Visitors took photos at the “Almond Flower Festival 2025” held in Badamawari, Srinagar Region on Friday, April 4, 2025. Image source: PTI
Moving on Darjeeling, this is Kashmir – it seems to be the mood of Bangladeshi travelers this summer, with many preferring valleys over regular destinations in North Bangladesh. The poetic description of Kashmir can be found in social media posts and conversations, and many are planning a trip because their friends have been there.
“We chose Kashmir because it is not only a destination; it is a dream, shrouded in snow, mist and history. Lake Dar shines in the morning light, majestic Chinar trees paint on the landscape, and the mighty Himalayas stand tall silent outposts, like silent sentries, like silent sentries – it is a poetic man like a poet, the airport, recently returned from the valley.
But she said the decision to go there was not easy. The headlines sparked some hesitation moments. “To be honest, there are some fears – fear of the unknown, fear of entering a place that is often associated with conflict. But we realize that fear should never be the lens of our viewing of the world. So we go with an open heart and a curious heart. What we find is a land of passion, so passionately filled with culture and warmth that our pre-predictions shock our concept of precognition. Hindu.
Soma Roy, who works with Icar-Ninfet in Kolkata, said Kashmir is not only a place, but an “emotion, experience” – she hasn’t even stepped into the valley and she’s gone this month.
“Like everyone, I dream of visiting Kashmir at least once in my life to truly feel why it is called ‘Paradise on Earth’. I can’t experience my own beauty with the best people of my life – it’s not just about visiting iconic places like the Gurmag, Sanmarg, Mughal Garden or the breathtaking Tulip Garden.
She also read about the conflict between the armed forces and militants, but according to her, “It is important to note that such incidents often occur in specific areas, where tourist destinations remain relatively peaceful and continue to attract tourists.”
Over the years, engineer Saptarshi Choudhury, who escaped Durgapur over the weekend, happened to be Darjeeling, North Bengal and Sikkim, a fast train or bus ride that would wake up in the hills. “But over time, the routine became monotonous, and I longed for a new adventure. In December 2023, I finally made it to the Valley. The moment I arrived, I was struck by the biting cold, the breathtaking landscapes, and the ever-changing scenery at every turn — something I found missing in north Bengal. Kashmiri cuisine won my heart, and also its people, warm and welcoming, who speak Hindi with an adorable accent, despite some crafty suppliers trying to overcharge. “He said.
Mr Choudhury returned to Kashmir’s Great Lakes in August 2024 to trek – “clear lakes, towering peaks and unparalleled hospitality” – and plans to return again soon.
Kashmir prefers value for money and political stability
Maitrayee Paul, an official of the West Bengal government, posted in Murshidabad and an experienced traveler, agrees that there has been a significant surge in Bangladeshi tourists visiting Kashmir in recent times, for many reasons.
“There is social media influence: travel bloggers have been showing casing Kashmir’s stunning landscapes, especially in Bengali circles. Two, affordability. Compared to Darjeeling and Sikkim, Kashmir offers better value for money in terms of hotels, food, and experiences. Moreover, there is increased political stability, encouraging more tourists to visit without hesitation. Also, Bengalis, traditionally known for hill station trips, might be looking for something Ms Paul said, beyond North Bangladesh and Sikkim.
publishing – April 5, 2025 09:50 AM IST
