Every winter, as temperatures plunge across Central Asia and Siberia, an extraordinary journey begins. Thousands of Lakhs migratory birds travel thousands of kilometres — not guided by maps or machines, but by instinct and ancient sky routes. And for many of them, their journey ends in the snow-draped valley of Kashmir. Hokarsar — 13.75 square kilometres of marshes, reed beds, and open water. But these waters hold a secret: They are the lifeline for more than 150 species of migratory birds, travelling from as far as China, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, and Siberia. The arrival begins in late October. First come the Mallards, followed by Gadwalls, Pintails, Eurasian Wigeons, and the elegant Common Teals. Soon, Greylag Geese take over the skies. This year, wildlife officials estimate over 150,000 birds have already touched down — with more still on their way. Hokarsar is witnessing a very strong season. The numbers are rising every week, and this shows the wetland’s remarkable ecological recovery. For these travellers, Hokarsar is more than a stopover — it is a refuge. Its nutrient-rich waters, aquatic vegetation, and mild winter climate make it one of the most reliable winter homes along the Central Asian Flyway. Their journey is not easy. Some fly over the Himalayas, braving freezing winds and predators. Others navigate storms, night skies, and human-altered landscapes. Yet, every winter, they return — guided by the same ancient flyway that has connected continents for millennia. Protecting this miracle is a daily effort. Forest guards patrol the wetland at dawn and dusk — safeguarding birds from hunters and monitoring their movements. Every season, Hokarsar surprises its watchers. From rare Sanderlings to striking Red-crested Pochards, these wetlands serve as an open-air theatre of biodiversity — attracting researchers and birders from across the world. Restoration efforts by the Jammu & Kashmir Wildlife Protection Department have begun paying off. Improved water channels, silt removal, and community awareness are strengthening Hokarsar’s resilience. With continued conservation, the skies above Kashmir will continue to echo with the songs of these winged visitors — year after year. In a world divided by borders, these birds carry with them a message of freedom, endurance, and unity — reminding us that nature’s journeys know no boundaries. Hokarsar — where the world meets on wings. Hokarsar… where journeys thousands of kilometres long come to rest, and where the skies write their own stories of freedom.