Kashmir
the paradise on Earth
Jammu
and Kashmir is southernmost state of India and situated mostly in the Himalayan
Mountains. Jammu and Kashmir shares its borders with, states of Himachal
Pradesh and Punjab of India to the south, China and Afghanistan to the
Northeast and Pakistan administered territories to the West and Northwest
respectively. Jammu and Kashmir consists of three regions namely Jammu, Kashmir
Valley and the Ladakh. Jammu & Kashmir - a distinct land has enriched both
travelers and people by multifaceted culture, geography and history blend with
the unsurpassed natural beauty in all the three regions. Srinagar is the summer
capital of the state and Jammu is the winter capital. This shifting of
capital’s during winter was started with the Maharaja's of Dogra Rule and continues
till now, and so both the cities are quite developed and have many tourist
attractions. Once considered as the center of Hinduism and Buddhism many Sufi
saints and sages have Kashmir as their birth place. While the Kashmir valley is
known for its beautiful mountainous landscape, the lakes and blue valleys
rising to alpine passes, the Jammu’s region is abode of gods and goddesses for
which it bears the name, 'city of temples'. The region has broadened the
spheres of pilgrimage tourism for entire State. At the same time Ladakh, a
living centre of Buddhism, possesses mystique landscape and rugged pinnacles
lit up by the colorful traditions of the people, it is a dream of adventurers
and explorers.
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 100 km (62 mi) wide and 15,520.3 km2 (5,992.4 sq mi) in area. This
densely settled and beautiful valley has an average height of 1,850 metres
(6,070 ft) above sea-level but the surrounding Pir Panjal range has an average
elevation of 5,000 metres (16,000 ft).
Because
of Jammu and Kashmir's wide range of elevations, its biogeography is diverse.
Northwestern thorn scrub forests and Himalayan subtropical pine 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 tree line are found
northwestern Himalayan alpine shrub and meadows. Much of the northeast of the
state is covered by the Karakoram- West Tibet Plateau alpine steppe. Around the
highest elevations, there is no vegetation, simply rock and ice. In general
Jammu & Kashmir's forests include a wide variety of species including maple
(the famous "chinar" tree of the Kashmir valley), evergreens, rose
chestnut, alder, pine, laurel, sal, oak, magnolia, cedar, birch, hazel, spruce,
juniper, rhododendron. These forests provide a perfect habitat for the wildlife
of Jammu& Kashmir and are a vital component of Jammu & Kashmir's
Eco-system and for tourism of varying nature equally.
The
Jhelum River is the only major Himalayan River which flows through the Kashmir
valley. The Indus, Ravi and Chenab are the major rivers flowing through the
state. Srinagar, the capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, stands by the
river Jhelum that forms the lifeline of the Kashmir Valley. Jammu and Kashmir
is home to several Himalayan glaciers. With an average altitude of 5,753 metres
(18,875 ft) above sea-level, the Siachen Glacier is 70 km (43 mi) long making
it the longest Himalayan glacier.
Jammu
and Kashmir is a state every tourists dreams to visit. An inspiration for art,
music and poetry, Kashmir is also a honeymooners' paradise, a nature lover's
wonderland and a shopper's dream come true. The valley of Kashmir is unique in
its surroundings, which offers breathtaking view of its varying topography.
Nature has endowed Kashmir with exotic beauty, which is reflected in its
picturesque landscapes, lush green forests of Chinar, Deodar and Pine trees,
beautiful rivers and waterfalls, snow covered mountains and a range of flora
and fauna. In fact, it abounds in many varieties of wildlife, which includes
Bears, Leopards and Himalayan Chamois etc. The countless species of luxuriant
vegetation too, attract lot of enthusiastic botanists. Kashmir also has a lot
to offer to the artists, archaeologists, rock and mountain climbers and big
game hunters who throng this place in large numbers. Besides this, it is an
ideal place for holidaymakers as well as for people who seek tranquility and
peace amidst natural surroundings. No wonder that, Kashmir is referred to as
the 'Switzerland of India.'
Due
to the abundance of natural beauty many places are unkempt and remain
unexplored but their wilderness in itself is an attraction. Anantnag is famous
for ladder river, Baramulla has Wullar lake, Jammu has perennial rivers and
beautiful gardens and Leh has pengong rivers and where ever one goes he finds
small hills or huge mountains around. It is worth also visiting Nishat garden,
Shalimar garden, Cheshmaishahi, and Pari Mahal collectively called Mughal gardens
at Srinagar.
Jammu and
Kashmir Seasons
The
climate of Jammu and Kashmir varies greatly owing to its rugged topography. In
the south around Jammu, the climate is typically monsoonal. In the hot season,
Jammu city is very hot and can reach up to 40 °C (104 °F) whilst in July and
August, very heavy though erratic rainfall occurs. In higher altitudes night
temperature drops slightly. The Srinagar with its lakes and waterways is a
heaven after the scorching heat of the Indian plains. In September, rainfall
declines, and by October conditions are hot but extremely dry, with minimal
rainfall and temperatures of around 29 °C (84 °F), perhaps this the Jammu and
Kashmir loveliest season. From December to the beginning of March, the
temperature drops sharply and time for snowfalls starts in higher altitudes,
bringing sometime entire Jammu & Kashmir under blanket of snow.
Places of
attractions in Srinagar
Srinagar–
City of Lakes
Srinagar
is the largest city and capital of Jammu and Kashmir state. It is situated in
Kashmir valley and lies on the bank of Jhelum River. Srinagar is famous for his
beautiful lakes and houseboats. It is also know for traditional kashmiri
handicrafts and dry fruits.
The
natural beauty of the hill resort of Srinagar is spellbound and sweeps off
one’s of his feet. Jahangir, the Mughal emperor was left spell bound by the
beauty of Srinagar. He exclaimed "Gar firdaus, ruhe zamin ast, hamin asto,
hamin asto, hamin asto" i.e. If there is a heaven on earth, it's here,
it's here, it's here in Srinagar.
History
The
Srinagar District has a long history. In third century BC, the city was
identified by different names, though originally it was established by the
Ruler Pravara Sena II over 2, 000 years ago, name it Parvasenpur. Later city became
part of the Mauraya Empire and during that period Ashoka introduced Buddhism to
the Kashmir Valley, and the adjoining regions around city became a centre of
Buddhism. The City subsequently came under control of Kushans, Vikramaditya and
Mihirkula the most dreaded ruler of the city in the valley during Huns ruling.
The Srinagar city turned as headquarters of Kashmir in 960 CE. The independent
Hindu and the Buddhist rule of Srinagar lasted until the 14th century when the
Kashmir valley, including the city, came under the control of the several
Muslims rulers, including the Mughals. Before independence of India, the city
was controlled by British rulers and before them Sikhs and prior to Sikh
rulers, Mughal’s ruled Kashmir Valley, though Mughal’s created countless
tourist spots particularly for summer vacations.
After
India and Pakistan's independence from Britain, certain Pashtun tribes such as Mehsud
and Afridi from mountainous region of North –West Frontier Province (NWFP) of
Pakistan, at the instigation of Pakistan and with its collusion, entered the
Kashmir valley to capture it. The
Maharaja signed the instrument of accession on 26 October 1947 which was
accepted by India the next day. The government of India immediately airlifted
Indian troops to Srinagar, defended the city and drove away the invaders.
The
city has suffered from severe political and terrorist unrest during the last
decades. Kashmiri separatists have clashed with Indian Army on some occasions.
The city is heavily militarized.
Tourist
attraction in Srinagar
There
are several spectacular sites that must be visited in Srinagar. The hill resort
has often been referred to as Paradise on earth. The hill resort is also
referred to as the land of lakes and gardens owing to the abundance of both.
One
of the major landmarks of Srinagar is the Dal Lake. There are several lakes
that comprise the Dal Lake in the eastern side of Srinagar. The Nagin Lake is
the most renowned of the lakes. The tourists at Dal Lake enjoy the wondrous
vistas offered by the spectacular surrounding of Srinagar. You must take a ride
in the traditional Kashmiri boats that is often referred to as
"Shikaras" to explore the intricate maze of waterways of the Dal
Lake. The shikara ride at the sunset on the Dal Lake is an unforgettable
experience.
In
the city of lakes and gardens there are the well laid out Mughal styled gardens
of Chashme Shahi, Shalimar Bagh and the Nishat Bagh. Chashme Shahi means the
royal spring, Shalimar Bagh implies the abode of love and the Nishat Bagh
denotes the pleasure garden. These gardens lay far eastern side of the Dal
Lake. Tourists are often seen strolling in the gorgeous green gardens. The
waterworks in the gardens add to their beauty.
Holy
Places
Hazratbal
Shrine: The Hazrathalbal Shirne,
is a muslim shrine in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is situated on the
left bank of the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar and is considered to be Kashmir’s
holiest Mislims Shrine. The shirne is known by many names including Hazrathbal,
Assar-e-Sharief, madinat-us-Sani, Dargah Sharief and Dargah. The Moi-e-Muqqadas
(the sacred hair) of Mohammed is believed to be preserved here. Sadiq Khan, laid
out a garden here and constructed a palacial building, Ishrat mahal or Pleasure
House, in 1623. The construction of the present marble structure was started by
the Muslim Aquaf Trust headed by Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah in 1968 and completed
in 1979. The Moi-e-Muqqadas is displayed on various occasions related with the
life of the Prophet and his four holy companions.
Shankaracharya
Temple: The
Shankaracharya Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located on the
summit of the same name, and is overlooking the town of Srinagar. The temple
dates back to 200 BC, although the present structure probably dates back to the
9th century AD. The temple was visited by the Adishankaracharya and has ever
since been associated with him. Furthermore, it is regarded as being sacred by
Buddists, who call the mandir "Pas-Pahar."
The
temple was originally built by Sandiman, who reigned in Kashmir from 2629 to
2564 BC. It was repaired by King Gopaditya (426 – 365 BC) and by King
Lalitaditya (697–734). Dogra ruler, Maharaja Gulab Singh, constructed stone
stairs upto the temple. In 1925, the temple was electrified. The temple,
besides a prominent religious place of Hindus, is of great archaeological
importance. The temple commands a magnificent panoramic view of the Srinagar
city.
Khanqah-e-Molla:
The
shrine of Shah-e-Hamdan or Khanqah-e-Moulla is one of the oldest Muslim shrines
in Kashmir situated on the bank of the river Jhelum in the old city
Jamia
Masjid: Jamia
Masjit is one of the oldest and the most spacious of all the mosques in
Kashmir, situated in the heart of the city. The foundation of the mosque, an
architectural wonder was laid by Sultan Sikander in 1398 A.D. Later, the son of
Sultan Sikandar, Zain-ul-Abidin got the mosque extended. Thousands of Muslims
assemble at the mosque every Friday to offer their prayers.
Imambrara
Hassanbad Srinagar: Imambara
Hasanabad is the second oldest shrine and is a world known place of mourning
and worshiping of one million shia population of Jammu and Kashmir. Located
near to Lal Chowk (2.6 km from Srinagar), it is surrounded by world famous
Hazratbal shrine one side, Temple of Mata Sharka Devi and Gurdawara Chatti
Padshahi on other side. Hassanabad was a developed city during the Moughal Rule
period and is sited near the Mughal graveyard, which is the resting place for
the elite Kashmiris. The site is accessible through local transports within 20
mins.
Chatti
Padshahi: Chatti
Padshahi, one of the most important Sikh Gurudwaras in Kashmir. The sixth guru
of Sikhism traveled through Kashmir, stopping to preach occasionally. It is
situated just outside the southern gate of Hari Parbat fort.
Tourist
Places
Dal Lake: The world famous water
body described by Sir Walter Lawerence as the "Lake par-excellence",
is located at half a kilometers from the city, is the jewel in the crown of Kashmir.
The lake of late has unfortunately, considerably shrunk in size causing concern
to environmentalists. The shore line of the lake, about 15.5 kilometres (9.6
mi), is encompassed by a boulevard lined with Mughal erea gardens, parks,
houseboats and hotels. Scenic views of the lake can be witnessed from the shore
line Mughal gardens, such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh built during the
reign of Mughal Emperor Jahangir and from houseboats cruising along the lake in
the colourful shikaras. During the winter season, the temperature sometimes
reaches −11 °C (12 °F), freezing the lake.
Cheshma
Shahi and Pari Mahal: Cheshma Shahi or the Royal Spring was laid by Shah Jahan in
1632 A.D. It is 9 Km. from the city centre and is famous for a spring of
refreshment digestive water. Two kilometers uphill from Cheshma Shahi is
situated the Pari Mahal, a school of astrology founded by Prince Dara Shikoh, Emperor
Shah Jahan's eldest son who was killed in the war of succession. The Cheshma
Shahi-Pari Mahal area has been developed into a Tourist Village.
Nishat
Garden: Queen
Nur Jahan's brother, Asif Khan,laid the Garden in 1633 A.D. It is situated on
the banks of the Dal Lake in the backdrop of the Zabarwan hills, 11 Km from the
district headquarter of Srinagar. The Garden commands a magnificent view of the
lake.
Shalimar
Garden: The
Garden, 15 Kms from the city centre, was built by Emperor Jahangir for his
beloved wife, Nurjahan. The garden with four terraces is 539 by 182 meters and
gets water from Harwan through a canal lined with fountains. The fourth terrace
was once reserved for royal ladies.
Travel
Connections to Srinagar:
By Road: The dual lane of the
road in the city allows more commuters to travel freely. Travel agencies are
offering direct buses from various cities of India to reach Srinagar. Some
deluxe buses are also available for luxury journey. This city is properly
linked with Chandigarh (630 kms away), Jammu (290 kms away), Delhi (876 kms
away), Leh (434 kms away) and Pahalgam (96 kms away). Getting the travel
packages will help visitors to get the guide with them.
By Air: The domestic airport of
Srinagar allows commuters to reach the spot easily Frequent flights from Delhi,
Chandigarh, Mumbai and Shimla are available to reach Srinagar.
By Train: The biggest railway
station to reach Srinagar is Jammu. The distance between Jammu and Srinagar is
290 kms. Jammu station is properly linked with all major cities of India.
Direct trains from Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai and Trivandrum are available to
reach Jammu.
