Area: 318,937 sq. km
Population: 8.8 million
Capital: Srinagar (Summer), Jammu (Winter)
Main Languages: Kashmiri, Dogri, Urdu, Hindi, Ladakhi and Tibetan
Best time to visit: May to October

Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), India's fascinating Northern most state is a wide cultural and geographical contrast. It consists of three regions differing in topography and culture - Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.

The region of Jammu includes the city of Jammu, situated on the north Indian plains, a short distance from the Shivalik Hills. North of the Shivaliks the rest of the Jammu region is drained by the Chenab River whose vast catchment area includes several narrow valleys that extend deep into the high Himalayas. The region of Jammu is predominantly Hindu, although there are small Muslim communities. Jammu was the stronghold of Hindu Dogra kings and abounds with popular temples and secluded forest retreats.

The Kashmir Valley, north of Jammu, is s fertile verdant region enclosed by high snow-capped ridges of the Pir Panjal range to the west and south and the main Himalayan range to the east. Its population is predominantly Muslim with a rich Islamic history that can be traced to the 14th century. The Mughal rulers were always happy to retreat here from the heat of the plains. They developed their formal garden style art to its greatest heights in Kashmir. The State's summer capital Srinagar is located in this valley. Kashmir has been involved in a political controversy ever since the independence of India, with parts of it under the occupation of Pakistan and China. In the last few years, this has led to heightened tension, militancy and disruption of peace in the region. One can only hope that the problems will be solved by the respective national governments and Kashmir will regains its former glory

Ladakh, the Land of Passes, is the northernmost province of the State and lies beyond the Kashmir Valley over the famous Zozi La Pass. It marks the boundary between the peaks of the western Himalayas and the vast Tibetan plateau. It is a magical land completely different from the green landscape of other parts of the Himalayas with barren mountains, lush-green river valleys, deep blue skies, fascinating monasteries and numerous lakes full of bird life. It has become one of the most popular summer destinations; the area remains virtually monsoon free due to the great barrier of the Himalayas. It is the abode of rare Kiang (wild ass) and highland Yak. Ladakh is one of the best living traditions of Tibetan Buddhism in the world. Leh, the main city of the region lies at the Tri-junction of the historic silk route from Sinkiang to West Asia and to the plains of India.

How to Reach -

The airports in the State are Jammu, Srinagar and Leh and there are regular flights to these cities from Delhi. Jammu is the last railhead in north India and though rail tracks have been extended further, Jammu receives the majority of trains from all over India. The other important station is Katra, which is 48km away from Jammu. Jammu and Srinagar are well connected by roads with the rest of the country. The national highway no. 1-A also touches Jammu. There is also a good network connecting the different regions with each other.

When going to Ladakh, it is preferable to go by road rather than taking the Ariel route. That's because Ladakh offers one of the most breathtaking drives in the world, the region where the lowest altitude is 9000ft above sea level. The access to Leh by road is from the state capital Srinagar. The route is an age old one that traders from Central Asia used for centuries before the road was built. Another road is from Manali in neighbouring Himachal Pradesh. The road running through the Baralacha La Pass is used by tourists and is a major attraction for the travellers.

Jammu
Leh
Nubra Valley
Rupsu Valley
Srinagar

JAMMU

Amongst the three regions of J&K, Jammu, perhaps, offers the widest diversity of terrain and beauty. It is perched on the first sloping ridge rising from the plains of Punjab. The meandering Tawi River flows in the foothills and the backdrop is the imposing Trikuta range. The entire region is pocketed with lakes and valleys of which some are still little explored. Jammu is actually two towns. The old town sits on a hilltop overlooking the river and several kilometers away across the river is the new town of Jammu Tawi. The foundation of the settlement of Jammu is attributed to King Jambulochan of 9th century BC. In 1730 it came under the Dogra rule of Raja Dhruv Deva and became an important centre for arts and culture. Religion, too, played an important part in its development, so beautifully evidenced in its various shrines and temples spread throughout the region. Jammu is essentially a town of temples and shrines.

Places to See -

Raghunath Temple - located in the heart of the city is the largest temple complex in northern India. Dedicated to Lord Rama, it has a unique structure. The inner walls of temple are covered with gold sheet on three sides. The galleries of the temple are covered with lakhs of 'Saligrams' (sacred stones). The surrounding temples are dedicated to other god and goddess from the epic of Ramayana. Construction of the temple was started in 1835 by Maharaja Gulab Singh and was completed by his son Maharaja Ranbir Singh in 1860.

Peer Khoh - is a cave shrine with a naturally formed Shiva lingam. There are many more temples, which have a strong mythological significance. The antiquity of this lingam is not known. It is said that this cave gives way to other underground caves and shrines, some of which are even located outside India.

Ranbireshwar Temple - was built by Maharaja Ranbir Singh in 1883. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The main Shiva lingam in the temple is seven and half feet in height surrounded by many small crystal Shiva lingas.

Ranbir Canal - is a cool picnic spot some 2km from Jammu. These gardens are located on banks of a canal, which branches from the Chenab River. They provide excellent walkways and viewpoints of the surrounding areas. Even in summers, water in the canal remains ice cold.

Bahu Fort - was originally built by Raja Bahulochan some 3000-years ago but it was modified and improved by the Dogra rulers. Located 5km from the city, it is situated on an upland plateau on the bank of Tawi River. It is perhaps the oldest edifice in Jammu and reminds one of the wars fought, invasions prevented and the grandeur of the Royal family. There is a temple dedicated to Goddess Kali inside the Fort. Close to Bahu fort are exquisitely laid gardens from where one has a very exclusive view of Jammu. Behind the Fort is a forest cover, which surrounds the Maha Maya temple. Surrounded by lush green terraced gardens, resplendent with waterfalls and flowers, the Fort is a popular picnic spot.

Amar Singh Palace - patterned as a French chateau, with sloping roofs and tall towers, the palace was the Royal residence. Now converted into a museum, it has interesting memorabilia of the erstwhile ruling family. It houses the city's finest library of antique books and paintings.

Peer Baba - is the famous Dargah (tomb) of the Muslim saint, Peer Budhan Ali Shah. On Thursdays apart from Muslims, Hindus and Sikhs also come in large numbers to pay respect to the Saint.

Mubarak Mandi Palace - this complex dates back to 1824. The architecture of this palace has a unique blend of Rajasthani, Mughal and even Gothic styles. The Sheesh Mahal segment in the palace is most famous. The pink hall inside the palace has been converted into the Dogra Art Museum, which is a treasure house of miniature paintings from the various hill schools.

Krimchi - on the way to Shudh Mahadev, a short detour takes one to Krimchi, which is a site of the three of the oldest temples of Jammu. The architecture of the temples show distinct Greek (Hellenic) influences. The temples resemble the shape of the Lingaraja temple at Bhubaneswar in Orissa. The main temple is 50ft high, is decorated with abstract designs and the porch strongly resembles the ancient stone temples of Kashmir. Some beam like stone structures are used in the construction and the rest on massive pillars. Pieces of the sculpture found in the rubble have images of Ganesh, Parvati, Shiva and Vishnu.

Around Jammu -

Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine - located at a height of 5300ft on the holy Trikuta Hills, this holy cave shrine is one of the most popular shrines of the country and the mother of all pilgrimages. The journey to the shrine starts from the town of Katra, which is about 48km from Jammu. The shrine is dedicated to goddess Vaishno Devi. The shrine is inside a 100ft long cave with a narrow opening. It is an ancient shrine whose reference is found in the Vedas and other ancient scriptures. Previously the Shrine had only one natural entry cave, but now for the convenience of the pilgrims, two more exit caves have been constructed. You either walk up the 13km stretch that leads to the shrine from Katra or you can hire mules.

Akhnoor - is a historic town located 32km to the west of Jammu on the banks of the Chenab River and is associated with the legend of the great lovers Soni and Mahiwal. Ruins of the Indus valley civilization can be seen along the riverbank commanding a panoramic view all around.

Mansar Lake - located 60km away is a beautiful lake fringed by forest covered hills. Boating facilities are available here. Every year in the month of April a food and crafts festival is organised here during the festival of Baisakhi.

Baba Dhansar - located 65km from Jammu is a marvelous picnic spot with a huge spring oozing out from the mountains. The whole area is covered by thick grove of trees. The spring then forms into a waterfall and flows into the holy Banganga River. There is a naturally formed Shiva linga here with water dripping on it throughout the year. Every year a fair is organised here on the day of the Shivaratri festival.

Dera Baba Banda - located 75km from Jammu, this is a Gurudwara built by Baba Banda Bairaagi, a favourite saint soldier of the 10th Sikh Guru Govind Singhji. The Gurudwara lies on the banks of the Chenab River and Baba Banda Bairaagi is said to have spent his last days here. This place is considered as a major pilgrimage center for Hindus and Sikhs.

Shiv Khori - is a holy cave having a naturally formed Shiva linga. It is located about 100km from Jammu. This place is very sacred and is next only to the Vaishno Devi temple. A festival is organised here on the day of the Shivaratri festival.

Kud (1738m) - is a hill resort located about 106km form Jammu on the Jammu-Srinagar highway. It became a popular tourist destination after militancy started in Srinagar. In fact Kud was considered as a good replacement for Srinagar. Natural beauty in Kud exceeds any type of description. This place is also good for small treks and options for adventure sports are being considered in the nearby areas.

Patnitop (2024m) - located 112km away on the Jammu Srinagar highway, this is a famous hill resort perched on a beautiful plateau. Enveloped by thickly wooded forests, it offers beautiful picnic spots, peaceful walks and breathtaking views of the mountains of the Chenab basin. In winters, the resort is covered with thick snow and provides ample opportunities for various winter sports including skiing. It is second to none in its natural charm, climate, pine forests and lush green cover. A range of trekking options is available here.

Sanasar - located 119km from Jammu is another enchanting place. It is a cup shaped meadow, surrounded by gigantic conifers. A place for a quiet holiday, the meadow has now been developed as a Golf course. This place is ideal for paragliding

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LEH

Leh is the main town of the Ladakh region, situated on the Karakoram Mountains at a height of 3500m. It is at the crossroads of Central Asia and still retains powerful traces of its history. Centuries ago this was an important stop on the old caravan silk route from China. Today it's a military base and tourist centre, but wandering the winding back streets of the town is still fascinating. It's about 10 km north east of the Sindh (Indus) River in a fertile side valley. The town of Leh, an oasis in the remote ranges, has highly developed tourists facilities besides being the take-off point for various treks in the region, whitewater rafting trips on the Indus or just sightseeing from the warm comfort of a taxi. Take a walk in the narrow and winding lanes in the bazaar at the foot of the sprawling Leh Palace and you will see - burgundy robed monks going about their usual tasks, rows of vegetable sellers, gnarled old men selling apricots.

Places to See -

Choglamasar - is an important centre for Tibetan Buddhism and the study of Tibetan culture and history. There is a Tibetan Refugee Camp here and also a Library.

Stok Palace (3600m) - lies in the lower part of the big valley of Stok and was built in the beginning of the 19th century. It is the residence of the Rani of Stok - the queen of Ladakh. The palace is now converted into a museum, where exquisite collections of the royal family are displayed.

Leh Palace - built in the mid-16th century, the palace has been described as a miniature version of Lhasa's Potala Palace. It has nine storeys, sloping buttresses and projecting wooden balconies. From the town below, it is dazzling in the morning sun and ghostly at night. The views from the palace roof are exceptional. The narrow passages are lined with old thangkas, paintings and arms. A part of the palace is a museum.

Leh Gompa - located high above the palace is the older and even more ruined palace-fort and the remains of this Gompa, which houses a large Golden Buddha, many painted scrolls, murals and old manuscripts.

Namgyal Tsemo (Red) Gompa - is a 15th century monastery located in the north of the city. It has a colossal 3-storey high Buddha image and ancient manuscripts and frescoes. The fort above the Gompa is ruined but the views of Leh from here are superb.

Shankar Gompa - is located about 2km north of the city centre. the upstairs part of this interesting little Gompa belonging to the Gelukpa order has an impressive representation of the Buddhist deity of compassion, Avalokiteshvara (or Chenresig), complete 1000 arms and 1000 heads.

Shanti Stupa - looming impressively, especially at night when it is lit up, this stupa was built by a Japanese order and was opened by the Dalai Lama in 1985. From its top there are great views.

Soma Gompa - or the New Monastery located in the main street of the Old Village was built in 1957 to commemorate the 2500th anniversary of the birth of Buddha.

Around Leh -

Spituk Gompa - stands on a conical hill with three chapels 8km from Leh near the airport and above the Indus River. It was built in the 15th century under the Gelukpa order. From the highest chapel there are superb views over the Indus valley. One of the lower chapels has some very fine wall paintings. The two prayer rooms have some nice Buddha statues, only unveiled once a year during the annual festival held usually in January. There are fine thangkas, silver chortens and a statue of Kali, the face of which is only shown once a year. It has a collection of ancient Jelbagh masks, coins and arms including some rescued from the Potala Palace in Lhasa.

Phyang - located a few kilometers past Spituk on a track off the main road, it is a pretty village. Mani walls lead to the Gompa here dominates a side valley and was built around the 15th century by the king Tashi Namgyal. It now houses about 45 monks and belongs to the Kagyupa order. There are numerous Buddha statues, some Kashmiri bronzes of the 14th century, thangkas and manuscript copies of the Kangyur and Tengyur. The temple walls have colourful paintings centering on the eight emblems of happiness which have been restored.

Basgo - located about 14km east of Leh, this was once the capital of Lower Ladakh before the Ladakh kingdom was united at Leh. There are ruins of the Buddhist citadel impressively sited on a spur overlooking the Indus Valley. It served as the Royal residence for several periods between the 15th and 17th centuries. The Fort Palace was once considered almost impregnable having survived a three-year siege by Tibetan Mongol armies in the 17th century. The 400-year-old Gompa here is up some winding steep tracks and is often deserted. The prayer room of the Ser Zung Temple has some great frescoes. There is another temple in the village that has an enormous gold and copper statue of the Maitrey Buddha (the coming Buddha) and some elaborate roof and wall frescoes.

Shey - located 15km southeast of Leh on the Indus River, up a stone path is this monastery. Until the 16th century it was the Royal residence and the summer palace of the kings of Ladakh, located at an important vantage point in the Indus valley. Much of the palace and the fort high above it have fallen into disrepair though the soot covered wall paintings have been restored. It gives the appearance of being built around and a huge golden figure of Buddha 40ft high, which was made in the 17th century.

Thiksey - about 17km south of Leh on the way to Hemis, this Gompa situated on a hilltop is a part of the Gelukpa order. One of the largest religious communities of Ladakh lives here. It has particularly fine library of hand painted manuscripts, block printed books and some mandalas on the walls. It's a busy place with almost incessant chanting and music and there is a good chance to witness a Puja (prayer ceremony). There are great views of the valleys and village from its roof.

Hemis - located 45km south of Leh, this is the biggest monastery in Ladakh. Located up a side valley, it contains statues of gold, stupas decorated with precious stones and many thangkas (religious paintings on cloth). It also contains some of the finest art treasures in Ladakh, including a giant thangka, which is only displayed every 12 years. Hemis is the seat of the Rimpoche, a spiritual lord who is head of the Drugpa Kargyupa, one of the divisions of the red hat sect. He is said to be a reincarnation of the 17th century founder of Hemis Stagtshang Raspa. The colourful Hemis festival is held every year in the month of July, the most famous feature of which is the masked dance.

Alchi - is a busy village located on the Leh-Kargil road. The Gompa here is the only one in the Ladakhi region on flat ground. The Gompa was founded in the 11th century by the 'Great Translator' Ringchen Zangpo on his return from India, which accounts for the Indian and particularly Kashmiri influences in it. Paintings of the mandalas, which have deep Tantric significance, are particularly fine. Some decorations are reminiscent of Byzantine art. The 3-storey Dharma Wheel Gompa here is noted for its massive Buddha statues and lavish woodcarvings. Alchi's temple complex is regarded as one of the most important Buddhist centres in Ladakh and a jewel of monastic skill.

Lamaryuru - located on the Leh-Kargil road, this village is completely overshadowed by one of the most famous and spectacularly set Gompas in Ladakh. The Gompa is part of the Kagyupa order and its location - perched above a drained lake on an eroded crag overlooked by massive mountains - makes it special. It's the oldest known Gompa in Ladakh dating beyond the 10th century. It has been destroyed and restored several times over the centuries. There are renowned collections of carpets, thangkas and frescoes. Criminals were once granted asylum here which explains one previous name for the Gompa - Tharpa Ling or Place of Freedom.

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NUBRA VALLEY

Nubra means green and this valley used to be on the trading route connecting Tibet with Turkistan. Also known as the Valley of Flowers, it was the envy of Turkistan, which invaded it several times. It has always been well cultivated and fertile with the best climate of Ladakh. There are pretty small villages, dense forests and some wildlife. Camels are also common here. Nubra's population is 90% Buddhist. The valley isn't as crowded with Gompas as the area around Leh, so festivals tend to be less religious and more sport oriented.

Khardung La Pass - the road to Nubra Valley goes through this Pass, which is the highest motorable pass in the world at 5602m. The pass is almost permanently covered in fog and snow and is likely to be bitterly cold at the top regardless of the time of the year. Near the pass there are many places to stop for views like the Siachen Taggler's Gate. The Nubra Valley starts from the village of Khalsar.

Diskit - is 10km further up the hill. The Gompa here with about 70 monks is the oldest (over 350 years) and the biggest of its kind in the valley.

Hunder - is a pretty village set among lots of trees and mingling streams and is about 7km from Diskit. Between Diskit and Hunder is an area of sand dunes, not unlike the Sahara region if one ignore the snowcapped Alps like mountains in the background. The Gompa here is about a 2km walk above the village. It is completely deserted and quite eerie. There is only a small Buddha statue and some frescoes, but the climb is worth it for the views and atmosphere.

Samur - or Sumur is a major village along the Nubra River side of the valley and is a pretty place worth exploring. The Samsthaling Monastery here is over 150-years-old and is a large complex with seven temples. inaugurated by the Dalai Lama in 1962, it is a busy friendly place with children busy chanting or cultivating apricots and apples. The prayer rooms that are open to the public, house an impressive collection of thangkas and excellently restored frescoes.

Panamik - is another village, famous for centuries for its hot springs and as the first or last stop along the ancient trade route between Ladakh and Central Asia. The water is said to cure rheumatism and other ailments. It is usually common for men to have a bath, but women will have to be a bit more modest and careful about their attire. The 250-year-old Small Ensa Gompa here is a fair trek from the village.

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RUPSU VALLEY

This is an area of nomadic people, known as Khampas, who can often be seen taking advantage of the summer and moving herds of goats, cows and yaks from one grazing spot to another. They live in large movable family tents or in solid winter proof brick huts. Another great aspect of this region is the amount of wildlife - the best and accessible in Ladakh for it. Commonly seen are Kiangs or wild asses, foxes and cuddly marmots on the lakes one can see large flocks of black-necked geese and a variety of other bird life.

Tso Moriri Lake - known as the 'Mountain Lake' is the main attraction of the Valley and is about 140 km from Leh. The Lake is about 28 km long, 8 km at its widest and at elevation of over 4000 m. Surrounded by barren hills, which are backed by snow covered mountains, it's a good place to relax and unwind. There are Gompas nearby. A collection of huts on the shore of the lake forms the Tso Moriri village.

Korzok - a path at the back of the Tso Moriri huts leads for a kilometer or so to this delightful village. The Gompa here is quite unusual because it is inhabited by about 30 women, who often spend their days making beautiful garments. The Gompa was built in about 1850, replacing one destroyed during a Dogra invasion.

Tso Kar - or 'White Lake' is a small brackish lake at the village of Thukse, a collection of solid brick huts set up for the dramatic winters. There is also a small Gompa here. The place is famous for Kiangs (wild asses).

Chumathang - is famous for its medical hot spring and people visit here for medical bath. It also has a Monastery.

Puga Valley - and its Mahe village is an unforgettable scene of shooting fountain and white clouds hanging upon. This is Butane gas for which Puga valley is famous.

Tanglang La Pass - at 5350m, is the second highest motorable pass in the world.

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SRINAGAR

Founded in the 6th century and beautifully located around a number of lakes, Srinagar the 'Beautiful City' is divided in two by the Jhelum River, which is crossed by a number of bridges. The lush greenery of the valley with its terraced rice fields, fruit orchards and swirling waterways spills into the city via the Dal Lake and the great avenues of the popular Chinar trees. It is a city with a distinctly Central Asian flavour. The old city is in the vicinity of the Hari Parbat Hill and includes the labyrinth of alleyways, mosques and houses that constitute the commercial heart of the city. The more modern part of the city is farther up the Jhelum River, above its famous seven bridges.

This fresh natural atmosphere combined with the commercial clamor of the old city's twisting medieval streets gives Srinagar a distinctive and vitalizing flavour. Walking down the roads you will see the half- timbered houses and brick churches surrounded by magnolia trees in the garden. The water world of the Dal and Nagin Lakes can be explored in the almost decadent comforts of Shikaras hand paddled water taxis.

House Boats - have been a part of Kashmir's aquatic culture for centuries. Houseboats of all sizes and costs range the banks of the busy Dal Lake and the quieter, clearer Nagin. Most houseboats on Nagin and the Jhelum are situated on the banks of the lake can be accessed directly from the land, while those in the Dal Lake require a Shikara (canoe) to get to and from them.

Places to See -

Dal and Nagin Lakes - with their famous houseboats and shikaras (canoes) are located in east of the city. Much of the Dal Lake is a maze of intricate waterways. It comprises a series of lakes including the Nagin lake. The lakes have been formed from ancient oxbows created by the Jhelum river as it meandered across the valley floor. The present lakes are only a shrunken shadow of their former selves. The Dal Lake is famous not only for its beauty, but also for its vibrancy, as it sustains within its periphery, a life that is unique anywhere in world.

The Mughal Gardens - are located on the far east of the Dal Lake. The first two gardens, the Chashma Shahi (Royal Spring)and Pari Mahal are to the right of the famous Boulevard Road that circles the Dal Lake. A crystal spring bubbles out of a stone vase at Chashma Shahi. The two larger gardens, Nishat and Shalimar are located much farther down the Boulevard. This is Kashmir at its royal best with the beauty enhanced by the backdrop of lake and mountain and carefully sited for the best views of both.

Nishat Bagh is another lovely garden with its 12 terraces representing the 12 signs of the zodiac, which descend gradually and seem to almost merge into the lake. With its flowerbeds, trees, fountains, the Nishat presents a dramatic sight. It has an impressive plantation of huge Chinar trees on the highest terrace planted by perhaps the great Mughals themselves.

Shalimar Bagh has an air of seclusion and repose, and its rows of fountains and shaded trees seem to recede towards the snowcapped mountains. One of the attractions is the Black Pavilion, meant for the ladies of the court, set well to the back of the highest of its three terraces. It is more famous because of the celebrated romance between its builder, Emperor Jehangir and his queen Noorjahan.

Shankaracharya Temple - is located on the Takht-e-Suleman (throne of Solomon) across the combined lakes. The views from here are spectacular. One can see the entire city of Srinagar and the Jhelum valley with the river meandering its way through it.

Around Srinagar -

Pahalgam (2130m) - located 95km east of Srinagar is Kashmir's premier resort, spread along the banks of the Lidder River. It is the base of several trekking trails such as to the Kolohoi Glacier, Amarnath, Zanskar and Kargil. Around Pahalgam are many places of interest. The most beautiful of these is the huge undulating meadow of Baisaran, surrounded by thickly wooded forests of Pine. Pahalgam has within it no fewer than eight tiny villages one of which is Mamal. There is a Shiva temple here, generally considered to be Kashmir's oldest existing temple dating to the 8th century. The nearby meadow of Chandanwari is the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra (One of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimages) which takes place every year in the month of July-August. The destination Amarnath Cave is the abode of Lord Shiva. During the month of Sawan (Monsoons), an ice stalagmite forms a natural Shiva linga, which waxes and wanes with the phases of the moon.

Gulmarg (2730 m) - located 52 km southwest of Srinagar is this huge cup shaped meadow, ringed by pine forests, lush and green with slopes where the silence is broken only by the tinkle of cowbells. The name means 'Meadow of Flowers' and in the spring it is just that. All round are the snow-capped mountains, and on a clear day you can see all the way to Nanda Parbat in one direction and Srinagar in another. Gulmarg also has one of the world's highest green 18 hole Golf course which attracts sportsmen in the summer just as its ski runs make it India's premier skiing centre in the winter. Very popular with the tourists is the Gondola Project for a fun filled ride of a most unusual kind. Gulmarg's newly constructed gondola lift (cable car) ferries tourists right up to a height of 3090 m from 2690 m at the base, through pine-clad slopes

Sonmarg (3000 m) - located 84 km northeast of Srinagar is a quiet valley along the Srinagar-Leh Highway. The road that leads to Sonmarg is almost like heading for an enchanted journey into a wonderland of nature. Literally meaning 'Meadow of Gold', has as its backdrop, snowy mountains strewn with the loveliest of alpine flowers and surrounded by towering mountains. The Sindh (Indus) River meanders along here and abounds with trout and mahaseer. Ponies can be hired for the trip up to Thajiwas glacier, a major attraction during the summer months. Waterfalls and the Thajiwas glacier form a sparkling white contrast to the greenery - covered meadows.

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