Tulips and Heartfelt Hellos: How Travel Became My Favourite Therapy

— by someone who just loves to wander

It was only after the world shut down, after masks, lockdowns, and all the silent, isolating months of COVID that I truly understood what travel meant to me. Somewhere between the quiet chaos of those days and the deep desire for air and open skies, I discovered my escape, my cure, my motivation: travel.

Today, travelling is more than just relaxation or a plan on the calendar. It’s the therapy I follow consistently, the joy that fuels my days, and the secret behind my smile. It starts with the excitement of picking the next destination, then dipping into memories of the last trip, the sights, the food, the tranquillity and just when that glow begins to fade, I’m already planning the next one. This beautiful cycle has been the rhythm of my life for the past few years. It keeps me inspired and gives me something to look forward to.

Of all the places I’ve strolled through, one that carved a special corner in my heart was Kashmir in April 2022.

There’s something magical about Kashmir in April. The entire valley comes alive with colours, textures, and whispers of spring. The famous tulip gardens were in full bloom, so many shades, it felt like walking through a dream. The mountains still had snow, the sky was clear, and the cool breeze made everything feel fresh and calm. Dal Lake looked like a painting, and every corner of the place felt peaceful and pure.

But what truly moved me were the people. Kind. Gentle. Respectful. And yes, so good-looking! I remember thinking, if I admire Hrithik Roshan for his striking looks, imagine finding a whole valley of people who look like they walked out of a movie screen. Every encounter was simple, genuine, and heartwarming.

We spent a week soaking in every bit of Kashmir tulips, snow, spice-laden food, and soulful silences. Yes, you’ll notice armed military personnel stationed at intervals, their presence constant, almost part of the landscape. But from the moment we stepped out of Srinagar airport to the moment we flew back, we felt safe and cared for. Not once did we feel afraid—only peace, beauty, and gratitude.

That trip is still vivid in my heart, its memories as fragrant and fresh as the tulips we walked through. So, when I recently heard about the disturbing incident in Pahalgam, my heart sank. It felt personal. Kashmir isn’t just another place I visited, it’s a piece of me now. A place where I lived some of the best days of my life.

And no, I cannot associate negativity with it. Because to me, Kashmir means kindness. Kashmir means colour. Kashmir means connection.

So here I am saying: Save Kashmir, not just for the people who live there, but for every soul who has ever found healing, joy, and belonging in its embrace, and for everyone like me who found a little bit of magic in its mountains, its gardens, and its people.

Travelogue-