Jammu and Kashmir

Overview
Arguably the most beautiful place to be in the abode of Himalayas, Jammu & Kashmir has been the ultimate symbol of untouched natural beauty and cultural panorama for long. Called as the ‘Heaven on Earth’ by the Mughal emperor Jahangir, Jammu & Kashmir has regained its charm over the years despite all odds and remain a hot spot amidst nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

It has been one of the most controversial tourist destinations across India due to long overdue conflict over its territory. The land is a heady mix of hilly ranges, fertile delta land and ethereal meadows divided by breathtaking lakes and rivers. Culturally, the state can be categorized into three main parts including Buddhist section (Ladakh), Muslim (Kashmir) and Hindu (Jammu) section. Each of these sections presents altogether different scenery for the tourists exploring the state.

For the adventure enthusiasts, the place is filled with several ice sports and other adventure activities such as skiing, trekking, white water rafting, rock climbing, camping, parasailing, water skiing and paragliding to name a few. The entire state is a hub of adventure tourists during the favorable time of the year to especially enjoy the wide range of adventure sports here. In Gulmarg, another tourist destination in the state, operates the world’s highest golf course for tourists apart from the world-class skiing facilities and exquisite natural beauty.

The geography of the state includes hilly ranges, vast spreads of pine trees, rivers and lakes, meadows and magnificent glaciers with round, little monasteries scattered over. The weather here is extreme and mostly cold except for summers when it’s pleasant and travel-friendly. Agriculture still remains the predominant occupation for most people and also contributes in the tourism section. A large section of area still need development in terms of connectivity, but the unmatched beauty of the place more than makes up for it.

Some of the most popular destinations here include:

Gulmarg
One of the most spectacular views of the world, Gulmarg offers immaculate landscape combined with the highest skiing spot in the world. The place is particularly famous for its winter sports.

Mata Vaishno Devi
A pilgrim site for Hindus, this site attracts a lot of tourists flocking every year to get their wish come true.

Ladakh
The land of ultimate landscapes and adventurous sports, Ladakh is accessible only half the year and every inch worth the wait!

Pahalgam
The lakes, the valleys, the shepherd villages and breathtaking views- Pahalgam offers it all!

Patnitop
A popular hill station near Vaishno Devi, Patnitop is a rather charming plateau offering endless Pine trees rows and lush green woods.

Tourist Attractions

• Gulmarg
• Sonamarg
• Mata Vaishno Devi
• Chadar Trek
• Houseboats
• Bahu Fort

Shopping Attractions

• Apples
• Pashmina shawls
• Handicrafts
• Saffron
• Flavoured cashews
• Wooden artifacts

Known for

• Motorbike Safari (Ladakh)
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Houseboats
• Mountain Cycling (Ladakh)
• Snow Skiing (Gulmarg)
• River Rafting (Ladakh)
• Trekking (Kashmir & Laddakh)

Best time to visit
March-October

For Emergency
Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Helpline: 1-800-103-1060
Police: 100
Fire Service Control Room: 101
Ambulance: 102

How to reach
Air: Srinagar, Jammu and Leh are the 3 airports in Jammu and Kashmir.
Rail: The major railway station is Jammu Tawi; from where several trains connect to the state.
Road: Jammu and Kashmir is connected by a vast expanse of roads to important cities.