Tips for a SAFE KASHMIR TRIP – Do’s and Don’ts

Your trip to Jammu and Kashmir will be the most fulfilled and memorable journey ever as the state not only appeals you with its scenic beauty and snow-covered mountain ranges but the adventure sports will take you to a different world. The only setback of this place is the unrest and sensitivity that is keeping tourist away since around 2 decades now. Here are few tips to follow for a safe and memorable trip,

1.       Book Taxi from your hotel or from the government taxi stand. They will allot the trusted drivers to you. Do not entertain taxi while randomly walking on the streets.

2.       Eat at places where you see most crowd. Avoid eating roadside. They are stale here.

3.       Never get into Hindu Muslim or India Pakistan discussion with anyone. They may not be harmful always but will surely eat up your head in argument.

4.       Only postpaid works in Kashmir. No point carrying your prepaid numbers. You will not ever get a local SIM there. You always have an option of WiFi which is available in all the hotels.

5.       If your driver offers you a local SIM card. Refuse to it.

6.       Avoid homestay even if you are getting a good deal

7.       Vendors selling shawls and scarfs will follow you everywhere. If you really want to buy, bargain to a rate that’s crazy. I mean it. They will flash a rate of INR 1500 and give you at 250. Or just move ahead.

8.       Take a Shikhara ride to see the magical Srinagar points. It is better than doing it by cab. You will love it.

9.       Avoid buying from vendors who meet you while sailing on another Shikhara. It’s 3 times the price. They call it ‘Shopping on the go’ Just say NO

10.Usually there is only 1 viewpoint of worth in 1 direction. But the horse guy will insist on showing you 3 to 4. Stick to the point you wish to see. Coz rest all is just bogus points. Do read our other blog on ‘what to see in Kashmir on your trip’.

11.I understand that people there are poor. They will rant this all the time when they are with you. You giving them a bigger tip will also not change anything for them, so tip rationally and don’t overdo.

12.Guides are not needed everywhere so don’t hire them for all the points.

13.Carry shoes and jackets to save you from mud and rains. Do not hire it there. It is very unhygienic. Get ready to get your head eaten by the vendors there

14.Horses are not required on most of the places. Refuse it if you can trek a bit. They may tell you it is an impossible trek on foot but it will be hardly anything.

15.If they are charging you Rs. 250/- for a horse to any point that means point is1km away. So decide accordingly.

16. Do not use abusive language with anyone here. This applies for everyplace generally but it is one of the most important point here.

17.Do not eat anything that is offered from a stranger. Remember you just met him. Don’t get carried away by his sweetness.

18.Cooperate with the Army people. They are for your safety.

19.Keep an extra 3 hours time while catching a flight from Srinagar. They have an endless number of checking points and checking system. You will panic if you don’t have time in hand.

20.The first checking of luggage is done right at the airport main Gate. Be ready to take out all the bags from the car and also to load it again. Be patient!

Summing it up, Kashmir is an amazing and beautiful place and everyone on earth must visit it atleast once in life. But use these tips and you can save half of your trip cost plus you will be back safe and happy.

See you soon in Kashmir -  heaven on earth.