The Paradise on Earth

The magnetism of Jammu and Kashmir Travel has been often narrated by travellers, poets and storytellers. Well of course, embarking on a trip to Jammu and Kashmir, located in Northern India, is extravagantly beautiful. The travel itself is a story in itself, a fact that made Mughal Emperor Babur also helplessly fall in love with this ‘Paradise on Earth.’

Golden hues of Chinar trees, well manicured gardens, alpine pastures, sparkling rivers, lush-green valleys and snow capped mountains are a treat for nature lovers. For adventure-seekers, Ladakh and Gulmarg are the topmost tourist attractions. Srinagar and Gulmarg along with Leh have evolved as romantic destinations for couples searching for intimacy.

Thus, get ready to immerse yourself in the imposing landscape and rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir trip, a must visit for every India Tour.

Following are the tourist attractions in Jammu and Kashmir

Ladakh
Locally called as the ‘Land of High Passes’, it is known for majestic Gompas, Buddhist monasteries, random flutter of prayer flags, mystical sound of prayer wheels, mountain streams and age-old forts. Ladakh is a paradise for adventure lovers, backpackers and nature lovers. It is also a budding romantic destination in Jammu and Kashmir.
The main tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir are Leh Palace, Stok Palace, Hall of Fame, Shanti Stupa, Wanla Gompa, Tiger Hill, Tso Moriri Lake, Pangong Tso Lake and Lamayuru Monastery. The other off-beat destinations include Nubra Valley, Zanskar Valley and Magentic Hill.

Dal Lake
Popularly called as the ‘Jewel of Srinagar’, it is divided into two short lakes—Bod (big) lake and Lokut (small) lake. Reflecting the beauty of Pir Panjal Ranges and bustling with floating shikaras, one can also opt to stay on Dal Lake by hiring luxurious houseboats.
It’s every photographer’s dream to capture the mesmerising sunset at Dal Lake. It being embroidered by hotels, houseboats, parks and Mughal-era gardens further adds to its beauty. One can spot colourful lotus flowers on the floating gardens in Dal Lake especially during July and August.

Vaishno Devi
It is one of the most religious pilgrimage destinations in India. It is dedicated to Vaishno Mata, a reincarnation of Goddess Durga. It is perched on the Trikuta Mountains and attracts more than 10 million pilgrims every year.
Pilgrims are required to take a 12km trek from the base camp of Katra to reach the cave temple. The entire trek journey is filled with countless devotees, chanting the religious mantras and walking on and on, in spite of how age, class and sect. It is considered one of the most healing journeys for a pilgrim.

Shalimar Bagh
One of the famous Mughal gardens in India; it is linked with the Dal Lake in Srinagar. Locally it has also been called as Faiz Baksh, Shalamar Bagh, Shalamar Garden and Farah Baksh.
Revealing the power of love—an inherent part of Mughal architecture—this garden was built by Emperor Jahangir to show his love for his beloved Nur Jahan. Now converted into a public park, it reveals the beauty of Mughal horticulture.

Bahu Fort
Located in Jammu, this 3000-year-old fort was constructed by Raja Bahulochan. It is famous for housing the temple dedicated to Hindu Goddess Kali. Pilgrims visit the holy temple especially on Tuesdays and Sundays. Perched on the hilltop, it provides a heart touching view of the Tawi River.
One can also opt for picnicking near the Fort garden called as ‘Bagh-e-Bahu’. Tourists also visit it to explore one of the largest underground aquariums in the country. One can spot more than 400 different varieties of fishes on display, revealing the rich marine life of Jammu.

Famous cuisines of Jammu and Kashmir
The Kashmiri cuisine is world famous for delectable mutton dishes. In fact, the multi-course meal ‘Wazwan’ is the pride of Kashmiri culture and cuisine. Some famous dishes include Nadir Yakhin, Modur Pulaav, Goshtaba, Tschok Wangan and Mujh Gaad.

Festivals in Jammu and Kashmir
The traditional festivals include Baisakhi (April), Eid al-Fitr (July), Hemis Festival (June-July), Dussehra (October) and others.

Excursions from Jammu and Kashmir
Tourists can embark on nearby hotspots from Srinagar like Alpathar Lake (13km), Awantipura (29 km), Gulmarg (57km), Wular Lake (60km) and Pahalgam (90km).

When to Reach
It’s always the right time to indulge in Kashmir Travel. Spring (March-May) is the best time for nature lovers while winter (November to February) is idle for snow lovers.

How to Reach
Air: The Srinagar airport is well connected to other important tourist destinations in India like New Delhi, Mumbai and Jammu with regular flights.
Rail: The nearest railhead is at Jammu Tawi, located 305 km away from Srinagar.
Road: Srinagar is connected with Jammu through National Highway 1-A. Along with local state buses; one can also hire taxis for tourism.

So, no matter what your excuse is, do not let it interfere with plans of Jammu and Kashmir Tourism. Not at least this season.