festival, just a few minutes from the hotel. A day to breathe, watch, and feel.
🏨 Settling into Our Stay
Back in our room by 7 PM, we finally unpacked fully — no more hotel hopping or check-out rushes for the rest of the tour. This would be our base for the next four nights till April 3rd. The feeling of having a single, constant space amidst a long journey was quietly comforting.
We arranged the luggage neatly, backed up camera memories, recharged all batteries, and prepared for the days ahead.
📺 A Movie and a Meal
Dinner was still two hours away. To relax, we switched on the television — and smiled as Aamir Khan’s Sarfarosh appeared on screen. Familiar faces, familiar songs — a slice of home in the valley of snow.
Dinner began around 9:30 PM — a warm buffet with hot soup, roti, chicken curry, mixed vegetables, and dal. Everything tasted perfect, cooked with care. At the end, we enjoyed a touch of sweetness — semui payesh.
The hotel staff were courteous and friendly, offering hot drinking water on request — a small comfort on this cold Srinagar night.
🗣️ Conversations Over Dinner
At dinner, we met a few other guests — most from West Bengal. Conversations bloomed naturally — travel routes, Gondola tickets, and stories of snow.
One family from Punjab joined in; their son had also just finished his 10th Board Exams, like our daughter. Little moments of connection in faraway places always feel special.
🌌 End of the Day
By 10:30 PM, we returned to our room — tired, full, and quietly content. Outside, Srinagar rested under the soft moonlight of Eid.
Inside, we prepared for another day — another story waiting to unfold.
🛏️ Overnight Stay: Hassanz Enclave Hotel, Srinagar
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