Jammu and Kashmir

Details : Jammu and Kashmir, the northernmost state of the Indian union consists of three divisions -Jammu, Kashmir Valley and Ladakh. It has two capitals- Jammu, the winter capital and Srinagar, the summer capital. The state is almost mountainous with stretches of valleys and some mountain lakes.

Jammu and Kashmir has been famous for its natural beauty since time immemorial and has been aptly described as "heaven on earth". The state has some of the best tourist spots in the entire country. Tourists from not only India but also the world over come to enjoy the scenic beauty of the state. The tourism industry has greatly benefited the state economy. Some of the major tourist attractions in the state are Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Leh, Patnitop, and Ladakh. The city of Jammu is popularly known as the City of temples. Srinagar is famous for its lakes and houseboats while Kashmir, known for its scenic natural beauty and rich cuisine is quite popular among tourists. The Dal Lake houseboats are one of the major attractions of Kashmir. Another major tourist attraction is the Mughal Gardens of Srinagar. While on a visit to Kashmir one should also not miss some of the various adventure

prospects available, like trekking, rafting and skiing. Kashmir also has some of the best handicrafts in the entire country. Srinagar is known for its traditional crafts.

Some of the major pilgrimage centers of the nation are located in the state, the two most important being the Amarnath Caves and the Vaishnodevi Shrine. Jammu and Kashmir has some of the best hotels to cater to its ever-growing tourism industry. There are hotels of various ranges. Even the Dal Lake houseboats are of all categories, like deluxe and economy. Cattle rearing and Farming are the major contributors to the economy of Jammu and Kashmir. Real Estate and Mortgage also constitute a considerable part of the service sector.

History:

Jammu & Kashmir History enlists a wide gamut of ancient invasions and other historical events that took place in the state many decades back. The original roots of Jammu & Kashmir dates back to third century BC when the Maurya Dynasty took the reign of the state. King Ashoka ruled the state for a considerable period of time and Buddhism became a dominant faith of the inhabitants.

After the Maurya Empire, Kushan Dynasty came into the forefront of Jammu & Kashmir. During the times of first and second century AD, the warriors of Kushan Empire dominated the state of Jammu & Kashmir with elan. Such was the influence of this Kingdom that many places of the state still bears the rich imprints in the form of their names such as Hushkora and Kanispora that were derived from Huvishka and Kanishka, respectively.

The Lalitaditya Muktapida Dynasty appeared in the land of Jammu & Kashmir in the period of eighth century. One of the significant evidences of the reign of this Kingdom is reflected through the origin of the canal irrigation process in the valleys of the state that were believed to have been founded by the rulers of Lalitaditya Muktapida.

The beginning of 14th century witnessed the spread of Mughal Empire. Rinchen Shah was the first enthusiast who transformed into a Muslim follower in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. After him a large chunk of the population of the state converted itself into devout followers of Islam. Akbar became the ultimate ruling figure and his influence lasted in the state for many years.

In the year 1815, Ranjit Singh who was a great Sikh warrior took charge of Jammu & Kashmir. In the year of 1845, Gulab Singh, the grand nephew of Ranjit Singh played a vital role in the first Anglo-Sikh war. Following this great war, the Battle of Sobraon took place in the state as result of which two treaties were made between Gulab Singh and Henry Lawrence.

The Indo-Pakistan war was indeed a tragic event that took place in the land of Jammu & Kashmir. The prime causes of such war were related to the land demarcations and boundary ratification between the two countries. Apart from the soldiers of both sides, the civilians of Jammu & Kashmir were also adversely affected by this historical war.

Kargil War which took place in the year 1999 was one of the most victorious events which made a mark of its own in the state. Ignoring all the adversities of the high altitude of Kargil which is located in the state of Jammu & Kashmir the Indian Army fought a great battle and conquered the Pakistani soldiers.

Jammu & Kashmir History truly depicts an awe-inspiring catalogue of past and not so recent historical happenings.

Culture:

The state has a very rich history and a distinct culture where people of all faiths live in perfect harmony.The state of Jammu & Kashmir is a region of widely varying people and geography. Nature has lavishly endowed Kashmir with certain distinctive favours which hardly find a parallel in any alpine land of the world. A spell on a houseboat on Dal Lake has always been one of India's real treats and Kashmir also offers some delightful trekking opportunities and unsurpassed scenery. Set in the womb of the Himalayas and gifted with beautiful and inspiring natural scenery, The cultural heritage of Kashmir is very rich and derives its inspiration and strength both from her natural environs and the rich literature and literary traditions alike.

On tour to Ladakh, one can enjoy music, dance and drama which embodies religious fervour. Ladakhi songs and dances are simple in thought, content and performance too. Ladakhi dances reveal the simple and noble nature of the Ladakhi people. Song and drama both are the means towards salvation. The ancient archeological monuments and remnants speak volume of the district cultural traditions of the state. A visit to this paradise, resplendent in nature's glory, will linger long in the memory of the visitor.

Country :  India

Continent :  Asia