Ladakh: Jammu Kashmir

Ladakh (Jammu & Kashmir) is a land like no other. Bounded by two of the world's mightiest mountain ranges, the Great Himalaya and the Karakoram, it lies athwart two other, the Ladakh range and the Zanskar range.

Yak

In geological terms, this is a young land, formed only a few million years ago by the buckling and folding of the earth's crust as the Indian sub-continent pushed with irresistible force against the immovable mass of Asia. Its basic contours, uplifted by these unimaginable tectonic movements, have been modified over the millennia by the opposite process of erosion, sculpted into the form we see today by wind and water. 

Yes, water! Today, a high -altitude desert, sheltered from the rain-bearing clouds of the Indian monsoon by the barrier of the Great Himalaya, Ladakh was once covered by an extensive lake system, the vestiges of which still exist on its south -east plateaux of Rupshu and Chushul - in drainage basins with evocative names like Tso-moriri, Tsokar, and grandest of all, Pangong-tso. Occasionally, some stray monsoon clouds do find their way over the Himalaya, and lately this seems to be happening with increasing frequency. But the main source of water remains the winter snowfall. Drass, Zanskar and the Suru Valley on the Himalaya's northern flank receive heavy snow in winter; this feeds the glaciers whose meltwater, carried down by streams, irrigates the fields in summer. For the rest of the region, the snow on the peaks is virtually the only source of water. As the crops grow, the villagers pray not for rain, but for sun to melt the glaciers and liberate their water. Usually their prayers are answered, for the skies are clear and the sun shines for over 300 days in the year.

Zanskar

Padum

Stongdey

Zangla

Alchi Gompa

Bardan Monastery

Chemrey Gompa

Diskit & Hundur Gompa

Lamayuru Monastery

Likir Gompa

Mashro Gompa

Matho Gompa

Namgyal Tsemo Gompa

Phyang Monastery

Phugtal Gompa

Rhizong Gompa

Shanti Stupa

Shey Gompa

Spituk Gompa

Thiksey Gompa

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Kashmir: Jammu Kashmir

Kashmir is the northwestern region of the Indian subcontinent. Until the mid-19th century, the term Kashmir geographically denoted only the valley between the Great Himalayas and the Pir Panjal mountain range. Today Kashmir denotes a larger area that includes the Indian-administered state of Jammu and Kashmir (the Kashmir valley, Jammu and Ladakh).

Aru

Far from the stress, dust and pollution of the urban life, Aru welcomes you to the tranquil and serene meadow, approximately 107 km from Srinagar. Located at a height of around 2408 meters, Aru is famous for the Lidder River, Lidderwat meadow, Kolahoi Glacier, conifer spread mountains and trekking opportunities. The dense woods is home to various birds and wild animals. The best period for blooming of nature during summer is considered between May To September, while in winter it is November To February. The melodious chirp of birds, the cool breeze, open blue skies, green-golden grass, crystal clear waters and misty mountains all around make Aru one of the best hill stations in the Kashmir region.

Kishtwar

The upland valley of Kishtwar, comprising Kishtwar National Park as well, is a major hill station in Jammu region. The area boasts of The Pir Panjal range, Great Himalayan Ranges, and the Chenab river that not only form a unique ecosystem and bio-geographical pattern but also draws lakhs of tourists every season. The hills are ideal for trekking and mountaineering, while the lands are perfect for growing saffron. The wooded hills are provided contrast with beautiful waterfalls. These wooded hills and the Kishtwar National Park are rich in wildlife like snow-deer, leopard, Neel Gai and musk-deer. Although a small region, Kishtwar is rich in all such attractions as well as pilgrims.

Patnitop

This beautiful serene hill station has all the attractions that an ideal hilly tourist destination should have. The place is rich in dense pines, snow clad peaks, waterways, freshwater springs, adventure sports and a unique climate. At an altitude of 2024 metres, you will find a huge golf course too. Sudh Mahadev is another sacred spot situated close to Patnitop. May-June in summer and September-October in autumn is the best time to visit Patnitop to explore nature at its best. If seeking snowboard joys, December to March is the time to be here.

Sonmarg

Known as the 'Meadow of Gold', Sonmarg is an ideal place for camping. Countless colourful flowers and the holy Sindh river form a perfect gateway to Ladakh. Nature lovers can spot dense forests of alpine flowers, silver birch, fir and pine, and various lakes. Most importantly, this hill station serves as a base camp for the holy Amarnath yatra, which is organized in July-August every year. People also visit the nearby Nilagrad river, which is pure red in colour and is believed to have curative powers for skin ailments.

Srinagar

The summer capital of Kashmir is situated on the banks of the Jhelum river. Srinagar is considered the most beautiful and most visited city of the state of J & K, the year round. The famous Dal Lake and Nagin Lake are the assets and identity of Srinagar. These lakes are visited for an enchanting view of Mughal gardens and unique houseboats and shikara rides. The Dal Lake gets frozen in winter and offers an opportunity for various adventure sports. The city is a leading player in handicrafts too. Srinagar, undoubtedly the best hill station in J&K, gives you a totally different experience.

Gulmarg

Spreading the sweet fragrance and aroma in Baramula district, the meadow of flowers- Gulmarg is quite close to Srinagar. This hill station is popular for its grassy slopes of flowers and the highest golf course in the world. The name of the city was coined by Sultan Yusuf Shah in the 16th century because of countless Bluebells, Daisies, Forget Me Not and Buttercups. These flowers blossom in the months of December to April. Apart from this, adventure seekers can enjoy various activities from skiing and horse riding to trekking. The Khilanmarg valley of countless colourful flowers is the most refreshing and peaceful area of the city.

The state of Jammu and Kashmir offers wonderful hill stations at an altitude of thousands of metres above sea level. A place that offers you snowy Himalayas, majestic rivers, stunning lakes, vast green-golden landscapes, hundreds of pilgrims, numerous adventure activities and enticing flora and fauna, is certainly the best tourist destination.

House Boats

The state of Jammu and Kashmir has became a great tourist destination because it has developed and taken care of its uniqueness in a perfect manner. Houseboats in J & K serve as the best meduim to fulfill your dream of staying as close to nature as possible. They have made people's fantasy of living on the water come true. Facing the majestic Himalayas and offering the pleasant sounds of rolling waters, these houseboats are the greatest attraction in Kashmir.

One can experience the stunning beauty of these houseboats and the natural surroundings on Dal Lake, Nagin Lake and Jhelum River. Houseboats as old as 50 years can also be seen in Kashmir. Earlier used by the people of fishing communities only, these boats today are not merely a tourist attraction rather a place where the use of unique Kashmiri handirafts can be seen (in furniture, carpets etc.).

They are completely made of wood and provide guests with homely environment, quiet surroundings and enchanting views outside. Quite similar to a fully furnished house, they offer proper living rooms, drawing and dining rooms, carved wooden furnitures, and beautifully decorated interiors.

Amarnath Cave (in Pahalgam; devoted to Lord Shiva)

Sudh Mahadev (Patnitop; devoted to Lord Shiva)

Avantipur Temple (Avantipur; devoted to Lord Surya)

Charar-e-sharif

Hazratbal mosque

Chhatti Padshahi Gurudwara (Srinagar)

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Jammu: Jammu Kashmir

Jammu, also known as Duggar, is one of the three administrative divisions within Jammu and Kashmir, the northernmost state in India. Jammu city is the largest city in Jammu and the winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu City is also known as "City of Temples" as it has many temples and shrines, with glittering Shikhars soaring into the sky, which dot the city’s skyline, creating the ambiance of a holy and peaceful Hindu city.

Home to some of the most popular Hindu shrines, such as Vaishno Devi, Jammu is a pilgrimage tourism destination in India. The majority of Jammu's 4.9 million population practices Hinduism, while Islam and Sikhism enjoy a strong cultural heritage in the region. Due to relatively better infrastructure, Jammu has emerged as the main economic center of the state.

Purmandal

Purmandal, also known as Chhota Kashi, is located 35 km from Jammu city. An ancient holy place, it has several temples of Shiva and other deities.

Vaishno Devi shrine

The town of Katra, which is close to Jammu, is the nearest point to the Vaishno Devi shrine. Nestling on top of the Trikuta Hills at a height of 1700 m is the sacred cave shrine of Vaishno Devi, the mother goddess. At a distance of 48 km from Jammu, the cave is 30 m long and just 1.5 m high. At the end of the cave are shrines dedicated to the three forms of the mother goddess—Mahakali, Mahalakshmi and Mahasarasvati. 

Pilgrims start trekking to the cave temple, which is 13 km from Katra, enter in small groups through a narrow opening and walk through ice-cold waters to reach the shrines.

Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary

Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary, called and best known for wonderful species of pheasants, has been established in an area of thick forests teeming with wild life.

It is renowned natural habitat for a significant population of pheasants. Among the other avifauna are Indian mynah,Blue Rock Pigeon, Indian Peafowl, Red Junglefowl, Cheer Pheasant and chakor.

Mansar lake

Situated 62 km from Jammu, Mansar Lake is a beautiful lake fringed by forest-covered hills, over a mile in length by half-a-mile in width. Besides being a popular excursion destination in Jammu, it is also a holy site, sharing the legend and sanctity of Lake Mansarovar.

On the eastern bank of Mansar Lake there is a shrine dedicated to Sheshnag, a mythological snake with six heads. The shrine comprises a big boulder on which are placed a number of iron chains perhaps representing the small serpents waiting on the tutelary deity of the Sheshnag. Newlyweds consider it auspicious to perform three circumambulations (Parikarma) around the lake to seek the blessings of Sheshnag.

Bahu Fort

Bahu Fort, which also serves as a religious temple, is situated about 5 km from Jammu city on a rock face on the left bank of the river Tawi.

This is perhaps the oldest fort and edifice in Jammu city. The fort is surrounded with a beautiful terraced garden which is a favourite picnic spot of the city folk.

Bagh-E-Bahu located on the banks of Tawi river, is a Mughal-age garden. It gives a nice view of the old city and Tawi river. Bagh itself is very beautiful. There is a small cafeteria on one side of the garden. On the by-pass road behind Bahu Fort, the city forest surrounds the ancient Mahamaya Temple overlooking the river Tawi. A small garden surrounded by acres of woods provides a commanding view of the city.

Raghunath Temple

Amongst the temples in Jammu, the Raghunath Temple takes pride of place being situated right in the heart of the city. This temple is situated at the city center and was built in 1857. Though 130 years old, the complex is remarkable for sacred scriptures, one of the richest collections of ancient texts and manuscripts in its library.

Its arches, surface and niches are undoubtedly influenced by Mughal architecture while the interiors of the temple are plated with gold. The main sanctuary is dedicated to Lord Vishnu's eighth incarnation and Dogras' patron deity, the Rama.

Peer Kho Cave

Alongside the same Tawi river are the Peer Kho Cave temple, the Panchbakhtar temple and the Ranbireshwar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with their own legends and specific days of worship. Peer Kho cave is located on the bank of river Tawi and it is widely believed that Ramayan character Jamvant (the bear god) meditated in this cave. The Ranbireshwar Temple has twelve Shiva lingams of crystal measuring 12" to 18" and galleries with thousands of saligrams fixed on stone slabs.

Shivkhori

The cave shrine of Shivkhori, situated in District Reasi of Jammu and Kashmir state, depicts the natural formation of shivlingum. It is one of the most venerated cave shrines of Lord Shiva in the region.

The Holy cave is more than 150 mts long & houses 4 feet high Svayambhu Lingum, which constantly baths in a milky lime fluid dripping from the ceiling. The cave is full of natural impression and images of various Hindu Deities and full of divine feelings. That is why Shivkhori is known as "Home of Gods". The route from Jammu to Shiv Khori is full of beautiful and picturesque mountains, waterfalls and lakes.

City Centers And Attractions

A Major attraction of Jammu is a revolving restaurant named Falak located on the top of the hotel KC Residency. Ragunath Bazar is the main tourist and shopping center of the city. The locality of Gandhi Nagar, hosts the market areas of Gole Market, Apsara Road. On any pleasant evening you can take a stroll in Green Belt Park alongside the magnificent bungalows that adorn Green Belt Road. Rajinder Park, which is located on Canal Road, is a new development. This park is situated between two canals and features a large fountain which is lit up at night. A Children's Area is located next to the park.

The city has finally got its own shopping mall called "City Square". The mall has all the latest brands and accessories all under one roof,and an excellent food court. Also a beautiful complex and a new age commercial hub by the name of Bahu-Plaza in Trikuta Nagar area is a major hang out spot for youngsters and young professionals.

Jammu Cuisine

Jammu is known for its Chocolate Barfi, Sund panjeeri,Patisa and its exotic local food - Rajma (with rice) is one of the specialty dishes of Jammu. Another specialty of Jammu is Kalaadi which is processed cheese.

Dogri food specialties include Ambal, Khatta Meat, Kulthein di Dal, Dal Patt, Maa da Madra, Rajma, and Auriya. Pickles typical of Jammu are made of Kasrod, Girgle, Mango with Saunf, Zimikand, Tyaoo, Seyoo, and Potatoes. Auriya is a dish made with Potatoes. During weddings it is typical to make Kayoor, and Sund.

Jammu folks love their chaats specially Gol Gappas, Kachaalo, Gulgule, Rajma Kulche, Nutri Kulche etc............
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