There are places in Kashmir that attract tourists with excitement. And then there are places that quietly call to the heart. Yemberzalwari, tucked away in the Zainageer belt of Sopore in Baramulla district, belongs to the second kind. Around 18 kilometres from Sopore and about 38 kilometres from Baramulla district, this small mountain village remains hidden behind thick forests and high ridges, almost as if it has chosen silence over fame. It does not try to impress anyone. It simply exists, wrapped in nature, history and faith.

My first visit to Yemberzalwari is one I will remember for a long time. The road climbed gently through evergreen forests, each bend opening another marvelous view.The tall Deodar and Pine trees stood motionless, their branches touching the sky. Murmuring mountain streams slipped gently over stones.The cool breeze carried the fragrance of pine, damp earth and wild herbs. For a while I stopped speaking. Some places ask for words, others........

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