There is a saying that, "after a trip
to this unforgettable land, Kashmir or Jannat of India , you are never quite
the same again."
Kashmir is nestled in the lap of the dazzling snow capped Himalayas, the Kashmir
valleys is undoubtedly the jewel in India's crown. Kashmir is a paradise for
the honeymooners and nature lovers. Kashmir valley was originally known as
Kashyapmar or the abode of Kashyap Rishi. Srinagar, the unique state
capital, situated at an altitude of 1,730m above sea level holds greater
attention due to its famous Dal lake, Nagin and Anchar. Also, the river
Jhelum flows through the city.
Integrated as a part of India in 1948, Kashmir was given a special status
under article 370 of the Indian constitution. Kashmir is the essence of
everything that is charming and truely Indian - its culture, history,
tradition, people, and natural splendor.
Location
Strategically located Jammu and Kashmir state constitutes the northern most
extremity of India between 32.17 degree and 36.58 degree north latitude and
37.26 degree and 80.30 degree east longitude. The total area of the State is
22,22,236 sq. kms including 78114 sq kms under the illegal occupation of
Pakistan .The state is bounded by Pakistan, Afghanistan and China from the
West to the East.
Climate
In the summers, the temperature remains between 25°C and 35°C but
in the evening in places like the hilly resorts, light woolens are required.
Winter has snow falls and temperature sometimes dips down to -10°C.
Heavy woolens are required.
Major
Attractions
Dal Lake - It is probably the most important attraction
in the Kasmir valley. The Dal lake is not only unique for its beauty but
also for its vibrancy, since it sustains a life on waters not found anywhere
else in the world. Most house boats on the Dal are situated in long
straggling rows on the bank of the lake and can be accessed directly from
the land without the help of shikaras.
Mughal Gardens - Kashmir was a favourite of the Mughal
emperors who planted gardens to feel the presence of heavenly abode in this
place .Chesmansahi is the first Mughal garden with a stupendous layout and
magnificent view. The smallest in gardens, Chesmansahi has three terrace in
addition to a natural spring of water enclosed in a stone pavilion.
Nishar garden built by Empress Nur Jahan's Brother Asaf Khan has several
terraces and a central water course which gives a wonderful sight between
the Dal and the Zabarwan Hills.
The third one, the Shalimar bagh was planted by Jehangir and was shaded by
magnificent chinar trees with paint box bright flower beds..
Mosque of Hazratbal - Seen across the Dal lake and from
the Shalimar, is the Mosque of Hazratbal, one of the great architectural
beauty made of white marbles with a dome and a minaret. Hazratbal is the
repository of a single hair of the prophet Mohammed.
Nearby
Attractions
Resorts at Pahalgam, Gulmarg and Sonamarg - Gulmarg,
with its bowl shaped meadows filled with wild flowers can enchant any
traveller. The charm of summer trekking and golfing in the world's highest
green golf course and the snow covered slopes attracts skiers from all over
the world. Pahalgam's river Lidder is an anglers's delight along the bank of
the town. Even the Sonamarg's peaceful pastures and the trekking track up
the Harmukh mountains leading to the Himalayan lakes are quite fascinating.
How to Reach
By Air - Different Airlines operate regular daily
flights to Srinagar from Delhi, Mumbai and Jammu.
By Rail - The nearest railhead for Srinagar is Jammu
Tawi (305 kms) where trains arrive from Delhi, Calcutta, Pune, Mumbai,
Kanyakumari, Ahmedabad, etc.
By Road - National Highway 1-A, connecting Srinagar with
Jammu is a good, all-weather road with several sharp inclines and steep
bends.
