The Perfect Destination in Kashmir
Jammu and Kashmir- Heaven on earth. Resting in a houseboat on Dal lake in the Kashmir Valley, the Mughal emperor Jahangir is believed to have said, “If there is ever a heaven on earth, it’s here, it’s here, it’s here.” Jammu and Kashmir is the northernmost state of India consisting of three regions: Jammu, Kashmir valley, and Ladakh. Kashmir, euphemically called ‘heaven on earth’ for its undulating snowy mountain peaks, beautiful lakes and ever blooming gardens, is said to change its hue every season. Every season has a charm of its own. While spring sees Kashmir wrap itself in a flowery green jacket, autumn gives the trees and the valley a golden hue.
Come winter and the entire valley turns white with snow covering every inch of it but it still doesn’t lose its distinct charm. While Jammu is famous for its numerous shrines that attract thousands of Hindu pilgrims every year, Ladakh is called ‘Little Tibet’ for its mountain ranges and Buddhist culture. Jammu and Kashmir is home to several valleys such as the Kashmir Valley, Tawi Valley, Chenab Valley, Poonch Valley, Sindh Valley and Lidder Valley. It is home to several Himalayan glaciers, the longest one being Siachen glacier which is 70 kms in length.
Srinagar
Srinagar, the summer capital of Kashmir thrives on the banks of the river Jhelum. Dal Lake in Srinagar is a famous tourist spot, and one of the most picturesque lakes in the country. Srinagar is a unique city with breathtaking physical environment, lakes, mughal gardens, springs, golf course, hills & mountains,cycling tracks, trekking opportunities, angling ,water sports, indoor sports, world class hotels and an international conference centre, restaurants, traditional and continental foods. Besides, it is endowed with spiritual places , exquisite arts and crafts and rich heritage. Neolithic age ruins (Burzhama site) & Budhist era ruins ( Harwan) are an archeologist's delight.
Gulmarg
Gulmarg reinforces its position as a PrimeWinter Destination( 2,730 m/56 km) from srinagar. Gulmarg's legendary beauty, prime location and proximity to Srinagar naturally make it one of Asia's premier hill resorts. Originally called 'Gaurimarg' by shepherds, Gulmarg was discovered in the 16th century by Sultan Yusuf Shah, who was inspired by the sight of its grassy slopes emblazoned with wild flowers. It was also a favourite resort of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir. Today, Gulmarg is not merely a mountain resort of exceptional beauty but also the country's premier ski resort in winter when it is covered in snow and takes on the appearance of a picture postcard.
Pahalgam
The Valley of Shepherds" Situated at the confluence of the streams flowing from Sheshnag Lake and the Lidder river, Pahalgam (2,130 m) was once a humble shepherd's village with breathtaking views. Now it is Kashmir's premier resort, cool even during the height of summer when the maximum temperature does not exceed 25 deg C. A number of hotels and lodges cater to all preferences and budgets, from luxurious hotels to unpretentious trekkers' lodges, including J&K TDC huts.
Sonamarg
Sonamarg is situated at a distance of 84 kms from Srinagar, on the Srinagar-Ladakh Road. The route passes through the picturesque town of Ganderbal (21 kms), Kangan (40 kms) and Gund of the SindhValley, before reaching the resort. Spectacular views of the Harmukh range dominate the horizon. The drive to Sonamarg is through the SindhValley which presents yet another spectacular facet of countryside in Kashmir. Situated at an altitude of 2730 m, Sonamarg (‘The meadow of gold’) has, as its backdrop, snowy mountains against a cerulean sky. The SindhRiver that meanders through the valley abounds with trout. Ponies can be hired for the trip up to Thajiwas glacier, which is a major local attraction during the summer months.
