Salaams Manzoor Bhai,
All I can say is—Kashmir feels like a dream. When my mum, Zahra, and I think about it, we
still feel as if it wasn’t real. It was, by far, the best trip I have ever experienced.
From the very beginning, everything was handled with such ease and kindness , and even
landing in Delhi was smooth. When we arrived in Kashmir, we were warmly welcomed
inside the airport by someone who helped us fill out the necessary forms, and then we were
greeted by Bashir Bhai and your son—who now truly feels like family to us.
From the moment we started the drive to the houseboat, we could feel the warmth of
Kashmir. Getting onto the Shikara for the first time was such a fun experience! When we
reached the houseboat, we were so happy to see it in immaculate condition—and the
bathroom was definitely a highlight. As you know, we South Africans can be quite fussy
about our bathrooms! I was also so happy to see that the bedding was 5-star hotel
quality—there’s truly nothing better than fresh white linen.
Once we freshened up, we were served chai and pakoras, which were absolutely
delicious—and let’s not forget the nut tart. It was so divine, I even asked for more! That
evening was so peaceful. Sitting on the balcony of the houseboat, taking in the scenery, it
was a memory I’ll always cherish.
The staff at the houseboat—Junior Manzoor and Bashir Bhai—were the highlight of our trip.
They truly became like family to us. In just one week, they learned all our preferences and
went above and beyond to make sure we were cared for and comfortable. They treated us
better than family—I even made them sing with me!
We slept so well every night, and each day we explored the most beautiful places
We visited Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg—and I honestly can’t say which one was
better. Each place had its own unique beauty. We loved dipping our feet in the river at
Pahalgam, and the horse ride up to Sonmarg felt like we were in Jannat.
Beyond the tours, we also loved the shopping on the houseboat. I even met Ahmed Bhai ,
who called me “Zooni”—The daily meals were better than what we eat at home—a full 3-
course spread and endless cups of chai prepared lovingly by Bashir Bhai and Junior
Manzoor. They made sure Zahra had her vegetarian meals, and even added extra spice for
her just the way she liked it.
Yunus also took us back to the airport and ensured we were assisted right up until check-in.
Leaving Kashmir was the first time we left a holiday with sadness. Normally, we look forward
to returning home, but this time was different. I hope and pray that Allah gives me the
means to visit Kashmir every year—it was truly good for my soul. It’s the kind of experience
every human needs to reset.
Above all, I will always be indebted to you, Mr. Manzoor, for your kindness and your big
heart. You went out of your way to make this the most memorable trip of our lives. I had
the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to show my mum Kashmir—and that means the world to
me.
I’ll always recommend your services and share my experience with others.
With warmest regards and duas from Sister Fatima, Mama Asseya, and Zahra