How green was my valley

HIT THE ROAD

Kashmir has taken a real beating over the last 15 years as a tourist destination, for obvious reasons. However, tens of thousands of people have continued to visit and be enchanted by the valley's staggering beauty.

Is it safe to go? Well, there's no concrete answer, but checkposts, frisking and questioning is part of life here, so keep that in mind. If you do go, you will experience a true piece of heaven on earth "� Srinagar's shikaras and shrines, Gulmarg's snowy slopes, Pahalgam's tranquillity, Kashmiri food, fresh mountain air and plenty of sunshine.

Kashmir is a 2-day drive from Delhi, along excellent roads. Srinagar's famous houseboats are the best places to stay "� there are almost a thousand of them, so finding room shouldn't be a problem.

Don't know where to go? pablo@business-standard.com