About Kashmir
The
unique and bewitching valley of Kashmir leaves no heart unmoved. The valley
is bounded by the Karakoram range on its north, Ladakh on its northeast and
Jammu on its south. Srinagar, the capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir
is situated by the river Jhelum that is the support and lifeline of the
Kashmir valley. Nature has conferred exotic beauty upon Kashmir. The
picturesque landscapes, verdant forests of Chinar, Deodar and Pine trees,
rivers, lakes, waterfalls, snow-capped peaks and a wide range of flora and
fauna create a heady combination that can be found nowhere else in the
world. The enchanting valley has been attracting artists, archaeologists,
nature enthusiasts, travellers, visitors and adventurers for ages from all
across the world. The Himalayan valley of Kashmir is also very popular for
its delicious fruits such as apples, cherries, plums, peaches, strawberries
etc. The dry fruits of Kashmir like walnuts, almonds, pine nuts or
'Chilgoza' and apricots are known far and wide for their excellent quality.
The silk industry of Kashmir is privileged to be one of the largest in the
country. The Kashmiri Shawls, Namdar (Wooven Carpets), Puttoo (Handloom
tweed) are popular items of export. The valley takes great pride in its
fabulous number of well-versed artisans who are the creators of exquisite
items known world over. The magnetic beauty of the valley is truly beyond
description.
Nearby Attractions
» Dal Lake - The Dal Lake is a priceless treasure
of the valley. The lake is 6.4 km long and 4 km wide, being divided into
three parts by man-made causeways. The lake houses two islands that are
popular picnic spots. Spending some time in the Shikaras (Luxurious
houseboats) is an experience of a lifetime. The hospitality onboard and the
life that survives on the lake is truly incredible. Water skiing, water
scooters and canoeing are a few other attractions on the lake.
»
Mughal Gardens - Dispersed in and around Srinagar are a number of large
and small gardens that have captured people's imagination for ages. Created
by the Mughals, these wonderfully laid-out gardens are sure to amaze one and
all. These gardens include the Chashma Shahi, the Nishat Bag and the
Shalimar Bagh.
» Jhelum River - The Jhelum river is yet another
attraction of the valley. Meandering through the valley, the river expands
and deepens into the Wular Lake. Beautifully lined along the river are some
well known towns and hamlets like Baramula, Anantnag, Sopore, Sumbal etc.
» Harwan Lake - The Harwan Lake is no less
attraction for the travellers and visitors. This clean and pure water lake
is wonderfully set amid mountains, with its dark green waters reflecting the
lofty peaks of Mahadeo. One can also enjoy the popular hatcheries below the
lake. Rainbow trouts are bred here.
Reaching
Srinagar is connected through regular flights to the cities of Delhi, Jammu
and Leh. Jammu is the nearest railhead. There are regular express trains
from here connecting to Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Amritsar. The
city is well-connected by road as well.
Best Time to Visit
The climatic conditions in the middle mountain zones and its valleys depend
upon the altitude. Winters are cold are of long duration. Summers are mild
and very short. Snowfall is experienced in the higher mountain regions.
Kashmir can be best visited between the months of May and September.
