Have You Ever Been To Kashmir in Harud?
This Wednesday Post: Explore Kashmir’s Autumn Splendor, Discover Japan’s Quirks, Witness Ladakhi Escapades & Savor Old Delhi’s Spice Secrets!
“Agar firdaus bar roo-e zameen ast,
Hameen ast-o hameen ast-o hameen ast.” - Amir Khusrau 🖊️
This translates to - "If there is a paradise on earth, It is this, it is this, it is this."
I don't believe Kashmir can ever fall out of beauty and serendipity. Do you?
With the Bollywood movie Laila Majnu re-releasing in Kashmir theaters, these past few months, all we have drooled over are the tall 600-year-old Chinar trees, the purple saffron harvest fields of Pampore, acres after acres, the gushing roar of the rivers in between the valleys, sunset by Dal Lake and its welcoming people. But have you ever witnessed harud in Kashmir?
No, it's not a festival but a season, a season celebrated as nature's festival. Autumn in Kashmir is named harud, which feels like a walking dream. From September to November, this paradise wears its most unique cloak of fiery red and orange leaves, harvesting the best quality Kashmiri apples and also marks the beginning of the season of traditional harissa, served hot in breakfast with soft Kashmiri bread.
Know more about how to spend autumn in Kashmir with Tripoto.
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🗺️Have you ever heard of this 17th-century Tiger Dance Festival in Kerala? It is absolutely magical to witness how performers are all intricately covered in body paints mimicking the tiger stripes and match the energy with the rhythmic beats of Udukku and Chenda.
Experience the vibrant and energetic Pulikali Tiger Dance in Kerala this September.
✈️Play 'Pahadon Mein' by Salman Elahi and vibe with the beauty of stunning landscapes and lush green meadows surrounded by mammoth mountains in Kongwattan of Kashmir. Earlier, this meadow held the history of saffron cultivation, but now only beholds its aroma.
Discover the meadows of Kongwattan in Kashmir just like a local
🧳It's the dire need of any traveler's soul to etch on the Ladakhi soil their names that I have been here. That's what happened with Dipti Goyal, who dreamt, explored, and finally got lost in the lap of the majestic Himalayas.
Embark on a magical journey through Leh Ladakh with Dipti Goyal
Destination of the week: Japan
Straight out of Hayao Miyazaki's animation set, Japan feels like that soulful destination for all kinds of travelers attempting to experience something different from the rest.
From walking down the neon streets of Tokyo to experiencing the Kawaii (cute) culture whose influence is seen everywhere, from fashion to food and architecture - Japan is a safe tourist spot for solo as well as family expeditions. And if you are that chai-lover from India, visiting all the way to Japan, then the Japanese tea ceremony, known as chanoyu or sado, will make you fall in love with the art of tea in a Japanese way.
When talking about Japan, it's impossible not to mention the magical word 'Sakura.' Cherry blossoms, or sakura, are a quintessential symbol of Japan, best experienced in cities like Kyoto, Tokyo, and Nara. However, it's important to be a responsible tourist and not damage the trees. Remember, no Japanese will ever forgive such a sin.
Among many quirky experiences in Japan, the most trending is Japan's cat islands like Tashirojima and Aoshima, which are home to a larger population of cats than humans. Even if you feel a bit lonely in the middle of an afternoon in Japan, you can get company at the cuddle cafes!
Plan your trip to Japan now!
What to watch this weekend!
Did you know that Asia's largest spice market is here in Old Delhi?
This 17th-century market was first built by Fatehpuri Begum, one of the wives of Shah Jahan, in 1650. You will be astonished to find out that many shops are still known by their serial numbers and are run by the 10th or even 11th generation of founders. Even Nehru and Indira Gandhi also visited this place many times!
Explore Khari Baoli in Tripoto-style!
Today’s newsletter is brought to you by Monsoon, who is yet to farewell with the final goodbye!
Did you know Mawsynram in Meghalaya, India, is the wettest place on Earth? It boasts an impressive average annual rainfall of approximately 11,871 mm!
There’s a big, beautiful world out there, and I am here to be with you to discover it, one newsletter at a time. Until next week, happy travels!
Adieu,
Sreyashi Paul