The tranquil valley of Kashmir has always been a favorable escape for city dwellers seeking peace and high-octane activities. Kashmir offers adventurous pursuits and serene landscapes at every corner with the opportunity to explore various latent activities.
Strolling through the mesmerizing Strawberry Valley in Kashmir is a lesser-known activity but offers a dreamland view to tourists. Away from all the tourist crowds, a perfect blend of nature’s best-preserved secret with vibrant blossoms.
If you’re curating a list of the best places to visit in Gulmarg, Strawberry Valley deserves a top spot. A must-include activity in your itinerary, especially if you are looking to experience something eccentric. Here’s everything to know about strolling through Strawberry Valley Kashmir that feasts your eye and palate.
Why Strawberry Valley Is Special in Kashmir?
The Strawberry Valley got its name from the abundance of strawberry farms blended with snow-capped mountains in the backdrop.
You won’t witness many holiday agencies providing this exceptional experience in their itinerary. This place is well protected from commercial attention, providing a soothing getaway from the hustle and bustle of the crowd tour.
You can walk among the fields picking the fresh strawberries to try them out and interact with local farmers. Far from crowded places, the location offers ideal photography and picnic spots. During the harvesting season, the entire valley gets aromatized with strawberries.
The village is crafted by nature in such a manner that as you stroll through the row, you are greeted with green bushes with red dots accompanied by a gentle breeze. The picturesque cottages and quaint stone paths make you feel like a Disney character.
So, if you’re looking for a Kashmir holiday package, don’t miss out on this offbeat gem tucked away near Gulmarg.
Tips for Strawberry Valley Kashmir
To visit Strawberry Valley, you either have to avail yourself of ponies from Gulmarg, which is just 4 KM away. It takes roughly around 20 minutes and, via taxi or car, 10 minutes to reach there.
The best part about visiting the place is being in an outskirts part and having fewer crowds. You would get an extremely pleasant and tailored trip, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of Kashmir.
The lush green and pleasant weather won’t create a hindrance during your tour; even if you decide to visit off-season, it’s still a perfect offbeat destination in Kashmir. Various Bollywood movies like Rockstar and Jab Tak Hai Jaan have used this location as a backdrop for their scenes.
Make sure before plucking the berries to ask permission from the local farmers and do pay them before leaving, as it may be considered rude. Their entire livelihood depends upon strawberry farming, so do show your support.
Even as a camper, you can stay over at the place and witness the mesmerizing lit sky during the nighttime. One important tip is to make sure you are carrying cash, as the locals don’t accept digital modes of payment. The area also has a weaker internet connection, so going for UPI won’t help.
The weather can be unpredictable, and usually strong cold breezes flow over thee, so layer your clothes accordingly. It’s a high-altitude area, so do keep motion sickness medicines with you and stay hydrated.
When to Visit Strawberry Valley, Gulmarg Kashmir?
The strawberry harvesting season is from March to July, when every field gets filled with juicy strawberries and lush green bushes. There are no entry fees; however, it would be a kind gesture if you paid the small donation to farmers for trying out fresh red berries picked straight from the field bursting with natural sweetness.
You can even purchase the entire box of berries for gifting by picking straightaway from the rows, choosing the ones that are ripe and fresh for a delightful occasion back home with you.
Whether you are a nature admirer or food lover, visiting Strawberry Valley in Gulmarg, Kashmir, is surely a seasonal experience that you shouldn’t afford to miss.
FAQs
Q1. Are strawberries cheaper in Strawberry Valley?
Ans. Yes, comparatively, strawberries are much cheaper in the farm and free from pesticides and harmful chemicals, giving you the taste of actual nature’s best-produced harvest.
Q2. How much time does it take to wander through the entire Strawberry Valley in Kashmir?
Ans. It roughly takes 1-2 hours to fully explore the valley; the area isn’t that big, but the photogenic view can keep you hooked.
Q3. What are some additional activities over there?
Ans. Pony rides, hiking, and picnicking with family are some additional popular activities in Strawberry Valley in Kashmir.
Q4. When is the best time to visit the valley?
Ans. Early mornings of summer are the best time to visit Strawberry Valley, where it feels like wandering in heaven. The quiet space, adorned by chirping birds and panoramic views, is an unforgettable sweet escape.
