The trekking season in Jammu & Kashmir extends from June through September. Trek in Kashmir does not mean just walking over forested mountains as it combines nature and the local culture. As the trekker climb higher the landscape changes. Chinar and poplar trees are replaced by fir, pine and oak and finally Birch trees, the alpine meadows and a profusion of colorful wildflowers. The simple villagers in the plains with their fruit orchards and paddy fields are replaced by migrant families of Nomads / Gujjars, herdsmen who cross the high mountain passes with their cattle in search of greener pastures.