HILL STATION - KASHMIR
Situated in the northern part as the crown of India, the vale of Kashmir is one of the most beautiful regions of India. It is bordered by Pakistan, China and Afghanistan from West to East. Called the‘Switzerland of India’, the brilliance of its snow-capped mountains, the tranquility of its silver lakes, a romantic journey on its houseboats and the splendour of its gardens hail the nature lovers from all over the world. The city has quite a few picturesque lakes rimmed with Shikaras (houseboats). Here also you find some old temples and mosques of exquisite architecture.
Kashmir valley lies between the Himalayas and the Pir Panjal mountain range. People often run out of superlatives while describing the place therefore we won't do that and simply concentrate on the tourist attractions of the place.
Kashmir Tourism
Situated in the northern most part of India, the valley of Kashmir is one of the most beautiful regions of the country. Often referred as the 'Paradise on Earth' or 'Switzerland of India', the region has been a major tourist attraction, since the time of the Mughal Emperors. In fact, Kashmir valley is an ideal place for holidaymakers as well ashoneymooners.
Though, the whole of Jammu & Kashmir, India is pleasant, few of the places are truly a heaven for the tourists to Jammu & Kashmir, India. Besides natural splendour, there are many religious sites and other monuments to be seen in and around the valley.
Major Holiday Destinations in Kashmir
Tourist attractions in Kashmir
The tourist attractions of Kashmir consist of some of the finest places in and around the valley. It is one of the most charming and scenic places in India. Sightseeing in Kashmir is mainly about appreciating the beauty of the nature. Glittering glaciers, snow covered mountains and picturesque hill stations all add to the tourist appeal of Kashmir. Some important attractions in Kashmir valley are: Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Chashma Shahi, Pari Mahal, Hazratbal Mosque, Jama Masjid, Shankaracharya Temple, Makhdoom Sahib, Martand, Awantipur.
Popular Sightseeing spots in Kashmir:
The Meadow of Gold : At a height of 2,740 m, Sonamarg in the state of Jammu & Kashmir is the last major point in the Kashmir valley before the Zoji La pass into Ladakh . At the pass the green, lush Kashmiri landscape abruptly switches to the barren, dry landscape of Ladakh. Sonamarg is thus not only a good base for treks but also a jumping off point for trips into Ladakh.
Nishat Garden : Queen Nur-Jehan's brother Asif Khan laid the Garden in 1633 AD. It is situated on the banks of world famous Dal-Lake in the backdrop of Zabarwan hills . This garden commands magnificient view of the lake.The Garden is Terraced with beautiful water channel flowing right in the middle.
Shalimar Garden : This Garden was built by Emepror Shah-Jehan for his beloved wife Nur-Jehan. The Garden has four terraces and is 539x182 meters and gets water from Harwan through canal which is lined with beautiful fountains. The 4th terrace was once reserved for royal ladies. The Garden blooms with innumerable varities of flowers in spring and autmn.
Harwan : Harwan is huge Garden lined with flower beds and massive Chinar Trees with a beautiful canal flowing right through the middle. The canal is fed from a beautiful lake which lies behind the garden. there is not much clutter of fountains and other fancy things but vast big green carpeted green lawns which form an ideal spot for picnics. This spot is very popular with the locals for picnics and excursions.
Shrines : The most important shrine is of Amarnath cave situated about 48 KMs from Pahalgam which attracts devotees from all over the world. It is located in the upper reaches of the Distt at an altitude of about 13000ft. from the sea level. Shrine is believed to be an abode of lord Shiva. The shrine of Baba-Hyder Rishi is located at Anantnag. He is the last giant of Rishi order of saints.
Bandipore : This town lies on the east bank of Wullar lake and is also called the "Port of Wullar". The roads to Gurez and Gilgit lead from this town.
Chhatti Padshahi : Chhatti Padshahi Gurudwara is situated near Srinagar, Kashmir.
Mughal Gardens : The gardens have terraced lawns and fountains that have a cascading effect project to you the Emperor's idea of a paradise.
Shanti Stupa : It looks impressive, especially at night when it is well lit-up. With financial assistance from the Japanese government, about 3 km from fort Road.
Hazratbal Mosque : The white marble mosque is located in Hazratbal village, on the banks of the Dal Lake. Hazratbal is famous for housing a hair of the prophet Muhammad. The hair is displayed to the public on religious occasions, which is accompanied by fairs. The mosque offers the spectacular view of the lake and the mountain beyond.
Dal Lake : It is the most famous lake of the city where you'll find the maximum number of houseboats. Whatever your plans in the city of Srinagar, the Dal lake is always going to be in the thick of the things as it is located right in the heart of the city. There is a complete community of the houseboat and shikara residents who have built a complete infrastructure within the lake so that they never have to step on land.
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Hemis Gompa : Situated 45 km south of Leh is the most accessible and hence most visited gaompas of Leh. It has an excellent library, well preserved frescoes showing some Kashmiri influence and good Buddha statues.
Namgyal Tsemo Gompa : Built in 1430, contains a fine three-storey-high Buddha and ancient manuscripts and frescoes. From here, the views of Leh are superb. A steep lane from here leads to the Leh Palace.
Bahu Fort : The original fort was built by Raja Bahulochan but was modified and improved by Dogra rulers. This fort, perhaps the oldest edifice in Jammu, is located 5 km from the city. The fort is built on rocks facing the Tawi river. A temple dedicated to Goddess Kali is also inside the fort. Exquisitely laid-out gardens surround the fort on all sides.
