Bengali travellers seem to be moving away from Darjeeling and Sikkim to Kashmir-OxBig News Network

Visitors take selfies at the ‘Almond Blossom Festival 2025’, at Badamwari, in Srinagar district on Friday, April 4, 2025.
| Photo Credit: PTI

Move over Darjeeling, this vacation it’s Kashmir — this appears to be the mood of the inveterate Bengali traveller this summer, with many preferring the Valley instead of the regular destinations in north Bengal. Poetic descriptions of Kashmir can be found on social media posts as well as conversations, and many are planning trips because their friends have been there.

“We chose Kashmir because it is not just a destination; it is a dream wrapped in layers of snow, mist, and history. The Dal Lake shimmering under the morning sun, the majestic chinar trees painting the landscape, the mighty Himalayas standing tall like silent sentinels — it felt like a place straight out of poetry, a canvas where nature had poured its heart out,” said Ritika Kanjilal, chief security officer at Bagdogra airport, who recently returned from the Valley.

But the decision to go there, she said, wasn’t made lightly. There were moments of hesitation, fuelled by headlines. “Truthfully, there was some fear — fear of the unknown, fear of stepping into a place often associated with conflict. But we realised that fear should never be the lens through which we view the world. And so, we went with open hearts and curious minds. What we found was a land so welcoming, so alive with culture and warmth that it completely shattered our preconceived notions,” Ms. Kanjilal told The Hindu.

Soma Roy, who works with ICAR-NINFET in Kolkata, said that Kashmir was not just a place, it was “an emotion, an experience” — and she has not even set foot in the Valley yet, she is going there end of this month.

“Like everyone, I have dreamt of visiting Kashmir at least once in a lifetime to truly feel why it is called ‘The Heaven on Earth.’ I can’t contain my excitement to experience its beauty with the best person in my life — my mother. It’s not just about visiting iconic places like Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Mughal Gardens, or the breath-taking Tulip Garden. It’s about embracing a once-in-a-lifetime experience, cherishing every single moment spent in this paradise,” Ms. Roy said.

She too reads about clashes between the armed forces and militants, but according to her, “it’s important to note that such incidents often occur in specific areas, tourist destinations have remained relatively peaceful and continue to attract visitors.”

For many years, the weekend escapes for Saptarshi Choudhury, an engineer based in Durgapur, happened to be Darjeeling, North Bengal, and Sikkim — a quick train or bus ride and he would wake up in the mountains. “But over time, the routine became monotonous, and I longed for a new adventure. In December 2023, I finally made it to the Valley. The moment I arrived, I was struck by the biting cold, the breathtaking landscapes, and the ever-changing scenery at every turn — something I found missing in north Bengal. Kashmiri cuisine won my heart, and also its people, warm and welcoming, who spoke Hindi with an endearing accent, though some crafty vendors tried to overcharge,” he said.

Mr. Choudhury returned in August 2024 for the Kashmir Great Lakes trek — “crystal-clear lakes, towering peaks, and unmatched hospitality” — and plans to return again, soon.

Kashmir preferred for better value for money, political stability

Maitrayee Paul, an officer of the West Bengal Government posted in Murshidabad and a seasoned traveller herself, agreed that there was a noticeable surge in Bengali tourists visiting Kashmir in the recent times and that the reasons could be many.

“There is social media influence: travel bloggers have been showcasing Kashmir’s stunning landscapes, especially in Bengali circles. Two, affordability. Compared to Darjeeling and Sikkim, Kashmir offers better value for money in terms of hotels, food, and experiences. Moreover, there is increased political stability, encouraging more tourists to visit without hesitation. Also, Bengalis, traditionally known for hill station trips, might be looking for something beyond North Bengal and Sikkim,” Ms. Paul said.