Kashmir

Jammu & Kashmir, a piece of heaven on earth, is the 19th largest state in India, and it is located mostly all in the Himalayan mountains. It is also the only state in India with a Muslim-majority population. Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, lies in the Kashmir Valley along the Jhelum River banks, and all-around Srinagar in Kashmir, you will be stupefied by its natural beauty, its abundant gardens, houseboats, and waterfronts. Some of Jammu And Kashmir's significant attractions are Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Patnitop, the Mughal Gardens, and Jammu. Tens of thousands of pilgrims throng Vaishno Devi and Amarnath's holy shrine every year, bringing in vast revenue to the state. Even within India, the Kashmir Valley is among the top destinations for both summer and winter vacationers. Gulmarg remains India's most popular ski resort, aside from being home to the world's highest green golf course. Jammu and Kashmir are known for their unique wooden handicraft and the famous Kashmiri shawls.

With apple orchards, saffron fields, glittering lakes & breathtaking meadows, Kashmir, in the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir, draws the attention of tourists from across the globe. With tranquil settings, magnificent views, and pristine nature, Kashmir is a perfect holiday destination that should be visited once in a lifetime. Kashmir is an ideal destination to plan a family tour and honeymoon holiday in India. The picturesque Gulmarg, Srinagar, Pahalgam or Sonmarg, make a holiday with family or honeymoon in Kashmir a wonderful experience. Kashmir is even home to the famous Amarnath Cave, which calls the ardent devotees Lord Shiva from across the world. While the beautiful Dal and Nigeen lakes in Srinagar offer an opportunity to relish a stay at the houseboat and enjoy a Shikara Ride, the alpine lakes like Tarsar Marsar, Vishnasar, Gadsar Lakes call out the adventure lovers for the best trekking experience. For more adrenaline-pumping adventure, nothing can beat the experience of skiing in Gulmarg during the winter season.

Visit The Paradise Of India

Absorb your recollections a warm cup of Kahwa Tea while enjoying the different scenes of Kashmir. Take in the fresh foggy air while glutting on warm Kashmiri pulao and home-made Rishta. Feel your heart synchronize with the spouting waters that move from the ice sheets above. Residue the snow off your shoulders after a long trip up a slope and watch the sun-kissed, snow-covered mountains. A valley between the Great Himalayan Range and the Pir Panjal mountain range, Kashmir is a wonderful effortless and unblemished common magnificence. Kashmir is painted with an exceptional culture that keeps you charmed all through your tour, from Srinagar to Sonamarg and Gulmarg to Pahalgam. Kashmir has different territories going from lakes, snow-covered mountains, coniferous kissed slopes to glacial mass taken care of waterways. From one perspective, Kashmir is covered with a wild, immaculate scene, and on the other, there are fields of saffron and plantations of apples anticipating their full blossom. They have an assortment of blossoms that are a show in itself. They stand by as picture takers after photographic artists endeavor to do equity to them. Kashmir isn't only a place however a feeling that each individual needs to encounter. The strange magnificence of this perfect heaven has been characterized by a few artists, creators, and rationalists. The excellence of the Kashmir Valley is amazing.

The gushing rivers, shiny waterfalls, picturesque surroundings, and lush green forests have always appealed to tourists despite many Kashmir issues. The Amir Khusro well-known words on Kashmir, "Gar Bar-ru-e-ZaminAst; HaminAst, HaminAstHaminAst." has supported the magnificence of this spot impeccably. Alluring cold temperatures with snowfall is one of the numerous things that Pahalgam has to bring to the table. Not at all like the rankling cold in Gulmarg, the climate supports an assortment of apple plantations, huge fields of saffron, and a variety of dry natural products. Pahalgam is an excellent spot to visit for its exceptional parks like Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, and Chandan Valley. A morning walk or a short walk can never do equity to the measure of regular magnificence there is to see. Betaab valley has immense radiant yards spotted with groups of tall, coniferous trees. There's a spouting stream slicing through the recreation center that stays with you while you look at the white Himalayan reach.

Best Time To Visit Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir are undoubtedly some of India's most beautiful places, and it pulls visitors in every season. If you like the pristine beauty of snow, then winter is the best time to visit. Spring is perfect for nature enthusiasts and young couples, while summer is ideal for families with kids or older people when the weather is warmer. Winter lasts from October to March, and the temperature stays in the range of -2 to 12 degrees. Summer starts in April and lasts until June, with a temperature between 15-30 degrees. J&K does get a spell of monsoon, which is from July to September. Spring sneaks in between winter and summer.

Places To Visit In Kashmir

Kashmir is the epitome of natural beauty, and it is renowned the world over for that. You can soak your senses on the many lakes, gardens, and hill stations that attract thousands of tourists every year. Take perfect pictures and take home memories of an ideal holiday at Tulip Garden, Shalimar Bagh, Mughal Gardens, Dal Lake, Alpather Lake, Apharwat Peak, Sonmarg, Ningle Nalla

Adventure Activities In Kashmir

J&K encompasses three distinct regions – Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh – and three different identities. Incredibly diverse and with a beauty that's tough to match. Despite its often volatile state, J&K remains one of the most sought-after holiday locales for adventurers and thrill-seekers eager to traverse its stunning landscape and feel one with nature. Whether it's camping, a safari, or a trek, Jammu and Kashmir's best adventure tours take on a different meaning here. The journey from Manali to Leh and on to Srinagar on motorcycles and taking in the beautiful views of green meadows, icy glaciers, and majestic mountains. Go on a jeep safari from Srinagar to Leh and Kargil and visit the serene Pangong Lake and Tso Moriri. Prefer trekking? Head to Markha Valley and make your way up a moderate gradient trail past Markha village and to Markha, all the while enjoying views of the Himalayas. Spend the night at homestays, meet new people on your trip and then head out together to explore the gorgeous mountain vistas. With so much going for J&K, it's no wonder it continues to lead the list of must-visit places offering the best adventure tours in Jammu and Kashmir. Despite the conflicts that plague the state, its gorgeous mountainous landscape and remoteness beckon visitors to experience everything it has to offer. If you, too, have the soul of an adventurer, it's time to start making plans and explore the northernmost part of our country.

Things To Do In Kashmir

The unparalleled beauty of Kashmir offers travelers several things to do. From a Shikara ride in Srinagar to trekking to the alpine lakes; from skiing in Gulmarg during the winter season to river rafting in Pahalgam, Kashmir has numerous activities for tourists that makes the Kashmir tour an exciting one. Wildlife lovers can visit Dachigam National Park to catch sight of the Himalayan animals and birds. Being home to the famous Amarnath Cave and the gleaming Hazratbal Shrine, Kashmir offers pilgrimage opportunities to the devotees. Attracting millions of tourists every year from India as well abroad, Jammu & Kashmir has many activities for its visitors to choose from. The fun & adventure never ends in the union territory that invites tourists to enjoy the most pleasing skiing adventure in Gulmarg, horse riding along the countryside, trekking to its alpine lakes, and camping on its lush meadows. J&K also offers an opportunity to enjoy the best in class trout fishing, mountain biking on its rugged terrains, and of course, the much-anticipated shikara ride in Srinagar. One can never run out of places to explore in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The land is brimming with picturesque vistas, fantastic flora, stunning architecture, and there are quaint homestays and eco-friendly resorts that visitors can choose from. Those with an adventurous bent of mind will find a plethora of activities waiting for them. And finally, if you are spiritually inclined, the numerous religious shrines will show you the way to peace and serenity.

History Of Kashmir

The story goes that Raja Jamboolochan founded Jammu in the 14th century BC and named it Jamboo after himself. Over time the name got corrupted, and it became Jammu. Another folk story talks about Kashmir being called 'desiccated land' from the Sanskrit' ka' meaning water and 'shimeera,' pointing to desiccate. Kashmir is one of the earliest inhabited lands of India. It has been invaded and ruled, in part, by rulers from Bactria, Tartary, Tibet, rulers from the Indus Valley, and even the Ganges valley. The state's religion has always fluctuated from Animist, Buddhist, Hindu, and now Muslim, with the latter being the dominant religion. After the British left India, Maharaja Hari Singh, who was the ruler of Jammu and Kashmir's princely state, couldn't decide whether to merge with Pakistan or India. The decision was taken when in October 1977, some rebellious tribesmen from the Pushtoon region attacked J&K. The Maharaja requested help, and India agreed after making him accede to the nation. There is, unfortunately, a debate over the accession, and J&K continues to be an area of conflict between India and Pakistan.

Geography Of Kashmir

Jammu & Kashmir is the only state in India to share its borders with just two other states, Himachal Pradesh and Punjab, both to its south. Its international neighbors include Pakistan to its west and north and China to its east, separated by the Actual Control Line. J&K could be called the home of valleys. The central Kashmir Valley is massive, stretching 100 km in width and covering 15000 sq. km. The Jhelum is the only major river that flows through the Kashmir Valley. Indus, Tawi, Ravi, and Chenab are the other rivers of the state. Since Jammu and Kashmir have a wide range of elevations, their biogeography is diverse. The land is fertile, and the valley is known for producing some of the finest in rice, vegetables, and fruits. The valley is also famous for the quality of its wool.

Hotels And Restaurants Of Kashmir

When it comes to tourism, accommodation remains an essential concern for every traveler planning his vacation. As far as where to stay in Jammu & Kashmir is concerned, there is a wide range of accommodations available at every popular tourist destination in the union territory. Hospitality is quintessential of J & K tourism; soaked in rich culture and traditions, the state offers warm hospitality and professionalism. From budget to the luxury to heritage hotels to houseboats, camps, and homestay, Jammu & Kashmir will exhaust you with staying options. Encompassing serenity, Kashmir has outstanding accommodation options offering commendable hospitality to the tourists. The hotels and resorts in Kashmir, ranging from budget to luxury, provide top-notch services and promise to make your stay a pleasant and memorable one. Whether you are looking for a heritage experience, mountain retreat, or rendezvous with nature, the hotels and resorts in every tourist destination of Kashmir Valley promise to offer you complete relaxation. There are hotels and resorts in Kashmir providing a relaxing spa service for a rejuvenating holiday in Kashmir. No matter which tourist destination one chooses to visit for a Kashmir vacation, every accommodation offers an excellent stay experience to cherish for a lifetime.

Tasty Food

The state's food can be divided into Jammu cuisine and Kashmir cuisine, both of which are unique and delicious in their ways. Jammu cuisine is predominantly vegetarian since the land is fertile, unlike the higher regions of Kashmir. When in Jammu, visitors must sample the rajma-chawal, morel yakhani (a rare mushroom), rajma ka madhra, khatta meat, kachaloo chat, and auria (a potato-based curry), among other delicacies. Kashmir serves up a decadent non-vegetarian platter of seekh kabab, tabakh maaz (fried lamb ribs), methi maaz, rogan josh, Kashmiri pulao, and palak nadir.

Art and Culture

Jammu and Kashmir's culture is based on the dances, music, and festivals of the people. Its rich, varied history means its arts and crafts have a multi-religious and multi-ethnic flavor. Kashmiris are known the world over for their handicrafts. There is much Persian influence in the floral designs that are typical of Kashmiri art. When in J&K, visitors can pick up souvenirs in the form of Carpets, Shawls, Rugs, Woven baskets, Walnut wood furniture, Beaten silver and copper wares, Silver jewelry The people of Jammu and Kashmir include the dance in all their celebrations. The music is melodic, and artists use chhaina, narshingha, flute, drums, etc.

Festivals

The festivals of Jammu and Kashmir truly demonstrate 'unity in diversity.' Even though the state is divided into three distinct regions, nothing brings the different communities together as celebrations do with their respective religions and way of life. The joy and enthusiasm are infectious and have to be experienced to be understood. Baisakhi, Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Azha, Hemis Festival, Lohri are some of the festivals in Kashmir

Exciting Facts About Jammu & Kashmir

Legend has it that Kashmir used to be a lake that was drained.

Kashmir is also called 'Paradise on earth.'

The world's second-highest peak, the K2, is in Kashmir.

It is the only state to have its animal, bird, tree, flower, and flag.

People of J&K hold dual citizenships – that of the state and the nation.

Only citizens of the state can buy property here.

Kashmir Is A Paradise

Kashmir is one of those paradisiacal lands and will win your heart with its magnificence and charms. One can never have enough of the beauty that this land is famous for. There is everything in Kashmir that will make for a beautiful holiday to remember. Whether it is on the shikaras and spending your time there or walking with your beloved in the apple gardens of Sri Nagar or floating away on a boat in the mesmerizing Dal lake, everything is amazingly extra-ordinary. Known as Heaven on the Earth, Jammu & Kashmir is where Mother Nature has bestowed all her love. Enclosed by the Himalayas and Karakoram ranges; and adorned with verdant meadows, lush valleys, dense forests, splendid temples, India's new union territory is a holiday destination to fall in love with instantly.

Being an ideal tourist destination for family tours, honeymoon tours, and the perfect place for adventure enthusiasts, Jammu & Kashmir offers an abundance of tour options for travelers of all kinds. The picturesque Jammu & Kashmir is even home to famous Hindu shrines like Mata Vaishno Devi and Baba Amarnath Cave. This place is always on the radar of pilgrimage tourists from all over the world. The majestic valleys of Kashmir offer adventure opportunities like trekking and skiing. The serene destination is also famous for experiential travels in either a stay at a houseboat or a Shikara ride on Dal and Nigeen Lake. Nothing can beat the beauty of Jammu & Kashmir, and to believe it, one has to see it!