The Srinagar Diaries

The Srinagar Diaries is Farhan Paal’s personal travel journal, a record of exploring Srinagar not as a tourist, but as someone learning to actually live in the present.

It started in mid-2026, when Farhan realized his life had become mostly about studying, coding, and preparing for the future, important things, but ones that left little room for the present. This diary is his attempt to find that balance.

The journeys happen on his bicycle, “Shistur Gur” (the Iron Horse). What began as a simple idea turned into real rides through Srinagar’s lakes, gardens, mountain roads, and unfamiliar corners of the city.

Some trips are planned. Most start with one question: “Where should we go?” That question has led to a swimming spot in Haariwan, a 28-km ride up to 1900 metres, and an evening climb into the mountains of Fakir Gujri at 2200 metres.

But it’s not just about the destinations. It’s about the friends who make these journeys happen, their conversations, decisions, and company are woven into every chapter. It’s about discovering what’s beyond the routine, choosing the unexpected, and realizing a journey doesn’t need to be extraordinary to matter.

Each chapter also includes maps and routes, so readers can follow along, or explore Srinagar themselves.

A living book. This diary isn’t finished. As Farhan keeps exploring, meeting people, and collecting new memories, more chapters get added. What you’re reading today is just the beginning.

This isn’t about leaving his old life behind, reading, coding, and building a career still matter to him. It’s about adding real experience to that life, and finding a better balance between building a future and living now.

Fasten your belt. Every chapter is another journey on Shistur Gur.

Purchase this book now.