Kashmir – Always Compared to Heaven

Author: rajmehta | Posted: 27.12.2011

Many prominent people from various periods of time have felt like comparing Kashmir to heaven. Those who once visited Kashmir overwhelmingly agree with the comparison. Kashmir is a paradise of heavenly sight, sounds and smells. Kashmir, the northernmost state of India, is thus a prime tourism destination.

The important attractions of Kashmir Tourism are its magnificent landscape, serene lakes, fascinating gardens, opportunities for adventure sports, abodes of worship, historical monuments, exotic flora and fauna and its diverse geography.

Kashmir Tour Packages as important tourist destinations include Srinagar, Gulmarg, Phalgam, Sonmarg, Jammu, Patnitop, Sanasar, Katra, Leh, Ladakh, Kargil, Zanaskar and Nubra Valley.

Srinagar is located in the heart of Kashmir valley. It is situated at an altitude of one thousand seven hundred and thirty meters above sea level and spreads its charm on both sides of river Jhelum. Dal and Nagin lakes add to the picturesque setting of Srinagar. Blessed with distinctive seasons and salubrious climate, Srinagar is attractive to tourists although the year.

As is whole of Jammu and Kashmir state, Srinagar is also blessed with beautiful lakes. Prominent of them are Dal Lake and Nagin Lake. Dal Lake is one of the more beautiful lakes in India and is the second largest in Jammu and Kashmir state. Its three sides are surrounded by majestic mountains and on the shores are laid numerous gardens and orchards. Nagin lake is a small distance away from Dal. In fact both are interconnected with a small water channel. The water of Nagin is pleasantly cool even in summer. You can have the pleasure of shopping in the midst of water in Nagin. There are a number of boats which act as shops.

Another attraction of Srinagar lakes are its houseboats. Kashmir Houseboat Tour lets the tourists stay in the peace and tranquility of lakes for long. Kashmir houseboats are seen in Dal and Nagin Lakes and river Jhelum. Houseboats are moored to islands and remain stationary. They are entirely made out of Deodar wood and exterior and interior are embellished with intricate carvings showing remarkable craftsmanship.

Srinagar is also home to numerous gardens. Most of them are built during Mughal era. Prominent of Mughal Gardens are Shalimar and Nishat gardens. Both are situated on the shores of Dal Lake.

Apart from car and foot, one way of sightseeing in Srinagar is through riding Shikara boats in Dal Lake. Most of the important sites can be viewed like this including Hazrathbal Shrine.

Gulmarg is a prime winter destination and a premier mountain resort. Its legendary beauty and proximity to Srinagar adds to its attraction. During winter, Gulmarg is covered in snow and attains the status of premier ski resort of country. It offers good sunshine and snow – both hallmarks of a high grade ski resort. The skiing season usually commences in mid December and lasts till March end. Gulmarg has some of best slopes suited for learning skiing. They are serviced by ski lifts and chair lifts. Trained instructors and equipments on hire are available. Apart from skiing, Gulmarg offers options for other snow sports as well.

Ladakh is situated on the western edge of Tibetan Plateau.. Ladakh which once had an extensive lake system is now a high altitude desert. The signs of the lake system are still there to be seen.



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