If there is heaven on Earth, It is here ! It is here !

Jammu and Kashmir is a state in northern India, often denoted by the acronym J&K. It is located mostly in the Himalayan mountains, and shares borders with the states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab to the south. Jammu and Kashmir has an international border with China in the north and east, and the Line of Control separates it from the Pakistani-administered territories of Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan in the west and northwest respectively.

Jammu and Kashmir is home to several valleys such as the Kashmir Valley, Tawi Valley, Chenab Valley, Poonch Valley, Sind Valley and Lidder Valley. The main Kashmir Valley is 100km (62mi) wide and 15,520.3km2 (5,992.4sqmi) in area. The Himalayas divide the Kashmir valley from Ladakh while the Pir Panjal range, which encloses the valley from the west and the south, separates it from the Great Plains of northern India. Along the northeastern flank of the Valley runs the main range of the Himalayas. This densely settled and beautiful valley has an average height of 1,850 metres (6,070ft) above sea-level but the surrounding Pir Panjal range has an average elevation of 5,000 metres (16,000ft).

Because of Jammu and Kashmir's wide range of elevations, its biogeography is diverse. Northwestern thorn scrub forests and Himalayan subtropical pine forests are found in the low elevations of the far southwest. These give way to a broad band of western Himalayan broadleaf forests running from northwest-southeast across the Kashmir Valley. Rising into the mountains, the broadleaf forests grade into western Himalayan subalpine conifer forests. Above the tree line are found northwestern Himalayan alpine shrub and meadows. Much of the northeast of the state is covered by the Karakoram-West Tibetan Plateau alpine steppe. Around the highest elevations, there is no vegetation, simply rock and ice.

Besides Kashmir, several areas in the Jammu region have a lot of tourist potential as well. Bhau Fort in Jammu city is the major attraction for the tourists visiting that city. Bage-e-Bahu is another tourist destination. The local aquarium, established by the fisheries department, is visited by many. Tourists from across India visit Jammu in a pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi. Mata Vaishno Devi is located in the Trikuta Hills, about 40 to 45km from Jammu City. Approximately 10 million Pilgrims visit this holy place every year.

Tourism in the Kashmir valley has rebounded in recent years, and in 2009, the state became one of the top tourist destinations of India. Gulmarg, one of the most popular ski resort destinations in India, is also home to the world's highest green golf course. The state's recent decrease in violence has boosted the economy and tourism. It was reported that more than a million tourists visited Kashmir in 2011.

TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN JAMMU & KASHMIR

• SRINAGAR : REFINES BEAUTY -The capital city Srinagar is the prized possession of the Vale of Kashmir. Imbibing many colors of the state, it reflects the authentic Jammu & Kashmir. The city sits quietly on the bank of Jhelum and contemplates the vivaciousness. The canopied Shikara boats, plush houseboats, snow-capped mountains and the sparkling water of Dal and Nageen Lake come together to bring the picture of authentic Srinagar come alive. The blessing of Prophet Mohammad from Hazratbal Shrine and Jama Masjid, the divinity of Shankarcharya temple, glimpse of floating vegetable market and the bountiful flora and fauna, all honour the capital city with a title of Paradise on Earth. Srinagar also renders great options for activities like bird watching (Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary) water skiing (Dal Lake, Nagin Lake and Bod-dal), golfing (Kashmir Golf Course), trekking (towards Pir Panjal, 89 kms from Srinagar) and boating (Shikara ride on Dal Lake and Nagin Lake) and thus makes holidays in Jammu & Kashmir a successful expedition.


• LEH : LAND OF QUEER BEAUTY AND SHEER ADVENTURE - Complimenting the northern periphery, Leh is a land of queer beauty and sheer adventure. The lofty mountains, the alpine lakes, divine Gompas and the quaint settings make Leh one of the best places to visit in Jammu & Kashmir. Located 434 kms from Srinagar, it majorly intrigues adventure enthusiasts and people with artistic bent of mind. The architectural grandeur of spiritual places like Alchi Monastery, Hemis Monastery, Matho Monastery, Spituk Monastery and Thiksey Monastery dazzles visitors, whereas General Zorawar fort, Stok Palace and Jama Masjid has the potential to surprise spectators. At Leh, one would get a perfect blend of adventure and spirituality, which is of course accompanied by natural scenic beauty. Trekking and Mountain Biking couldn’t excite adventure seekers more; there are several beautiful trails that instigate opportunity for brilliant adventure experience. Clad with beauty of nature, Leh also provide opportunity to witness the Himalayan panaroma.


• JAMMU : THE BLESSED LAND - Protected and blessed by Mata Vaishno Devi, who seems to have found her earthly abode on the Trikuta Hills, Jammu City is indeed amongst the top places to visit in Jammu & Kashmir. Dubbed as the City of Temples, Jammu invites those seeking peace and tranquility. The unmatched divinity at Raghunath temple, Ranbireshwar temple, Mahamaya temple, Peer Baba and Peer Khoh touches every corner of Jammu invigorates visitors. One must visit the Bahu temple, which is situated inside the majestic Bahu Fort. The temple is dedicated to presiding deity of Jammu, Goddess Kali or Bawe Wali Mata as she is popularly called in the region. Besides the temple, a travel enthusiast can witness architectural grandeur of Bahu Fort and Mubarak Mandi Palace. The Aquarium at Bagh-e-Bahu (Bahu Fort) also catches the eyes of the tourists as it is the largest underground aquarium in the country. A trip to Jammu is no less than an expedition to a holy land.


• GULMARG : ENTAILING ADVENTURE AND EXCITEMENT - Dubbed as skiers’ paradise, Gulmarg is indeed amongst the best places to visit in Jammu & Kashmir. Located approximately 52kms away from capital city Srinagar, Meadow of Flowers as it is popularly called Gulmarg is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. Along with prominent skiing options, trekking, snowboarding, golfing, mount biking and fishing are the prime options that Gulmarg overwhelms you with. Visit Kongdori, Shark Fin and Apparwath Peak not only for skiing but also to witness the splendid natural landscape of Gulmarg. Other places to see the blessings of majestic nature near Gulmarg are Nagin Valley (for which you have trek), Khilanmarg, Frozen Lake and Bota Pathri. Baba Reshi and Gulmarg Gondola (Cable car) also makes for a must visit in Gulmarg.


• UDHAMPUR : THE RECALLING OF GLORIOUS PAST - Named after Raja Udham Singh, Udhampur city is the second-largest city in Jammu region. Set amidst lush green surroundings and fringed by eucalyptus trees, Udhampur is one of the best tourist attractions in Jammu & Kashmir. A delight for history lovers, the city offers many relics dating back to the time of epic of Mahabharata. The Krimachi group of temples are said to be the oldest structures in the city. Udhampur is also famous for the underground river Devika, which is considered the sister of Ganga. Visit the Ramnagar fort, located approximately 40kms from Udhampur and built by Raja Suchet Singh. Moungri Cave shrine, Pingla Mata and Sudh Mahadev temple are other prominent places that must be visited in Udhampur.


• KUPWARA : RIGHTFULLY THE CROWN OF KASHMIR - Noted for natural beauty and charm, Kupwara is indeed a vital part of Jammu & Kashmir tourism. The lush meadows, alpine mountains and the gushing clear water make Kupwara an important tourist attraction in the state. Boasting of lofty mountain peaks like Shamsbari (12000ft above sea level), Nastachun (10273ft above sea level) and Dajalonjun (16000ft above sea level), this district exemplifies the beauty of Kashmir. The Ainch Mountain offers the opportunity to get a panoramic view of the Vale of Kashmir from its top. There are also many historical villages that allow the history lovers to contemplate including Gushi (Built by Kashi Shah), Karnah (mentioned in Raj Tarangini written by Kalhana) and Keran. However, the Lolab Valley steals the limelight and Kheer Bhawani Asthapan, Hazrat Mehmood Shah Shrine, Shaloora shrine and many other make for other brilliant option for sightseeing in Kupwara.


• BADGAM : SHELTERING NATURE'S BEST - Blessed with exotic locales that invigorate visitors and locals alike, Badgam is the reflection of authentic Kashmir. One can be spoilt for choices when it comes to tourist attractions in Jammu & Kashmir, especially in the Budgam district. It boasts immensely of picturesque places like Yusmarg, Sang-e-safed, Pehjan and Khag. One can visit the beautiful Nilnag lake located 4kms down the hill from Yusmarg. Doodhpather is another great haunt for the nature lovers in Badgam district. There are number of natural trails in the region that offers good opportunity for trekking. Adventure enthusiasts can trek to Sang-e-safed (base for Mount Tatakutti) Doodhpather and Mount Tatakutti.


• KARGIL : THE BRAVE AND BEAUTIFUL - Brave heart Kargil is situated at India-Pakistan border at an altitude of approximately 2800m above sea level. Connected to the Zojila Pass, Kargil holds important place in the history of India. Set up in the Ladakh region of the state, Kargil is one of the most interesting places to see in Jammu & Kashmir. It offers great opportunity to trekkers, campers, rafters and mountaineers. The Nun Mountain allows mountaineering expeditions whereas, Kargil offers brilliant option for trekking to Pensi-La Lake and Suru valley. Excursion can be made to Drass and see features like Tolo-ling, Mushkoo Valley and Tiger Hill. A short walk to Goma Kargil provides breathtaking views. Mulbek Gompa, Shergol, Urgyan Dzong and Wakha Rgyal are prime attractions of Kargil.


• SONMARG : THE KINGDOM OF UNTAINTED BEAUTY - Needless to say that without a visit to Sonmarg, a trip to Jammu & Kashmir would be incomplete. Blessed with unmatched landscape, Sonmarg make for an extravagant visual treat. Famed for many excursion options, there is a large number of trek and short routes that lead to places like Gangabal Lake, Kishansar Lake, Vishansar Lake, Naranag, Haramukh Mountain and the famous Baltal and Thajiwas Glacier. Baltal, which is located 15kms away from Sonmarg, is used as the base camp for pious Amarnath Yatra. Sonmarg. Do not miss out on the opportunity to visit Zojila Pass, which is situated near Sonmarg and connects Kashmir and Ladakh.


• PULWAMA : WHERE THE FIELD ARE SAFFRON AND THE SKY IS BLUE - Congenial climate, fragrant saffron fields and affable people welcome you to Pulwama district. Lose yourself in the beauty of sprawling saffron fields and the rich culture that dwells here. Pulwama gives you quite a large number of places for sightseeing including Nagberan, Tarsar Lake, Marsar Lake, Shikargarh and Aripal Nag. Where, Nagberan is a small scenic town that draws lot of nature lovers to it, there Shikargarh is known for attracting wildlife lovers. On the other side, Tarsar and Marsar are two legendary lakes that must be visited for its unmatched beauty. Another allure of Pulwama is Aripal Nag, which is situated 11kms from Tral town and is famed for natural water springs. If you cherish visiting historical places and shrines then the Avantishwar Temple is a must visit for you.


• PAHALGAM : TUCKING REFRESHMENT AND EXCITEMENT - The green meadows and the lofty mountains are followed with tranquility and serenity in Pahalgam. The beauty of this small exceptional town does by no means can be a disappointment for an ardent nature lover. Blessed with good accommodation option, Pahalgam is indeed one of the best places to visit in Jammu & Kashmir. Expect a lot of greenery, hotels and resorts and lot of beauty surrounding you. Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, Baisaran, Sheshnag and the Tulian Lake excursion can invigorate your senses and activities like horse riding; trekking and golf make sure that you remain engaged all through your journey. Chandanwari, which is located 16kms away from Pahalgam is the base camp for Amarnath Yatra, a trekking route of approximately 30kms lead up to the holy shrine of Amarnath from here. Pahalgam is the most developed region of valley of Kashmir and thus don’t expect it to be quite like other destinations in Kashmir.


• DODA : THE GEM OF JAMMU - With varying landscape, Doda has won the hearts of many. A perfect place for both nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, it is indeed a great option for spending holidays in Jammu & Kashmir. You can take up easy trekking routes, to keep your holiday relaxing and at the same time adventurous. However for those who want to add an extra edge to their trip can also go for activities like mountaineering and rock climbing. Along with Bhaderwah and Chinta, the beautiful Kishtwar valley draws lot of tourists. The two Hindu shrines namely, Chandi Mata Temple and Athra Devi Temple can also be visited here.


• ANANTNAG : A PARADISE IN PARADISE - Anantnag is rightly the paradise in paradise! Strategically positioned and organized, Anantnag has some of the most picturesque towns of the valley of Kashmir. Kokernag, Pahalgam, Verinag and Daksum are few places that adds feather to the cap of Jammu & Kashmir tourism. Visit Kokernag for the most interesting ‘Claw-like’ formation of the streams that divide from here, rest the place has lush gardens and largest fresh water springs in Kashmir. Standing at 2438m, Daksum is apt for those seeking perfect peaceful ambiance. The prominent feature of the Anantnag city is the Martand Temple, which is a must see. A few kilometers away from the city are Daksum, which is the heaven for nature lovers. Here is at solitude finds its real meaning. A tour to Verinag can leave you stunned; the variety of flowers and the sparkling Verinag springs is truly worth seeing here. It is needless to mention that holidays in Jammu & Kashmir are incomplete without a visit to Anantnag district, where lays a true heaven.


• BARAMULLAH : REFLECTING PERFECTLY THE BEAUTY OF KASHMIR - Reckoned to be the Gateway of Kashmir, Baramullah is another bright gem from the Kashmir’s treasure trove. Both the city and the district of Baramullah are generously blessed with natural endowments. Gulmarg, Khilanmarg and Tangmarg are also places of interest in Jammu & Kashmir tourism along with being important tourist attractions in the district. Where Gulmarg is an idyllic skiing resort, there Khilanmarg is a flower-spangled wide valley, you will get ample of opportunities to click beautiful pictures here. If in Baramullah, you must also visit Wular Lake, which is considered Asia’s largest fresh water lake and if you enjoy bird watching, you can also visit Manasbal Lake. Vijimarg, Mahalishamarg and Uri are some ideal picnic spots. However, it can rightly be said that a journey to Uri is more interesting rather than the destination.

JANNAT E KASHMIR

\"PARADISE ON EARTH\"....