Gulmarg means “Meadow of flowers”. A huge cup shaped meadow, lush and green with slopes where the silence is broken only by the tinkle of cow bells Gulmarg looks like a fantasy set in a film, and not surprisingly has been the venue of several films. From Gulmarg, a pony track leads upwards to Khilanmarg, Kongdori and seven springs, a couple of hours by pony,longer on foot. From here across the Apharwat the peak which looms up from this point is Alpather Lake, a picturesque alpine lake, frozen till late June. Gulmarg also has one of the worlds highest green gold courses, as well as a club house which is a historical building in its own right. In winter, Gulmarg acquires a new persona that of the country’s premier skiing resort. Skiing to many who watch it on TV, seems like a very elitist sport.

Pahalgam means “The valley of Shepherds”. At the confluence of the streams flowing from the river Lidder and Sheshnag lake, Pahalgam was once a humble shepherds village with breathtaking views. Now it is Kashmiri’s premier resort, cool even during the height of summer. Around Pahalgam are many places of interest, and because the resort is set between fairly steep hills, it is worth hiring a pony rather than walking. The most beautiful of these is the huge, undulating meadow of Baisaran, surrounded by thickly wooded forests of pine. Hajan, on the way to Chandanwari is an idyllic spot for a picnic. Chandanwari, 16 Kms. From Pahalgam, is the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra which takes place every year in the month of wawan (July – August). The destination is the Amarnath cave, believed to be abode of lord shiva.

Sonamarg means “The Meadow of Gold”. The drive to Sonamarg is through yet another spectacular facet of country side in Kashmir, this time the sind valley. Sonamarg has as its backdrop, snowy mountains against a cerulean sky. The Sind meanders along here and abounds with trout and mahseer fishes. Ponies can be hired for the trip up to Thajiwas glacier a major attraction during the summer months. Sonamarg’s importance is two fold: it is the starting point of a major trek passing several mountain lakes Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar and Gangabal.