Pandemic, but not for Kashmir trekkers

As the world slowly crawls back to normalcy, life in Kashmir remains crippled. The pandemic is the new addition to a long list of reasons that have kept the local populace restrained in their homes. Life in Kashmir was still under lock and key when the pandemic hit, necessitating a lockdown to curb the spread of the virus, but also imprisoning the people once more. After a year of restless confinement, the youth have found a new way for catharsis - Trekking.

Srinagar: Amid pandemic and ban on social activities in Jammu and Kashmir, trekking into the woods has picked up pace in the region.

"From the past one year, we have been locked in our homes. Earlier there were restrictions due to abrogation of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir's special status and now due to pandemic. We can't go to gyms or for exercise at this time. This has adversely affected our fitness and physique, " Faizan Ahmed, a resident of Srinagar's Baghat area, told ETV Bharat.

Ahmed, a trekking freak, believes venturing into woods is not only an adventure but also helps in detoxification.

"Trekking is the best thing you can do in these times. This not only releases mental pressure but also provides you with the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of mother nature, " Ahmed says, adding, "Before venturing into woods you must ensure your safety and a good guide is a must."

Interestingly, the Jammu and Kashmir Wildlife authorities had issued an advisory in early April, this year, barring the public from moving into forests. The advisory had come soon after cases of transmission of coronavirus from humans to wild animals were reported in different parts of the world.

However, trekking enthusiasts feel the activity helps in rebuilding oneself. And are regularly posting videos and photos on social media. The posts are attracting more people for adventurous activity into mountains.

Mudasir Ali Dar, another trekker from Srinagar's Zadibal area, says, "I work in Saudi and had come to Kashmir on vacation. But due to the pandemic, I got locked at my home. I was feeling bored and depressed as such decided to go for trekking."

"Safety comes first and that's why all precautions must be taken. Also, it's not necessary to go for long trekking, short and brief spells are also good."

Kashmir, known for its beauty and unexplored mountains, is one of the popular destinations in Himalayan range for trekkers around the globe. Trekking season starts here in May and goes on till October last and Tarsar, Marsar, Mahadev and Kolhai glacier are the most popular trekking spots in Kashmir.