An unforgettable forest walk

Dachigam National Park is around 45 minutes delightful drive away from Lal Chowk Srinagar via vibrant Boulevard road, adjoining world famous Dal Lake and Mughal gardens. Most of the people residing in Srinagar are unaware of its unique vast expanse (141 Sq.Km) and bountiful flora and fauna. It is a natural jewel richly bedecked with a wide range of wild flowers and trees including oak, walnut, pine, birch, elm, popular, willow, cherry, chestnut, and chinar. Notably, it is also birdwatchers' delight due to its varied avifauna. A haven for the vulnerable Hangul. It is the treasure trove of natural beauty which has so much to offer both to nature lovers and inquisitive researchers.

To maintain its sanctity, there is no free entry for the visitors. There is a strict protocol that one has to follow. Under the banner of 'Badamwari Atheletes', we made persistent effort to get the approval from the concerned quarters. The officials of wildlife deptt were very prompt and helpful. 'Badamwari Atheletes' club is on a roll. We are committed to inculcate enthusiasm and promote adventure sports among the people -the purpose of Dachigam Visit was to give new participants exposure to nature. It is noteworthy to mention here that the famous trekker from Sopore Mr. Boyie Bulla also joined
the group to cherish the ensuing beautiful experience.

On a pleasant 26th November 2023 Sunday morning, we embarked on this remarkable journey. It was a pleasant surprise and opportunity that famous wildlife official cum photographer Mr. Ghulam Ahmad Bhat was deputed with us to explore Dachigam. It was a great learning experience for us to know how the nature and wildlife operates there. As advised, every group member followed his footsteps and adhered to the guidelines in letter and spirit.

There is a surreal feeling when one journeys into the Dachigam. The tapestry is woven by the tree tunnel which sets the tone for the grand welcome into its natural splendor. The magnificent and mesmerizing beauty of Dachigam is exceptional in every season. In autumn, it becomes the wonderland carpeted with the vibrant hues of crispy golden Chinar leaves. At the fag end of Autumn season, we didn't want to miss the opportunity to witness the spectacle of nature when it's exuding the best of its bewitching beauty. It is captivating to see the enchanting landscape of grass fields which gives us the feeling of Scotland. Our excitement knew no bounds at 'Droag Viewpoint' where from we saw all the fabulous settings of nature.This place furnishes spectacular views and held us spellbound.

Traversing the deep and dense forest of Dachigam National Park from Draphama to Chandakhadi can never be a cake walk. A lot of discipline and devoted passion are required to be in harmony with the Nature. One has to be very careful and close-lipped so that fragile habitat of endangered species of Hangul or the Kashmir Stag is not disturbed. We were aware and wary of the presence of overbearing bears and livid leopards.Going forward,as a team we took every precaution and enjoyed the scenic beauty along the way.The trek was not enervating, so we had ample time to learn from the guide and explore the surroundings.

Away from humdrum and doldrums of City life it was a haven for us to discover our peace of mind and memories to cherish them lifelong. The forest walk was nothing less than a spiritual walk to see the unthinkable and unparallel architecture of Allah (SWT) who has bestowed upon us such natural bounties. It was a rich experience to see his masterpiece at every nook and corner. The cascade of falling Chinar leaves was so ethereal and surreal that it evoked the child in us to play with one another. We felt true freedom from the clutter of materialistic world. There was no network which was a big blessing for us to stay connected with the nature.Every step brought us closer to the nature.We were amazed to see the heavenly grandeur from Munew watch point.The scenic beauty at Pahilpora was overwhelming. At Bran Naar, under the thick canopy of Alpine trees,we relaxed and had a tea break.

We were quietly soaking in the abounding beauty. Thankfully, rutting period is also over and we were trying our level best to spot the wildlife. We could only see, Langur, Himalayan Black bear with two cubs and yellow -.throated marten. In harmony with the distant murmurs of Waskar Naala, we were so absorbed and focused on the prime spots and anxiously waiting for that moment to see 'Herd of Hangul'. Seriously our priorities were not out of whack but luck didn't favour us. We tried very hard and marched ahead but within no time we found ourselves at Waskar Nala which has its source from Marsar lake.

It was a soul soothing refuge. After sometime we headed towards Chandakhadi where we saw the beautiful piece of a paradise beneath the picturesque Chandakhadi waterfall which is originating from Daghwan. We had an unlimited photo session there.Had it not been extreme cold there, we would have taken a dip in that pristine pond.

We quickly descended back to Waskar where we had a hot delectable Zafrani Harisa and a chocolate laden 'Filli Tea' prepared by our thorough gentleman friend Aakib Ahmad. We shared candid humour and enjoyed camaraderie in those fleeting moments. We maintained pin drop silence to listen and respect the nature which was superbly playing its orchestra with the gurgling stream,chirping birds and the sound of crispy chinar leaves in symphony. We were overwhelmed by such a natural beauty that time was not appropriate and enough to satiate our adventure hunger.We decided than and there to re-visit and rejoice in its breathtaking beauty as and when by God willing, we will get the next opportunity.

The writer is founding member of renowned Badamwari Atheletes Club.