Is Kashmir safe to visit in 2025? Our #HAPPYDESTINATIANS' firsthand experience!
"Beyond Fear, Into Paradise: How Four Retired Friends Explored Safe & Stunning Kashmir–Ladakh in 2025”
A blog by our #HappyDestinatian Mr. D V Rao
Retirement does not mean slowing down.
It’s the perfect time to embrace travel with a renewed sense of freedom — a fulfilling way to redefine ageing by staying curious, connected, and active, and by exploring everything under the sky.
Having a familiar companion can make even unfamiliar places feel comfortable.
Recently, I, along with my three friends — Shri R.K. Mondal, Shri R.K. Fuley, and Shri Ramesh Barsagade — all retired staff members, decided to plan a trip where we could spend quality time, have fun, enjoy some adventure, and experience the beauty of nature — all in one. And the destination? Yes… Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh — truly, Paradise on Earth.
What made you choose Kashmir–Leh–Ladakh as your travel destination, especially during a sensitive time like this?
We had booked the trip prior to the unfortunate incident. We didn’t want to cancel it. Our travel plan was already confirmed, and the news at the time seemed conducive, although the Pahalgam massacre occurred on 22nd April. We were excited to visit these areas — especially the highest motorable road and places like Leh, Kargil, Drass, and Khardung La — names that echoed in the news during wartime. So we decided that no matter what came our way, we would go ahead and visit these incredible places.
Were you initially nervous about safety, and how did you overcome those fears?
Yes, initially we were nervous. But we understood that such incidents, though unfortunate, can happen anywhere in the country. In reality, all the places were very safe, and the people in Kashmir were extremely friendly and helpful. No traveler should feel like they are away from home when in Kashmir.
A Glimpse Into Our 10-Day Journey
Our 10-day journey began on 30th May with local sightseeing in Srinagar — including Chashme Shahi and Nishat Bagh, the famed Mughal Gardens.
On 31st May, we visited Pahalgam. Don’t worry — the situation was completely normal. However, luck didn’t favor us weather-wise. It rained heavily, and we missed visiting a few points. But the rhythm of the falling rain had its own charm — it captivated us completely.
From Pahalgam, we travelled to Sonmarg, where we enjoyed horse riding and sightseeing.
After that, we returned to Srinagar for a serene Shikara boat ride on Dal Lake and did some shopping in the local markets.
How did Destinatia Tours & Travels make you feel safe and supported throughout the journey?
Right from the first day, the services provided by Destinatia Tours were excellent. The trip was skillfully planned and very well organized. Destinatia ensured a hassle-free experience during our 10-day journey. All the hotels were comfortable, and the cab driver was courteous, helpful, and made our travel smooth and enjoyable.
What was the most unforgettable moment of your trip?
The traffic jam at Khardung La Pass turned out to be a blessing in disguise. We were stuck with the valley on one side and the mighty Himalayas on the other. What made the moment unforgettable was the unexpected snowfall. As we were passing through Khardung La, a sudden snowstorm began. We were on top of the Karakoram range, at an altitude of 17,982 feet. The snowstorm blocked the road completely as snow fell heavily — everything was blanketed in white. The road became 3–4 feet thick with snow, and all the vehicles started chaining their tires to avoid skidding. Although we had to wait for around 3 hours, the entire experience was magical and truly memorable.
The High-Altitude Adventure Begins
On 1st June, we headed towards Kargil — crossing the incredible Zoji La Pass, where we were surrounded by snow-covered mountains as far as the eye could see. Just snow… and more snow!
We then visited the Kargil War Memorial — a sacred place that honors the brave soldiers of the Indian Army who laid down their lives to defend our Motherland from enemy forces. It was a moment of pride and solemn remembrance.
The next day, we traveled from Kargil to Leh, crossing Khardung La Pass — the world’s highest motorable road at 17,982 feet above sea level. We also visited Magnetic Hill and enjoyed an adventurous four-wheeler motorbike ride.
From Leh, we journeyed to Nubra Valley, where we visited a 14th-century Buddhist Monastery. We had the opportunity to converse with the monks and gain some valuable insights into their spiritual practices.
How was your experience interacting with the locals after the incident in Pahalgam?
The locals were visibly disheartened. Everyone we interacted with condemned the attack and reassured us that tourists’ safety has always been a top priority for the people of Kashmir. The tourism industry has certainly taken a hit after the incident, and local businesses were affected. Despite everything, the locals remained warm, welcoming, and helpful — we genuinely enjoyed their company.
Which places did you visit on your itinerary, and which ones took your breath away?
We arrived in Srinagar on the first day. We visited Pahalgam and Sonmarg, then traveled to Leh via Kargil, visiting Patthar Sahib Gurudwara, the Kargil War Memorial, and Magnetic Hill on the way. From there, we covered Diskit, Nubra Valley, and Shey Palace. But the highlight of the trip was definitely Pangong Lake — the magnificent view was absolutely breathtaking. The shades of blue kept changing with the sunlight’s angle.
Here’s a list of the places we visited:
Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Dal Lake, Mughal Garden, Zojila Pass, Drass, Kargil Memorial, Leh, Khardung La Pass, Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, Chang La Pass, Rancho’s School, Atal Tunnel, and many more.
Pangong Lake & Beyond
Next, we travelled to the stunning Pangong Lake.
The temperature was 3°C during the day and dropped to -5°C at night — absolutely bone-chilling! But the crystal-clear water of the lake made up for it. You could literally see through to the bottom. The color of the water changed with the sunlight — bluish, dark green, brownish — a surreal natural spectacle.
From Pangong, we began our return journey via Chang La Pass. Back in Leh, we visited the Hall of Fame War Memorial, Rancho’s School (from the movie 3 Idiots), and retraced our way to Kargil, finally reaching Srinagar.
There, we stayed in a traditional houseboat, enjoyed the calm beauty of Dal Lake, and prepared to return home.
The Grand Finale
From Srinagar, we journeyed to Jammu, and then onward to Amritsar.
We visited the divine Golden Temple in the morning, and in the evening, witnessed the patriotic Retreat Ceremony at the Attari–Wagah Border. We proudly saluted our National Flag and were moved by the powerful performance of the Border Security Force – The First Line of Defence.
The Journey Ends, But the Memories Stay
The next day, we all returned to our respective hometowns — with hearts full of memories, gratitude, and pride.
How was the overall tour experience with Destinatia?
It was an awesome, hassle-free experience. Once you book with Destinatia, you can forget all worries — the team takes care of everything. A big thank you to Destinatia for curating such a beautiful and memorable journey for us.
Ready to Plan Your Own Safe & Soulful Kashmir–Ladakh Adventure?
Whether you’re a retired explorer or a first-time visitor, Destinatia Tours & Travels ensures a safe, seamless, and memorable experience — just like Mr. D. V. Rao and his friends had.
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