Jammu, Feb 1: “If there is a paradise on earth, it is here, it is here, it is here”. This Persian couplet itself defines the beauty of Jammu and Kashmir when it comes to the Tourism potential of the Union Territory.
Jammu and Kashmir encompasses tropical, subtropical and temperate climatic weather patterns, which therefore make it distinct from other parts of the country.
A huge trans Himalayan landscape presents a diverse socio- geographical landscape to the onlookers and visitors. Himalayas, the young fold mountains of the world with snow cladded peaks throughout the year and also home to the highest peak of the world offer a wider platform for adventurous activities here and they form an undisputable source of allurement to the visitors from other Indian states and foreign countries as well.
The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is divided into two divisions; Jammu division and Kashmir division which adds an important component of diversity to the Union Territory. Both the regions have an immense potential for tourism due to stupendous and mesmerizing geographical landscaping.
Kashmir is well known for its scenic beauty, verdant valleys, lush green vegetation, snow cladded mountains, fascinating gardens, enchanting and enthralling lakes, wonderful panoramic view points, natural water falls, deep gorges, apple valleys, poplar trees, deodar trees, snow laden snow fields and huge glaciers, meandering rivers zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, national parks etc.
The region falls mainly in subtropical and temperate latitudes with harsh winters triggered by western disturbances and western winds. The region also experiences rainy season in summers. Geographically, the valley is a basin shaped structure interspersed in between middle Himalayas in south and greater Himalayas in north with places of immense tourism potential.
Be it Dal lake, Mughal gardens, Nishat bagh, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Doodhpathri, Tosa maidan, Aharbal, Kokernag, Achabal, Sonamarg, wular lake, Nagin lake, Shankracharya temple, Khirbhawani and Amarnath shrine etc, Kashmir Valley gives varied options for visitors to experience the scenic and scintillating beauty here.
The valley maintains its charm in all the seasons. Ski enthusiasts can enjoy the exotic Himalayan landscape during winters. Gulmarg, popularly known as the meadow of flowers, is an ideal haven for adventure enthusiasts. Along with skiing, trekking, snowboarding, golfing, mount biking, and fishing are other exhilarating alternatives one can enjoy in Gulmarg.
Similarly in summer months, the numerous Alpine Lakes are favourite go to places for trekkers and campers giving them a chance to explore the adventurous potential of Kashmir valley.
Like Kashmir, Jammu division is also bestowed with natural beauty. The region falls in between pirpanjal range of middle Himalayas in north and kandi belt in south. The region falls mainly in tropical and subtropical latitudes and harbours many tourist places. Jammu exhibits all the qualities that make it a most sought after tourist destination.
Jammu, popularly known as the ‘city of temples' is known for its ancient temples, shrines, like Raghunath temple, Ranbireshwar temple, Mahamaya temple,Bahu temple, Peer baba, and Peer kho are prominent religious places to visit.
The Bahu temple is situated inside the majestic Bahu fort is dedicated to goddess kali called bawe wali Mata. Besides the temple, a travel enthusiast can also enjoy the architectural grandeur of Bahu fort as well as Mubarak mandi complex. The aquarium at Bagh-e- Bahu which is largest underground aquarium in the country, also gives a mesmerizing experience to tourists.
