Situated in the northern most part of India, the valley of Kashmir is one of the most beautiful regions of the country. Srinagar, the capital city, stands on the banks of the Jhelum river, is the lifeline of the Kashmir Valley. 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. Its snow-capped mountains, the tranquil silver lakes, the houseboats, the picturesque garden and a range of flora and fauna attract the nature lovers from all parts of the world. Apart natural beauty, the region is dotted with several religious sites and other important monuments. In fact Kashmir valley is an ideal place for holidaymakers as well as honeymooners. Besides Kashmir has a lot to offer to the artists, archaeologists, rock and mountain climbers and hunters, who throng the valley in large numbers.

Jammu is the second largest city of the northern Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir and is also its winter capital. Divided into two separate cities, the old town of Jammu is located on a hilltop overlooking the river Tawi while the new town is situated across the river, several kilometers away. The city of Jammu is named after Jambu Lochan, thwe brother of Bahu, a powerful local chieftain who ruled during the ninth century. It is said that on becoming king, Jambu Lochan went on a hunt and, crossing the Tawi, found a deer and a tiger drinking water from the same tank. His ministers explained that this meant that the soil of the place was so virtuous that no living creature bore enmity against another. Raja Jambu Lochan, decided to build his capital, Jambupura, on this soil, on the right bank of the Tawi overlooking his brother king Bahu's fort. Jambupura later came to be known as Jammu.

Dal Lake The sweet water lake is the Jewel in the crown of the Kashmir and has been the inspiration for poets and a major attraction for the tourists. The 6.4 Km long and 4 Km wide lake is divided into three parts - Gagri bal, Lokut Dal and Bod Dal. Dal Lake is known worldwide for Shikaras and Houseboats. Within the lake, two small islands called as Sona Lank (Gold Island) and Rupa Lank (Silver Island) are famous picnic spots. The tourists can enjoy Shikara rides, Kayaking, Canoeing and Angling here.

Mughal Gardens Kashmir valley is dotted with several large and small gardens in and around Srinagar. The gardens with terraced lawns, cascading fountains, bright colourful flowerbeds and the beautiful Dal Lake in front, are the Mughal Emperors' concept of paradise on earth. The three famous Mughal Gardens are Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh and Chasma Shahi, which are very famous for picnics and excursions.

Pahalgam The world famous hill station is located 45 Kms from the District headquarter Anantnag. Situated an altitude of 7,200 ft. from sea level, Pahalgam lies on the banks of Lidder river. Pahalgam is the major tourist attraction and the best health resort of the country. Pahalgam also serves as a base for the popular Amarnathji Yatra.

Gulmarg Gulmarg (Meadow of Flowers) is situated in the Baramulla district of Kashmir. It is 56 Kms southwest of the capital city Srinagar. The picturesque beauty and location of Gulmarg, make it one of the popular hill stations in the country. Dotted with colourful bluebells, daisies, forget-me-nots and buttercups, Gulmarg looks more beautiful during springs.

Amarnath Situated 145 Kms east of Srinagar, Amarnath is considered to be one of the major Hindu Dhams. Amarnath is known for an ice Siva-linga, which changes its size with the seasons. The linga becomes 6 ft high on the full moon day. The annual festival of Amarnath takes place at this cave temple during July-August on the full moon day.

How To Get There??
Air :The Jammu airport is 8 Kms from the city centre. Indian airlines operates flights from Delhi to Srinagar/ Leh.
Rail : Jammu Tawi Railway station is an important railhead of the Norther Railways. The trains are available from the major cities of the country to Jammu.
Road :Jammu is connected by the National Highway 1-A to the rest of the country. The distance of some important cities from Jammu are Amritsar (243 Kms), Chandigarh (436 Kms), Delhi (586 Kms) and Srinagar (305 Kms) etc.