Jammu and Kashmir
Jammu and Kashmir, the crown of India, is located in the extreme
north of the country with most of its regions surrounded by
Himalayas. Jammu and Kashmir is not just full of snow-clad
mountains, but also has lakes and blue valleys. The scenic beauty
and tranquility in Jammu and Kashmir is enough to move one to
poetry. The most attractive part of this Indian state is the
adventure sports such as trekking, Safari, mountaineering and river
rafting. Jammu and Kashmir offers to its tourists a relaxing or
adventurous holiday amidst the delightful scenery. A state blessed
by the gods- Jammu and Kashmir attracts the highest number of
tourists every year. The tourism industry has flourished over the
last two decades..
The best time of the year to visit Jammu and Kashmir is a winter
season starting from early October to about February and March. One
can experience a quite crusty temperature as low as -5 degree C at
night. The region has a very rich past and a diverse culture where
people of all beliefs live in perfect harmony. Jammu and Kashmir
comprises of three religions-Hindus, Buddhists and Muslims. You will
find the majority of Hindus in Jammu, Ladakh is dominated by the
Buddhists, while you will find most of the Muslim population in the
Kashmir Valley. The state also has a distinctive characteristic of
having most of the holy temples, monasteries, mosques and caves. A
visit to this paradise, dazzling in nature's beauty, will stay
behind for a long time in the memory of the tourist..
The Kashmir Valley is much cooler than Jammu and is blessed with
nature. The valley also offers treats such as beautiful sightseeing
locations, enchantment on a houseboat on Dal Lake, unparalleled
scenery and wonderful trekking opportunities. Therefore, the
strength of Kashmir lies in its rich culture, natural vicinity, rich
literature and traditions.
Jammu on the other hand has been a region of Rajas and Maharajas.
The ancient archaeological gravestones speak aloud about the
distinct traditions of Jammu. Jammu, the land of ‘Dogras’, offer an
entirely different sight of dancers and music. The folk songs and
dances of Jammu generally echo about their hardships, separation
from their beloveds and their day-to-day life.
With the highest number of mountains in the world and immense
natural beauty, this tourist’s paradise thrives in rich flora and
fauna. The Chinar, Deodar and Pine trees are found throughout the
Kashmir valley. The dense forests of Kashmir are a pleasure to the
sports-lovers and adventure travellers. While in Jammu, the flora
ranges from the horse chestnuts, silver for, broad leaf trees, thorn
bushes etc.
The participation in the festivals of Jammu and Kashmir is truly
enthralling for the visitors. Jammu, the Hindu based region,
celebrates festivals such as Lohri and Baisakhi. A fair is organised
every year at the Mansar Lake during Baisakhi. In Kashmir, besides
ID, other important Muslim celebrations are Urs and Khaneka. The
Hemis festival features dance performed by the monks wearing
different kinds of masks and colourful robes.
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