I got up at 4am and got ready. I was dying to go out and take a picture. It was absolutely breathtaking. This view is at 445am, it was quite dark but choosing the right setting in the camera helped me capture this.

EXIF – 25s f/2.8 ISO 100

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The boat which was supposed to take us arrived and we left for the market. It takes about half an hour to reach there.

It was truly one of the most beautiful boat rides I have ever done. Initially, we passed by a lot of tourist boats and then we were able to see many local residence. The lake was much larger than my imagination.

There were some small bridges to cross the lake at a few places.

These ducks were like racing with us and winning every time.

The lake water was still and were were able to see some beautiful reflection in water.

We reached the market at about 530am. It was a bit late. The activities were on at full swing.

Actually, its a local wholesale vegetable market where the farmers sell their produce to the vendors. Since, it is becoming popular place for the tourists, you will find many sellers to cater to the tourist’s demands. Many sell saffron, cookies, jewelries, gems, etc.

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Its a place bustling with activities, you will see the friendly haggling between the buyers and the sellers.

One thing I noticed is that the interaction between the people was not aggressive but friendly. Everyone had smiles on their faces and its not just about selling, its about catching up with close friends.

On the other side, the landscape was equally enchanting.

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It was time for the young lads to take an adventurous bath. It was fun watching them.

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This is how they do a round-table conference at the end of the marketing session.

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Its time for everyone to disperse and get back home. The sun just started to rise and looked heavenly.

It was time to get back to our houseboat and start our journey to Ladakh through some high mountain passes. Though I was very excited to go to Ladakh again, I wish, I could spend more time in Srinagar.

I will be back on the other places we saw in Srinagar soon.

Dont miss my blog on the Dal Lake, Srinagar.


Tips for photographers

Every moment is important here, from early mornings to late evenings, don't waste time sleeping a lot.

Must go to the early morning vegetable market. Ask your hotel owner to organize one for you. Negotiate the rates.

Start early to reach there on time. If you are late, you will miss it.

Carry a wide angle and a telephoto lens, both will be useful here.

 


Thanksgiving

Thanks to all my Photography tour participants who join me for the tours over the last 10 years.


This post is written by Saurabh Chatterjee. He is a travel photographer and a photography trainer.He strives to make every camera-owner a great photographer through his Photography workshops and Photo Tours and Photowalks.
All rights reserved. No copying without permission of the author Saurabh Chatterjee

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