Express Wanderlust: Check out these wintry pictures from north Kashmir’s Baramulla district

We cannot imagine winters without snow, and we cannot imagine snow without the pristine and picturesque images of mountains and forests of India, especially in the north. As we journey (virtually) into yet another destination this week, we take a look at these stunning images of tourists enjoying their time in north Kashmir's Baramulla district, earlier this month. Scroll down for some gorgeous photographs, courtesy of Indian Express photographer Shuaib Masoodi.

Some time around December 20, a group of local tourists enjoyed clicking pictures and playing around in the snow, at a famous tourist resort in Tangmarg in Barapulla district. It is evident in these pictures that the fresh snow and a little break from the bleakness that was year 2020, was very much appreciated. (Express Photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

Every year, some northern states receive a lot of snow, and this year was no different. In fact, a 40-day spell of extreme winter has already begun in the region, with the Chilai-Kalan. It is said that the days are harsh and the chances of snowfall are the highest, with temperatures dropping severely around this time. (Express Photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

According to the official website of District Baramulla, Baramulla is one of the 20 districts in the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Baramulla city is the administrative headquarters. The district comprises 524 villages, and the town is located on the banks of river Jhelum, about 55 km from the capital city Srinagar. (Express Photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

The website further mentions that Baramulla gets its name from 'Varaha' (Sanskrit for boar) and 'Mul' (Sanskrit for molar). Hence, the name means 'the place which has the boar's molar'. (Express Photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

Did you know that the city of Baramulla, from which the district derives its name, was founded by Raja Bhimsina in 2306 BC? It received a number of prominent visitors including the famous Chinese visitor Heiun T’Sang, and William Moorcroft, the British historian and explorer. The Mughals had a special fascination with the place, which was the gateway to the Valley, a halting station for them during their visits. (Express Photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

It is said that in 1508 AD, when Emperor Akbar had entered the Valley, he had spent a few days at Baramulla, and according to 'Tarikh-e-Hassan', the city had been decorated as if it were a bride. Emperor Jahangir also stayed at Baramulla during his visit to Kashmir in 1620 AD. It was in the 15th century that Baramulla became important to Muslims. A famous saint Syed Janbaz Wali -- who had visited the Valley along with his companions in 1421 AD -- had chosen Baramulla as the centre of his mission, and after his death, he was buried here. His shrine attracts pilgrims from all over the Valley. (Express Photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

The website further states that In 1894 AD, the sixth Sikh Guru Shri Hargobind had visited the city. And Baramulla has, with the passage of time, become a place of interest for tourists of all faiths -- Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists and Sikhs, who have stayed here in harmony. (Express Photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

These pictures definitely stir our wanderlust, making us want to pack our warmest clothes and take our cameras to capture the beauty of the place for posterity. (Express Photo by Shuaib Masoodi)