KASHMIR : A SNOW PARADISE DAY 2 SRINAGAR

 I  had a hard time waking up the next morning as it was a freezing -2.I finally got up and stretched my arms out and remembered that I was in India's most beautiful state,Kashmir.I ran for the window expecting snowfall.I yanked the curtains open but my smile turned into a frown.I was thwarted by the dry cold weather and was eminently disappointed and hoped there would be snowfall in the other places we were going to visit.I got ready and was racing downstairs for breakfast. They had a huge buffet but I ate Chocos, naan and some Paneer Butter Masala. I also tried an extremely scrumptious Kashmiri dessert called Phirni.I took a walk outside to get used to the cold till our driver came.

We were going to a temple called Shankaracharya Temple with a view point.I had to climb 500 steps to reach the top and the chilness in the air sucked the energy out of me and wouldn't let me breath.I was about to collapse when I reached the top but the view saved me.It was indubitably tranquil and I was mesmerized by the beauty of the city.I also got a dazzling glimpse of the Dal Lake with all of its boats, houseboats and the tumultuous shopkeepers eager to sell their products.Sorry,I meant to say push their products.After enjoying the cool breeze and a reluctant decision to leave.We climbed down the steps.

We set off for Dal Lake boat ride 300 meters away.After some disinclined bargain,we got a reasonable price for 3 hours.We got on the boat but the chill made our hands shiver and our teeth chatter.The boat had a comfy bed and the boatsman of the Shikari ride was kind enough to give us a blanket so we didn't freeze by the time we returned.This was all calm and going well till the shopkeepers on boats rowed over to ours and pursued and pestered us till we bought their product.The lake was famous for its floating market.On the way,we stopped on a floating snacks shop and ate 2 bowls of hot steaming maggi.It gave a nice warm feeling and gave me the energy to work my way through the market.I took my hand at the paddle and found out that I was pretty good at rowing.In the market,we bought spices and saris.When we returned I was legitimately wearied.

Next we went to the Mughal gardens which were well maintained and had a nice sunset point.Later,we returned to our room and collapsed on the beds.We went down for dinner and then hit the sack.It was just day 2 and I was already loving Kashmir.