Table of Contents
Introduction
Jammu and Kashmir is an Indian Territory, which is usually known as ‘’The Paradise on Earth’. The snow-capped mountainous region comprises historical monuments, lush valleys, and beautiful lakes which one should experience once in their lifetime. Here you are guided towards a well-planned tourist plan to explore Kashmir’s nook and corner to get to know their culture and rich heritage.
Geography and Climate
The line that separates these two units, Jammu and Kashmir lies between the north of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab and to the west of Ladakh which is itself, a union territory. This region is divided into three main regions: Jammu, the Kashmir Valley, and Ladakh. Each has a unique climatic condition as Jammu has the coldest weather, Kashmir with alpine weather, and deserted Ladakh.
Cultural Diversity
Jammu is known for its Hinduism, it has a lot of shrines and temples around. Islam prevails in Kashmir with a lot of Sufi mosques and Durga around. Dogra and Hindi are the major languages spoken in the former and Urdu and Kashmiri are the major languages spoken in the latter.
Signature Dishes
Wazwan: A traditional feast that includes Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and Gushtaba
Kahwa: Aromatic Green Tea made with Almonds, Saffron and Spices
Dum Aloo: Potatoes cooked in Rice, with spicy gravy
Rogan Josh: A lamb curry with dried Kashmiri chili and spices
Haakh: A nutritious food made from collard greens and spices which is served along with rice
Tourist Places
a) Srinagar Tourist Places ( Heart of Kashmir)
There are three major places to visit in the city of Srinagar. They are:
1. Dal Lake
The Dal Lake is known as the ” The Jewel of Srinagar”. Dal Lake gives us a delightful experience. Its iconic boat house and shikaris (traditional boats) are major attractions. The lake is the second-largest Lake in the Union Territory and an integral tourist place. When you take a ride in the boat house, the best part of the ride is that you get to see the beauty of the Mughal Gardens, the floating market, and other floating gardens. It is also known as the “Lake of Flowers”.
2. Mughal Garden
Mughal Garden is a testament to Mughal Landscaping which includes six gardens, where three are found in Srinagar: Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashmi Shahi.
The Mughal gardens were constructed on the order of Shah Jahan and his father Jahangir who had immense love towards flowers in the 17th century. These gardens have beautiful flowerbeds, terraced lawns, and delightful fountains, providing a vibrant view of Dal Lake and surrounding mountains.
3. Shankaracharya Temple – A Spiritual Abode
It is located on Shankaracharya Hill providing a beautiful view of Srinagar. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a relaxing place recommended for visitors to meditate.
It is located at a height of 1000 ft on the Zanbawar range in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. It is under the protection of the Monument of National Importance. The Maha Sivaratri is celebrated grandly.
b) Gulmarg – The Meadow of Flowers
1. Gulmarg Gondola
It is well known for its meadows and adventurous activities. The Gulmarg Gondola takes its visitors to the Apharwat Peak through one of the highest cable cars in the world, giving a view of the snow-clad mountains. The ride cost for Phase 1 and Phase 2 is Rupees 2070 per person for the cable car. In winter, Gulmarg becomes a skier’s paradise.
The cable car ferries around 6000 people to and from Kongdoori Mountain. It is the second largest cable car in the world.
2. Gulmarg Golf Course
The Golf course in the Gulmarg is located in Baramulla district. It is the second-largest golf course in the world. It is covered in snow during winter. It will be open from April to June. From March to December, it becomes a land for skiing and snowboarding.
It is a meadow of flowers surrounded by pine and fir. It is an 18-hole course golf court constructed by Colonel Neville Chamberlain. It was established in the year 1890. It has 16 wildflowers with creep bent. It is the longest golf course in India.
3. St. Mary’s Church
St. Mary’s Church is a Victorian-style church in Gulmarg as a reminder of the British Era. It was built in 1902. Its serene environment and surroundings attract a lot of visitors.
It is called a “Victorian architectural wonder”. It was closed for a few years and reopened in 2003 for Christmas Services after renovation.
c) Pahalgam – The Sheperd’s Valley
1. Betaab Valley
Bettab Valley is an expanse of Lidder River. It is named after the popular Bollywood film “Betaab” starring Sunny Deol and Amrita Singh in 1983. It is known for its lush green valleys and meadows. it is a perfectly ideal spot for picnics, trips, and trekking. Before that, the valley was called Hagoon Valley.
It perfect emerald green colored meadow with lakes flowing in and out and snow-clad mountains behind. It offers a view of the Himalayas. It is the most popular exploration place for trekkers.
2. Aru Valley
This valley is located 12 Km away from Pahalgam. This tourist place is famous for fishing, trekking, and horse riding. The pristine beauty of the mountains and snowcapped mountains is its highlight.
Aru is known as Adu in Kashmiri, which is a district in Jammu and Kashmir. It is known for its scenic beauty of the meadows. Aru Valley has the base trekking camp place for the people who trek to Kolahoi Glacier, the Tarsar-Marsar lakes, and the Katrinag valley.
3. Lidder River
Lidder River is a 73 Km long river in the Kashmir Valley of Jammu and Kashmir. It is known for its trout fishing. The Lidder River’s clear water and scenic beauty are an ideal place for nature enthusiasts and Anglers. The river’s name signifies “Long-bellied Goddess”. Its water is used for irrigation. The main fishes found in the river include the two trout fishes: Rainbow Trout and River Trout. The delightful experience in this area is a riverside picnic.
d) Sonamarg
1. Thajiwas Glacier
Thajiwas Glacier is the adventure seeker’s main attraction. It can be reached by a short trekking or a pony ride. It provides a breathtaking view of the snowy mountains.
On the way, the trekkers can see the view of the snowy frozen lake. You can see the Gujjar tribes having set up their camps there. It has scattered alpine meadows. You can get to ride the sledge during summer. The rate may skyrocket in summer.
2. Zoji la Pass
Zoji la Pass is 15 Km away from Sonmarg. It is a connecting link between Ladakh and Kashmir. It is located at an altitude of 3,490 ft, it is the point where snow melts. That’s why Zoji la pass is also called “Zero Point”. Even when it is summer, the snow never melts.
It is the gateway to Ladakh. It remains closed during winter cutting the path between Ladakh and Kashmir. That’s why it is called Zoji la which means “ Mountain Pass of Blizzard”. It was constructed in 2018 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
3. Vishansar Lake
Vishansar Lake is known for its clear water, with pristine alpine lake. Vaishansar in Kashmiri means “Lake of Vishnu”. It is special for Kashmiri Pandits. It is famous for its brown trout. It is a perfect spot for trekking and camping.
The lake is frozen during winter, which reflects the surrounding snow-clad mountains giving us a perfect breathtaking view. Kishansar Lake and Glacier feed it. It has an elevation of 3710 meters, a length of a maximum of 1 Km, and a maximum breadth of 0.6 Km.
Kashmir – A Complete Tourist Guide
Day 1 & 2 ( Arrival and Exploration)
- Dal Lake
- Mughal Garden
- Shankaracharya Temple
Day 3 & 4
- Gulmarg Gondola
- Gulmarg Golf Course
- St. Mary’s Church
Day 5 & 6
- Betaab Valley
- Aru Valley
- Lidder River
Day 7
- Thajiwas Glacier
- Zoji La Pass
Jammu and Kashmir – A Must Visit
With its unparalleled beauty and richness of culture, Kashmir is a treasure of India, which is a must-visit spot. The serene beauty of Srinagar, the adventurous Sonamarg, the snow-clad Gulmarg, and the valleys of Pahalgam provide a beautiful view to all trekkers. This mixed adventurous trip will leave behind with wonder and awe. So do plan your trip to Kashmir and grab your bags to head towards the adventures that lie ahead of you. Explore all the mind-blowing experiences and create a wonderful experience of a lifetime.