The dust has finally settled on the Kashmir trip scheduled this September. After weeks of tireless bickering and mutual recrimination (much of which was sadly, a carry-forward from the Goa experience last month) costs have been slashed by half -- from what was initially estimated at Rs45,000 approx to about Rs22,000 per head. This includes to-and-fro air fare, food and lodging for seven days and sightseeing trips in and around Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pehelgam and Sonmarg.It is no doubt a fabulous deal, thanks to the initiative (and persistence) of Mumtaz Jahan. But Hari Singh Shekhawat had also some plain speaking to do this morning. He said that much as he is handicapped in using the Internet, it has always been his endeavour to get us the “best deal” on every trip and has never shied away from seeking the help of friends and well-wishers. To impute ulterior motives or suspect anyone of vested interests would therefore be grossly unfair and uncalled for.
The upshot of all this is that Kishor Babani (who brought in info about a Make My Trip package) is now out of the picture and we will instead be following Mumtaz Jahan across the Valley like Mary’s little lambs. Some might opt for the train (instead of going by air) and meet the rest of the group in Jammu, from where they would be herded to Srinagar. This would not only work out cheaper but also help in better acclimatization while travelling up from the plains.
Renu Babani's PICSPEAK:
"We stand in twos; makes the discussion easier and less noisy."
Harish Wadhwa:
* Some members, especially the ladies, are quite keen to get photographed and see their pictures on the blog -- like these two, who are striking poses.
* The Kashmir trip seems to be a hot topic of discussion and people don't mind talking about it, day and night. While some are very excited to go, others are unable to make up their minds due to the long distance and travel modalities. I, for one, am happy to see the enthusiasm of many to visit Srinagar and enjoy the bounty of nature God has blessed our country with.
2 comments:
Renu Babani: Pic Speaks: We stand in twos, makes the discussion easier and less noisy
Some members, especially ladies are quite keen to get photograhed and pictures posted on the blog. They dont mind striking poses, like this one.
Kashmir trip seems to be a hot topic of discussions every day, and people dont mind talking, day and night about it. While some are very excited to go, the others are unable to make up their mind due to long distance and travel modalities.
I for one is happy to see the enthusiasm of many to visit Srinagar, to appreciate and enjoy the bounty of nature, God has blessed our country with.
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