tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44213357061956203422024-03-23T03:13:48.234-07:00Jammu and Kashmir Tourism | Kashmir TourismThe breathtaking beauty of Kashmir has earned it the name of the "Switzerland of the East". Provide information about Jammu and Kashmir Tourism, jammu and kashmir map, jammu and Kashmir, jammu & Kashmir, Kashmir, history of jammu and Kashmir, map of jammu & Kashmir, kashmir map, jammu to Kashmir, jammu and kashmir photo, jammu university, jammu tourism, weather in jammu, jammu tourist places, hotels jammu and much moreKaushuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04458778096609495270noreply@blogger.comBlogger4125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421335706195620342.post-75628485564566836322011-02-21T07:38:00.000-08:002014-04-18T00:19:02.307-07:00Jammu and Kashmir Tourism | Kashmir Tourism<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<h1>
Jammu and Kashmir Tourism | Kashmir Tourism</h1>
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Jammu and Kashmir About this sound is the northernmost state of India. It is situated mostly in the Himalayan mountains. <a href="http://jammuandkashmirtourism.blogspot.com/">Jammu and Kashmir</a> shares a border with the states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab to the south and internationally with the People's Republic of China to the north and east and the Pakistan-administered territories of Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, to the west and northwest respectively.<br />
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Kashmir, the "<a href="http://jammuandkashmirtourism.blogspot.com/">Paradise on Earth</a>", is known for its captivating beauty. It is encircled by three mountain ranges of the Himalayas- Karakoram, Zanaskar and Pir Panjal, running from northwest to northeast. Forming the backdrop of Kashmir, these snow-capped ranges make Kashmir look like a picture straight out of a fairytale. Dazzling rivers, serene lakes, splendid gardens, flowering meadows, etc are some other features of the landscape of the Kashmir valley. The breathtaking beauty of Kashmir has earned it the name of the "Switzerland of the East". Nothing describes the beauty of Kashmir better than the following words of a Mughal emperor:<br />
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"Gar Bar-ru-e-Zamin Ast; Hamin Ast, Hamin Ast Hamin Ast"<br />
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It means that if there is paradise on this earth, this is it, this is it, and this is it. It is impossible to overstate the beauty of Kashmir. In fact, the beauty of the Kashmir valley of India is beyond the scope of words. The gushing rivers, sparkling waterfalls, scenic surrounding and the lush green forests of Kashmir add to its splendor. <a href="http://jammuandkashmirtourism.blogspot.com/"><b>Kashmir tourism</b></a> is also famous for the exotic flora and fauna found in the region. The sanctuaries and parks in Kashmir abound in some of the rare and endangered species of birds and animals. Then, there are countless species of luxuriant vegetation too, attracting a number of botanists.<br />
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Formerly a part of the erstwhile Princely State of Kashmir and Jammu, which governed the larger historic region of Kashmir, this territory is disputed among China, India and Pakistan.<br />
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Jammu and Kashmir consists of three regions: Jammu, the Kashmir valley and Ladakh. Srinagar is the summer capital, and Jammu is the winter capital. While the Kashmir valley is famous for its beautiful mountainous landscape, Jammu's numerous shrines attract tens of thousands of Hindu pilgrims every year. Ladakh, also known as "Little Tibet", is renowned for its remote mountain beauty and Buddhist culture. Get <a href="http://www.international-tour-packages.co.in/cheapest-tour-packages-kashmir/">cheapest tour packages for Kashmir</a> in affordable rate at http://www.international-tour-packages.co.in/cheapest-tour-packages-kashmir/.
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<h3>
Facts and Figures of Jammu and Kashmir:</h3>
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<h4>
Area:</h4>
<br />
222,236 sq km<br />
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<h4>
Population:</h4>
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9,535,000 (1998)<br />
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Religion:</h4>
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Islam<br />
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Capital:</h4>
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Srinagar (Summer), Jammu (Winter)<br />
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Languages:</h4>
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Urdu, Kashmiri, Hindi, Dogri, Pahari, Ladakhi<br />
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Best time to visit:</h4>
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April to June (Kashmir Valley), October to March (Jammu Region) <br />
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How to reach in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh:</h3>
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BY AIR:</h4>
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The state has three major civil airports at Srinagar, Jammu, and Ladakh connected to Delhi and other places in the country. <br />
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Indian Airlines and its subsidiary Alliance Air operate in the Delhi-Chandigarh-Ladakh and Delhi-Jammu-Srinagar routes.<br />
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BY RAIL:</h4>
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Jammu Tawi is the main railhead of Jammu & Kashmir. It is connected to most of the important towns and cities of the country. Moreover, the longest rail route that stretches from Jammu Tawi to Kanyakumari and touches almost all the main cities and towns of the country originates from here. <br />
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BY ROAD:</h4>
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One can easily reach Jammu by the National Highway 1A that goes from Punjab and runs through this city, connecting it to the rest of the state, including the capital Srinagar. The state transport corporation runs several buses to most of the big towns and cities in north India. <br />
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Ladakh is connected to Srinagar and <a href="http://tourismindia03.blogspot.com/2011/02/manali-hill-station-manali-manali.html">Manali</a> by some of the most difficult road networks in the world. The Manali-Leh road is considered as the highest motorable road in the world. <br />
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Travel in Jammu:</h3>
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<h4>
By Air:</h4>
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Jammu is well connected by various domestic airline services with Delhi, Amritsar, Chandigarh, and Srinagar.<br />
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By Rail:</h4>
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Jammu Tawi is an important railhead on the Northern Railway line, having excellent connections with other parts of the country. Express trains connect it with Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Calcutta and Amritsar.<br />
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By Road:</h4>
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Located on the National Highway 1A, Jammu is linked by a network of roads to Amritsar, Chandigarh, Delhi, Katra, Srinagar, and <a href="http://tourismindia03.blogspot.com/2011/02/manali-hill-station-manali-manali.html">Manali</a>.<br />
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<h3>
Travel in Kashmir:</h3>
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<h4>
By Air:</h4>
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Srinagar is connected to Delhi by daily flights via Jammu. Weekly flights are also operated by various domestic airlines from Leh to Srinagar and thrice a week flights are operated from Delhi to Srinagar.<br />
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By Rail:</h4>
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The nearest railhead from the Srinagar is Jammu Tawi, 305-km away. Jammu is connected to all parts of the country by express trains. Some of the important rail connections include:<br />
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Jammu Express From Pune<br />
Himgiri Express From Howrah<br />
Shalimar Express From Ahmedabad<br />
Jammu Tawi From Delhi<br />
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<h4>
By Road:</h4>
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Srinagar being the only major town linked by road to the rest of the country, all visitors make it their base, going for excursions to nearby resorts, for fishing and trekking expeditions. The capital city is connected by JKSRTC bus services to Jammu, Leh, Kargil, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Chandigarh and Delhi.<br />
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<h3>
<a href="http://jammuandkashmirtourism.blogspot.com/">Climate of Jammu and Kashmir</a> and Ladakh:</h3>
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Jammu and Kashmir comprises of three distinct climatic regions with vast variance due to a sharp rise of altitude from 1,000 feet to 28,250 feet above sea level within four degrees of latitude of the state. The state is geologically constituted of rocks varying from the oldest period of earth's history to the youngest present day river and lake deposits.<br />
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<h3>
Climate of Jammu:</h3>
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The Jammu region experiences a tropical climate.<br />
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<h4>
Rainfall:</h4>
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107 cm (July to September).<br />
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Best Season:</h4>
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October to April. <br />
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<h4>
Temperatures (Average):</h4>
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Summer : 43.0 degree C to 23.4degrees C.<br />
Winter : 26.2 to 4.3 degrees C.<br />
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<h4>
Clothing:</h4>
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Heavy/Medium woollens in winter and light cottons in summer.<br />
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<h3>
Climate of Kashmir:</h3>
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The mountainous tracts of the Himalayan mountains, the youngest mountain ranges in the world have temperate climatic conditions. The climate varies from alpine in the northeast to subtropical in the southwest. Annual average precipitation ranges from 3 inches (75 mm) in the north to 45 inches (1,150 mm) in the southwest. <br />
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Best Season:</h4>
March to October. <br />
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<h4>
Temperatures (Average) :</h4>
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Summer : 10 to 30 degrees cent.<br />
Winter : Low temperatures in winter.<br />
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Clothing: </h4>
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Light/Medium woollens in summer and heavy woollens in winter. <br />
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<h3>
Climate of Ladakh:</h3>
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One of the driest regions in northern India, the capital Leh experiences only 110 mm of rainfall a year. Because of its location to the north east of the main Himalayan range, it is sheltered from the Indian monsoon Padum is subject to occasional heavy storms in July and August and heavy snowfall in winter. Leh on the lee side of the Himalayan and Zanskar range is devoid of snowfall in winter.<br />
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Best Season:</h4>
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March to October. <br />
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<h4>
Temperature (Average) :</h4>
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Summer : 20 degrees C.<br />
Winter : 15 degrees C to -3 degrees C.<br />
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<h4>
Clothing : </h4>
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Light/Medium woollens in summer and heavy woollens in winter. <br />
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<h3>
Weather of Jammu and Kashmir:</h3>
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<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="205" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://www.weather-forecast.com/locations/Jammu/forecasts/latest/threedayfree" style="border: medium none; overflow: hidden;" width="475"></iframe> <br />
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<a href="http://www.weather-forecast.com/locations/Jammu/forecasts/latest?utm_source=weather_feed&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=weather_feed"><img alt="Weather Forecast" border="0" src="http://www.weather-forecast.com/images/weatherlogo_130.gif" height="37" style="float: left; height: 37px; margin: 0pt 5px 0pt 8px; width: 130px;" width="130" /></a><a href="http://www.weather-forecast.com/locations/Jammu/forecasts/latest?utm_source=weather_feed&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=weather_feed" style="color: #669900; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">View Detailed 9 Day Weather Forecasts for Jammu, webcams, weather maps & more at Weather-Forecast.com</span></a></div>
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<h3>
History of Kashmir:</h3>
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The area known as Jammu and Kashmir came into existence when the Mughal Emperor Akbar invaded Kashmir in 1586, led by his general Bhagwant Das and his aide Ramchandra I. The Mughal army defeated the Turk ruler Yusuf Khan of Kashmir. After the battle, Akbar appointed Ramchandra I as the governor of the Himalayan kingdom. Ramchandra I founded the city of Jammu, named after the Hindu goddess Jamwa Mata, south of the Pir Panjal range.In 1780, after the death of Ranjit Deo, a descendant of Ramchandra I, Jammu and Kashmir was captured by the Sikhs under Ranjit Singh of Lahore and afterwards, until 1846, became a tributary to the Sikh power. Ranjit Deo's grandnephew, Gulab Singh, subsequently sought service at the court of Ranjit Singh, distinguished himself in later wars, and was appointed as the Governor or Raja of Jammu in 1820. With the help of his officer, Zorawar Singh, Gulab Singh soon captured Ladakh and Baltistan, regions to the east and north-east of Kashmir.<br />
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In 1845, the First Anglo-Sikh War broke out, and Gulab Singh contrived to hold himself aloof till the battle of Sobraon (1846), when he appeared as a useful mediator and the trusted advisor of Sir Henry Lawrence. Two treaties were concluded. In the first, the State of Lahore (i.e. West Punjab) was handed over to the British, for an equivalent amount to one crore rupees of indemnity, the hill countries between the Beas River and the Indus River; by the second the British made over to Gulab Singh for 75 lakhs rupees all the hilly or mountainous country situated to the east of the Indus River and west of the Ravi River" (i.e., the Vale of Kashmir). Soon after Gulab Singh's death in 1857, his son, Ranbir Singh, added the emirates of Hunza, Gilgit and Nagar to the kingdom.<br />
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Ranbir Singh's grandson Hari Singh had ascended the throne of Kashmir in 1925 and was the reigning monarch at the conclusion of British rule in the subcontinent in 1947. As a part of the partition process, both countries had agreed that the rulers of princely states would be given the right to opt for either Pakistan or India or — in special cases — to remain independent. In 1947, Kashmir's population was 77% Muslim and it shared a boundary with Pakistan. On 20 October 1947, tribesmen backed by Pakistan invaded Kashmir.<br />
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The Maharaja initially fought back but on 27 October appealed for assistance to the Governor-General Louis Mountbatten, who agreed on the condition that the ruler accede to India. Once the papers of accession to India were signed, Indian soldiers entered Kashmir with orders to stop any further occupation, but they were not allowed to expel anyone from the state. India took the matter to the United Nations. The UN resolution asked both India and Pakistan to vacate the areas they have occupied and hold a referendum under UN observation. The holding of this plebiscite, which India initially supported, was dismissed by India because the 1952 elected Constituent Assembly of <b>Jammu and Kashmir</b> voted in favor of confirming the Kashmir region's accession to India. Another reason for the abandonment of the referendum is because demographic changes, after 1947, have been effected in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, as generations of Pakistani individuals non-native to the region have been allowed to take residence in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Furthermore, in Indian-administered Kashmir, the demographics of the <b>Kashmir Valley</b> have also been altered after separatist militants coerced 1/4 million Kashmiri Hindus to leave the region. Moreover, Pakistan failed to withdraw its troops from the Kashmir region as was required under the same U.N. resolution of August 13, 1948 which discussed the plebiscite.<br />
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Diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan soured for many other reasons, and eventually resulted in three further wars in Kashmir the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965, the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971 and the Kargil War in 1999. India has control of 60% of the area of the former Princely <b>State of Jammu and Kashmir</b>; Pakistan controls 30% of the region, known as Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir. China has since occupied 10% of the state in 1962.<br />
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The eastern region of the erstwhile princely state of Kashmir has also been beset with a boundary dispute. In the late 19th- and early 20th centuries, although some boundary agreements were signed between Great Britain, Tibet, Afghanistan and Russia over the northern borders of Kashmir, China never accepted these agreements, and the official Chinese position did not change with the communist takeover in 1949. By the mid-1950s the Chinese army had entered the north-east portion of Ladakh.<br />
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By 1956–57 they had completed a military road through the Aksai Chin area to provide better communication between<b> Xinjiang and western Tibet</b>. India's belated discovery of this road led to border clashes between the two countries that culminated in the Sino-Indian war of October 1962. China has occupied Aksai Chin since 1962 and, in addition, an adjoining region, the Trans-Karakoram Tract was ceded by Pakistan to China in 1963.<br />
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For intermittent periods between 1957, when the state approved its own Constitution, to the death of <b>Sheikh Abdullah</b> in 1982, the state had alternating spells of stability and discontent. In the late 1980s however, simmering discontent over the high-handed policies of the Union Government and allegations of the rigging of the 1987 assembly elections triggered a violent uprising which was backed by Pakistan.<br />
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Since then, the region has seen a prolonged, bloody conflict between militants and the Indian Army. The Indian Army have been accused of widespread human rights abuses, including abductions, massacres, rape and looting. Some feel that it is absurd to defend the rights of separatists, who have themselves violated the human rights of others by harassment, torching religious sites, raping women, kidnapping innocent individuals, massacring hundreds of people, and coercing Hindus, some Sikhs and moderate Muslims to leave the <b>Kashmir valley</b>.<br />
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However, militancy in the state has been on the decline since 1996, also again in 2004 with the peace process with India and Pakistan. Furthermore the situation has become increasingly peaceful in recent years.<br />
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<h3>
Geography and climate of Jammu and Kashmir:</h3>
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Jammu and Kashmir is home to several valleys such as the <b>Kashmir Valley, Tawi Valley, Chenab Valley, Poonch Valley, Sind Valley and Lidder Valley</b>. The main Kashmir valley is 100 km (62 mi) wide and 15,520.3 km2 (5,992.4 sq mi) in area. The Himalayas divide the Kashmir valley from Ladakh while the <b>Pir Panjal range</b>, which encloses the valley from the west and the south, separates it from the Great Plains of northern India. Along the northeastern flank of the Valley runs the main range of the Himalayas. 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).<br />
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Because of<b> Jammu and Kashmir</b>'s wide range of elevations, its biogeography is diverse. Northwestern thorn scrub forests and Himalayan subtropical pine forests 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 treeline are found northwestern Himalayan alpine shrub and meadows. Much of the northeast of the state is covered by the Karakoram-West Tibetan Plateau alpine steppe. Around the highest elevations, there is no vegetation, simply rock and ice.<br />
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The <b>Jhelum River</b> is the only major Himalayan river which flows through the Kashmir valley. The <b>Indus, Tawi, Ravi and Chenab</b> are the major rivers flowing through the state. Jammu and Kashmir is home to several Himalayan glaciers. With an average altitude of 5,753 metres (18,875 ft) above sea-level, the <b>Siachen Glacier</b> is 70 km (43 mi) long making it the longest <b>Himalayan glacier</b>.<br />
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The <b>climate of Jammu and Kashmir</b> varies greatly owing to its rugged topography. In the south around Jammu, the climate is typically monsoonal, though the region is sufficiently far west to average 40 to 50 mm (1.6 to 2 inches) of rain per months between January and March. In the hot season, <b>Jammu city</b> is very hot and can reach up to 40 °C (104 °F) whilst in July and August, very heavy though erratic rainfall occurs with monthly extremes of up to 650 millimetres (25.5 inches). In September, rainfall declines, and by October conditions are hot but extremely dry, with minimal rainfall and temperatures of around 29 °C (84 °F).<br />
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Across from the <b>Pir Panjal range</b>, the South Asian monsoon is no longer a factor and most precipitation falls in the spring from southwest cloudbands. Because of its closeness to the Arabian Sea, <b>Srinagar </b>receives as much as 25 inches (635 millimetres) of rain from this source, with the wettest months being March to May with around 85 millimetres (3.3 inches) per month. Across from the main Himalaya Range, even the southwest cloudbands break up and the climate of <b>Ladakh and Zanskar</b> is extremely dry and cold. Annual precipitation is only around 100 mm (4 inches) per year and humidity is very low. This region, almost all above 3,000 metres (9,750 ft) above sea level and winters are extremely cold. In <b>Zanskar</b>, the average January temperature is −20 °C (−4 °F) with extremes as low as −40 °C (−40 °F). All the rivers freeze over and locals actually do river crossings during this period because their high levels from glacier melt in summer inhibits crossing. In summer in <b>Ladakh and Zanskar</b>, days are typically a warm 20 °C (68 °F) but with the low humidity and thin air nights can still be cold.<br />
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<h3>
Divisions of Jammu and Kashmir:</h3>
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Jammu and Kashmir consists of three divisions: Jammu, Kashmir Valley and Ladakh, and is further divided into 22 districts: The Siachen Glacier, although under Indian military control, does not lie under the administration of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Kishtwar, Ramban, Reasi, Samba, Bandipora, Ganderbal, Kulgam and Shopian are newly formed districts.<br />
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<h3>
Jammu Region:</h3>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Kathua District</li>
<li>Jammu District</li>
<li>Samba District</li>
<li>Udhampur District</li>
<li>Reasi District</li>
<li>Rajouri District</li>
<li>Poonch District</li>
<li>Doda District</li>
<li>Ramban District</li>
<li>Kishtwar District</li>
</ul>
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<h3>
Kashmir Region:</h3>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Anantnag District</li>
<li>Kulgam District</li>
<li>Pulwama District</li>
<li>Shopian District</li>
<li>Budgam District</li>
<li>Srinagar District</li>
<li>Ganderbal District</li>
<li>Bandipora District</li>
<li>Baramulla District</li>
<li>Kupwara District</li>
</ul>
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<h3>
Ladakh Region:</h3>
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Kargil District</li>
<li>Leh District</li>
</ul>
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<h3>
Claimed Districts:</h3>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Bagh </li>
<li>Bhimber </li>
<li>Hattian </li>
<li>Haveli </li>
<li>Kotli </li>
<li>Mirpur </li>
<li>Muzaffarabad </li>
<li>Neelum </li>
<li>Poonch </li>
<li>Sudhnati</li>
<li>Astore </li>
<li>Diamer </li>
<li>Ghanche </li>
<li>Ghizer </li>
<li>Gilgit </li>
<li>Skardu</li>
</ul>
<br />
<h3>
Place to visit in Jammu and Kashmir</h3>
<br />
<h3>
Srinagar:</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZGQ4e_55aAPGHC4r0mWgb9vRUCeKcFhPZ-giSwLqBAAzxECY69Ka3r5JhyphenhyphenNASopfitC0-JpeANLhx5H1jeK-1j33RtqkJlkA3s1Hqzn1M2yS-Ppv9Ku7RLFGwOHwycSEGuBmChCw9mFo/s1600/Spring_in_Srinagar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZGQ4e_55aAPGHC4r0mWgb9vRUCeKcFhPZ-giSwLqBAAzxECY69Ka3r5JhyphenhyphenNASopfitC0-JpeANLhx5H1jeK-1j33RtqkJlkA3s1Hqzn1M2yS-Ppv9Ku7RLFGwOHwycSEGuBmChCw9mFo/s320/Spring_in_Srinagar.jpg" height="208" width="320" /></a></div>
<h4>
Best time to visit in Srinagar:</h4>
<br />
The best time to visit Srinagar is during summers between April and June.<br />
<br />
<h3>
How to reach at Srinagar:</h3>
<br />
<h4>
Air:</h4>
<br />
Srinagar is well connected by air with Delhi.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Railway:</h4>
<br />
Srinagar does not have a railway station and the nearest railhead is Jammu Tawi, which is 305 km from Srinagar.<br />
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<h4>
Road:</h4>
<br />
It is well connected by road to important places like Chandigarh (630 km), Delhi (876 km), Jammu (298 km), Leh, Kargil, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam. We would provide you all India tourist permit vehicles for the local transportations and also for the intercity drives too in <a href="http://jammuandkashmirtourism.blogspot.com/">Jammu and Kashmir tourism</a>.<br />
<br />
Srinagar, is the capital of the northernmost Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated in Kashmir Valley and lies on the banks of the<b> Jhelum River</b>, a tributary of the Indus. While not the largest, it is one of the biggest cities in India without a Hindu majority. The city is famous for its lakes and houseboats. It is also known for traditional <b>Kashmiri handicrafts and dry fruits</b>. It is also the headquarters of Srinagar district.<br />
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Listed below are some <b>major tourist attractions in Srinagar</b>.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Dal Lake:</h3>
<br />
The most important tourist attraction in Srinagar, the <b>Dal Lake</b> has, within its periphery, four enormous water bodies, Lokut Dal, Bod Dal, Gagribal and Nagin. The lake is not a flat, continuous mass of water, but an intricate labyrinth of waterways, that constitute a spectacular sight and an amazing locale to explore.<br />
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<h3>
Wular Lake:</h3>
<br />
The largest freshwater lake in India, <b>Wular Lake</b> lies about 32 kms to the northwest of Srinagar city. The lake is surrounded by high mountains on the north and north-east of the valley, which augment the scenic charm of the region.<br />
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<h3>
Hazratbal Shrine:</h3>
<br />
A sacred Muslim pilgrimage destination lying on the banks of the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar, <b>Hazratbal Shrine</b> reflects the devotion and respect of Muslims for Prophet Mohammad and his relics stored here.<br />
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<h3>
Shankaracharya Temple:</h3>
<br />
Located on top of a hill known as ‘<b>Takht-e-Suleiman</b>’, this ancient temple stands at an altitude of about 1100 feet above the surface level of main Srinagar city. The sacred temple can be visited only through a trek to the top of the hills.<br />
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<h3>
Khanqah-e-Molla:</h3>
<br />
Also called Shah-e-Hamdan, this shrine is believed to contain "the secret of Allah”. One of the oldest Muslim shrines located on the banks of the river<b> Jhelum in Srinagar city</b>, the <b>Khanqah-e-Molla</b> exhibits exemplary specimen of wood architecture.<br />
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<h3>
Jama Masjid:</h3>
<br />
A revered mosque located at Nowhatta,<b> Jama Masjid</b> is one of the main tourist attractions in Srinagar for Muslims.Also worth visit in Srinagar are the Khir Bhawani Temple, Chatti Padshahi, Chashma Shahi and Pari Mahal, Nishat Garden and Shalimar Garden.<br />
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<h3>
Gulmarg:</h3>
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<h3>
Fact of Gulmarg:</h3>
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<h4>
Altitude:</h4>
<br />
2730 meters<br />
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<h4>
State:</h4>
<br />
Jammu and Kashmir<br />
<br />
<br />
<h4>
Languages:</h4>
<br />
Kashmiri and Hindi<br />
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<h4>
Attractions:</h4>
<br />
<b>Skiing</b><br />
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Gulmarg is a town, a hill station and a notified area committee in Baramula district in the Indian area of Jammu and Kashmir.<br />
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<h3>
How to Reach in Gulmarg:</h3>
<br />
The airport at Srinagar at 57 km is nearest to Gulmarg. The airport caters to the air transport to the hill resort. Regular flights connect Srinagar with the other major cities in India. The railway station in Jammu is the nearest to Gulmarg that caters to the rail transport to the hill resort.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Best Time to Visit in Gulmarg:</h3>
<br />
The hill resort of Gulmarg is a gorgeous place to be at throughout the year. There are winter months from November to February that are ideal for skiing. The adventurers are known to throng the hill resort as soon as the snow falls. As it is the summer months from May to September offer pleasant weather to the tourists. The sun scorched souls from the plains flock to the hill resort as a summer retreat.<br />
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<h3>
Where to Stay in Gulmarg:</h3>
<br />
<b>Accommodation in Gulmarg</b> is easily available. There are several hotels and huts that cater to the needs of the tourists. There are hotels that suit the varying budgets of the tourists to Gulmarg. All the basic facilities are available to make your stay in Gulmarg comfortable. You may check out for accommodation options run by the <b>Jammu and Kashmir Tourist Development Corporation </b>or the private parties. It is advisable to go in advance reservations in the peak seasons.<br />
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Delicious and hygienic food is easily available in the restaurants and the eateries of Gulmarg. In the non-vegetarian food there is the traditional dish of Rogan Josh that must taste.<br />
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<h3>
Adventure Sports in Gulmarg:</h3>
<br />
For the adventure seekers Gulmarg is the ultimate destination for skiing. You may easily hire the <b>skis and sticks, snow boots, woolen socks, mufflers, windproof jackets, goggles, and caps</b>. With all the equipments and the Ski instructors at hand it is the best bet to enjoy the holidays at Gulmarg. The skiing season at Gulmarg is from November to February. The slopes in Gulmarg varying between 8,700 and 10,500 feet make the ski runs the highest in India. It is noteworthy that Gulmarg is the only heli-skiing resort in Asia. Even the amateurs can enjoy with the ski lifts and the chair lifts. <br />
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Gulmarg also boasts of a gorgeous green golf course that happens to be the world's highest too. You may even hire the golf sets from Gulmarg. The <b>Golf Club</b> offers short-term memberships to the players. <br />
<br />
Gulmarg also offers some excellent opportunities for long walks. In case you take up the outer circle walk you can enjoy the pine forests and wonderful vistas. The beauty of the <b>Kashmir valley</b> will not fail to mesmerize you. Then there are the Nanga Parbat and the Haramukh that you may explore.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Pahalgam:</h3>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<h4>
Language:</h4>
<br />
Hindi, Urdu, Kashmiri, English<br />
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<h4>
Best time to visit in Pahalgam:</h4>
<br />
April-November<br />
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<h4>
STD Code:</h4>
<br />
01936 <br />
<br />
Pahalgam is famous for its scenic beauty and is the jewel of the picturesque Liddar valley located in the high Himalayas. It provides an ideal setting for activities like <b>hiking, trekking, and fishing</b>. It is also the starting point of the annual pilgrimage to the holy <b>cave of Amarnath</b>.<br />
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<h3>
Best time to visit in Pahalgam:</h3>
<br />
The best time to visit Pahalgam is during the summers, between mid-April and mid-November. It can also be visited in July-August during the annual pilgrimage to the holy cave of Amarnath.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Pahalgam Travel Information:</h3>
<br />
Once in Jammu & Kashmir, you can easily reach Pahalgam. Srinagar, the capital of Jammu & Kashmir, connects quite well to Pahalgam.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Airport: </h4>
<br />
Srinagar, which is at a distance of 95 km from Pahalgam<br />
<br />
<h4>
Railhead : </h4>
<br />
Jammu, which is further connected to the rest of India by NH 1A<br />
<br />
<h4>
Road: </h4>
<br />
A road drive of 2½ hours from Pahalgam takes you to Srinagar, the <b>capital of Jammu & Kashmir</b>. Regular buses and taxis connect Pahalgam to Srinagar.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Major Tourist Attractions in Pahalgam:</h3>
<br />
The tiny but scenic village of Pahalgam offers a number of wonderful sites to see. Before you get yourself busy and indulge in light adventure options at Pahalgam, do remember to visit the <b>famous tourist attractions</b> in Pahalgam, some of which are given below. <br />
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<h3>
Chandanwari:</h3>
<br />
It is famous for its snow bridge. Lying at a distance of 16 km, <b>Chandanwari </b>is also the starting point for the auspicious Amarnath Yatra. It is a small valley, situated at an altitude of 6,500 above sea level. Good sturdy shoes are a prerequisite if you are hiking in this area.<br />
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<h3>
Baisaran:</h3>
<br />
<b>Pine forests</b> dot this meadow which presents a picturesque view of the snow-clad mountains. The snow covered Tulian lake at an altitude of 3353 m is 11kms from Baisaran. <br />
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<h3>
Sheshnag Lake:</h3>
<br />
The waters of this greenish blue lake are covered with ice till June. <b>Sheshnag </b>lies at a distance of 13 km from Chandanwari and is at 11,330 ft above sea level. The place has derived its name from seven peaks that look like the head of Sheshnag, the sacred snake in the Hindu mythology.<br />
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<h3>
Panchtarni:</h3>
<br />
It is the confluence of five streams and gives <b>Panchtarni </b>its name. For those headed towards the holy cave of Amarnath, Panchtarni is the last camping site. From Panchtarni, Amarnath is located at a distance of 6 km.<br />
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<h3>
Amarnath Cave:</h3>
<br />
Pahalgam is the base for the religious trek to the abode of Lord Shiva. A narrow spiralling path from Panchtarni leads to the <b>Amarnath Cave</b>. The massive ice shivlingam is visited by thousands of pilgrims between July and September.<br />
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<h3>
Aru:</h3>
<br />
This charming meadow can be reached by walking along a mountain path. The river <b>Lidder disappears at Gur Khumb</b> and reappears after 27 mts.<br />
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<h3>
Lidderwat:</h3>
<br />
A beautiful<b> camping site</b> set among dense forests. Starting point of the trek to the<b> Sindh Valley</b><br />
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<h3>
Sonmarg:</h3>
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<h4>
Location: </h4>
<br />
81-km From Srinagar, Kashmir Region, Jammu and Kashmir<br />
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<h4>
Altitude: </h4>
<br />
2,740m<br />
<br />
<h3>
Best Time To Visit at Sonmarg:</h3>
<br />
May To September, November To February<br />
<br />
<h3>
Where To Stay in Sonmarg:</h3>
<br />
Sonmarg has good number of hotels of all kinds ranging from plain basic to luxury. JKTDC also has few huts and cottages that you can hire but you will have to book for them in advance as during peak season they generally are full. For a pleasant stay, you can look to Hotel Glacier.<br />
<br />
<h3>
How to reach Sonmarg:</h3>
<br />
<h4>
By Air: </h4>
<br />
The nearest airport is at Srinagar which is around 81 km away from Sonmarg. It takes around 3 hrs to cover the distance by road.<br />
<br />
<h4>
By Rail: </h4>
<br />
The closest railhead is Jammu Tawi in Jammu. The distance of approximately 400 km between Sonmarg and Jammu is covered in almost 10 hrs.<br />
<br />
<h4>
By Road: </h4>
<br />
Road connection to all parts of J and K is good. Buses from all districts come to Sonmarg. You can even hire pre paid taxis from Srinagar.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Local Transport: </h4>
<br />
To move around in the town, buses are the best option as they have good frequency inside the city. But if you want to explore the city at your leisure, choose a ride in a tanga (horse carriage).When you drive from Srinagar to Leh, Sonmarg is the last stop of Kashmir District. From here starts the territory of Ladakh. Situated at an altitude of 2743 m above sea level, Sonmarg is absolutely true to its name, which means '<b>Meadow of Gold</b>'. The moment you enter Sonmarg, the first thing that you will notice will be the snow-covered mountain that forms the backdrop of the town. Covered with alpine trees from all sides, Sonmarg has few of the most loveliest flower collection in J & K. In winters though, the town is covered with snow giving it an altogether different charm of white. The town has become famous for the many excursion option that it offers, mainly short walks and trek routes to nearby stunning areas. The most famous trek is definitely the one that takes you to Amarnath caves. In fact Baltal which is just besides Sonmarg, is used as a base camp for starting the holy Amarnath yatra.<br />
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<h3>
Place to visit in Sonmarg:</h3>
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<h3>
Thajiwas (3km):</h3>
<br />
The whole mountain range here is covered by glaciers. Water falls from these in silver sheets. A forest rest house and a tourist hut between <b>Sonamarg and Thajiwas</b> have excellent views.<br />
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<h3>
The Lakes:</h3>
<br />
The loveliest of the high altitude <b>Himalayan lakes are Vishansar and Krishnasar</b>. The translucent waters of these lakes are speckled with ice flakes, and the occasional trout that pops up now and then.<br />
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<h3>
Gangabal:</h3>
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Also called <b>Harmukh Ganga</b>, it is sacred to Hindus. It can be reached from <b>Sonamarg via Krishnasar and Vishansar</b> - a trek through enchanting scenery.<br />
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<h3>
Zoji-La Pass:</h3>
<br />
20 kms east of Sonamarg lies the gateway to the <b>Ladakh plateau, the Zoji-La Pass</b> at 3,540 m.<br />
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<h3>
Jammu:</h3>
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Jammu, also known as <b>Duggar</b>, is one of the three administrative divisions within <b>Jammu and Kashmir</b>, the northernmost state in India. Jammu city is the largest city in Jammu and the winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu City is also known as "<b>City of Temples</b>" as it has many temples and shrines, with glittering shikhars soaring into the sky, which dot the city’s skyline, creating the ambiance of a holy and peaceful Hindu city.<br />
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Home to some of the most popular Hindu shrines, such as <b>Vaishno Devi, Jammu</b> is a <b>pilgrimage tourism destination in India</b>. The majority of Jammu's 2.7 million population practices Hinduism, while Islam and Sikhism enjoy a strong cultural heritage in the region. Due to relatively better infrastructure, Jammu has emerged as the main economic center of the state.<br />
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<h3>
How to reach in Jammu:</h3>
<br />
<h4>
Air:</h4>
<br />
Nearest Jammu airport is 8 Kms. from the city centre. Indian Airlines operates scheduled from Jammu to Delhi- and Srinagar / Leh. Jet Airways also operates services between Jammu - Delhi and Jammu - Srinagar.<br />
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<h4>
Rail: </h4>
<br />
Jammu Tawi is an important railhead of the Northern Railways serving the Jammu and Kashmir state. <br />
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<h4>
Road:</h4>
<br />
Jammu falls on National Highway 1-A and is connected by National Highway network to all parts of the country.<br />
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<h3>
Place to visit in Jammu:</h3>
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Jammu is known for its<b> landscape, ancient temples, Hindu shrines, Amar Mahal Palace (a castle type)</b> now a Museum, gardens and forts. Hindu holy shrines of <b>Amarnath and Vaishno Devi</b> attracts tens of thousands of Hindu devotees every year. Jammu's beautiful natural landscape has made it one of the most favoured destinations for <b>adventure tourism in South Asia</b>. Jammu's historic monuments feature a unique blend of Islamic and Hindu architecture styles.<br />
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<h3>
Purmandal:</h3>
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<b>Purmandal, also known as Chhota Kashi</b>, is located 35 km from Jammu city. An ancient holy place, it has several temples of Shiva and other deities. On Shivratri, the town wears a festive look and for three days as people celebrate the marriage of Lord Shiva to Goddess Parvati.<br />
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<h3>
Vaishno Devi shrine:</h3>
<br />
The town of <b>Katra</b>, which is close to Jammu, contains the <b>Vaishno Devi shrine</b>. Nestling on top of the <b>Trikuta Hills</b> at a height of 1700 m is the sacred <b>cave shrine of Vaishno Devi</b>, the mother goddess. At a distance of 48 km from Jammu, the cave is 30 m long and just 1.5 m high. At the end of the cave are shrines dedicated to the three forms of the mother goddess— <b>Mahakali, Mahalakshmi and Mahasarasvati.</b> Pilgrims start trekking to the cave temple, which is 13 km from Katra, enter in small groups through a narrow opening and walk through ice-cold waters to reach the shrines. According to legend, the mother goddess hid in the cave while escaping a demon whom she ultimately killed.<br />
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<h3>
Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary:</h3>
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<a href="http://jammuandkashmirtourism.blogspot.com/">Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary</a>, called and best known for wonderful species of pheasants, has been established in an area of thick forests teeming with wild life. It is renowned natural habitat for a significant population of pheasants. Among the other avifauna are <b>Indian mynah, Blue Rock Pigeon, Indian Peafowl, Red Junglefowl, Cheer Pheasant and chakor.</b><br />
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Spread over an area of 34 km2, the sanctuary is rich in fauna and provides refuge to a wide variety of mammals. The main species are<b> leopard, wild boar, rhesus monkey, bharal and grey langur.</b><br />
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<h3>
Mansar lake:</h3>
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Situated 62 km from Jammu, <b>Mansar Lake</b> is a beautiful lake fringed by forest-covered hills, over a mile in length by half-a-mile in width. 34°14′54.35″N 74°40′3.43″E / 34.2484306°N 74.6676194°E Besides being a popular excursion destination in Jammu, it is also a holy site, <b>sharing the legend and sanctity of Lake Mansarovar.</b><br />
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On the eastern bank of Mansar Lake there is a shrine dedicated to Sheshnag, a mythological snake with six heads. The shrine comprises a big boulder on which are placed a number of iron chains perhaps representing the small serpents waiting on the tutelary deity of the Sheshnag. Newlyweds consider it auspicious to perform three circumambulations (Parikarma) around the lake to seek the blessings of Sheshnag.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKgU_hkZ74onwJ5-h5AitaMNg4kk9rlvRZWH4jnQxdXAHI6DWSX1Dc98aLOwhJhUJp9SsYukNDU8szwWhmod2IQMKxwN8x2xJzyjk2lGLnZiVes5BLeajtI5dE72dtKRIUYtZWjr_dBYQ/s1600/Mansar_Lake_Jammu1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKgU_hkZ74onwJ5-h5AitaMNg4kk9rlvRZWH4jnQxdXAHI6DWSX1Dc98aLOwhJhUJp9SsYukNDU8szwWhmod2IQMKxwN8x2xJzyjk2lGLnZiVes5BLeajtI5dE72dtKRIUYtZWjr_dBYQ/s320/Mansar_Lake_Jammu1.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Two ancient temples of Umapati Mahadev and Narsimha and a temple of Durga are situated in the vicinity of the Mansar Lake, which are visited by devotees in large numbers. People take a holy dip in the water of the lake on festive occasions. Certain communities of Hindus perform the Mundan ceremony (first hair cut) of their male children here. Mansar Lake also has boating facilities provided by the Tourism Department. which is not fully maintained by the tourism department and no one likes to visit this place.<br />
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With all religions belief and heritage behind the Mansar Lake is also picking up its fame among the <b>tourists with all its flora and fauna</b>. The lake has cemented path all around with required illumination, with projected view decks to observe seasonal birds, tortoise and fishes of different species. There is a <b>wild life sanctuary housing jungle life including Spotted Deer and Neelgai and water birds such as Cranes and Ducks. </b>One can also witness the traditional and typical distinct life style of Gujjar and Backarwals wearing ethnic costumes, living in open Kullhas in the hills around Mansar Lake.<br />
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The Mansar Lake road joins to another important road that directly links <a href="http://himachal-information.blogspot.com/">Pathankot</a> to Udhampur. Udhampur is a town of strategic importance, on National Highway No. 1A. The shortcut road from Mansar or Samba to Udhampur by-pass the Jammu town. Surinsar Lake, a smaller lake that is linked to Mansar, is 24 km from Jammu via the by-pass road.<br />
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<h3>
Bahu Fort:</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJq-p1pfbg_9AxOYXj_x9JXea0Am840RwTOkY-cVwOetklGAgnpCSB9HNDnZnEUYKALUyDnYjBgUeC1DoCALV1q_mTOcGqVOIY-P9q9i99VpSAXCiY6gEkmGCZOU309Ba1iownU3Pp6w/s1600/Bahu_Fort.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJq-p1pfbg_9AxOYXj_x9JXea0Am840RwTOkY-cVwOetklGAgnpCSB9HNDnZnEUYKALUyDnYjBgUeC1DoCALV1q_mTOcGqVOIY-P9q9i99VpSAXCiY6gEkmGCZOU309Ba1iownU3Pp6w/s320/Bahu_Fort.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Bahu Fort, which also serves as a religious temple, is situated about 5 km from Jammu city on a rock face on the left bank of the river Tawi. This is perhaps the oldest fort and edifice in Jammu city. Constructed originally by Raja Bahulochan over 300 years ago, the fort was improved and rebuilt by Dogra rulers. Inside the fort, there is a temple dedicated to the Goddess Kali, popularly known as Bave Wali Mata, the presiding deity of Jammu. Every Tuesday and Sunday pilgrims throng this temple and partake in <b>"Tawi flowing worship"</b>. Today the fort is surrounded with a beautiful terraced garden which is a favourite picnic spot of the city folk.<br />
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Bagh-E-Bahu located on the banks of Tawi river, is a <b>Mughal-age garden</b>. It gives a nice view of the old city and <b>Tawi river</b>. Bagh itself is very beautiful. There is a small cafeteria on one side of the garden.<br />
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On the by-pass road behind Bahu Fort, the city forest surrounds the ancient Mahamaya Temple overlooking the river Tawi. A small garden surrounded by acres of woods provides a commanding view of the city.<br />
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Opposite the Bahu Fort, overlooking the River Tawi is a temple dedicated to<b> Mahamaya of Dogra decent,</b> who lost her life fourteen centuries ago fighting foreign invaders. The present temple of <b>Bawey Wali Mata</b> was built shortly after the coronation of Maharaja Gulab Singh, in 1822. It is also known as the temple of Mahakali and the goddess is considered second only to<b> Mata Vaishno Devi</b> in terms of mystical power.<br />
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<h3>
Raghunath Temple:</h3>
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Amongst the temples in Jammu, the <b>Raghunath Temple</b> takes pride of place being situated right in the heart of the city. This temple is situated at the city center and was built in 1857. Work on the temple was started by Maharaja Gulab Singh, founder of the <b>Kingdom of Jammu and Kashmir</b>, in 1835 AD and was completed by his son Maharaja Ranbir Singh in 1860 AD. The inner walls of the main temple are covered with gold sheet on three sides. There are many galleries with lakhs of saligrams. The surrounding Temples are dedicated to various Gods and Goddesses connected with the epic Ramayana. This temple consists of seven shrines, each with a tower of its own. It is the largest temple complex in <b>northern India</b>. Though 130 years old, the complex is remarkable for sacred scriptures, one of the richest collections of ancient texts and manuscripts in its library. <br />
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Its arches, surface and niches are undoubtedly influenced by Mughal architecture while the interiors of the temple are plated with gold. The main sanctuary is dedicated to Lord Vishnu's eighth incarnation and Dogras' patron deity, the Rama. It also houses a Sanskrit Library containing rare Sanskrit manuscripts.<br />
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<h3>
Peer Kho Cave:</h3>
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Alongside the same Tawi river are the <b>Peer Kho Cave temple</b>, the Panchbakhtar temple and the Ranbireshwar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with their own legends and specific days of worship. <b>Peer Kho cave is located on the bank of river Tawi </b>and it is widely believed that Ramayan character <b>Jamvant</b> (the bear god) meditated in this cave. The <b>Ranbireshwar Temple</b> has twelve Shiva lingams of crystal measuring 12" to 18" and galleries with thousands of saligrams fixed on stone slabs. Located on the Shalimar Road near the New Secretariat, and built by Maharaja Ranbir Singh in 1883 AD. It has one central lingam measuring seven and a half feet height (2.3 m) and <b>twelve Shiva lingams of crystal</b> measuring from 15 cm to 38 cm and galleries with thousands of Shiva lingams fixed on stone slabs.<br />
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<h3>
Shivkhori:</h3>
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The <b>cave shrine of Shivkhori</b>, situated in <b>District Reasi of Jammu and Kashmir state</b>, depicts the natural formation of shivlingum. It is one of the most venerated cave shrines of Lord Shiva in the region. The Holy cave is more than 150 mts long & houses 4 feet high Svayambhu Lingum, which constantly baths in a milky lime fluid dripping from the ceiling. The cave is full of natural impression and images of various Hindu Deities and full of divine feelings. That is why <a href="http://jammuandkashmirtourism.blogspot.com/">Shivkhori is known as "Home of Gods"</a>. The route from Jammu to <b>Shiv Khori is full of beautiful and picturesque mountains, waterfalls and lakes</b>.<br />
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<h3>
City Centers And Attractions:</h3>
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One of the major attractions of Jammu, it is a revolving restaurant named Falak located on the top of the hotel KC Residency. Ragunath Bazar is the main tourist and shopping center of the city. The locality of Gandhi Nagar, hosts the market areas of Gole Market, Apsara Road. On any pleasant evening you can take a stroll in Green Belt Park alongside the magnificent bungalows that adorn Green Belt Road. Rajinder Park, which is located on Canal Road, is a new development. This park is situated between two canals and features a large fountain which is lit up at night. A Children's Area is located next to the park.<br />
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The city has finally got its own shopping mall called "<b>City Square"</b>. The mall has all the latest brands and accessories all under one roof,and an excellent food court. Also a beautiful complex and a new age commercial hub by the name of Bahu-Plaza in Trikuta Nagar area is a major hang out spot for youngsters and young professionals. Most of the corporate sector & all the Mobile Phone companies like Airtel, BSNL, Vodafone, Aircel,Reliance and Tata Indicom are based in Bahu Plaza complex. After opening up of the K.C. Cineplex, the first multiplex in the city, the city has also got another multiplex in the form of the old Indira theater being converted to K.C. Central.<br />
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<h3>
Jammu Cuisine:</h3>
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Jammu is known for its Chocolate Barfi, Sund panjeeri,Patisa and its exotic local food - Rajma (with rice) is one of the specialty dishes of Jammu. Another specialty of Jammu is Kalaadi which is processed cheese.<br />
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Dogri food specialties include Ambal, Khatta Meat, Kulthein di Dal, Dal Patt, Maa da Madra, Rajma, and Auriya. Pickles typical of Jammu are made of Kasrod, Girgle, Mango with Saunf, Zimikand, Tyaoo, Seyoo, and Potatoes. Auriya is a dish made with Potatoes. During weddings it is typical to make Kayoor, and Sund.<br />
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Jammu folks love their chaats specially Gol Gappas, Kachaalo, Gurgule, Rajma Kulche etc.<br />
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<h3>
Fairs In Jammu:</h3>
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If one visits the<b> Jammu region during Shivratri</b>, one will find a celebration on almost everywhere. <b>Mansar food and crafts Mela</b> is a three-day celebration of the local <b>crafts and cuisine</b>, where people from adjoining states also take part.<br />
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<h3>
Festivals Of Jammu:</h3>
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Lohri festival heralds the onset of spring. The whole of Jammu region wears a festive look on this day. Every year, on the first day of "Vaishakh", the people of Jammu like the rest of <b>northern India- celebrate Baisakhi</b>.<br />
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<h3>
Kishtwar:</h3>
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<b>Kishtwar </b>is sited on a plateau above the <b>Chenab River</b> and below the <b>Nagin Sheer glacier</b>. It is noted for the fine <b>saffron grown in the area and for the many waterfalls close by</b>.<br />
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<h3>
Kishtwar High Altitude National Park:</h3>
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<b>Kishtwar High Altitude National Park in Jammu</b> is interesting for the marked variations in topography and vegetation that occur here. Spread over an area of 400-sq-kms, the park contains 15 mammal species.<br />
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<h3>
Mubarak Mandi Palace:</h3>
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The oldest building in this Palace complex date to 1824. The architecture is blend of Rajasthani, Mughal and even Baroque European influences. The most stunning segment is the <b>Sheesh Mahal</b>. The Pink Hall now houses of <b>Dogra Art Museum</b> which has miniature paintings of the various Hill schools.<br />
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<h3>
Raghunath Temple in Jammu:</h3>
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Situated in the heart of the city and surrounded by a group of other temples, this temple, dedicated to Lord Rama is outstanding and unique in Northern India.<br />
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<h3>
Sudh Mahadev:</h3>
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Sudh Mahadev is well known for its <b>archaeological importance, as a great pilgrimage centre and as a charming natural site</b>. It stands on the banks of the holy <b>Dewak River</b>, held by some to be as sacred as the <b>Ganges</b>.<br />
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<h3>
Patnitop:</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ha9Gr3Ul6azWUXCgo1JduVOSKfDmorAXKomYmk5CFtKlydkbjYJlUiLjtmU5mjJFiqP7q08qzU-XRWh_Pq3c6pitLODZVOYov-7UmPE4vUu4evdBg47ZGXqAgkhZppU0hzcwGrbpxxo/s1600/Patnitop_hill_station.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ha9Gr3Ul6azWUXCgo1JduVOSKfDmorAXKomYmk5CFtKlydkbjYJlUiLjtmU5mjJFiqP7q08qzU-XRWh_Pq3c6pitLODZVOYov-7UmPE4vUu4evdBg47ZGXqAgkhZppU0hzcwGrbpxxo/s320/Patnitop_hill_station.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<h4>
Altitude:</h4>
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2,024m <br />
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<h4>
Main Attraction in Patnitop:</h4>
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Trekking, Skiing & Aerosports <br />
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<h3>
Best Time to visit in Patnitop:</h3>
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Although Patnitop is an 'anytime' place, the best time for a visit are summer, during May-June, and autumn, September-October. If seeking snowboard joys, December to March is the time to be here. <br />
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<h4>
Location:</h4>
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110-km From Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir<br />
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<h3>
Eco-Adventure activities in Patnitop:</h3>
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<h3>
Paragliding at Patnitop:</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPlArl9PlOoCVB1GOp4-Gcvq5isCDKEUUBfoPE14_SNn9u2Rhi_b9XrZ5JIyQbhkkAbK4JilFz5ryk1SYBpU8oVGBdt_jF5XOtPfJMgGrLGUzDjUOxi0OPmt5hosBA0UFacFfhsOWbf_8/s1600/Patnitop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPlArl9PlOoCVB1GOp4-Gcvq5isCDKEUUBfoPE14_SNn9u2Rhi_b9XrZ5JIyQbhkkAbK4JilFz5ryk1SYBpU8oVGBdt_jF5XOtPfJMgGrLGUzDjUOxi0OPmt5hosBA0UFacFfhsOWbf_8/s320/Patnitop.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
Now you can enjoy the thrill of flying, at Patnitop. The <b>paragliding </b>joyrides rides are conducted at Dawariyai, 2 km landmark, on the Patnitop-Sanasar road.You can ask for paragliding, at the <b>Patnitop Development Authority (PDA)</b> barrier.<br />
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The take off site is at Dawariyai, on the Patnitop-Sanasar road. The area often called as the <b>Billoo Di Powri point</b>. Approx 400 plus steps have been carved out along the rock face to make the steep slope negotiable.The stairs eventually leading to Dawariyai, the "gateway". The exact dating of the work is still debatable. Any tourist can experience Paragliding, because you will be flying with a pilot.The flight will take off from <b>Patnitop and land at Kud</b>. The flight will last for 7min to 15 mins, depending upon the wind conditions.One is retrieved by car to the take off area. The organizers also give a good quality video of your, memorable flight.<br />
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<h3>
High Flying from Natha Top:</h3>
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Take off is from <b>Natha Top and landing at Kud.</b> The flight can be from 15 mins to an hour depending on the wind conditions.<br />
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<h3>
Sanasar:</h3>
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20 km from Patnitop offers <a href="http://jammuandkashmirtourism.blogspot.com/">Paragliding, Camping, Trekking, Abseiling, Rock Climbing and scenic nature walks. "Extreme Himalayan Adventures" is promoting eco-adventure in Sanasar.</a><br />
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<h3>
Sanasar:</h3>
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Sanasar is the name given to the two small villages of <b>Sana and Sar in Jammu province, India.</b><br />
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<h3>
Eco-Adventure activities in Sansar:</h3>
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Tandem Paragliding Joyrides:-Introduced by "<b>Extreme Hmalayan Adventures</b>" Sanasar offers Tandem (pilot+passenger) paragliding joyrides. The low flying ride, take off area, is near the parking lot, with a flight path over the lake of Sansar, to landing in the meadow, below. The 'over a minute' short flight attaining an altitude of 150-200 feet, makes it one of the safest, enjoyable paragliding experience, in India. Sanasar is the second site, after <a href="http://tourismindia03.blogspot.com/2011/02/manali-hill-station-manali-manali.html">Solang Nallah-Manali</a>, in north India, to offer such tandem rides. The high flying site is at Natha Top and offers an 8- to 10- minute, depending on the wind condition, 1500-2000 feet high, tandem paragliding experience. The take off area is near the road, but one has to walk up, from the landing site, below. Safety is of paramount importance, and it is never compromised.<br />
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<h3>
Wilderness Adventure Camps-Sanasar (WAC-Sanasar):</h3>
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<b>WAC-Sanasar</b>, started 4 years ago by "Extreme Himalayan Adventures" is dedicated in promoting and providing wilderness adventure camping and adventure sports in general. The camp can accommodate about 100 participants, including boarding and loading. It is run by "Extreme Himalayan Adventures" in collaboration with the <b>Dept of Tourism, Jammu.</b><br />
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<h3>
Rock climbing</h3>
WAC basic pitch offers a taste of the sport. Situated among the high conifers, the rock offers the <b>natural feel of climbing</b>.<br />
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<h3>
Abseiling</h3>
The WAC Basic Rock offers a 25 feet, over the edge feel of descending the rock face with the help of a rope. It is a 'trust' exercise.<br />
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<h3>
Trekking trails:</h3>
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<b>Shank Pal Temple</b> is located on the <b>Shank Pal ridge</b> at an altitude of 2800 mts and is a 5 hr moderate trek. The 400 yr old temple, is dedicated to Nag Shank Pal. No mortar has been used, to join the stones of the temple.<br />
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<b>Ladoo Ladi (meaning a boy and a girl, in local dialect)</b> is a soft nature walk of 4 km, starting from Madha Top. Shanta Galais a pass on the Shanta ridge and offers the view of the <b>Panchari valley </b>on the other side of the ridge. The pass leads to the Lander area.<br />
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<b>Surni Kund</b> is a small pond on the high Shank Pal ridge.2 K\km from the Shank Pal Nag temple, it is a 7 hr demanding trek from Sanasar.<br />
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<h3>
Katra / Vaishnodevi:</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfTxKSLD4Y5V_Ek49k4hUAwwkzqX9c9QpeV7FZkvlOBm8s7A6g3-3ZfTNMiLGbCRjGw2AfxP7gP1yxy2VCAwcgVN86M9a1ihSqnIfH6C8l8N0wWjjNKxeKnD9vJuOcOd8LJDNT0ShMjrA/s1600/Katra+Vaishno+Devi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfTxKSLD4Y5V_Ek49k4hUAwwkzqX9c9QpeV7FZkvlOBm8s7A6g3-3ZfTNMiLGbCRjGw2AfxP7gP1yxy2VCAwcgVN86M9a1ihSqnIfH6C8l8N0wWjjNKxeKnD9vJuOcOd8LJDNT0ShMjrA/s320/Katra+Vaishno+Devi.jpg" height="243" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Katra or Katra Vaishno Devi</b>, as it is popularly known, is a small town in <b>Jammu and Kashmir, India</b>, situated in the foothills of the Trikuta Mountains, where the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi is located. It is part of the Reasi District and is located 42 km from the city of Jammu. <b>Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University</b>, one of the leading technical university of India is also located here.<br />
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Katra serves as the base camp for pilgrims who visit Vaishno Devi. It has a thriving tourism industry that offers plenty of hotels, guest houses, restaurants, dhabas, fast-food joints that fit all kinds of budgets. Free accommodation is provided by some registered trusts in the form of Sarais for the poor. The number of pilgrims that visit the shrine every year has increased from 1.4 million in 1986 to 8.2 million in 2009. Over the years, a lot has changed, but one should not miss the opportunity to walk through the main bazaar (market) for buying (do not forget/hesitate to negotiate a bit) souvenirs, dryfruits, woolen garments, hosiery, leather jackets, etc.<br />
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To reach Vaishno Devi temple the pilgrims have to register at the Katra before starting the trek. By registering, the pilgrims get accidental insurance while on the trek for 1 lakh INR. It is a trek of 13.5 km.<br />
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There is another trek (1.5 km) from Vaishno Devi temple for Baba Bhaironnath. It is said that the pilgrimage is not complete until you visit this temple at last. The scenery throughout the trek is pictursque.<br />
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Environment-friendly auto rickshaws and helicopter services also have started now-a-days to make the journey a pleasant one.<br />
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<h3>
Leh / Ladakh:</h3>
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<h4>
Area:</h4>
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98,000sq km<br />
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<h4>
Altitude: </h4>
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7,500m Max.<br />
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<h4>
Population: </h4>
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250000<br />
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<h4>
Religion: </h4>
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Buddhism, Islam. Hindu<br />
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<h4>
Locational Status: </h4>
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Cold Desert<br />
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<h4>
Tourist Attractions : </h4>
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Buddhist Monasteries, the Leh Palace.<br />
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<h4>
Best Buys : </h4>
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Tibetan handicraft items.<br />
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<h4>
Best Hangouts : </h4>
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The Monasteries<br />
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<h4>
Best Activity : </h4>
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Trekking, Mountaineering, Camping, Water Rafting.<br />
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<h4>
Nearby Tourist Destinations: </h4>
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Jammu, Leh, Kargil, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam.<br />
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<h4>
Best time to visit in Leh / Ladakh : </h4>
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June To End October<br />
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Leh, was the capital of the <b>Himalayan kingdom of Ladakh</b>, now the Leh District in the <b>state of Jammu and Kashmir, India</b>. Leh, with an area of 45,110 km2, is the second largest district in the country (after <a href="http://gujaratinfor.blogspot.com/">Kutch, Gujarat</a>) in terms of area.<br />
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The town is still dominated by the now ruined Leh Palace, former mansion of the royal family of Ladakh, built in the same style and about the same time as the <b>Potala Palace</b>. Leh is at an altitude of 3524 meters (11,562 ft). National Highway 1D connects it to <b>Srinagar in the northwest</b>.<br />
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<h3>
Ladakh Pilgrimage:</h3>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Rizong Monastery</li>
<li>Likir Monastery</li>
<li>Lamayuru Monastery</li>
<li>Shey Monastery</li>
<li>Stakana Monastery</li>
<li>Cave Monastery</li>
<li>Thiksey Monastery</li>
<li>Spituk Monastery</li>
<li>Stongdey Monastery</li>
</ul>
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<h3>
Kargil:</h3>
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<b>Kargil is a district of Ladakh, Kashmir, India</b>. Kargil lies near the Line of Control facing Pakistan-administered Kashmir's Baltistan to the west, and Kashmir valley to the south. <b>Zanskar</b> is part of Kargil district along with<b> Suru, Wakha and Dras valleys</b>. Kargil was at the center of a conflict between India and Pakistan in 1999.<br />
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Zanskar:</h3>
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Zanskar is a subdistrict or tehsil of the Kargil district, which lies in the eastern half of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. The administrative centre is Padum. Zanskar, together with the neighbouring region of Ladakh, was briefly a part of the kingdom of Guge in Western Tibet.<br />
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The Zanskar Range is a mountain range in the<b> Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir</b> that separates <b>Zanskar from Ladakh</b>. Geologically, the Zanskar Range is part of the Tethys Himalaya, an approximately 100-km-wide synclinorium formed by strongly folded and imbricated, weakly metamorphosed sedimentary series. The average height of the<b> Zanskar Range </b>is about 6,000 m (19,700 ft). Its eastern part is known as <b>Rupshu</b>.<br />
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Nubra Valley:</h3>
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<b>Nubra Valley</b> is about 150 km north of Leh, the <b>capital town of Ladakh</b>, India. Local scholars say that its original name was <b>Ldumra (the valley of flowers)</b>. The <b>Shyok River</b> meets the <b>Nubra or Siachan River</b> to form a large valley that separates the <b>Ladakh and the Karakoram Ranges</b>. The average altitude of the valley is about 10,000 ft. above the sea level. The common way to access this valley is to travel over the <b>Khardung La from Leh</b>. Non-locals require an <b>Inner Line Permit (obtainable in Leh town) to enter Nubra</b>.<br />
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Lakes and Gardens in Jammu and Kasmir:</h3>
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Dal Lake:</h3>
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Dal Lake is a lake in Srinagar, the summer capital of the northernmost Indian state of <b>Jammu and Kashmir</b>. The urban lake, which is the second largest in the state, is integral to tourism and recreation in Kashmir and is nicknamed the <b>"Jewel in the crown of Kashmir" or "Srinagar's Jewel". </b>The lake is also an important source for commercial operations in <b>fishing and water plant harvesting</b>.<br />
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The shore line of the lake, about 15.5 kilometres (9.6 mi), is encompassed by a boulevard lined with <b>Mughal era gardens, parks, houseboats and hotels</b>. Scenic views of the lake can be witnessed from the shore line <b>Mughal gardens</b>, such as <b>Shalimar Bagh</b> and <b>Nishat Bagh</b> built during the reign of Mughal Emperor <b>Jahangir</b>) and from houseboats cruising along the lake in the <b>colourful shikaras</b>. During the winter season, the temperature sometimes reaches −11 °C (12.2 °F), freezing the lake.<br />
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The lake covers an area of 18 square kilometres (6.9 sq mi) and is part of a natural wetland which covers 21.1 square kilometres (8.1 sq mi), including its floating gardens. The floating gardens, known as "<b>Rad</b>" in <b>Kashmiri</b>, blossom with<b> lotus flowers</b> during July and August. The wetland is divided by causeways into four basins; <b>Gagribal, Lokut Dal, Bod Dal and Nagin</b> (although Nagin is also considered as an independent lake). <b>Lokut-dal and Bod-dal</b> each have an island in the centre, known as <b>Rup Lank (or Char Chinari) and Sona Lank respectively.</b><br />
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At present, the Dal Lake and its Mughal gardens, Shalimar Bagh and the Nishat Bagh on its periphery are undergoing intensive restoration measures to fully address the serious eutrophication problems experienced by the lake. Massive investments of around US $275 million (Rs 1100 crores) is being made by the <b>Government of India</b> to restore the lake to its original splendour.<br />
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Nagin Lake:</h3>
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<b>Nagin Lake of Kashmir</b> is an offshoot leading from the Dal Lake. The Nagin Lake is located to the east of the city, at the foothill of the mountain <b>Zabarwan</b>. On the edges of the <b>Nageen Lake</b> are a number of willow and poplar trees. The reflection of these tees in the water of the lake lends it a beautiful view. Surrounded by <b>Shankaracharya hill (Takht-e-Suleiman)</b> on the south and Hari Parbat on the west, the Nagin Lake of Kashmir presents a charming sight. <b>Shikaras</b>, ferrying people to and from the lake, are a fascinating feature of the lake. Bathing boats as well as <b>water-skis and motor</b> launches are also available for hire at the lake.<br />
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Wullar Lake:</h3>
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<b>Wular Lake (also spelt Wullar) </b>is a large fresh water lake in Bandipore district in the <b>Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir</b>. The lake basin was formed as a result of tectonic activity and is fed by the <b>Jhelum River</b>. The lake's size varies from 12 to 100 square miles (30 to 260 square kilometers), depending on the season. <br />
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Surinsar Lake:</h3>
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<b>Surinsar is a beautiful lake</b> situated about 42 km from Jammu, on the Jammu-Srinagar road, in <b>Jammu and Kashmir.</b><br />
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Bordered by hills and covered with dense forest, the lake is a favorite picturesque spot in the state. During summer, the lake is covered with lotus flowers.<br />
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Legend says that Arjuna, the legendary hero of the Mahabharat, shot an arrow into the ground at Mansar. The arrow came out at Surinsar and thus both lakes - <b>Surinsar Lake and Mansar Lake</b> were created.<br />
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Mansar Lake:</h3>
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Located just off the<b> Jammu-Srinagar highway</b>, some forty-two kilometers from Jammu, the <b>Surinsar Lake</b> is considered as a ‘<b>twin lake</b>’ of the more famous and popular lake of <b>Mansar</b>. Some believe that the lake of Mansar is connected by underground waterways to the lake of Surinsar. Legend has it that Kunti, the mother of the five <b>Pandava brothers in the epic</b>, <b>Mahabharata </b>was beset with thirst while in the area and there was no water to be had. Arjuna, considered to be the bravest of the brothers, shot an arrow into the ground at Mansar and the arrow emerged in Surinsar; water gushed out of the earth and <b>Kunti </b>was able to assuage her thirst – and this was responsible for the creation of both these lakes. Another legend goes that Vabruvahan, a son of <b>Arjuna </b>had to go to the netherworld to bring back the ‘<b>Mani</b>’ that belonged to the serpent-king to heal Arjuna who had been wounded in a battle. The serpent king would not allow this. <b>Vabruvahan </b>shot one set of arrows to enter the earth and another set to escape from it. The channel of one became <b>Mansar and the other became Surinsar</b>.<br />
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Pangong Lake:</h3>
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<b>Pangong Tso (or Pangong Lake; Tso: Ladakhi for lake)</b> is an <b>endorheic lake in the Himalayas</b> situated at a height of about 4,350 m (14,270 ft). It is 134 km (83 mi) long and extends from India to Tibet. 60% of the length of the lake lies in <b>Tibet</b>, which is today under <b>China's rule</b>. The lake is 5 km (3.1 mi) wide at its broadest point. During winter the lake freezes completely, despite being saline water.<br />
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The lake is in the process of being identified under the <b>Ramsar Convention as a wetland of international importance</b>. This will be the first trans-boundary wetland in South Asia under the convention.<br />
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TSo Moriri Lake:</h3>
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Also Known as ‘<b>Mountain Lake</b>’, Tso Moriri is located in the <b>Rupshu valley situated in Changthang sub division of leh district,</b> The Lake is about 28 km in length from north to south and is about 4-6 km in breadth and about 100 feet average in depth. Maximum depth of <b>Tso Moriri Lake</b> is 248 feet. It’s surrounded by barren hills with backdrop of snow-covered mountains. A Short range of snow covered mountains, which rise about 21000 feet, extends some distance to the north-west and terminates somewhat to north of the <b>southern end of Tso moriri</b>.<br />
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Gangasagar Lake:</h3>
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The <b>Ganga Sagar Lake is an artificial lake</b>, constructed during the empire of Chhatrapati Shivaji, a Maratha King. According to myths, this small lake was designed at the time of Shivaji’s coronation with the <b>holy water of river Ganges</b>. Situated at <b>Pachad, in Raigad district,</b> the lake boasts of being in Shivaji's unconquerable capital.<br />
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The <b>Raigad fort</b> was the place where Shivaji was crowned and where spent the rest of his life. Shivaji's samadhi and the remnants of his palace can be seen besides the fort today as well. The <b>Ganga Sagar Lake </b>flows in front of the fort. Covered with the snow clad peaks, the region is also famous for the<b> Jijamata Palace</b>. The splendid natural beauty of the<b> lake and the Raigad Fort</b> enable the place to be a traveller's paradise.<br />
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Tsokar Lake:</h3>
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<b>Tsokar Lake is a well known salt lake in the state of Jammu and Kashmir</b>, located near Rupso in Leh district. Spotting a white water lake surrounded by several <b>hot water springs</b> at an altitude of about 5000 metres is simply a wonder of the nature. <b>Tsokar, the salt water lake</b>, covers an area of about 10 sq km.<br />
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Nishat Garden:</h3>
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<b>Nishat Bagh, is a Mughal garden</b> built on the eastern side of the Dal Lake, close to the <b>Srinagar city in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in India</b>. It is the second largest Mughal garden in the <b>Kashmir Valley</b>. The largest in size is the <b>Shalimar Bagh</b>, which is also located on the bank of the Dal Lake. ‘Nishat Bagh’is a Hindustani word, which means "<b>Garden of Joy," "Garden of Gladness" and "Garden of Delight</b>".<br />
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Shalimar Garden:</h3>
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<b>Shalimar Bagh</b>, is a Mughal garden linked through a channel to the northeast of Dal Lake, on its right bank located at 34°08′56″N 74°52′23″E / 34.149°N 74.873°E / 34.149; 74.873 near Srinagar city in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. Its other names are <b>Shalamar Garden, Shalamar Bagh, Farah Baksh and Faiz Baksh, and the other famous shore line garden in the vicinity is Nishat Bagh.</b> The Bagh was built by Mughal Emperor <b>Jahangir for his wife Nur Jahan</b>, in 1619. The Bagh is considered the high point of <b>Mughal horticulture</b>. It is now public park.<br />
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Chashma Shahi:</h3>
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Among the Mughal gardens of <b>Kashmir Chashma Shahi fascinated Shahjahan</b>, the fourth Mughal emperor, the most owing to the fact that it haunted him with the sweet memories of his beloved queen, <b>Mumtaj Mahal</b> who always accompanied him during his visit to these gardens. Once she fell ill and could not be cured despite several efforts of the royal Vaidyas and Haqueems and the chief of the medical staff of the court suggested that she must be allowed to visit some health resort especially during summer months and for that matter there was none the better than the <b>valley of Kashmir</b> that too Shahjahan preferred to stay at <b>Pari Mahal</b> along with his queen leaving behind all the busy schedule of political maneuvering. She enjoyed the fresh air and fresh vegetables and drank sweet water of <b>Chashma Shahi </b>resulting into miraculous recoupment in her health. <br />
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Pari Mahal:</h3>
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A historical place and monument to visit is <b>Pari Mahal or Quntilon, meaning “House of Fairies”</b>, situated above the <b>Chashmashahi gardens nearby Srinagar</b>. The Mahal is surrounded by a lovely large garden overlooking the Dal Lake and has lots of flowers and fruits and a spring in the middle. The Mahal is of brilliant architecture and styles and was once a <b>Buddhist monastery</b> before being an astrology school promoted by <b>Dara Shikoh, the eldest of Emperor Shah Jahan’s sons</b>. <br />
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Harwan Garden:</h3>
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<b>Harwan </b>is huge Garden lined with <b>flower beds and massive Chinar Trees </b> with a beautiful canal flowing right through the middle. The canal is fed from a beautiful lake which lies behind the garden. there is not much clutter of fountains and other fancy things but vast big green carpeted green lawns which form an ideal spot for picnics. This spot is very popular with the locals for picnics and excursions.<br />
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Bhaga Bhu Garden:</h3>
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Situated 5 kms away from the Jammu city center, Bahu Fort stands on a rock face on the left bank of the river <b>Tavi</b>. Perhaps the oldest fort and edifice in the city, it was constructed originally by <b>Raja Bahulochan </b>over 3,000 years ago.<br />
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Inside, there is a temple dedicated to the <b>Hindu goddess Kali</b>. An extensive terraced garden, known as <b>Bagh-e-Bahu</b>, has been developed around the fort.<br />
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Adventure Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir:</h3>
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Mountaineering in Jammu and Kashmir:</h3>
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There are several mountain ranges in the state of <b>Jammu & Kashmir</b>. Among them are <b>Pir Panjal, Himalayas, Zanskar, Ladakh and Karakoram</b>. Climbing in these Himalayas can be very invigorating. An expedition can take a month, Srinagar to Srinagar. Rich in flora and fauna, the summits of most peaks are a spine-tingling experience with views of the neighboring countries of Pakistan and Tibet.<br />
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One can climb the peaks of <b>Kolahoi</b>(5,425 m) and <b>Harmukh</b> (5,148 m), quickly making an alpine ascent. Similarly peaks in the Kishtwar region are not too high but offer technically complicated climbing with many challenging faces and ridges. The popular peaks are Sickle Moon 6,575 m ,Riger 6,001m, Brammah-I 6,416m,Crooked Finger 5,630m, Arjuna 6,230m, Katori 6,138m and Flat Top 6,100m.<br />
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In the <b>Zanskar region</b> peaks are located at the head of the <b>Shafat glacier</b> and include the famous peaks of Nun 7,135m and Kun 7,077m. Around these areWhite Needle 6,500m, Pinacle 6,930m and Z-1 6,400m. The 'Z' series also cluster around the<b> Drang Drung glacier</b> which is visible from the <b>Pensita</b>. In the Ladakh region are <b>Stok Kangri</b> 6,153m, <b>Parcha Kangri</b> 6,065m and <b>Kanglcha</b> 6,400m.<br />
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Winter Sports in Jammu and Kashmir:</h3>
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The first fall of snow blankets the highlands and transforms the winter wonderland into the country's premier arena for action-packed skiing. Gulmarg has world-class ski slopes varying between 8,700 and 10,500 feet, the highest in India. The Gulmarg ski and chair lifts provide basic utilitarian facilities with a simple link-up for beginners. The high altitude skiers have to make their own way up to invigorating heights. Gulmarg's ski-shop has professional equipment imported from Australia and France, which can also be hired for temporary use. Facilities for skiing at Pahalgam are being developed and work on an <b>institute of mountaineering and winter sports</b> is already underway. <b>Heli-skiing</b> is also being introduced. <br />
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Fishing in Jammu and Kashmir:</h3>
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Kashmir has rightly been called an angler's paradise, with a network of rivers and streams as well as high altitude lakes all abounding in trout, both brown and rainbow. Trout <b>fishing in Kashmir </b>is far cheaper than it is in any other part of the world. And most importantly, the Department of Fisheries, which controls angling in the valley, works hard to ensure that there is no depletion of stock by indiscriminate fishing, which means that you can revel in angling in ideal conditions. <br />
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<b>Kashmir's fabled natural beauty needs no introduction</b>. Crisscrossing the state are the well-known <b>Sind and Lidder rivers</b> and their tributaries, with a silvery network of smaller rivers and streams.<br />
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Trekking in Jammu and Kashmir:</h3>
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Trekking is the best way to explore the <b>scenic beauty of Jammu & Kashmir</b>. Explore the stunning views of snow-covered mountains during the short trekking, long trekking that passes through the ups and downs of huge mountains. Trekking from <b>Lamayuru in the Indus Valley to Darcha via Zanskar range</b> comes under long trek that lasts till three weeks.<br />
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Even in the chilling atmosphere at the heights of mountains, you will come across human life through the <b>huts of Gujars</b>. Another trek route that runs through <b>Hemis, Markha and Padum</b> extends till 13 days. This route is named as '<b>Chaddar</b>' and is believed to be the most exciting trek around the globe. <b>Kishtwar, Bhadarwar, and Sonmarg</b> are other favorite trekking destinations for tourists.<br />
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<h3>
Water Sports in Jammu and Kashmir:</h3>
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Kashmir's two<b> natural advantages are its mountains, and lakes & rivers.</b> These waterways enhance the beauty of the land and are among the chief sources that attract tourists to its verdant valleys. But more than just a means of pleasure, the waterways are an activity-oriented way of discovering new leisure sports. <br />
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To those of you who are by nature passive, command a <b>shikara on the Dal Lake and Nagin Lakes in Srinagar</b> for just a crossing, or for a whole day; a variation on this can be the hiring of a <b>motorboat</b>, if you prefer travelling faster over water. Or better still, when the summer days are balmy, go <b>water skiing</b>.<br />
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<h3>
White Water Rafting in Jammu and Kashmir:</h3>
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<h3>
Kashmir and Ladakh:</h3>
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Ladakh offers many options for undertaking adventure activities amidst landscapes of spectacular, rugged beauty. These mainly include <b>river rafting, mountaineering and trekking. Indus River (Ladakh) and SuruRiver (Kargil).</b> These rivers range from grade 3 to 5 and afford much thrill. Annual rafting championship is being conducted at <b>Sonamarg</b>.<br />
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<b>River Lidder, near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir</b>, is the ideal place for rafting. Due to the fact, that the slopes in this river is not very steep, it is ideal for amateurs. Here the river diverts into two stretches, which is idealistic for river rafting. <b>River Indus </b>flowing between <b>Spituk and Saspol</b>, are the ideal destinations for the inexperienced, while beyond Saspol, the river gets spurting and this area requires technically sound rafters. <b>Upshi-Khaltsi, is an important run in the Indus</b>.<br />
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The real ecstasy lies in rafting in river <b>Zanskar, in Ladakh</b>, which is considered to be a very ferocious river. Initially this river will appear very calm, and the pre conceived belief seems to be a little exaggeration, but with the course of time, encompassing the giant gorges, will reveal its true vehemence. This river course is strictly suitable for only the experienced and professional rafters. The <b>Padum-Nimmu</b> run is the most thrilling run on the Zanskar. The another famous run is the <b>Phey – Nimmu route, which is crosses astonishing mountains</b>.<br />
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<h3>
Golfing in Jammu and Kashmir:</h3>
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In this <b>wonderland of Jammu and Kashmir</b>, golfing is the sporty rejuvenation. Not only nature, but also even humans have done their bit to make J&K a real treat for their guests. You will find few of the most exhilarating golf courses in J&K that offers the highest world standard golf facilities with huge lawns and holes. Gulmarg and Srinagar are the top spots where you can go for a refreshing round of golf in the mesmerizing locations surrounded by <b>Pine and Chinnar trees</b>. Gulmarg has a lot of highest things along with its name, and of them is the <b>Gulmarg golf club</b>. It is the highest green golf course in the world. And the main thing about these courses is that they are never crowded and you can complete the rounds at your pace. The best time for taking up golf extends from<b> April to November</b>, which is quite long when compared to timings in other parts of the country. The <b>climate in Kashmir </b>is also very favorable, as you don't tire as quickly as in other golf courses around the country.<br />
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<h3>
The Royal Springs Golf Club:</h3>
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Built in between year 1900 and 2000, the golf course is considered the best golf course in entire India by many professional golfers.<br />
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<h3>
Gulmarg Golf Club:</h3>
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The course is situated at an altitude of 2650 m above sea level that makes it the highest green golf club in the world. If that's not enough to bring you to <b>Gulmarg golf club</b>, it is also one of the most scenic and oldest golf clubs in entire region set up by Britishers in the year 1904.<br />
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<h3>
Paragliding in Jammu and Kashmir:</h3>
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Paragliding is a popular adventure sport that attracts <b>tourists to Kashmir</b>. Kashmir Hub offers you a detailed g<b>uide of parasailing, hot air ballooning and paragliding activities in Kashmir.</b> <b>Jammu and Sanasar</b> are two centers where these activities are carried on, on an organized scale. Training camps for<b> parasailing and paragliding</b> are organized at <b>Sanasar</b>. These packages usually comprise of lunch, ground training and actual <b>paragliding</b>.<br />
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Batote that is located at a distance of 125 kilometers from Jammu is also a center for paragliding. <b>Hot air ballooning in the Suru valley and the Zanskar area</b> is a challenging activity.<br />
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The equipment for paragliding is easily available at the <b>tourist office in Jammu</b>. This equipment is also available at the local agencies in<b> Jammu and Sanasar</b>. The best months to go <b>paragliding in Sanasar are May-June and September-October.</b><br />
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<h3>
Pilgrimage Destinations in Jammu and Kashmir:</h3>
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<h3>
Jammu Pilgrimage:</h3>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Mata Vaishno Devi</li>
<li>Raghunath Mandir</li>
<li>Bawey Wali Mata</li>
<li>Peer Kho</li>
<li>Ranbireshwar temple</li>
<li>Peer Mitha</li>
<li>Panchbakhtar temple</li>
<li>Peer Budhan Ali Shah or Peer Baba</li>
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<h3>
Kashmir Pilgrimage:</h3>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Shankaracharya Temple</li>
<li>Amarnath</li>
<li>Charar-e-sharif</li>
<li>Hazratbal mosque</li>
<li>Khanqah-e-moulah</li>
<li>Kheer Bhawani</li>
<li>Takht-e-Suleiman</li>
<li>Hari Parbat Fort</li>
<li>Shrine of saint Makhdoorn Sahib</li>
<li>Sikh Gurudwara Chatti Padshahi</li>
</ul>
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<h3>
Food and Cuisine:</h3>
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<b>Picturesque greens, hill-stations, lakes and traditional art forms</b> are undoubtedly the <b>greatest attractions in Jammu and Kashmir</b>. But the mouth-watering delicacies and exotic recipies also play a vital role in keeping the tourist bounded here. The<b> Jammu and Kashmir cuisine </b>is influenced by various communities that have settled in the state. You will observe a unique aroma and awesome flavor in the vast variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian food.<br />
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<h4>
History:</h4>
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The delicious food of J&K is believed to have evolved when the <b>Timurs </b>invaded Kashmir in the 15th century A.D. and thousands of expert cooks from Samarkand immigrated to cater to the Indian Kings. Those master cooks were called 'Wazas' and they worked under the guidance of 'Vasta Waza', the master chef. They offered the kings a grand feast, which is traditionally known as 'Wazwan' and is still in practice. The special grand feast is characterized by 36 different kinds of meals, out of which fifteen to thirty dishes are the varieties of meat. Today, Wazwan is not only a ritual but also a ceremony. During a trip to J&K, you can enjoy this luxurious food style. <b>Kashmiri weddings</b> are popular for the delicacies mastered by those chefs.<br />
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<h3>
Different Styles of Preparing Food:</h3>
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A variety of spices along with condiments and curd are used in good quantity in <b>Kashmiri food.</b> Curd is considered the major ingredient in most dishes - whether vegetarian or non-vegetarian. Local people prefer mustard oil for cooking purpose. They are also liberal with the use of the expensive saffron or kesar, which Kashmir is a big producer of. You can also savour rice of a superior grade.<br />
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Three different styles of cooking that exist in Kashmir are:<br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Kashmiri Pandits</li>
<li>Muslims</li>
<li>Rajputs</li>
</ul>
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All the three styles not only differ in the style, but also in the ingredients, recipies and courses. A few differences exist because of the locally produced crops. On one hand the Kashmiri Pandits do not prefer much onion and garlic in their food, while contrary to this, the Muslims do. The Muslims avoid the use of asafoetida (hing) and curds, whereas the Kasmiri Pandits use them often.. However, the Hindu Brahmins or Kashmiri Pandits also cook non-vegetarian food for themselves, but they prefer mutton or lamb meat instead of chicken or beef.<br />
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Kabargah, Kofta (veg/non-veg), Dum Alu, mushrooms, bhaseeda (lotus stem/roots) and Methi Chaman are some of the delicacies of the region known for their sheer flavor and richness. Kashmir, also known as the land of fruits, serves a variety of fruit chats and sweets prepared from fruits. 'Firni' is one of the most popular desserts of the state.<br />
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There are, of course, plenty of restaurants serving north-Indian or south-Indian dishes as well. A few places are known for special Marwari and Maharashtran food.<br />
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<h3>
Handicrafts in Jammu and Kashmir:</h3>
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<b>Kashmiri handicrafts</b> exhibit extraordinary intricacy and skill. The workers in Jammu-Kashmir have expertise in making <b>carpets, baskets, wall hangings, and other handicraft</b> items. You can also find a variety of <b>wooden work, silverware and shawls with unmatched embroidery</b>.<br />
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This <b>flourishing handicrafts industry </b>of Jammu & Kashmir not only offers you wonderful items, but also employs several tribal as well as general folks of the valley.<br />
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<h3>
Carpet:</h3>
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Kashmiri carpets have been appreciated since a long time for their intricate work. Their uniqueness lies in their manufacturing. These carpets are purely handmade, and are knotted, not tufted. You can choose different carpets from a variety of silk, woolen or silk. These are designed in colourful themes which can not be found anywhere in the world. The main art of carpet manufacturing is associated with the knotting part. These knots determine the durability and value of the carpet, in addition to the design and pattern. The more knots per square inch, the greater is the value and durability of carpet.<br />
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<h3>
Namdas:</h3>
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It is a lighter version of original carpets, stitched by using cotton and woolen textures. The price of these colourful floor coverings vary with the percentage of wool. A namda containing 80% wool will definitely be more expensive than one with 20% wool. The major difference in carpets and namdas lies in the price. While carpets are quite expensive, Namdas are available at affordable prices. Namdas are generally made by chain stitch embroidery, in woolen and cotton thread.<br />
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<h3>
Shawls:</h3>
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<b>Kashmir's Pashmina shawls</b> are world famous. Its fabric is extracted from the smooth fleecy wool of Kel goat. The local women who work as handloom artisans, extract this wool and knit with colourful threads. <br />
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A less expensive shawl is the <b>Jamavar shawl.</b> It is made from the dyed threads, in various themes, designs and figures.<br />
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<h3>
Basketry:</h3>
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<b>Willows (trees with narrow leaves and catkins) </b>aesthetically unique items such as shopping baskets, lampshades, tables and chairs etc etc. These trees are found in the low lying waterlogged lands or near the lakes.<br />
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<h3>
Papier Mache:</h3>
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Kashmir is popular for its three different grades of <b>Papier Mache work</b>. It is manufactured from wet and crushed paper, by moulding it to the desired shape. It is dried and painted for a final touch-up. They are distinct in artistry and colours. The most expensive one has gold work and you can also find those with bronze dust or gold poster paint. Varnish, which is applied to the finished product, imparts a high gloss and smoothness to the papier mache.<br />
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While exploring the lifestyle and <b>specialties of Jammu and Kashmir</b>, you can also find several other handicraft items made of <b>Walnut Wood (handmade wooden products), Copper and Silverware (samovars, bowls, plates and trays) and Embroidery (locally called Kasida; considered the finest in the world)</b>.<br />
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<h3>
Jammu and Kashmir Tourism / Tourist Information Offices of Jammu and Kashmir:</h3>
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<b>Tourist Reception Centre,</b><br />
Jammu and Kashmir Department of Tourism,<br />
Vir Marg,<br />
Tel: 548172.<br />
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<b>Tourist Office,</b> <br />
Jammu and Kashmir Department of Tourism, <br />
Railway Station<br />
Tel: 530078 <br />
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<b>Tourist Office, </b><br />
Jammu and Kashmir Department of Tourism, <br />
National Airport<br />
Tel: 531917.<br />
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<b>Jammu and Kashmir Tourist Development Corporation, </b><br />
Tourist Reception Centre,<br />
Vir Marg, Tel: 579554, 546412.<br />
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<b>The Director Tourism (Kashmir), </b><br />
Tourist Reception centre, <br />
Srinagar. <br />
Tel: 452690/91, Tel/Fax: 479547.<br />
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<h3>
New Delhi:</h3>
201 - 203, Kanishka Shopping Plaza, <br />
19 Ashoka Road<br />
Tel: 3345373, Fax: 3367881.<br />
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<h3>
Mumbai:</h3>
25 North Wing, <br />
World Trade Centre, <br />
Cuffe Parade, Colaba<br />
Tel: 2189040, Fax: 2186172.<br />
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<h3>
Kolkata:</h3>
12, Chowringhee,<br />
Tel: 2285791, Fax: 2281950.<br />
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<h3>
Chennai:</h3>
II - Floor, 36 / 36 - A, <br />
North Usamn Road, <br />
Tel / Fax : 8235958.<br />
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<h3>
Ahmedabad:</h3>
Airlines House, Lal Darwaza<br />
Tel / Fax : 5503551.<br />
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<h3>
Hyderabad:</h3>
5 th Floor, Left Wing, <br />
Chandra Vihar Complex<br />
M.J. Road, <br />
Tel / Fax: 4734806.<br />
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<h3>
Culture of Jammu and Kashmir:</h3>
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Ladakh is famous for its unique <b>Indo-Tibetan culture</b>. Chanting in Sanskrit and Tibetan language forms an integral part of Ladakh's Buddhist lifestyle. Annual masked dance festivals, weaving and archery are an important part of traditional life in Ladakh. <b>Ladakhi food </b>has much in common with <b>Tibetan food,</b> the most prominent foods being <b>thukpa, noodle soup; and tsampa,</b> known in Ladakhi as Ngampe, roasted barley flour. Typical garb includes gonchas of velvet, elaborately embroidered waistcoats and boots, and gonads or hats. People, adorned with <b>gold and silver ornaments and turquoise headgears</b> throng the streets during various Ladakhi festivals.<br />
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The Dumhal is a famous dance in the Kashmir valley, performed by men of the Wattal region. The women perform the Rouff, another traditional folk dance. Kashmir has been noted for its fine arts for centuries, including poetry and handicrafts. Shikaras, traditional small wooden boats, and houseboats are a common feature in various lakes and rivers across the Valley.<br />
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The Constitution of India does not allow people from regions other than Jammu and Kashmir to purchase land in the state. As a consequence, houseboats became popular among those who were unable to purchase land in the Valley and has now become an integral part of the Kashmiri lifestyle.<br />
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<b>Kawa</b>, traditional green tea with spices and almond, is consumed all through the day in the <b>chilled winter climate of Kashmir.</b> Most of the buildings in the Valley and Ladakh are made from softwood and is influenced by <b>Indian, Tibetan, and Islamic architecture</b>.<br />
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Jammu's <b>Dogra culture</b> and tradition is much similar to that of neighbouring Punjab and <a href="http://himachal-information.blogspot.com/">Himachal Pradesh</a>. Traditional Punjabi festivals such as Lohri and Vaisakhi are celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm throughout the region, along with Accession Day, an annual holiday which commemorates the accession of Jammu & Kashmir to the Dominion of India. After Dogras, Gujjars form the second-largest ethnic group in Jammu. Known for their semi-nomadic lifestyle, Gujjars are also found in large numbers in the <b>Kashmir valley</b>. Similar to Gujjars, Gaddis are primarily herdsmen who hail from the <b>Chamba region in Himachal Pradesh</b>. Gaddis are generally associated with emotive music played on the flute. The <b>Bakkarwalas found both in Jammu and the Vale of Kashmir</b> are wholly nomadic pastoral people who move along the Himalayan slopes in search for pastures for their huge flocks of goats and sheep.<br />
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<h3>
Education of Jammu and Kashmir:</h3>
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In 1970, the state <b>government of Jammu and Kashmir</b> established its own education board and university. Education in the state is divided into primary, middle, high secondary, college and university level. <b>Jammu and Kashmir</b> follows 10+2 pattern for education of children. This is handled by <b>Jammu and Kashmir State Board of School Education </b>(abbreviated as JKBOSE). Various private and public schools are recognized by the board to impart education to students. Board examinations are conducted for students in class VIII, X and XII. In addition there are various Kendriya Vidyalayas (run by the Government of India) and <b>Indian Army schools</b> that also impart secondary school education. These schools follow the<b> Central Board of Secondary Education pattern.</b><br />
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Notable higher education or research institutes in Jammu and Kashmir include <b>Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences Soura Srinagar, National Institute of Technology Srinagar, Government College of Engineering and Technology, Jammu and the Government Medical College of Jammu. University-level education is provided by University of Jammu, University of Kashmir, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Islamic University of Science & Technology, Baba Ghulam Shah Badhshah University, Institution of Technicians and Engineers (Kashmir), and Government Degree College Kathua.</b><br />
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<h3>
Image of Jammu and Kashmir Tourism:</h3>
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Kaushuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04458778096609495270noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421335706195620342.post-59183953496222227832011-02-21T06:46:00.000-08:002011-12-30T10:22:59.920-08:00Gulmarg Hill Station | Gulmarg Tourism | Tourist Places Gulmarg<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><h1>Gulmarg Hill Station | Gulmarg Tourism | Tourist Places Gulmarg</h1><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcyKO1A7Jcko2qp552aKrOK_9-LKxB2RmmQrBqb67w-TGPYNvgX-uo2FMWjVGQTJSHZp7Rh6ur1CtO9e9s0_f82QC0A5RLjMLa47Rj3RlWnyZTBHGyeOTqOG_2IUpBBPTtETdnrAurCKb0/s1600/Gulmarg+Tourism+Jammu+and+Kashmir+India.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcyKO1A7Jcko2qp552aKrOK_9-LKxB2RmmQrBqb67w-TGPYNvgX-uo2FMWjVGQTJSHZp7Rh6ur1CtO9e9s0_f82QC0A5RLjMLa47Rj3RlWnyZTBHGyeOTqOG_2IUpBBPTtETdnrAurCKb0/s320/Gulmarg+Tourism+Jammu+and+Kashmir+India.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Gulmarg is a town, a hill station and a notified area committee in Baramula district in the Indian state of <a href="http://jammuandkashmirtourism.blogspot.com/">Jammu and Kashmir</a>. Gulmarg's legendary beauty, prime location and proximity to Srinagar naturally make it one of the premier hill resorts in the country. Originally called ‘Gaurimarg’ by shepherds, its present name was given in the 16th century by Sultan Yusuf Shah, who was inspired by the sight of its grassy slopes emblazoned with wild flowers. Gulmarg was a favourite haunt of Emperor Jehangir who once collected 21 different varieties of flowers from here. Today Gulmarg is not merely a mountain resort of exceptional beauty- it also has the highest green golf course in the world, at an altitude of 2,650 m, and is the country's premier ski resort in the winter. <br />
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The journey to Gulmarg is half the enchantment of reaching there-- roads bordered by rigid avenues of poplar give over to flat expanses of rice fields interspersed with picturesque villages. Depending on the season, nature's colours could be the translucent green of spring, summer’s rich emerald, or autumn’s golden hues, when scarlet chillies festoon windows of village homes. After Tangmarg, the climb to Gulmarg begins through fir-covered hillsides. At one point, known simply as View Point, travelers generally stop their vehicles for a few minutes and look out a spectacle of snow-covered mountains, almost within touching distance.<br />
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<h3>Fast Fact Sheet of <a href="http://india-hill-stations1.blogspot.com/2011/09/gulmarg-hill-station-gulmarg-tourism.html">Gulmarg Hill Station</a>:</h3><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwqNG8IMKTqxanAaD7rvhChUiZSF_BhVq94QzfgZQaNZEqx6TxMHND0xD6lTkJe9Jh815zJeWBOBKB9ENPC8u0aICntYrAMEkqGaT5iqNH1Yo79VUQsJmH_0mmHqIMgHOcspw6jZ35ONhT/s1600/Gulmarg+Hill+Station.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwqNG8IMKTqxanAaD7rvhChUiZSF_BhVq94QzfgZQaNZEqx6TxMHND0xD6lTkJe9Jh815zJeWBOBKB9ENPC8u0aICntYrAMEkqGaT5iqNH1Yo79VUQsJmH_0mmHqIMgHOcspw6jZ35ONhT/s320/Gulmarg+Hill+Station.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><h4>Main Attraction:</h4>Alpather Lake, Golf Courses & Skiing<br />
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<h4>Location:</h4>34.05°N 74.38°E<br />
56-km South West Of Srinagar, Kashmir Region, Jammu and Kashmir<br />
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<h4>Population:</h4>664<br />
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<h4>Clothing:</h4>Summer: Light woollens Winter: Heavy woollens<br />
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<h4>Languages:</h4>Kashmiri and Hindi<br />
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<h4>Altitude:</h4>2,730m<br />
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<h4>Best Time to Visit Gulmarg Hill Station:</h4>In Summer - May To September<br />
In Winter - November To February <br />
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<h4>STD Code: </h4>01953<br />
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<h4>Weather of Gulmarg Jammu Kashmir:</h4><br />
The temperature in June-August summer is 25 deg to 35 deg C. It plummets to 7 deg C in spring (March-May) and autumn (Oct - Nov).<br />
In winter (Dec-Feb) temperature drops to minus 10 deg C. <br />
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<h3>Geography of Gulmarg <a href="http://jammuandkashmirtourism.blogspot.com/">Jammu Kashmir Tourism</a>:</h3><br />
Gulmarg is located 52 km from Srinagar. It is located at 34.05°N 74.38°E. It has an average elevation of 2,690 m (8,825 ft).<br />
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<h3>What to do in Gulmarg:</h3><br />
Horse Riding / Hiking<br />
Cable car riding to Khilanmarg<br />
Golf playing<br />
Snow Skiing during winter months (End Dec -Middle March)<br />
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<h3>How to Reach at <a href="http://jammuandkashmirtourism.blogspot.com/">Gulmarg Jammu and Kashmir Tourism:</a></h3><h4>By Air:</h4>Gulmarg is in Baramula District and is 56-kms from Srinagar District. The nearest Airport from here is situated in Badgam District, which is well connected with all the major cities of the country.<br />
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<h4>By Rail:</h4>The nearest railhead is at Jammu Tawi, which is around 300 km away.<br />
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<h4>By Road:</h4>The journey from Srinagar to Gulmarg takes approximately 2 hours in bus and may take short time by chartered conveyance. The road to Gulmarg is very beautiful and is lined with poplar trees all through. All sorts of transport are available to Gulmarg from Srinagar bus stand at Batmallo and from private transport operators. <br />
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<h3>Weather forecast of Gulmarg Jammu and Kashmir:</h3><br />
<div style="background-color: white; width: 475px;"><iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="205" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://www.weather-forecast.com/locations/Srinagar/forecasts/latest/threedayfree" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="475"></iframe> <br />
<div style="height: 50px; width: 475px;"><div id="cmt" style="color: #669900; font-size: 12px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.weather-forecast.com/locations/Srinagar/forecasts/latest?utm_source=weather_feed&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=weather_feed"><img alt="Weather Forecast" border="0" height="37" src="http://www.weather-forecast.com/images/weatherlogo_130.gif" style="float: left; height: 37px; margin: 0 5px 0 8px; width: 130px;" width="130" /></a><a href="http://www.weather-forecast.com/locations/Srinagar/forecasts/latest?utm_source=weather_feed&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=weather_feed" style="color: #669900; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">View Detailed 9 Day Weather Forecasts for Srinagar, webcams, weather maps & more at Weather-Forecast.com</span></a></div></div></div><br />
<h3><a href="http://india-hill-stations1.blogspot.com/2011/09/gulmarg-hill-station-gulmarg-tourism.html">Gulmarg Tourism</a>:</h3><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXR7S6Gm7JSslCapPX7Po32hhBTi3ZSyGFhfDZM8kCpCEXXgROAPiQfGMiszSdMT9-tu6zHwOgMvnKfqUlT5YomQ_h41C-oHU7Wxy_dyCenPcvC_gkGqTXQrHQcpaLNRipIODKsvHgjlRv/s1600/Gulmarg+Tourism+Jammu+and+Kashmir+India1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXR7S6Gm7JSslCapPX7Po32hhBTi3ZSyGFhfDZM8kCpCEXXgROAPiQfGMiszSdMT9-tu6zHwOgMvnKfqUlT5YomQ_h41C-oHU7Wxy_dyCenPcvC_gkGqTXQrHQcpaLNRipIODKsvHgjlRv/s320/Gulmarg+Tourism+Jammu+and+Kashmir+India1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Gulmarg is easily accessible from Srinagar or Srinagar Airport (SXR), the capital of Kashmir, in under 2 hours by Tata Sumo or bus. Just 1 hour on the way is the town of Tangmarg, a key tourist attraction and also a main destination for skiers riding down from Gulmarg during the winter months. From Tangmarg, the Gulmarg plateau is just 30 minutes travel. Gulmarg has around 40 hotels ranging from extremely budget accommodation in private huts to hotels that are of a similar standard to a western Bed & Breakfast. When hotels say 5 star expect similar standards to the aforementioned bed and breakfast or motel. The peak season starts with the snowfall in December and lasts until March (April if it is a good season). The charges for one night stay during peak season in a hotel range typically between Rs.1500 to Rs6500+, however there is also accommodation available for Rs500 which is only for the hardcore. The pre-season and post-season rates may have a discount but this is not standard. However, organising all of this can be pretty trying, so the cheapest and most convenient option is to go through a local tour company such as <b>K-line Himalayan Adventure Sports</b> or <b>Gulmarg Powder Guides</b>, which have connections and networks leading to the best prices and facilities available. They organise everything from transport to accommodation and, for all winter sports enthusiasts, an essential backcountry guide to lead you in navigating the unique but extreme terrain.<br />
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According to CNN, Gulmarg is the "<b>heartland of winter sports in India</b>." Gulmarg was being mooted as a possible host for the 2010 Commonwealth Winter Games. As such, Gulmarg has been rated by CNN International as Asia's seventh best ski destination. This resort is famous because of its "<b>Gulmarg Gondola</b>," one of the highest cable car in the world, reaching 3,979 metres. The two-stage ropeway ferries about 600 people per hour to and from the gondola main station in Gulmarg to a shoulder of nearby Mt. Apharwat Summit (4,200 m (13,780 ft)). The ropeway project is a joint venture of the Jammu and Kashmir government and French firm Pomagalski. The first stage transfers from the Gulmarg resort at 2,600 m (8,530 ft) to Kongdoori Station in the bowl-shaped <b>Kongdori valley</b>. The second stage of the ropeway, which has 36 cabins and 18 towers, takes skiers to a height of 3,950 m (12,959 ft) on Kongdoori Mountain, a shoulder of nearby Mt. Afarwat Peak (4,200 m (13,780 ft)). The second stage was completed in a record time of about two years at a cost of Rs11 crore and opened on May 28, 2005. The French company had also built the first phase of the gondola project, connecting <b>Gulmarg to Kongdoori</b>, in 1998. The JKSCCC also proposes to construct chair lifts to connect Kongdoori with Mary’s Shoulder for beginners and intermediate freeriders.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUiMcGRV0q-N5ad6wei5H0bApWB3y37smHRAST625-4o6y6n-5aw9Ni7vZUWsIFCMkVRp8pN9ImnOY6Um1kN29Bu1MRCWrLRHf-Gvbz8_RwoT9boqx7tk_TV3PLnc7DUsFvAWn4JVz3VDD/s1600/Gondala_Gulmarg_Jammu_and_Kashmir_Tourism_India.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUiMcGRV0q-N5ad6wei5H0bApWB3y37smHRAST625-4o6y6n-5aw9Ni7vZUWsIFCMkVRp8pN9ImnOY6Um1kN29Bu1MRCWrLRHf-Gvbz8_RwoT9boqx7tk_TV3PLnc7DUsFvAWn4JVz3VDD/s320/Gondala_Gulmarg_Jammu_and_Kashmir_Tourism_India.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The “<a href="http://india-hill-stations1.blogspot.com/2011/09/gulmarg-hill-station-gulmarg-tourism.html">heartland of winter sports in India</a>”, as quoted by CNN, is a gathering ground for all things extreme sports and outdoors related. In the winter, the diverse and extreme terrain combines with torrential snowfall to create a snow destination that is among the best in the world. As the destination itself is still undeveloped, skiers and riders never have to suffer the long queues that are so prevalent in other international snow destinations – it is not uncommon to get up to 10 runs in a day from the top of the gondola and to be carving fresh lines in untracked snow for the best part of a day.<br />
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The summer is just as busy. With temperatures ranging from 25-30°C, Gulmarg attracts outdoor sports fanatics with its world class <b>trekking, mountain biking, horse riding, water skiing, and fishing</b>.<br />
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There are a few places of religious importance near the resort within a 5 to 20 km radius like Baba Reshi, Haji Murad at Kreeri and Tangmarg.<br />
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Gulmarg is among the most famous <b>tourist destinations in India</b>, however, there is need for some stricted regulation to save the environment of the area from over tourism.<br />
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<h3>Major Attraction in Gulmarg Hill Station:</h3><br />
<h3>Skiing & Heliskiing:</h3><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz-1awfFv48R2CJH8g0fgF0GVz7sywCP2Tstq7gfWn9QT8pthMUdg-GkaHOTcPvL775a8Z8ChkfiBFBEb-OLziImW8dQ003rBFPvsW7TpGufbo8pBGFMy7eQIF6AAmije6W5b5H104Rb07/s1600/Gulmarg+Ski+Tour%252C+Gulmarg+Kashmir+India.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz-1awfFv48R2CJH8g0fgF0GVz7sywCP2Tstq7gfWn9QT8pthMUdg-GkaHOTcPvL775a8Z8ChkfiBFBEb-OLziImW8dQ003rBFPvsW7TpGufbo8pBGFMy7eQIF6AAmije6W5b5H104Rb07/s320/Gulmarg+Ski+Tour%252C+Gulmarg+Kashmir+India.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Asia's one of the most famous <b>Heli-skiing resort</b> is at Gulmarg, Kashmir. Come December, and the verdant green slopes of Gulmarg are blanketed with snow, forming some of the finest natural slopes for ski runs of all levels.<br />
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<h3>Golf Courses:</h3><br />
Gulmarg also has one of the world's highest green golf courses, as well as a clubhouse, which is a historical building in its own right. For the would-be golfer, there are golf sets on hire, pros to instruct one in the game, and temporary memberships. Naturally, these facilities are available to players as well, except that serious golfers usually carry their sets along.<br />
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<h3>Gondola Lift:</h3><br />
For a fun filled ride of a most unusual kind, Gulmarg's newly constructed Gondola lift from high above Gulmarg, through pine clad slopes, is exhilarating.<br />
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<h3>Alpather Lake:</h3><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1169dxUjf96r64XWNCRU8SG6d_kI_NwgmO1yYRrPixcVTp45Y0jIoMjOCfj57m-QPDBuQNtUqHEzTkyfrIgbtPritIsuygStyM2NSUYbUbTRpsUbs6YYuAS9fJ2TI-NicYB733OjU5nNg/s1600/Alpather+Lake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1169dxUjf96r64XWNCRU8SG6d_kI_NwgmO1yYRrPixcVTp45Y0jIoMjOCfj57m-QPDBuQNtUqHEzTkyfrIgbtPritIsuygStyM2NSUYbUbTRpsUbs6YYuAS9fJ2TI-NicYB733OjU5nNg/s320/Alpather+Lake.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Beyond Khilanmarg, 13-km from Gulmarg at the foot of the twin 4, 511 metre <b>Apharwat peaks</b>, this lake is frozen until mid-June and even later in the year one can see lumps of ice floating in its cold waters. The walk from Gulmarg follows a well-graded Pony track over the 3, 810 metre Apharwat ridge, separating it from Khilanmarg, and then up the valley to the lake at 3,843 metres. The more adventurous trekkers can climb straight up the boulder-strewn slope of the ridge and descend the other side to the path. For horse riding aficionados, Alpather Lake makes an exciting day’s excursion, starting early morning and returning late evening.<br />
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<h3>Walk in Gulmarg:</h3><br />
A circular road, 11-km in length, runs right round Gulmarg through pleasant pine forests with excellent views over the <a href="http://jammuandkashmirtourism.blogspot.com/">Kashmir valley</a>. Nanga Parbat is clearly visible 137-km to the north, Haramukh 60-km to the east while to the south one can see the Ferozpore and Sunset Peaks and the Apharwat Ridge. <b>Nanga Parbat</b>, the 'lord of the mountains', is the fourth highest peak on earth at 8,500 metres. <br />
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<h3><a href="http://india-hill-stations1.blogspot.com/2011/09/gulmarg-hill-station-gulmarg-tourism.html">Adventure Sports Skiing in Gulmarg Hill Station</a>:</h3><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBX847JzXWfDGq2GsvKNMB8tHLzAdZOE0BtSoi5r09s3j2p6ZmbtVhyKgkSUipOXel-6YbXPRO3CfAfMVUs5rsLZAMmwwyG8vXmHH6N0u7uhyphenhyphenS6eYVGPL-8no05qXfx42HbH1Kcd6CMree/s1600/Adventure+Sports+Skiing+in+Gulmarg+Hill+Station.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBX847JzXWfDGq2GsvKNMB8tHLzAdZOE0BtSoi5r09s3j2p6ZmbtVhyKgkSUipOXel-6YbXPRO3CfAfMVUs5rsLZAMmwwyG8vXmHH6N0u7uhyphenhyphenS6eYVGPL-8no05qXfx42HbH1Kcd6CMree/s320/Adventure+Sports+Skiing+in+Gulmarg+Hill+Station.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>In winter, Gulmarg acquires a new persona - that of the country's premier skiing resorts. Skiing, to many who watch it on TV, seems like a very elitist sport, requiring a high level of training and expensive equipment. They are surprised, when they visit Gulmarg for a day's expedition to "see the snow", that others with the same level of physical fitness and training are skiing down slopes. Gulmarg is the ultimate beginner's skiing resort. One doesn't requite a heavy woolen wardrobe - slacks or a Salwar Kameez will do fine. In Gulmarg one will also be able to drift to one of the many Ski shops and hire skis, sticks and goggles. Just find yourself a ski instructor and set off down a slope.<br />
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Neither does one need to exert oneself climbing up slopes. The gentlest slope of 200m is linked with a ski lift, which helps one to go up. When one graduates to intermediate level - which will happen after the first few days of practice, there are other slopes, longer and steeper, which are connected by chair lift. The longest ski run in Gulmarg is provided by the Gondola cable car, which allows a ski run of 2,213m. <br />
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<h3>Demographics of Gulmarg Hill Station:</h3><br />
At the 2001 India census, Gulmarg had a population of 664, though many people are required to leave by nightfall. Only tourists and those working in the tourism industry may stay overnight. Males constitute 99% of the population and females 1%. Gulmarg has an average literacy rate of 96%, higher than the Indian national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 97%, and female literacy is 22%. In Gulmarg, 0% of the population is under 6 years of age.<br />
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<h3>History of Gulmarg:</h3><br />
Gulmarg has been a resort for the kings like Yousuf Shah Chak and Jahangir who used to visit frequently. The old name of Gulmarg was "Gaurimarg", the name of Lord Shiva's wife. Yousuf Shah Chak changed its name to Gulmarg, meaning the place of roses. During the early part of the 20th century the famous Central Asian explorer Sir Marc Aurel Stein (1862–1943), made his home here in a tent between his expeditions. It was a favourite summer holiday destination for the British stationed in India.<br />
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The surrounding areas were politically restive during a period of relative peace and quiet. The town is nestled within the imposing Himalayan peaks, and lies within miles of the Line of Control. It receives heavy snowfall during the winter season and is a popular ski resort.<br />
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With the abatement of militancy in the area, Gulmarg has quickly become one of the state's most visited destinations. The slopes of the Afarwat Hills of the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalaya Chain boast one of the longest and highest ski slopes in Asia. The total distance covered by ski lifts is five kilometres and the resort peaks at an altitude of 3,950 m (12,959 ft), accessed by an aerial gondola (telecabine). The skiing project was inaugurated by the Chief Minister on 25 December 2004. The entire hill is guarded by the army at all times. The army, which is seen everywhere in the cities of Kashmir, is not in the town or the actual hilltop. Frisking is only done midway on the access road at 3 places: Tangmarg, near an army camp on the road from Tangmarg, and 5 km before entering Gulmarg. Gulmarg does not have any permanent residents. All living in Gulmarg are hotel employees and guests.<br />
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<h3>Gulmarg Map:</h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD8aRR4dS48BVMoIttLZhD2HdlR1ic7GjGE2mW9l00U2q0RZYdjN5-E-b853rXJRnvv_oTH2bnlABs6tS2Jgzk492rejsO_6NYKuPIWEIvoQ5-fil6M9oDdBXGGu08uMomVx4F-6TxUL4L/s1600/Walkways+at+Gulmarg+Tourism+Jammu+and+Kashmir+India.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD8aRR4dS48BVMoIttLZhD2HdlR1ic7GjGE2mW9l00U2q0RZYdjN5-E-b853rXJRnvv_oTH2bnlABs6tS2Jgzk492rejsO_6NYKuPIWEIvoQ5-fil6M9oDdBXGGu08uMomVx4F-6TxUL4L/s320/Walkways+at+Gulmarg+Tourism+Jammu+and+Kashmir+India.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<h3>Gulmarg Photos:</h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSiEziXZ1f-h0vJch8WkltQsCO5mig7YT7_9fw_NT3A0nApvqXxI7QZVjRnq1ZClky8DoQr59-Bv3dVwcuSrHyVuEwL_SkaWQ-McnJxIJVilqbM5KWF_o0VyXIEX4w0uUn7UBeET-rsjA-/s1600/Paraglider+comes+down+in+Gulmarg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSiEziXZ1f-h0vJch8WkltQsCO5mig7YT7_9fw_NT3A0nApvqXxI7QZVjRnq1ZClky8DoQr59-Bv3dVwcuSrHyVuEwL_SkaWQ-McnJxIJVilqbM5KWF_o0VyXIEX4w0uUn7UBeET-rsjA-/s320/Paraglider+comes+down+in+Gulmarg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<h2>Gulmarg Hill Station, Gulmarg Tourism, <a href="http://india-hill-stations1.blogspot.com/2011/09/gulmarg-hill-station-gulmarg-tourism.html">Tourist Places Gulmarg</a>, Fast Fact Sheet of Gulmarg Hill Station, Alpather Lake, Best Time to Visit Gulmarg, <a href="http://jammuandkashmirtourism.blogspot.com/">Gulmarg Jammu and Kashmir Tourism</a>, Gulmarg Tourism, Major Attraction in Gulmarg, Adventure Sports Skiing in Gulmarg, Gulmarg Photos and much more </h2></div>Kaushuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04458778096609495270noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421335706195620342.post-48705271352414545022011-02-20T11:28:00.000-08:002011-12-30T10:23:43.329-08:00Amarnath Yatra | Amarnath<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><h1>Amarnath Yatra | Amarnath</h1><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK9U9v8kS5Rhvol0reKSn6OiqFGh3EIKP_X-t4FstXnN3Z5hwZtWge-6mfQQ2d_ZpP0FBUCObzzmdUv8QbAIE5gNDA56Pu2_NyVlQYtsSf1xY_3Ltv_CCjOVv9pdfrL3sde639eWJFvK8/s1600/amarnath+cave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK9U9v8kS5Rhvol0reKSn6OiqFGh3EIKP_X-t4FstXnN3Z5hwZtWge-6mfQQ2d_ZpP0FBUCObzzmdUv8QbAIE5gNDA56Pu2_NyVlQYtsSf1xY_3Ltv_CCjOVv9pdfrL3sde639eWJFvK8/s320/amarnath+cave.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir and situated on Mount Amarnath, the Amarnath caves are one of the most famous shrines in Hinduism. Dedicated to the god Shiva, the shrine is said to be over 5,000 years old. The shrine forms an important part of Hindu mythology.<br />
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Inside the main Amarnath cave lies an ice stalagmite resembling the Shiva Linga, which waxes during May to August and gradually wanes thereafter. This lingam is said to grow and shrink with the phases of the moon, reaching its height during the summer festival. According to Hindu mythology, this is the cave where Shiva explained the secret of life and eternity to his divine consort Parvati. Two other ice formations represent Parvati and Shiva's son, Ganesha.<br />
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The cave is situated at an altitude of 3,888 m (12,756 ft), about 141 km (88 mi) from Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir. The Central Reserve Police Force, Indian Army and Indian Paramilitary Forces maintain a strong presence in the region due to security concerns.<br />
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<h3>When To Take UP Amarnath yatra: </h3><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfYW7Bf2jGEot-qJZoxNNFqsPfl4eRkB3TW5Cj_r-aeL1v1qUUE8A3kt1uIO8gTY2NDMeMB2intC-t698f-fZi9iXGJYrGh633AYc8gAJAnPjmtr5JzPMhz-vlQSkI9pkVs_swvuhHGew/s1600/Amarnath+ji.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfYW7Bf2jGEot-qJZoxNNFqsPfl4eRkB3TW5Cj_r-aeL1v1qUUE8A3kt1uIO8gTY2NDMeMB2intC-t698f-fZi9iXGJYrGh633AYc8gAJAnPjmtr5JzPMhz-vlQSkI9pkVs_swvuhHGew/s320/Amarnath+ji.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The Amarnath Yatra is organised every year by the Jammu and Kashmir Government during the month of Shravan ( July and August); the dates however, vary every year looking at the weather conditions and according to Purnima (Raksha Bandhan) in the month of Sharavan (Vikrama Samwat).<br />
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Yatra to Baba Amarnath Holy Cave for which one has to trek a height of about 14,500 ft is full of thrill and joy .The feeling of divine which is always beneath ones' heart , burst out and one realises ‘Moksha’ as one attends the Cave and perform the prayer before the Shivlinga. Surrounded by beautiful valleys, mountains , one will always feel His presence on the paradise of the earth, the memory of which hardly vanishes with time A journey which will rediscover the nature and its love which is always inside but one has never felt.<br />
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<h3>Amarnath Weather:</h3><br />
The climatic conditions are very uncertain. Rain or snowfall may take place at any time or place during the Yatra. It is to be particularly noted that abrupt changes in temperature might occur. Sunny weather may turn into rain / snow fall in a short time. The temperature may fall upto -5 degree C. <br />
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<h3>How to Perform Amarnath Pilgrimage:</h3><br />
For performing this Yatra, one is required to get registered . The registration is done by J & K Govt. Tourist Offices, located at Delhi, Mumbai, Calcutta, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Jammu and Srinagar. <br />
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<h3>How to Reach Amarnath:</h3><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOorELVf93CxRjXMFxS8ODYENhCelwd5r3qH5j47dWtCNoi4iWeFFwqnAsFQIFZyttjSTTuowTENkoNOQwYQPIao98YjXl1XSj0k2YTQrnJ0DOEgNpISsIQ69WUW5H3v_XYQbSmAhKJoY/s1600/Jammu_and_Kashmir_location_map.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOorELVf93CxRjXMFxS8ODYENhCelwd5r3qH5j47dWtCNoi4iWeFFwqnAsFQIFZyttjSTTuowTENkoNOQwYQPIao98YjXl1XSj0k2YTQrnJ0DOEgNpISsIQ69WUW5H3v_XYQbSmAhKJoY/s320/Jammu_and_Kashmir_location_map.png" width="320" /></a></div>Situated in a narrow gorge at the farther end of the Lidder Valley, Amarnath Holy Cave stands at 3,888 mtrs. and is 363 kms. from Jammu Via Pahalgam and about 414 kms. from Jammu Via Baltal. The detailed description of the two routes to the Holy Cave is given below:<br />
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<h3>Air:</h3><br />
The nearest aerodrome is Srinagar. Srinagar is a beautiful valley having world famous sights to see, such as Dal Lake, Nagina Lake, Shankaracharya Temple, Mughal Gardens and what not. It is the most sought after tourist place. It is also known as "Paradise on earth". Srinagar is summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir. There are daily flights to Srinagar from Delhi and Jammu. On some week days flights also pickup passengers from Chandigarh and Amritsar .<br />
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<h3>Rail:</h3><br />
Jammu is the nearest Railway Station . Jammu is winter Capital of Jammu & Kashmir. Jammu is a beautiful city and is also known as "CITY OF TEMPLES". One may visit old temples such as Raghunath Temple , Mahadev Mandir and other temples . It is well connected with all stations of India.The various trains coming to Jammu are listed here below.<br />
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<h3>Road :</h3><br />
Jammu and Srinagar are also connected through road. Buses and Taxies are also available for this part of the journey .These can be hired on daily as well as full tour basis.<br />
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<h3>Amarnath Yatra Route:</h3><br />
Though it is tough route still nearly one and a half lac pilgrims visit every year. The number of pilgrims is increasing every year. The journey from Jammu onward is by road and there are two routes. The details are given here.<br />
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<h3>Jammu to Pahalgam to Holy Amarnath ji Cave(Traditional Route):</h3><br />
Jammu to Pahalgam (315 km) – The distance between Jammu to Pahalgam can be covered by Taxi / Buses. These are available at Tourist Reception Centre, J & K Govt., Raghunath Bazaar only early in the morning. But one can also come to Srinagar by air and then move to Pahalgam by road PAHALGAM – HOLY CAVE. <br />
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<center><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;"><span style="color: #990000;">DISTANCE</span></span></b></center> </td> <td rowspan="2" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;"><span style="color: #990000;">FROM</span></span></b></td> </tr>
<tr align="CENTER" bgcolor="#ffffcc" valign="TOP"> <td><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;"><span style="color: #660000;">MTRS</span></span></b></td> <td><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;"><span style="color: #660000;">FEET</span></span></b></td> </tr>
<tr align="CENTER" valign="TOP"> <td align="LEFT"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">CHANDANWARI</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">2895</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">9500</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">16.0 KM</span></td> <td align="LEFT"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">PAHALGAM</span></td> </tr>
<tr align="CENTER" valign="TOP"> <td align="LEFT"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">PISSU TOP</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">3377</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">11000</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">3.0 KM </span></td> <td align="LEFT"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">CHANDANWARI</span></td> </tr>
<tr align="CENTER" valign="TOP"> <td align="LEFT"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">SHESHNAG</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">3352</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">11730</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">11.0 KM</span></td> <td align="LEFT"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">PISSU TOP</span></td> </tr>
<tr align="CENTER" valign="TOP"> <td align="LEFT"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">MAHAGUNAS</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">4276</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">14000</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">4.6 KM</span></td> <td align="LEFT"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">SHESH NAG</span></td> </tr>
<tr align="CENTER" valign="TOP"> <td align="LEFT"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">PANCHTARNI</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">3657</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">12000</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">9.4 KM</span></td> <td align="LEFT"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">MAHAGUNUS TOP</span></td> </tr>
<tr align="CENTER" valign="TOP"> <td align="LEFT"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">SANGAM</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;"> -</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">- </span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">3.0 KM</span></td> <td align="LEFT"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">PANCHTARNI</span></td> </tr>
<tr align="CENTER" valign="TOP"> <td align="LEFT"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">HOLY CAVE</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">3952</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">13000</span></td> <td><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">3.0 KM</span></td> <td align="LEFT"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica;">SANGAM</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><h3>Jammu to Baltal to Holy cave (414km) :</h3><br />
The distance between Jammu and Baltal can be covered by Taxis / Buses available at Tourist Reception Centre, J & K / bus stand or one can come to Srinagar by air and then reach Baltal by road. The road route followed is :<br />
Jammu – Udhampur – Kud - Patnitop – Ramban – Banihal – KaziGund – Anantnag – Srinagar - Sonamarg – Baltal.<br />
<br />
<h3>Baltal to Holy Cave:</h3><br />
From Baltal Holy Cave is just 14 Kms.<br />
<br />
This distance can be covered by foot / Ponies. However, Dandies are also available for handicapped and old aged pilgrims.<br />
<br />
The width of the pebbled (kuchha) road is a bit narrow as compared to the Chandanwari - Holy Cave route, moreover, there are some steep rises & falls on the way , as compared to the Chandanwari route, but pilgrims can return back to base camp Baltal through this route only in one day.<br />
<br />
<h3>Amarnath Pilgrimage:</h3><br />
It is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus – about 400,000 people visit during the 45-day season around the festival of Shravani Mela in July–August, coinciding with the Hindu holy month of Shraavana.<br />
<br />
Devotees generally take the 42 km (26 mi) pilgrimage on foot from the town of Pahalgam, about 96 km (60 mi) from Srinagar, and cover the journey in four to five days. There are two alternate routes to the temple: the longer and more traditional path from Srinagar, and the shorter route from the town of Baltal. Some devotees, particularly the elderly, also ride on horse-back to make the journey. Those who so wish and have the money can now make the journey by helicopter.<br />
<br />
<h3>1990s Problems:</h3><br />
The pilgrimage was banned from 1991 to 1995 due to threats from militants. In 1996 the militants had assured that they would not interfere allowing a resumed yatra with far greater numbers than in previous years. However, unseasonal blizzards in late August of that year caught up to a hundred thousand pilgrims by surprise in a tragedy that claimed the lives of 242 yatris, killed by exhaustion and exposure.<br />
<br />
<h3>2000 Massacre:</h3><br />
Four years later, the pilgrimage suffered another setback with the massacre in Pahalgam of 30 people by Kashmiri separatist militants. Most were yatris on their way to Amarnath or porters and horsemen who would have ferried the pilgrims to the site. Then Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee blamed Lashkar-e-Taiba for the killings.<br />
<br />
<h3>2006 Artificial Shiva Linga controversy:</h3><br />
In the year 2006, a huge controversy broke up about an artificial Shiva Lingam in Amarnath. In 2006, the natural Shiva Lingam was very small at the onset of the Yatra. Hence to keep the Yatra going Shri Amarnath Shrine Board, under the guise of keeping the cave cool dumped loads of dry ice right over the original shiva linga. This was a huge controversy, but did not impact the Yatra. There are two water channels which flow above and below the ice lingam. The water from these channels leads to the formation of the shiva lingam. During the earthquake of 2005, it is believed that these channels were disturbed which led to the poor formation of the ice lingam. The subsequent years the ice lingam was well formed so the channels must have reformed.<br />
<br />
<h3>2008 Land transfer controversy:</h3><br />
On 26 May 2008, the Government of India and the state government of Jammu and Kashmir reached an agreement to transfer 100 acres (0.40 km2) of forest land to the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) to set up temporary shelters and facilities for Hindu pilgrims. Kashmiri separatists opposed the move citing reasons that it will jeopardize the article 370 that gives separate identity to the people of Jammu and Kashmir and prevents any Indian citizen to settle in Kashmir. People in Kashmir staged widespread protests against this decision by government of India. Due to the protests, the J&K State government relented and reversed the decision to transfer land. As a result, Hindus in the Jammu region launched counter-agitations against this roll back.<br />
<br />
<h3>Do's & Don'ts in Amarnath Yatra:</h3><br />
<h3>Do at Amarnath Yatra:</h3><br />
<h4>Prepare for Yatra by achieving Physical fitness </h4><br />
In order to perform smooth and trouble free yatra, it is advisable to start preparatory morning / evening walk of about 4 - 5 kms per day atleast a month prior to Yatra. Apart from above If you can have daily massage of your body with body oil, preferably mustard (sarson) oil and bathe in the lukewarm water, this will help your body to become flexible and you will not feel tired. Moreover the effect of sudden change in temperature & climate on you will be reduced to a large extent. As oxygen gets rare some times, It is better to improve your physical fitness. To increase your body efficiency of oxygen, it is very good to start deep breathing exercises. The Yoga exercise like Prana Yam can be learnt.<br />
<br />
<h4>Carry needful warm clothings and wind shield and proper shoes. </h4><br />
You have to trek through high mountains and there are cold winds blowing . So during the Yatra, take Woollen Clothings, Small Umbrella (only Head Cover with Elastic around Forehead and supported by strap around the chin), Wind shield, Raincoat, Waterproof Shoes (Preferably Hunter Shoes), Torch, Stick, Cap (preferably Monkey Cap), Gloves, Jacket, Woollen Socks and Trousers. These are essential as the climate is unpredictable and changes abruptly from sunny weather to rain and snow. The temperature may abruptly fall even up to -5 degree C.<br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Keep a slip with your Name, Address and the name of accompanying yatri in your pocket</li>
<li>Take water bottle, dry fruit, and baked grams with you during journey.</li>
<li>Keep some cold cream or vaseline with you to protect skin from cold winds</li>
<li>Take a little relaxation on steep inclines and don't exert yourself too much.</li>
<li>Yatris are advised to follow the instructions issued by Yatra Administration.</li>
<li>It is requested that do provide all needful help to the co-devotee travelling with you.</li>
<li>Perform yatra with a pious mind and keep enchanting "Om Namah Shivay" all the way.</li>
<li>During the Yatra from Pahalgam onward , keep your clothes and eatables in plastic bag to avoid the things being drenched during the rain</li>
<li>Carry some common medicines such as Glucose, Disprin etc. with you for immediate relief.</li>
<li>Sari is not suitable dress for the Yatra. Ladies should not wear saris as it may be very inconvenient. Salwar kameej, pant shirt or Track suit will be very comfortable.</li>
<li>Keep the horses / ponies with your luggage and Coolies along side as it is difficult to trace them in case you are separated from them. More over you may need some of those useful items from luggage any time at a short notice.</li>
<li style="color: #274e13;"><b>Best suitable shoes are Hunter shoes and most comfortable Dress is woollen track suit.</b></li>
<li style="color: #274e13;"><b>The best way to perform Yatra is to keep a steady and slow pace. Don’t exert more by fast walking. The moral of the story of Hare and tortoise is best applicable here.</b></li>
</ul><br />
<h3>Don'ts at Amarnath Yatra:</h3><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Don't stop at such places which are marked by warning notices </li>
<li>Don't take drugs during Yatra.</li>
<li>The children and aged persons are advised not to perform yatra, keeping in view the tough nature of the yatra.</li>
<li>Don't use Slippers because of the steep rises and falls on the route to the Holy Cave. </li>
<li>Don't attempt short cuts on the route as it is very dangerous.</li>
</ul><br />
<h3>Amarnath photos:</h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6qlY4-yD4dpPyknWX8SfXvyxzuplkfBy9Mpy2DuwrANtmS6eyYBRlXO1wRboEaw_rS7AYxX35ZWouGpTR7EQLcN8BvIVx5nwAh3LH4Wr8XfipZUbYfRE7RpCb3Bss7Q8gbKWkCaB1B7E/s1600/Sonamarg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6qlY4-yD4dpPyknWX8SfXvyxzuplkfBy9Mpy2DuwrANtmS6eyYBRlXO1wRboEaw_rS7AYxX35ZWouGpTR7EQLcN8BvIVx5nwAh3LH4Wr8XfipZUbYfRE7RpCb3Bss7Q8gbKWkCaB1B7E/s320/Sonamarg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<h2>amarnath yatra, amarnath, amarnath yatra by helicopter, amarnath temple, amarnath cave, shri amarnath yatra, amar nath yatra, amarnath photos and much more </h2></div>Kaushuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04458778096609495270noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421335706195620342.post-60442265312476644232011-02-20T05:34:00.000-08:002011-12-30T10:24:08.819-08:00Ladakh Tourism | Leh and Ladakh<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><h1>Ladakh Tourism | Leh and Ladakh</h1><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSjff1SUollZsjb3R9vWKXM1TIdhPfFpbUQ-TXZrHjgW4SSgmc2cwLiecF3GKllqKNgPU2XbcHrVvyQfjpqV5cENA0Mu7yO4YjTWqwAf4rKf1JB6pgAuGHiQosRex5DaeluQ3qNVtj37g/s1600/View_of_Leh_from_Shanti_Stupa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSjff1SUollZsjb3R9vWKXM1TIdhPfFpbUQ-TXZrHjgW4SSgmc2cwLiecF3GKllqKNgPU2XbcHrVvyQfjpqV5cENA0Mu7yO4YjTWqwAf4rKf1JB6pgAuGHiQosRex5DaeluQ3qNVtj37g/s320/View_of_Leh_from_Shanti_Stupa.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Leh, was the capital of the Himalayan kingdom of Ladakh, now the Leh District in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Leh, with an area of 45,110 km2, is the second largest district in the country (after Kutch, Gujarat) in terms of area.<br />
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The town is still dominated by the now ruined Leh Palace, former mansion of the royal family of Ladakh, built in the same style and about the same time as the Potala Palace. Leh is at an altitude of 3524 meters (11,562 ft). National Highway 1D connects it to Srinagar in the northwest.<br />
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<h3>Fact of Leh Ladakh: </h3><br />
<h3>Area: </h3>98,000sq km<br />
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<h3>Altitude:</h3>7,500m Max.<br />
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<h3>Population: </h3>250000<br />
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<h3>Religion: </h3>Buddhism, Islam. Hindu<br />
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<h3>Locational Status: </h3>Cold Desert<br />
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<h3>Tourist Attractions :</h3>Buddhist Monasteries, the Leh Palace.<br />
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<h3>Best Buys :</h3>Tibetan handicraft items. <br />
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<h3>Best Hangouts :</h3>The Monasteries<br />
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<h3>Best Activity : </h3>Trekking, Mountaineering, Camping, Water Rafting.<br />
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<h3>Nearby Tourist Destinations : </h3>Jammu, Leh, Kargil, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam.<br />
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<h3>When to Visit : </h3>June To End October<br />
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<h3>How to reach at Leh Ladakh:</h3><br />
<h3>By Air:</h3>By Air Airline service operates regular scheduled flights to Leh from Delhi, Jammu and Srinagar. From Jammu there are two flights in week and from Srinagar one in a week. <br />
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<h3>Road:</h3><br />
<h3>Srinagar to Leh:</h3><br />
The 434-km Srinagar-Leh road. Srinagar-Leh road is the main route with an over night halt at Kargil. The road is open between mid May and November. Ordinary and deluxe buses of the J&K state road transport corporation regularly ply on this route. Taxis, cars and jeeps are also available at Srinagar for the journey. Groups can charter deluxe and A-class buses for Leh, Kargil or Padum (Zanskar) from the J and K SRTC at Srinagar.<br />
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<h3>Manali to Leh:</h3><br />
The 473-km Manali-Leh. The Manali-Leh Highway - This is a spectacular journey with an overnight halt at tented camps at Sarchu or Pang. This journey can be undertaken by the deluxe and ordinary bus services operated by the Himachal Pradesh tourism, HP SRTC and the J&K SRTC or by jeep from either Manali or Leh.Kargil - On the main highway between Srinagar and Leh.<br />
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<h3>Road Distances:</h3><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Srinagar-Leh 434 Km</li>
<li>Manali-Leh 473 Km</li>
<li>Srinagar-Kargil 204 Km</li>
<li>Delhi-Leh 1047 Kms</li>
<li>Leh-Kargil 234 Km</li>
<li>Kargil-Padum (Zanskar) 240 Km</li>
<li>Leh-Deskit (Nubra Valley) 118 Kms.</li>
</ul><br />
<h3>Passes between Manali-Leh:</h3><br />
Manali is the starting point of this dramatic journey and Rohtang Pass(13,000 ft/3,978 m), 51 kms away is the first important milestone on the Manali - Leh road as it is the gateway to the Lahaul and Spiti valleys.<br />
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<h3>Keylong:</h3><br />
115 kms from Manali, Keylong is located along the Manali–Leh road, about 7 km north east of intersection of the Chandra Valley, the Bhaga Valley, and the Chenab Valley; on the banks of Bhaga River. Sights near Keylong include the Kardang, Shasur, and Tayul monasteries. This important road, which was once part of the ancient trade route between India and Central Asia.<br />
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<h3>Bara Lachha Pass:</h3><br />
On the long Manali -Leh road and providing a route across the Baralacha range is the famous Baralacha Pass. The Baralacha Pass is a unique pass situated at a spectacular 16,400 ft above sea level. The pass itself is 8-km long, and is literally the pass "where many roads meet".<br />
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Here, routes from Zanskar, Ladakh and Lahaul meet, which have for centuries been used by ancient travelers and crossed in all directions. The two great rivers of Lahaul, the Chandra and the Bhaga, also arise from the huge snowfields on opposite sides of the pass.<br />
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<h3>Zanskar Range:</h3><br />
A camping ground in Zanskar, little before Sarchu, Phalang-danda (a giant rock) marks the boundary between Lahaul and Zanskar. Sarchu has wide open places and treks to Phirtse la starts from here. Just 54 kms, ahead of' Sarchu the road crosses Tsarap Chu over a bridge. Then it climbs up to Lachalang la Pass( 16,600 ft/5,059m) Nearly 87 kms from Lachalang la pass is the Tanglang la pass-the highest point on this road. This pass is difficult to negotiate. By crossing this pass one enters the Central Ladakh.<br />
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It lies to the north of the main Himalaya. It acts as a backbone of Ladakh south of the Indus River, extending from the ridges beyond Lamayuru in the west across the Zanskar region; there it is divided from the main Himalaya by the Stod and Tsarap valleys, the Zanskar valley. On the east of the Zanskar region the range continues through Lahaul and Spiti. While on the North it continues across the Kinnaur before extending towards west across Uttaranchal. Some of the main passes are the Fatu-La, on the Leh-Srinagar road, while the main trekking passes into the Zanskar valley are Singge La, the Cha Cha La and the Rubrang La are.<br />
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<h3>Upshi:</h3><br />
60 kms ahead of Tanglang La pass is Upshi--A junction on the Indus. The road bifurcates from here towards Rupshu and for Demchok, and little ahead at Kiari for Chang la.<br />
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<h3>Ladakh Pilgrimage:</h3><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Rizong Monastery</li>
<li>Likir Monastery</li>
<li>Lamayuru Monastery</li>
<li>Shey Monastery</li>
<li>Stakana Monastery</li>
<li>Cave Monastery</li>
<li>Thiksey Monastery</li>
<li>Spituk Monastery</li>
<li>Stongdey Monastery</li>
</ul><br />
<h3>Climate of Ladakh:</h3><br />
One of the driest regions in northern India, the capital Leh experiences only 110 mm of rainfall a year. Because of its location to the north east of the main Himalayan range, it is sheltered from the Indian monsoon Padum is subject to occasional heavy storms in July and August and heavy snowfall in winter. Leh on the lee side of the Himalayan and Zanskar range is devoid of snowfall in winter.<br />
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<weather forecast="" ladakh:="" leh="" of=""><br />
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<div style="background-color: white; width: 475px;"><iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="205" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://www.weather-forecast.com/locations/Leh/forecasts/latest/threedayfree" style="border: medium none; overflow: hidden;" width="475"></iframe> <br />
<div style="height: 50px; width: 475px;"><div id="cmt" style="color: #669900; font-size: 12px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.weather-forecast.com/locations/Leh/forecasts/latest?utm_source=weather_feed&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=weather_feed"><img alt="Weather Forecast" border="0" height="37" src="http://www.weather-forecast.com/images/weatherlogo_130.gif" style="float: left; height: 37px; margin: 0pt 5px 0pt 8px; width: 130px;" width="130" /></a><a href="http://www.weather-forecast.com/locations/Leh/forecasts/latest?utm_source=weather_feed&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=weather_feed" style="color: #669900; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">View Detailed 9 Day Weather Forecasts for Leh, webcams, weather maps & more at Weather-Forecast.com</span></a></div></div></div><br />
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<h3>History of Leh Ladakh:</h3><br />
Leh was for centuries an important stopover on trade routes along the Indus Valley between Tibet to the east, Kashmir to the west and also between India and China. The main goods carried were salt, grain, pashm or cashmere wool, charas or cannabis resin from the Tarim Basin, indigo, silk yarn and Banaras brocade.<br />
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Although there are a few indications that the Chinese knew of a trade route through Ladakh to India as early as the Kushan period (1st to 3rd centuries AD), and certainly by Tang dynasty, little is actually known of the history of the region before the formation of the kingdom towards the end of the 10th century by the Tibetan prince, Skyid lde nyima gon (or Nyima gon), a grandson of the anti-Buddhist Tibetan king, Langdarma (r. c. 838 to 841). He conquered Western Tibet although his army originally numbered only 300 men. Several towns and castles are said to have been founded by Nyima gon and he apparently ordered the construction of the main sculptures at Shey. "In an inscription he says he had them made for the religious benefit of the Tsanpo (the dynastical name of his father and ancestors), and of all the people of Ngaris (Western Tibet). This shows that already in this generation Langdarma's opposition to Buddhism had disappeared." Shey, just 15 km east of modern Leh, was the ancient seat of the Ladakhi kings.<br />
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During the reign of Delegs Namgyal (1660–1685), the Nawab of Kashmir, which was then a province in the Mogul Empire, arranged for the Mongol army to (temporarily) leave Ladakh (though it returned later). As payment for assisting Delegs Namgyal, the Nawab made a number of onerous demands. One of the least was to build a large Sunni Muslim mosque in Leh at the upper end of the bazaar in Leh, below the Leh Palace. The mosque reflects a mixture of Islamic and Tibetan architecture and can accommodate more than 500 people.[citation needed] This was apparently not the first mosque in Leh; there are two smaller ones which are said to be older.<br />
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Several trade routes have traditionally converged on Leh, from all four directions. The most direct route was the one the modern highway follows from the Punjab via Mandi, the Kulu valley, over the Rohtang Pass, through Lahaul and on to the Indus Valley, and then down river to Leh. The route from Srinigar was roughly the same as the road that today crosses the Zoji La (pass) to Kargil, and then up the Indus Valley to Leh. From Baltistan there were two difficult routes: the main on ran up the Shyok Valley from the Indus, over a pass and then down the Hanu River to the Indus again below Khalsi (Khalatse). The other ran from Skardu straight up the Indus to Kargil and on to Leh. Then, there were both the summer and winter routes from Leh to Yarkand across the Karakorum. Finally, there were a couple of possible routes from Leh to Lhasa.<br />
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The first recorded royal residence in Ladakh, built at the top of the high Namgyal ('Victory') Peak overlooking the present palace and town, is the now-ruined fort and the gon-khang (Temple of the Guardian Divinities) built by King Tashi Namgyal. Tashi Namgyal is known to have ruled during the final quarter of the 16th century AD. The Namgyal (also called "Tsemo Gompa" = 'Red Gompa', or dGon-pa-so-ma = 'New Monastery'), a temple, is the main Buddhist centre in Leh. There are some older walls of fortifications behind it which Francke reported used to be known as the "Dard Castle." If it was indeed built by Dards, it must pre-date the establishment of Tibetan rulers in Ladakh over a thousand years ago.<br />
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Below this are the Chamba (Byams-pa, i.e., Maitreya) and Chenresi (sPyan-ras-gzigs, i.e. Avalokiteshvara) monasteries which are of uncertain date.<br />
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The royal palace, known as Leh Palace, was built by King Sengge Namgyal (1612–1642), presumably between the period when the Portuguese Jesuit priest, Francisco de Azevedo, visited Leh in 1631, and made no mention of it, and Sengge Namgyal's death in 1642.<br />
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The Leh Palace is nine storeys high; the upper floors accommodated the royal family, and the stables and store rooms are located on the lower floors. The palace was abandoned when Kashmiri forces besieged it in the mid-19th century. The royal family moved their premises south to their current home in Stok Palace on the southern bank of the Indus.<br />
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"As has already been mentioned, the original name of the town is not sLel, as it is now-a-days spelt, but sLes, which signifies an encampment of nomads. These [Tibetan] nomads were probably in the habit of visiting the Leh valley at a time when it had begun to be irrigated by Dard colonizers. Thus, the most ancient part of the ruins on the top of rNam-rgyal-rtse-mo hill at Leh are called 'aBrog-pal-mkhar (Dard castle) . . . ."<br />
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<h3>Travel Tips to Leh Ladakh:</h3><br />
Before you pack your bags to travel to Leh Ladakh India, here are a few travel tips that help you on your tour to Leh and Ladakh.<br />
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You need to be physically fit to undertake a tour to Leh Ladakh. It is advisable to take at least 12-24 hours of rest after reaching Leh to fully acclimatize to the high altitude. If you feel shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, or fatigue, immediately take some rest. Always carry drinking water, chocolates or energy bars while traveling.<br />
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Medicines, moisturizers and sun-screen lotion are a must when traveling to Leh Ladakh.<br />
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Most STD booths close by 10 pm, so it is better to get in touch with your near and dear ones by evening.<br />
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Be prepared for power-cuts in the region. Dim light due to power shortages is a common phenomenon. A torch is an essential item on your trip to Ladakh<br />
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The region offers wonderful scenic views, so carry as many film rolls as you can. Some monasteries however may not allow photography within their premises.<br />
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<h3>Permits:</h3><br />
Since Ladakh is on India's sensitive north western border, the movement of foreign tourists is restricted in some areas of Ladakh. Foreign tourists may not travel beyond one mile north of the Zoji-la-Dras-Bodhkarbu- Khalatse road, except to visit the monasteries of Tia-Tingmosgang, Rizong, Likir and Phyang. Shey, Thikse, Chemrey and Tak-thok monasteries lying north of the Leh-Upshi road can also be visited. The Leh-Manali road is also only open upto one mile east of its general alignment. Foreign tourists can visit some newly opened areas in north eastern and northern regions of Ladakh, but only with permission of the Deputy Commissioner Leh.<br />
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<h3>Place to visit in Leh and Ladakh:</h3><br />
<h3>Leh Palace:</h3><br />
The old palace of the king of Ladakh overlooks the town from the south –west slope of the Tsemo. It has eight storeys and was built by King Singe Namgyal in the 16th century, at much the same time as the famed Potala of Lasa – which it resembles. The damage to the palace, one side is gaping open, stems from the Kashmiri invasions of the last century. Like the Shey Palace the Leh Palace still belongs to the Ladakhi royal family. Who now live in their palace in Stock.<br />
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Few of the palace wall painting are worth looking at since they have been scratched and smeared over the years. The small Khar Gonpa within the palace is also of little interest. In fact the main reason to make the short, steep climb up to the place is for the superb view from the roof, over which the coloured prayer flags wave in the wind, the lines of which begin on the blue-white-red-green-yellow Tarchok mast. In good weather the Zanskar range, snow covered until early summer, appears close enough to touch although it rises from the other side of the Indus.<br />
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<h3>Shanti Stupa:</h3><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn3cvvN2Ht-5QI_ADyrIlNc64jkGW_IU2kXBwrBQBwI8PixZcdMS37Doiuu19H2bN3KiEfGtOTRqlKwVGb4NmwA1NRYU284BczL8-PNJ63pP1h03Gc4onAkMj1v0yeo7kIaDr8cyky7ME/s1600/Shanti+Stupa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn3cvvN2Ht-5QI_ADyrIlNc64jkGW_IU2kXBwrBQBwI8PixZcdMS37Doiuu19H2bN3KiEfGtOTRqlKwVGb4NmwA1NRYU284BczL8-PNJ63pP1h03Gc4onAkMj1v0yeo7kIaDr8cyky7ME/s320/Shanti+Stupa.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Japanese Stupas made for world peace. Shanti Stupa is located at Changspa, on the hilltop, and was inaugurated by Dalai Lama in 1985. Its state of the art work attracts a lot of tourists to Ladakh and is spectacular to watch. The Shanti Stupa can be reached by car, or on foot via a steep flight of five hundred steps.<br />
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You will enjoy the panoramic view of the chain of mountains and the peaceful little village of Changspa with typical Ladakhi houses built along a gushing stream, and the towering Namgyal Tsemo in the distance.<br />
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The Shanti Stupa Society was established to build the Vishwa Shanti Stupa (World Peace Pagoda) in the Indraprastha Park in the heart of the City of Delhi. The purpose of the Shanti Stupa is to provide a “peace haven” for all and to develop programs that promote peace-building efforts all over the world with an emphasis on ahimsa, or nonviolence.<br />
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<h3>Hall of Fame:</h3><br />
Hall of Fame near Leh is worth a visit for every citizen. It is a glorious museum constructed by Indian army. You can see the memorabilia, eminent defence personalities with biographies, images and weapons used during Kargil war and belongings of enemy soldiers found at war site. Another section of this building is entirely dedicated to Siachen and its heroes. <br />
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On display are attires, multi layered shoes to keep their feet from frost bites, their daily instruments, their day to day food mainly frozen and packed, which is heated by lighting small balls of Hexamycin tablets, as fire is difficult to ignite at a temperature dipping -30 deg to -50 deg centigrade. It is mentioned on a board that 97% of the casualties in Siachen are due to cold and terrain.<br />
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<h3>Stok Palace Museum:</h3><br />
Around 14 Kms from Leh, across the Choglamsar bridge. The Stok Palace was built by King Tsespal Tondup Namgyal in 1825. The present Royal family resides at Stok Palace.The Stok Palace Museum has vast collection of thankas, traditional clothing and ornaments from Royal family. The Gurphug monastery is 1 Km from the Palace and this is the branch of Spituk monastery. The festival called "Guru Tsechu" take place on the 9th and 10th days of the first month of Tibetan Lunar Calendar.<br />
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<h3>Shey Palace:</h3><br />
Shey, 15 Km south of Leh, was constructed by the first king of Ladakh, Lhachen Palgyigon and of successive kings. Around 12 Ft. Shakyamuni Buddha's statue made by copper guilt is the largest in the region, built by Deldan Namgyal in 1633 is a funerary memorial to his father, king Singee Namgyal. There is another statue of the Buddha three stories in height at dresthang down the castle. Stone carving and many chortens are scattered around the Dresthang Gompa. On the 30th day of the 1st Tibetan month celebrates shey rul-lo and on the 10th day of the 7th Tibetan month the festival of Shey Surb-lo is held.<br />
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<h3>Magnetic Hill:</h3><br />
Defying the Law of gravity. This place is close to the Gurdwara Shri Patthar Sahib. It has been noticed that when a vehicle is parked on neutral gear on this metallic road the vehicle slides up.<br />
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<h3>Gurdwara Patthar Sahib:</h3><br />
The Shrine known as Gurdwara Patthar sahib is situated about 25 kms. Short of Leh town on the Leh-Srinagar road. Built in the everlasting memory of Shri Guru Nanak Dev, the great prophet who sanctified the place by his sacred visit during the year 1517 while on his second missionary tour. The Guru reached here via Nepal, Sikkim, Tibet, Yarkand and Leh after having spiritual discourses with the Sidhas at Mount Sumer (Central Himalayas).<br />
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<h3>Nubra valley:</h3><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKPjAZviHpQGb5rN_K832zqzoMRIydFWAq_mj26MBv1RLGcKw4oEAQhZ0Ng7yEvVMvFPUUtBIejJT2GRkMUvtTRKvaMgb0H3GBu90n9UW6dy6IQW_5XN5aa1kBc2qt9J6k-PJe103iJ_o/s1600/Nubra_Valley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKPjAZviHpQGb5rN_K832zqzoMRIydFWAq_mj26MBv1RLGcKw4oEAQhZ0Ng7yEvVMvFPUUtBIejJT2GRkMUvtTRKvaMgb0H3GBu90n9UW6dy6IQW_5XN5aa1kBc2qt9J6k-PJe103iJ_o/s320/Nubra_Valley.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Nubra Valley is situated about 150 km north of Leh. The Nubra Valley means Ldumra (the valley of flowers), The route from Leh takes the traveler over the Khardung-la, the highest motorable road in the world (18,380 feet// 5,578 m) above sea level feet. To enter the Nubra valley, one must cross over the Shyok River via a small bridge and pass through a military checkpoint. Tourist require an "Inner Line" permit (easily obtained in Leh town) to pass.<br />
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<h3>Main Attraction at Nubra Valley:</h3><br />
The main attraction in this area is Bactarian Camels (Shaggy double hump Camel) around sand dunes, Deskit & Samstanling monasteries and Khardung la Pass.<br />
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<h3>Kargil:</h3><br />
Kargil is the second largest urban centre of Ladakh, situated at the height of 2704 meters and is the middle point on the Srinagar and Leh Highway. Around 204 kms from Srinagar and 234 kms from Leh, Kargil once served as an important trade and transit centre in the Pan-Asian trade network. With a population of 140,000 Kargil is the only Muslim majority district in Ladakh. Of total population, 85% are Muslim, of which 73% follow Shia Islam. Most of the district's Muslims are found in Kargil town, Drass,Wakha and the lower Suru valley. The remainder 14% are followers of Tibetan Buddhism and Bön, mostly found in Zanskar with small populations in the upper Suru valley (Rangdum) and around Shergol and Mulbekh. Torurists travelling between Zangskar, Leh and Srinagar have to make a night halt here, before starting for the second day of their journey.<br />
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<h3>Zanskar:</h3><br />
Zanskar is a small town, spread over an area of 7000 sq. km, at an altitude ranging from 3500 m to 7000 m above sea level. Zanskar definitely is one of the remotest regions in the world to reach and the fact becomes more prominent as it remains virtually inaccessible for 8 months due to bitter cold and heavy snowfall. Zanskar is a semi desert that is surrounded by mountains from all sides and is cut through by Zanskar river which is the reason many people come to Zanskar braving all the adversities. Zanskar River is one of the best places in the world where you can indulge in river rafting. All the high passes are close in the winter and the river freeze on the surface. People of Zanskar walk along the frozen river to reach the Indus River in Nimoo village, which is known as the Chadar trek.<br />
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<h3>How to reach at Zanskar:</h3><br />
The route from Kargil to Padum via Penzi La is the only motorable road to reach Zangskar valley, which remains open from June to September.<br />
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<b>By Air:</b><br />
The nearest airport to Zanskar is at Leh. Although it is equally convenient to get here from Srinagar as well.<br />
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<b>By Road:</b><br />
Easiest way to come to Zanskar is by road from Kargil. The distance is around 235 km and state transport has its buses running between Zanskar and Leh. You can also hire luxury coaches and taxis from Kargil.<br />
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<b>Local Transport:</b><br />
Transportation inside the city generally comprise of taxis and jeeps. Most of the locales prefer walking.<br />
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<h3>Places to see in Zanskar:</h3><br />
Zanskar has lot of beautiful Buddist monasteries like Zongkhul, Bardan, Stongde, Karsha, Phuktal and Sunni Palace and most of monasteries and be visited in a day or two by Jeep from Padum.<br />
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Zanskar is an ideal destination for adventure travelers. Rafting, mountaineering and trekking are some of the adventure sports that you can enjoy on your tour to Zanskar. Remala and Karsha Gompa near Padum offer excellent opportunity for river rafting on Zanskar River. You can also take various trekking trails in Zanskar.<br />
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<h3>Zangla</h3><br />
Zangla Lying deep in the northern arm of Zanskar at the end of the 35 km long road from Padum, Zangla was being ruled by a titular king. The old castle now in ruins except for a small chappel, occupies a hill, overlooking the desertic valley below. Nearby is the old nunnery worth a visit for the austere life style of the small monastic community of nuns. An old monastery situated in the nearby village of Tsa-zar has exquisite frescos.<br />
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<h3>Zongkhul:</h3><br />
Zongkhul The other spectacular cave monastery of Zanskar are in Zongkhul. The two caves here are the present monasteries, are said to have been used by the famous yogi for the solitary meditation. A footprint on the stone near the ingress of the lower cave is reserved as that of the yogi. The frescos on the cave walls are very old and reflect a high degree of artistic achievement. These are believed to be the original murals executed by Zhadpa Dorje. The celebrated scholar-painter of the same monastery who was active about 300 years ago.<br />
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<h3>Stongdey:</h3><br />
Stongdey The monastery of Stongdey lies 18 km to the north of Padum, on the road leading to Zangla.<br />
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<h3>Penzella:</h3><br />
Penzella Pass Penzella Pass that divides the Zanskar valley with the Suru Valley. Besides being the excellent camping site the Penzella Pass is a vintage point offering excellent views of the majestic mountains and the captivating countryside.<br />
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<h3>Karsha:</h3><br />
Karsha Karsha is a human settlement with basic facilities. The Gelugpa monastery at Karsha is a must visit to know the importance of the religion in the lives of the inhabitants of Zanskar. The mural art displayed at Labrang is other must check out in Zanskar.<br />
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<h3>Padum:</h3><br />
Padum is around 464 Kms. from Leh and 234 Kms. away from Kargil. Once the Capital of the Zangskar valley, today it is the administrative headquarter of the region and probably the most populous settlement of Zanskar. Padam valley in Ladakh is one of the few ones that have a dominant population of Muslims. Constituting nearly half the township's population, their origin dates back to the mid 17th century. Padum is considered as the most populous settlement of Zanskar with a population of nearly 1500. Stakrimo Gompa is on a hill side and the 10th century monument carved on a huge rock near the river bank, provides epigraphic evidence that the region was influnced by Budddhism since ancient period.<br />
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<h3>Lakes in Leh and Ladakh:</h3><br />
<h3>Best Time to visit: June to October</h3><br />
Ladakh is home to some very beautiful lakes. As peak winter temperatures hover near – 35 degrees for days at a time, everything in Ladakh freezes. The Indus and Zanskar become broad highways of ice, and the great lakes, Pangong and Tso Morari, freeze to a depth of several meters.<br />
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<h3>Pangong Lake:</h3><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkyYwBLW5yMckl3fATcEEL7DUnD3a2LxsSkg2WMuOWECrlVOHlkHiFe3SOQ3kNhraC9lJGm1xO3keI4UHJ4N2PvEqzGWZ_MEGMqFBv2qGulvwWrg-HTw2jUgpm_LCPW0HuQh9i-68ibm0/s1600/Pangong_Lake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkyYwBLW5yMckl3fATcEEL7DUnD3a2LxsSkg2WMuOWECrlVOHlkHiFe3SOQ3kNhraC9lJGm1xO3keI4UHJ4N2PvEqzGWZ_MEGMqFBv2qGulvwWrg-HTw2jUgpm_LCPW0HuQh9i-68ibm0/s320/Pangong_Lake.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Pangong Tso, 154-km to the southeast of Leh, is one of the largest salt-water lakes in Asia, a long narrow strip of water stretching from Ladakh east into Tibet. Pangong Lake situated at a height of about 4,250 m (13,900 ft). It is 134 km (83.3 mi). Two thirds of the length of this lake lies in Tibet. The lake is 5 km (3 mi) wide. In winter, the lake surface freezes completely despite being salt water.<br />
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Pangong Tso can be reached in a five-hour drive from Leh, This route takes the visitor past picturesque villages of Shey and Thikse, and turns off the Indus valley by the side-valley of Chemrey and Sakti. The Ladakh range is crossed by the third-highest pass in the world, the Changla pass. The lakeside is open during the tourist season, from May to September. Tourist require a special permit to visit the lake. Permit (easily obtained in Leh town) to pass.<br />
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At Darbuk village near Tangste Valley stood a chain of war memorials with Regimental Insignias in commemoration of the soldiers who lost their lives during the Indo-Chinese war of 1962. Villagers can be seen here along with their large herds of Pashmina sheep and long tailed yaks.<br />
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<h3>Tsomoriri Lake :</h3><br />
Tsomiri is the largest of the High Altitude Lakes to be situated entirely within India. The remote high plateau of Changthang (meaning ‘northland’) stretches from western Tibet into eastern Ladakh. It is situated at a height of 4595 m above sea level. And the maximum length of the lake is 19 km and the maximum length of the lake is 40 m. .You can visit Korzok monastery at Tsomoriri which lies on the western bank of the lake.<br />
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This region, known as the land of the nomads, will give you an experience to last a lifetime. See the nomads’ traditional lifestyle and share a cup of butter tea in one of their black yak-hair tents along the incredible oval-shaped bank of Tsomoriri. The lake changes its turquoise blue color with the light and is surrounded by a picturesque landscape.<br />
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<h3>Korzok :</h3><br />
Korzok, situated at 15,000 feet (4,572 m) with its dozen or so houses and its gompa appearing like a mirage among the barren hills, is the only permanent settlement in Rupshu; otherwise the region is inhabited only by nomadic Chang-pa herd’s people. The Rupshu Chang-pa live in tents all the year round, moving in accordance with an old-established annual routine between the pastures the exist wherever an occasional stream carrying snowmelt from the heights makes possible the growth of grass, scanty indeed, but reportedly highly nutritious. The few barley-fields at Korzok must be among the highest cultivation in the world, but there is no guarantee that the crop will ripen every year.<br />
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<h3>Wild Life:</h3><br />
The Area is rich in wildlife including the "Kyang" (wild ass), red fox and the rare, highly endangered, snow leopard. Black necked cranes and geese flock to the lakeside for breeding during the summer months. It also houses 350 years old Karzok monastery which has about 33 resident monks.<br />
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<h3>Tso Kar - White Lake:</h3><br />
Past the Thanglang La (Pass) and a soak in the hot springs of Chhumathang, you arrive at the salty Tso Kar or the ‘White Lake’. Tso Kar is at a distance of 155km from Leh and approx 45 kms northwest of the Tsomoriri Lake. You can camp at the nearby Thukje village and also visit the monastery of Thukje. You can see the hot springs at Puga.<br />
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<h3>Religious and Historical Places in Leh and Ladakh:</h3><br />
Buddhism is the religion of the majority of Leh District’s population. The most attractive features of the Landscape of Leh are the Buddhists Gompas ( Monastries). The Gompas are situated on the highest points of the mountain spurs or sprawl over cliffsides, located in vicinity of villages and provide focus for the faith of Buddhists. TheseMany Gompas celebrate their annual festivals in winter marked by gay mask dances. Gompas have a wreath of artifacts. There are also some religious places of Muslims which constitute slightly more than 15% of the district’s population.<br />
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The famous religious places include:<br />
<br />
<h3>Monasteries in Leh and Ladakh:</h3><br />
<h3>Hemis:</h3><br />
Situated 40 Kms from Leh, Hemis is the wealthiest, best known and biggest Gompa of Ladakh. The annual festival of the gompa is held in the summer in the honour of Guru Padma Sambhav’s birth anniversary. It also has the largest thanka (scroll painting n silk or brocade) in Ladakh which is unfurled once in 12 years. The next unfurling will take place in 2004. Hemis was built in 1630 A.D. during the reign of Sengge Namgyal and flourished under the Namgyal dynasty.<br />
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<h3>Alchi:</h3><br />
The Gompa is situated on the banks of the Indus, 70 kms from Leh and dates a thousand years back. One of its wall features thousands of miniature sized pictures of the Buddha. The focal attraction of the gompa are three large sized images. The gompa is no longer an active religious centre and is looked after by monks from the Likir Monastery.<br />
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<h3>Spituk:</h3><br />
The gompa stands prominently on the top of the hillock, 8 km from Leh, and commands a panoramic view of the Indus valley for miles. Many icons of Buddha and five thankas are found in the 15th century monastery. There is also a collection of ancient masks, antique arms, and an awe inspiring of Mahakaal.<br />
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<h3>Phyang:</h3><br />
The monastery is situated 17 kms from Leh, on the Leh- Kargil road. It was built by Tashi Namgyal in the later half of the 16th century A.D. and looks like a palace from a distance. The gompa belongs to the Red Cap sect of the Buddhists. Hundreds of icons of Buddha are kept on wooden shelves.<br />
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<h3>Shey:</h3><br />
15 kms upstream from Leh, the palace was once residence of the royal family. The palace is believed to have been the seat of power of the pre-Tibetian kings. A 7.5 metre high copper statue of Buddha, plated with Gold, and the largest of its kind, is installed in the palace.<br />
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<h3>Thikse:</h3><br />
The Thikse monastery is spectacularly situated 19 kms from Leh. It is one of the largest and architecturally most impressive gompas. The gompa has images stupas and wall paintings of Buddha which are exquisite.<br />
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Other monasteries f equal importance include Chemrey 45 Kms from Leh, Stakna, Matho, Sankar, Stok and above all Lamayuru, the oldest religious centre of Ladakh.<br />
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<h3>Jama Masjid, Leh:</h3><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoheIy1MIoRE-q0beVJk8vNooWveDMBGfbitXVT2Nt4Nz_iX2yj0R6Al6cwEnfpeSYH8PK7L6-sxKNxPTr39dT-T92rpyFv54ZxG3qZiEzQdEJgcvp2SrY6UCEx7lgLF_syynh2UUjX0w/s1600/Leh+Mosque.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoheIy1MIoRE-q0beVJk8vNooWveDMBGfbitXVT2Nt4Nz_iX2yj0R6Al6cwEnfpeSYH8PK7L6-sxKNxPTr39dT-T92rpyFv54ZxG3qZiEzQdEJgcvp2SrY6UCEx7lgLF_syynh2UUjX0w/s320/Leh+Mosque.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>The historical mosque is situated in the heart of Leh town. It was built in 1666-67 A.D. consequent to an agreement between the Mugal Emperor Aurangzeb and the then ruler of Ladakh, Deldan namgyal. Since then it has been repaired and extended several times. The Mugals has facilitated withdrawal of Mongol army from Ladakh. Although Muslims had arrived in Ladakh as early as in 15th century, he Muslim shrines were constructed later than that. A couple of years ago, the jama Masjid was dismantled and a new mosque was constructed in its place, using modern mansonry skills.<br />
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<h3>Masjid-e-Shah-e-Hamdan:</h3><br />
In Shey village, 15 km upstream from Leh, there is a small mosque of great historicalvalue. The mosque was built by one of the greatest preachers of Islam in Kashmir, Mir Syad Ali Hamdani, popularly known as Shah-e-Hamdan. He had arrived in Ladakh about seven centuries ago.<br />
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<h3>Trekking in Leh and Ladakh:</h3><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOMTRMyWg7Kk506Aih7gc54NLVBIAol_JclQk3-YSGJayaArjsJHYBA0d2e1UhZX3pYcmDk5kRLI4yUNn-sOSFRWT6NT3jGlirfYAHIjEVqavOHagrEEuZXVWPkYv2FvfVHObOoLnhgjI/s1600/Trekking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOMTRMyWg7Kk506Aih7gc54NLVBIAol_JclQk3-YSGJayaArjsJHYBA0d2e1UhZX3pYcmDk5kRLI4yUNn-sOSFRWT6NT3jGlirfYAHIjEVqavOHagrEEuZXVWPkYv2FvfVHObOoLnhgjI/s320/Trekking.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Ladakh one of the most favourite trekking destination, having some of the most picturesque and challenging treks. Ladakh is a paradise for adventure lover given by its world's mightiest mountain ranges, the Greater Himalaya and the Karakoram, and two others, the Ladakh range and the Zangskar range. The most important feature of trekking in Ladakh is it's High Mountain passes which comes on the trekking routes gives you opportunity to have wonderful view of colorful mountains and amazing landscape.<br />
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<h3>Popular Treks:</h3><br />
The treks from Spituk to the Markha valley and Lamayuru gompa to Chiling village alongside the Zanskar River are the most popular treks in the region. Another trek route is from Likir to Temisgam.<br />
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<h3>Best Time to Trek:</h3><br />
Treks are open from the June end upto mid October. The passes for trekking are as high as 5,000 m in altitude. Many trekking agencies in Leh offer trek packages with a guide, packhorses, food and supplies.<br />
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<h3>Treks in Ladakh:</h3><b><br />
</b><br />
<b>A. Easy Treks in Ladakh</b><br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Sham Trek (07 Days) </li>
<li>Spituk Trekking (06 Days) </li>
<li>Indus Valley Trek (13 Days) </li>
<li>Sham & Indus Valley Trek (14 Days)</li>
</ul><br />
<b>B. Moderate Treks in Ladakh</b><br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Manali Ladakh Trekking (23 Days) </li>
<li>Markha Valley Trek (11 Days) </li>
<li>Spiti To Ladakh (24 Days ) </li>
<li>Sangla to Leh Trek (13 Days) </li>
<li>The Nubra Valley Trek (10 Days ) </li>
<li>Tsomoiri Lake Trek (23 Days) </li>
<li>Trekking in Zanskar (darcha-Padum) (18 Days) </li>
<li>Lamayuru Alchi Trek (09 Days) </li>
<li>Lamayuru Martselang Trekking (19 Days) </li>
<li>Lamayuru Chilling via Dung-Dung La (12 Days) </li>
<li>Ladakh Monastery Trek (17 Days) </li>
<li>Wild Ladakh Trekking (23 Days) </li>
</ul><br />
<b>C. Alpine or Tough Treks in Ladakh </b><br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Hemis Rupsu Darcha Trekking (21 Days)</li>
<li>Stok Kangri Trekking (18 Days) </li>
<li>Remote Zanskar Trekking (18 Days) </li>
<li>Darcha Lamayuru Trek (18 Days) </li>
<li>Frozen River Trek (23 Days) </li>
<li>Journey To Southern Zanskar (26 Days) </li>
<li>Ladakh Zanskar Trek (18 Days) </li>
<li>Lamayuru Padum Trek (19 Days) </li>
<li>Stok Kangri Climb-Markha Trekking (22 Days) </li>
<li>Trans-Zanskar Expeditionl (27 Days) </li>
<li>The Rupshu Trek (23 Days) </li>
</ul><br />
<h3>Trekking Permit :</h3><br />
In Ladakh, special permits are only required for restricted areas like the Nubra Valley and for summiting certain peaks. Travel agents will arrange these permits.<br />
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<h3>Trekking Guidelines:</h3><br />
The easiest way to go on a trek is through a travel agency, which will take care of all the arrangements. Making your own arrangements is not recommended. For trekking in Ladakh, it is not enough to be physically fit, intending trekkers must also be prepared to face the rigours of back country travel. There is considerable fluctuation in the day & night temperatures even during the heights of summer.<br />
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<h3>Equipments for trekking:</h3><br />
The following list of clothes and small personal articles you will need during the trek.<br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Kit-bag with padlock or a big backpack. It will contain the 12 kg personal belongings </li>
<li>Good sleeping bag. </li>
<li>Walking stick optional. </li>
<li>A frontal lamp or an electric torch. </li>
<li>A foam mattress. </li>
<li>Hiking shoes. </li>
<li>Sweater </li>
<li>Fleece jacket </li>
<li>Waterproof jacket. </li>
<li>Good trousers </li>
<li>Waterproof trousers. </li>
<li>Gloves and cap </li>
<li>Sunglasses </li>
<li>Sun cream </li>
<li>A water bottle </li>
</ul><br />
<h3>General Instruction:</h3><br />
Trekking is a completely different world of activities when compared with our normal life. Uncertainties have to be faced with courage and determination. To face all these unlike problems, some important tips for a traveler on these adventurous yet demanding terrains are being described below:<br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>A complete medical check-up prior to start trekking </li>
<li>Toning up of the body and acclimatization should be strictly observed. </li>
<li>Patients of asthma and diabetes should restrict their climb up to 3000 meters above sea level. </li>
<li>In case of any severe sickness, provide first aid and then make arrangements to bring the patient to lower area and to hospital. </li>
<li>Protect the body from changing weathers. </li>
<li>Use well broken comfortable walking shoes. </li>
<li>Collect maximum information about the trek. </li>
<li>Keep all the equipment and food stuff in order. </li>
<li>Camp site should be preferably near the source of drinking water. </li>
<li>Do not camp under trees. </li>
<li>Pitch the tent on an inclined surface and dig a small trench around. </li>
<li>Set off for trek early in the morning, fording a stream will be easier at that time. </li>
<li>After finishing cooking or after packing up the kitchen, extinguish fire completely, especially while camping in forests. </li>
<li>Clean the camp site before setting off and dispose off wastes and litter to protect the natural beauty of the area. </li>
<li>Check the first aid kit before starting off. </li>
<li>Keep a handsome amount of medicines to be distributed in local people. Appoint a tour leader of group.</li>
</ul><br />
<h3>Awareness :</h3><br />
A Respect local traditions, customs, values and sentiments to help them protect local culture and maintain local pride. <br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Respect privacy when taking photographs </li>
<li>Respect holy places </li>
<li>Refrain from giving money to children as it encourages begging </li>
<li>Respect for the local etiquette earns you respect </li>
<li>Let the Himalayas change you - Do not change them </li>
<li>Protect the natural environment </li>
<li>Leave the campsite cleaner than you found it </li>
<li>Limit deforestation - make no open fires </li>
<li>Burn dry paper and packets in a safe place </li>
<li>Keep local water clean and avoid using pollutants </li>
<li>Plants should be left to flourish in their natural environment </li>
<li>Have a break and give the World one. </li>
</ul><br />
<h3>Clothes And Equipments:</h3><br />
The summer visitors to Leh will need basically warm- weather clothes, with a sweeter for evenings and mornings when it may be chilly. Temperatures begin to fall around the 2nd half of August, and though cottons continue to be worm during the day until mid September, a heavy sweeter or an anorak or coat will be needed in the mornings and evenings. Form mid September it starts getting distinctly cold and woollens are needed even during the day, though in the sun it is still hot. Winter visitors- which means November to April- will need to equip themselves with heavy woollens, anoraks or tweed coats, gloves, balaclave helmets or equivalent and warm boots.<br />
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Reasonably good trekking equipment can be hired from Private Tour Operators specialised in mountain treks. All trekkers should remember that nights in the mountains would be chilly at any time of the year and make sure that they should be fully equipped for the treks. They must carry enough food for the whole trek, basic supplies- fruit & vegetables or the occasional villages enroute will be able to provide local food if you run out of food stock. It is advisable to keep a good torch handy during treks and visit to the monasteries because shrines are often found ill- lit.<br />
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<h3>Jeep Safari:</h3><br />
<h3>Jeep Safari available</h3><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Nalagarh to Nubra valley</li>
<li>High valleys of Ladakh</li>
<li>Lamayuru to Padum</li>
<li>Lamayuru to Darcha Trek</li>
<li>Lamayuru to Hemis</li>
<li>Hemis to Zangla by Junglam</li>
<li>Hemis to Tsomoriri</li>
<li>Hemis to Takh</li>
<li>Henaskut to Wanla</li>
<li>Sham Trek (Liker to Khaltse)</li>
<li>Tsomoriri to Kibber</li>
<li>Chader Trek</li>
<li>Rumtse to Tsomoriri</li>
<li>Saboo to Khaltsar</li>
<li>Spituk to Stok</li>
</ul><br />
<h3>Cycling in Ladakh:</h3><br />
<h3>Manali to Khardongla Pass</h3><br />
The suppositions:<br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>You must be a very good biker, the high passes are not technical unpretending.</li>
<li>The road is to 80% paved and the distances are not too long.</li>
<li>A support car carries your luggage, so you can enjoy the great Himalayan range at the best views.</li>
<li><b>The best time is 10. June-30 September.</b></li>
</ul><br />
<h3>River Rafting in Leh and Ladakh:</h3><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEKiN9POG4dFDV2gptpvr5EI8tKrilBq9AsKxiFFC-iagau7L8jYr8xHai8f6r3hwpeCz44m_Qgfd2rD3485MufxV-tIs96GHtd6UQtXBQuax5pn4xG75Kxq9GjwMdpPRfhZ3A4J72okk/s1600/River_Rafting_India.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEKiN9POG4dFDV2gptpvr5EI8tKrilBq9AsKxiFFC-iagau7L8jYr8xHai8f6r3hwpeCz44m_Qgfd2rD3485MufxV-tIs96GHtd6UQtXBQuax5pn4xG75Kxq9GjwMdpPRfhZ3A4J72okk/s320/River_Rafting_India.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Ladakh has three major rivers, where you can undertake this adventurous Sport. Indus in Leh region, Shayok in Nubra and Zanskar river in Zanskar. A range of rafting options are available on these rivers.<br />
<br />
The Indus River, locally known as the Singhe Khababs (out of Lion's mouth), flows across the north west to the south east, passing through Ladakh and flows into Pakistan where it joined Shayok and Suru to become major historical Indus River.<br />
<br />
The Indus, originates near the Kailash Mountain and the Mansarovar Lake in Western Tibet. Water levels remain high during the month June to late August, which is the best season for fascinating rafting expeditions. The travel agent offers white water River rafting on Indus for one to five days. The rafting on Indus provides spectacular view of the landscapes Ladakh and Zanskar ranges which housed Buddhist monasteries on high cliff. The white water Indus has rapids generally of I and II grades and at some places, has grade III to even V rapids.<br />
<br />
<h3>Popular Rafting Points:</h3><br />
The popular rafting points are from Phey to Nimo, Upshi to Kharu , Upshi to Nimo. The other points run from Phey to Saspol or Phey to the Indus - Zanskar confluence at Nimo and from Nimo to the historical monastic enclave of Alchi, about 75 Kms west of Leh.<br />
<br />
Experienced rafters may also want to try the more challenging route between Alchi and Khaltsey, which takes in the kilometre long series of rapids at Nurla. Easier runs include the run between Hemis (40km south of Leh) situated along a road crossing the Indus and Choglamsar, which is a three-hour trip that goes through quiet, calm waters, and passes through the riverside villages of Stakna, Shey and Thiksey (25km south-east of Leh), before ending at Choglamsar, just short of Leh city.<br />
<br />
<h3>Rafting Guidelines:</h3><br />
<h3>Rafting Grade</h3><br />
There are two main sets of routes along the rivers, graded I to III (for amateurs) and IV to VI, for veterans. The Zanskar and the Indus, both in Ladakh, are graded I - III, while the more southern stretches of the Beas, Chenab, Sutlej and Teesta are graded IV – VI.<br />
<br />
Grade I: Small, easy waves; mainly flat water<br />
Grade II: Mainly clear passages; some areas of difficulty <br />
Grade III: Difficult passages; narrow in places and with high waves<br />
Grade IV: Very difficult, narrow and requiring precise manoeuvring <br />
Grade V: Extremely difficult. Very fast-flowing waters which can be manoeuvred only by experts <br />
Grade VI: For all practical purposes, unmanageable- even suicidal<br />
<br />
<h3>Equipments:</h3><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Good sunscreen</li>
<li>Dark glasses,</li>
<li>Shorts,</li>
<li>T-shirts (or other light, quick-dry clothing) and</li>
<li>Suitable shoes-sneakers or heavy duty rubber sandals may be a good idea.</li>
<li>Windproof jacket,</li>
<li>Light sweater,</li>
<li>Towels</li>
<li>Flashlight</li>
<li>And don’t forget the first aid box.</li>
</ul><br />
<h3>Special Permits:</h3><br />
River rafting in some areas may require special permits from the government. Areas close to India’s international borders, such as Nubra, Sikkim, Lahaul and Spiti may be off-limits to foreigners without a valid permit. Make sure you’ve got all the necessary permits which are needed. Permits can usually be obtained fairly easily from District Commissioners. Travel agents or the River will arrange these permits<br />
<br />
<h3>River rafting routes:</h3><br />
<b>A. Phey - Nimo route:</b> This route consist mostly of Grade II or III easy rapids is that it passes through astoundingly beautiful mountains, many of them with tiny hamlets and imposing old monasteries nestling among the valleys. Starting from Phey Village, about 12 Kms from Leh and ends Indus-Zanskar confluence at Nimo, about 36 kms from Leh<br />
<br />
<b>B. Upshi - Kharu route:</b> This route is somewhat long as compare to the Phey-Nimo, but not too difficult. The stretch between Upshi and Kharu consists of I and II rapids, although there are some grade III rapids too. The starting point is at Upshi, about 90 Kms South east of Leh, along the road which leads south to Manali. From Upshi, the river makes its way westwards to Kharu, along the road to Leh.<br />
<br />
<b>C. Phey - Saspol:</b> This rafting trip starts from Phey, about 8 kms south of Leh and its end at Saspol, on Leh-Srinagar Highway, near Alchi. This route is short and relaxed enough to enjoy the breathtaking view of landscapes and beauty of tiny hamlets on the both side of Indus.<br />
<br />
<b>D. Kharu - Spituk:</b> it starts from Kharo, about 45 Kms South-East of Leh and ends at Spituk, just short of Leh. This route is specially recommended for the beginners and amateurs.<br />
<br />
<b>E. Saspol – Khaltsey:</b> If you are experienced rafters, you may try the more challenging route between Saspol and Khaltsey, which has kilometre long series of rapids at Nurla. The rafting will finish at Khaltsey 90 Kilometres from Leh.<br />
<br />
<h3>Rafting Operators in Leh:</h3><br />
There are several Travel Agents around Leh Market offering white water rafting on the Indus River and Zanskar River. Other Rafting expeditions are organized on demand and the cost depends on number of person and rafting points.<br />
<br />
<h3>Mountaineering in Leh and Ladakh:</h3><br />
Ladakh is a mountaineer’s delight with numerous mountain ranges all across the region. The most famous and easily accessible is the Stok Kangri at 6140 metres. Other peaks in the area include Golaib Kangri and Matho West. The Kang Yatse peak (6400 metres) stands southeast of Leh and is reached by the famous Markha Trek.<br />
<br />
The Nun Kun (7135m and 7085m) massif is one of the greatest Himalayan ranges and is easily accessible from Parkachik on the Kargil-Padum road. It is considered one of the most challenging climbing destinations in the Great Himalayas. The Nun Kun massif is mainly surrounded by many high peaks like White Needle 6600m and Pinnacle at 6930m.<br />
<br />
Lungser at 6666m Chamser at 6620m Mentok 6250m and Mentok II at 6210m lie about 240 kilometres from Leh in the Rupshu Valley around the Tso Moriri Lake. Lungser is the highest peak in Ladakh but is relatively easy to climb and extremely popular with cliimbers.<br />
<br />
<h3>Stok Kangri:</h3><br />
Grade 1A<br />
<br />
Altitude 6,121m/20,082ft<br />
<br />
Prominently in the southern sky near Leh stands Stok Kangri (20,076 ft.), which is one of the highest peaks among the Zanskar and Ladakh mountain ranges. The views from the summit are some of the best in this area, with K2 visible on a clear day. Stok Kangri is the perfect objective for fit trekkers without climbing experience that want to summit on their first Himalayan Peak. It is one of the main peaks of the Zansker range, situated in the fascinating region of Ladakh. First opened to visitors in 1974. The expedition travels through remote valleys, scattered high villages and past hilltop monasteries to the base of the mountain. One of the highlights of the trip is visiting Leh, the ancient capital of Ladakh.<br />
<br />
<h3>Ladakh Trekking:</h3><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Zanskar Trek</li>
<li>Ladakh Monasteries Trek</li>
<li>Manali Ladakh Extended Trek</li>
<li>Nubra Valley Trek</li>
<li>Indus Valley Trek</li>
<li>Markha Valley Trek</li>
<li>Popular Markha Valley Treke</li>
<li>Stok Kangri Expedition</li>
<li>Ladakh Adventure Jeep Safari</li>
<li>Spiti - Ladakh Trek</li>
<li>Off the Beaten Trail</li>
<li>Trek to Hidden Shangrila</li>
<li>The Mystic Trail</li>
<li>Along the Himalayan Wilderness</li>
<li>Manali Ladakh Trek </li>
<li>The Nubra Valley </li>
<li>Indus Valley Trek </li>
<li>Classic Markha Valley</li>
<li>Ladakh Monastery Trek </li>
<li>Journey to South Zanskar </li>
<li>Trans-Zanskar Expedition </li>
<li>The Passes of Spiti</li>
<li>Spiti to Ladakh </li>
<li>Spiti to Pitok to Himis </li>
<li>The Rupshu: Trek </li>
<li>The Great Salt Lakes</li>
<li>Chadar Ice Trek </li>
<li>Throne of the Gods </li>
<li>Amarnath Trek </li>
<li>Padum-phugtal Gompa</li>
<li>Padam to Dracha Trek </li>
<li>Panikhar to Heniskot Trek </li>
<li>Lamayuru Martselang </li>
<li>Manali - Leh Trek</li>
<li>Padum to Manali Trek </li>
<li>Pahalgam to Suru Valley </li>
<li>Lamayuru - Alchi Trek </li>
<li>Kala Pattar Trek</li>
<li>Kinnaur -Spiti-Ladakh </li>
<li>Tsomoiri-Lake Trek </li>
<li>Ladakh Panorama</li>
</ul><br />
<h3>Festival of Leh & Ladakh:</h3><br />
* Buddha Purnima Festival - ( 30 May - 9 June '07)<br />
* Hemis Monastery Festival - (23 June - 3 July '07)<br />
* Takthok Monastery Festival - (22 July - 1 Aug '07)<br />
* Lamayuru Monastery Festival - (25 June - 5 July '07)<br />
* Ladakh Annual Festival - (31 Aug - 10 Sep '07)<br />
* Phyang Monastery Festival - (11 July - 21 July '07)<br />
<br />
<h3>Wildlife Ladakh:</h3><br />
Ladakh has a distinct alpine, floral and faunal variety. Several flowering plants, a dozen important mammals and over a hundred species of birds are found here in this rugged terrain. Most of the species are classified as endangered or rare.<br />
<br />
The wild yak is to be found only here. Other animals include the ibex, blue sheep, bharal, docile marmot and mouse hare. Black necked crane, bar-headed geese, ducks and several other water birds breed near the lakes in thousands. The avid bird watcher can spend friutful hours by observing Bactrian magpies, grey tits, chough, raven, sparrow, kite, kestrel, Turkoman rock pigeon, chukor, finches, buntings, larks, desert wheateaters, a many more varieties of birds. <br />
<br />
The snow leopard is Ladakh's most rare animal. Another one that is unique is the kyang or the wild horse, while at lower altitudes the musk deer too is a rare sight, precious by virtue of its expensive musk. Visitors are likely to spot many marmots, mouse hares, stone martens, red foxes, wolves, ibex, bharal and shapu during the course of their journey but the habitat of the nyan (big horned sheep), chim (Tibetan antelope famed for its fleece-Shahtoosh), goa (Tibetan gazelle), lynx, pallas cat, kyamg (wild horse) and brong dong (wild yak) are still outside the tourists' domain.<br />
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<h3>Ladakh photos:</h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSo5b3gYKG8A88u1To3l4n_lOD7JlrgxxsMNZEB4gLdVwBIeHD0YqbKiyWUAyRYvvsfkB9BncYvjoB1lK5I7WcAWMNpY_G9wyDDQC57NjgrM676-AA4fITrXML-apJdnZDZM5oDy8xWu4/s1600/Leh_Ladakh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSo5b3gYKG8A88u1To3l4n_lOD7JlrgxxsMNZEB4gLdVwBIeHD0YqbKiyWUAyRYvvsfkB9BncYvjoB1lK5I7WcAWMNpY_G9wyDDQC57NjgrM676-AA4fITrXML-apJdnZDZM5oDy8xWu4/s320/Leh_Ladakh.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<h2>Leh Ladakh, Ladakh, Leh, Leh Ladakh Map, Ladakh Tourism, Ladakh Trekking, Zanskar, Leh & Ladakh, Leh Ladakh Hotels, Ladakh photos and much more</h2></div>Kaushuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04458778096609495270noreply@blogger.com1