Kashmir Through the Eyes of Shreya Bhowmick: A Thrillophilia Traveller’s Review

For Shreya Bhowmick, Kashmir was never just another destination on a map. It was a dream nurtured over conversations, a plan brought to life by her close friend Subham Mukherjee, and a journey made unforgettable by the presence of her partner, Tushar Das. What started as a simple getaway soon turned into a story woven with warmth, love, and the spellbinding beauty of the Himalayas.

Arriving in November, she was greeted by a Kashmir that stood gracefully between two seasons — autumn’s golden farewell and winter’s soft arrival. The chinar leaves glowed like fire against the crisp air, while the snow-capped peaks in the distance whispered promises of what was to come.

Pahalgam – A Symphony in Green and White

The journey began in Pahalgam, where nature seemed to outdo itself at every turn. The gentle hum of rivers, the scent of pine, and the charm of little wooden bridges made the town feel like a postcard that had come to life.

At Aru Valley, Shreya watched the meadows roll endlessly under the open sky, while Betaab Valley offered a lush escape framed by majestic hills. The shimmering Chandanwari Glacier glowed in the sunlight — a picture of purity and peace. Every sight carried a rhythm of calm that soothed her in ways words couldn’t describe.

Thanks to Subham’s careful planning, the journey flowed effortlessly. The accommodations weren’t just places to stay; they felt like warm havens. From steaming cups of kahwa by the window to heartfelt hospitality from the staff, everything echoed the valley’s generous spirit. And each meal, cooked with love and served with pride, introduced her to the heart of Kashmiri cuisine — simple, soulful, and rich with tradition.

Srinagar – Where Silence Finds Its Voice

If Pahalgam was the melody, Srinagar was the pause, still, soulful, and deeply moving. The Shikara ride on Dal Lake became one of Shreya’s most treasured memories. As the boat glided through calm waters, surrounded by floating gardens and wooden houseboats, she felt time slow down. The reflection of the snow-dusted peaks in the lake mirrored the peace she carried within.

The gardens Nishat Garden and Badam Wari stood as living testaments to Kashmir’s royal past. Walking through their Mughal arches and terraced lawns, Shreya could almost hear echoes of history in the rustle of the leaves.

Every moment in Srinagar was unhurried — from watching the sunset paint the Dal in gold to sipping saffron tea as evening lights shimmered on the water. The city whispered stories of art, love, and resilience, and she listened quietly, feeling more connected to its soul with every passing hour.

Sonmarg & Gulmarg – The Valley of Ice and Fire

In Sonmarg, Shreya stood before the magnificent Thajiwas Glacier, where icy winds swept through the valley, carrying the smell of snow and pine. The silence was immense — the kind that humbles and heals. Here, nature spoke in the language of mountains and glaciers, reminding her of how small humans are and how infinite the world truly is.

Then came Gulmarg, the snow-draped wonderland she had long imagined. The gondola ride lifted her above forests blanketed in white, revealing landscapes that looked like moving dreams. The laughter of children playing in the snow, the distant call of horses, and the golden light on frosted rooftops, every detail felt surreal.

It was here that the joy of companionship shone brightest. With Tushar beside her, every shared glance, every spontaneous laugh, turned the freezing air into something warm and alive. Gulmarg wasn’t just beautiful; it was a feeling, a rush of thrill and tenderness wrapped in the scent of snow.

The People Who Made It Home

Every perfect journey has unseen heroes, and for Shreya, one of them was Mr Dar Bilal, their driver and ultimate guide. Navigating mountain roads with effortless grace, his presence brought comfort and confidence throughout the trip. His stories about local life, his patience during long rides, and his unmatched driving skills left Shreya in awe. “I bow down to his driving,” she would later say, a simple sentence that held deep gratitude.

And of course, the pillar behind it all, Subham Mukherjee, whose flawless planning made sure not a single detail was overlooked. His thoughtfulness allowed Shreya to experience, not worry simply. Alongside him, Tushar Das, her constant companion, added the kind of warmth no itinerary could ever plan for. Together, they turned landscapes into memories and moments into milestones.

When Autumn Met Winter

On the final day, as the first snowfall touched the golden leaves, Shreya realised she had witnessed something rare: the meeting of two seasons. The valley wore both colours and cold with equal grace, as if Kashmir itself wanted her to experience its full spectrum in one trip.

As she stood under a quiet November sky, surrounded by the people who mattered most, she felt gratitude flood in for the valleys, the laughter, the endless tea breaks, and the flawless arrangements that made the journey seamless.

Thanks to Thrillophilia’s meticulous coordination, Shreya could focus on what truly mattered, feeling, seeing, and living the spirit of Kashmir. This wasn’t just a trip she took; it was an experience that took her in, held her gently, and changed the way she saw beauty.

In the end, Kashmir became more than a destination. It became a memory stitched together with love, friendship, and snow, a journey that will forever live in Shreya Bhowmick’s heart.

Read More: Thrillophilia Kashmir Reviews