Jammu Kashmir Tourism

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Located in the vicinity of the Karakoram and the western Himalayan mountain ranges, the northern Indian state of Jammu & Kasmir comprises three distinct climatic regions - cold desert areas of Ladakh, the temperate valley of Kashmir and the sub-tropical region of Jammu. The state is widely popular for its culture and heritage, exotic flora and fauna and exciting adventure sports options. Kashmir has been known to be the eminent learning centre of Sanskrit and Persia. Ladakh has been popular for being the living centre of Tantrayan Buddhism while Jammu has long played the seat of rajas and maharajas. So, whether you are looking for ancient cultural heritage, nature's grand finale of beauty or fare of dances and music, you will find it all in the state of Jammu Kashmir.

The three distinct climatic regions in Jammu Kashmir are as follows -

Kashmir Valley

The valley of Kashmir changes character with seasons. Three Himalayan ranges - Karakoram, Zanskar and Pir Panjal - constitute the landscape of the Kashmir region. What catches one's fancy the most in Kasmir is Srinagar, which is simply a collection of breathtaking images. The three water bodies including River Jhelum, the Dal Lake and the Nagin Lake seem to capture the whole essence of Srinagar. The Mughal gardens (Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh and Chashmashai) set by the lakeside are a traveller's delight. The best time for travellers to flock to Kashmir is between the months of March and October.

Jammu

It is the place where the past is still able to speak to the present. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, you will see in Jammu ancient temples and magnificent palaces. Though the city has a number of palaces, forts and dargahs, the temples of Jammu seem to overshadow them all. On the one hand, Bahu Mata is the presiding deity of Jammu region. On the other, the dargah of Peer Buddhan Ali Shah gives protection to the Jammuites. The Raghunath Temple Complex is one of the biggest attractions in the city of Jammu.

Ladakh

The trans-Himalayan land of Ladakh is a land of mystery. For centuries, it has been known as the 'Land of Passes'; La means pass and dakh refers to land. The district of Ladakh is completely tree-less and is chiefly mountainous. The exotic wildlife of Ladakh and the adventure of Jeep safari here is much popular with tourists coming to Jammu & Kashmir. Though, the biggest attraction in Ladakh is the Buddhist culture and you can see major Buddhist gompas in and around Leh, capital of Ladakh district.

Adventure Tourism in Jammu & Kashmir

While you are in the state of Jammu & Kashmir, you have the opportunity to enjoy a number of exciting adventure sports. Water skiing along the Dal Lake is much popular with tourists. Trekking, hiking and mountaineering are equally popular with travellers. During winters, you can head towards Gulmarg to enjoy skiing down the snowy slopes. Golfing in Gulmarg gives you a chance to enjoy the sport on the world's highest golf course. Those who like light adventure can opt for shikara rides along the Dal and Nagin Lake.

Adventure freaks can head towards Leh Ladakh, where you can start to explore the cold deserts. One of the finest options to soak up the charms of adventure in Ladakh is to go for a jeep safari. Jeep safari in the Zanskar regions and Nubra Valley is a wonderful experience. Wildlife of Ladakh is also very rare and exotic. The wild yak is one of the biggest attractions for wildlife lovers.