In 2009, during my month-long adventure and self-discovery journey across Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, Along with TravelGuru colleague Dhole Sir and his Friend, we spend a mesmerising camping night under the stars in the serene Sonmarg Valley. Known as the Meadow of Gold, this destination wasn’t originally on our itinerary but quickly became an unforgettable chapter of our adventure. As we traveled from Srinagar toward Kargil, the lush green meadows of Sonmarg, dotted with iconic Kashmiri flora deodar and pine trees, seemed to call out to us. The serene flow of the Indus (Sindh) River cutting through the valley made it a perfect spot to pause and immerse ourselves in nature. It was here, for the first time, that I experienced the thrill of camping under the stars.
Setting up camp near Indus (Sindh) riverbed, I found myself surrounded by a tranquility I had never known. The chill of the night air was a stark contrast to the warmth of the evening sun, and the sound of the flowing river became the soundtrack of our stay. Wrapped in layers to combat the cold, I felt a rare sense of connection with nature, as if the valley itself had welcomed us into its embrace. The simplicity of the night—no city lights, no noise—was humbling and refreshing. It was a moment of silence that allowed me to reflect on the journey so far and the unexplored paths ahead.
Waking up in Sonmarg was nothing short of magical. The first rays of sunlight painted the valley in vibrant hues of blue and green, filling me with energy and anticipation for what lay ahead. A hearty breakfast under the crisp mountain air provided the perfect boost, setting the tone for an adventurous journey toward Kargil and beyond. That night in Sonmarg wasn’t just about camping—it was a personal milestone, a reminder that sometimes the most beautiful experiences are found in the unplanned moments along the journey.
#Year2009 #Sonmarg #JammuKashmir #NightCamp
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