Different places to travel » Asia

Chandanwadi – a rocky and verdant mountain valley near Pahalgam in Kashmir.

Traveller — Tue, 22 May 2012 09:39:48 +0000

Chandanwadi is a rocky and verdant mountain valley near Pahalgam in Kashmir. Chandanwadi is situated about 16 kilometres from Pahalgam. This place is at an altitude of 9500 feet above sea level.
Start out from Pahalgam in the Northeast direction. The stretch between Pahalgam and Chandanwadi is half the route to Amarnath Yatra. Pahalgam is the base camp for the Yatra.
River Lidder flows all along this trail between Pahalgam and Chandanwadi. This is actually a lovely trek or drive between the two places. While drive one is surrounded by lush green conifers and meadows and rock patches with a sparkling gushing river.
The Valley of Chandanwadi is very beautiful. Camping on raw and rugged terrain by the River Lidder is very popular in Chandanwadi. From Pahalgam to Chandanwadi, one may travel by Mini-bus, jeep, pony or on foot.
The entire trail follows the Lidder River up to the North. It is a very scenic trail with moderate grade trekking.
Camping gear must be hired at Pahalgam before starting the trek. Always camp at designated campsites only. One should not camp in seclusion.

Some Important Things to Remember when you Trek

- Ponies may be hired at Pahalgam. One can hire an extra pony to carry your camping gear.
- One can carry a back-pack it yourself if interested.
- Tried and tested walking shoes are a must and brand new shoes are not recommended as there is a lot of walking involved.
- Always start the trek early in the morning.
- Reach the target destination before evening. This area is known to become cloudy by 5 pm.
- Always carry some cash.
- Alcohol Consumption is not allowed.
- First-aid kit is a must-carry. Medicines to carry on this trek are:
a. Painkillers
b. Anti-inflammatory
c. Wide-spectrum antibiotic
d. Anti-diarrhea
e. Anti-constipation pills
f. Mild sleeping pills

During their visit to Bijbehara, tourists can also visit Pahalgam and Srinagar.

Attractions of Pahalgam

• Mamaleshwar Temple
• Sheshnag Lake
• Tulian Lake
• Baisaran Meadow
• Betaab Valley
• Kolahoi Glacier
• Lidder River Rafting
• Lidderwat Valley Trekking Trail
• Pahalgam Golf Course

Attractions in Srinagar

• Shalimar Bagh
• Nishat Bagh
• Dal Lake
• Shankaracharya Temple
• Mughal Gardens
• Shikara Ride
• Houseboats
• Chashme Shahi Garden
• Hazratbal Mosque popular
• Pari Mahal (Quntilon)
• Nagin Lake popular
• Dastgir Sahib Shrine
• Khanqah of Shah Hamdan popular
• Sri Pratap Singh Museum
• Jamia Masjid
• Wular Lake
• Sangin Darwaza
• Masjid of Akhund Mullah
• Hari Parbat Fort
• Pathar Masjid
• Rozabal Shrine
• Kathi Darwaza
• Tomb of Madin Sahib
• Rainawari
• Naseem Bagh
• Harwan Garden
• Burzahom
• Garden of Char Minar
• Chatti Padshahi Gurudwara
• Khanqah of Khwaja Moinuddin Naqsbandi
• Jyeshtheshvara Temple
• Imambara Hassanabad
• Makhdoom Sahib Shrine

Things to do in Srinagar

• Shikaras in Dal Lake
• Parihaspora, Dewar
• House boating
• Bird viewing

Best time to visit / climate

The best time to visit Chandanwadi is between April and September. Summer temperatures range from 2 degrees to 14 degrees and weather is predominantly pleasant during the day, the nights get chilly so pack clothing and medicines accordingly. Even during summers, light woolens, mufflers, gloves and socks are essential.

Location on Google Maps

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Or click and paste the URL below on your browser:

http://maps.google.co.in/maps?q=Kashmir+near+Chandanwadi&hl=en&sll=34.079429,75.416263&sspn=0.009313,0.021136&oq=chandanwadi,+kas&hnear=Chandanwadi&t=m&z=16

How to get to Chandanwadi?

The Pahalgam-Chandanwadi trail may be traversed by Mini-bus, jeep, pony or on foot.
1. Srinagar by Air
• Srinagar domestic airport is connected with many airports of the major cities in India.
• Regular flights are operated between Srinagar and Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh and Shimla.
• International travelers get the connecting flights from Delhi International airport.
• This is at a distance of 876 km from Srinagar.

2. Srinagar by Train
• Jammu is the nearest railway station to Srinagar.
• This is at a distance of 290 km.
• Jammu railway station is well connected to all major cities in India by rail.
• Direct train services are available from Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore and Trivandrum.
• Taxi services are available from Jammu to Srinagar.
• The fare is about Rs 6000.

3. Srinagar by Bus
• Many tourist bus service providers arrange deluxe luxurious bus package tours from many neighboring cities to Srinagar.
- Srinagar is well connected by tourist bus services to:
• Chandigarh (630 km)
• Jammu (290 km)
• Delhi (876 km)
• Leh (434 km)
• Phalgan (96 km)
- Packaged tours charge about Rs 4 – Rs 5 per km.

4. By plane
• Sheikh ul Alam Airport is commonly known as Srinagar Airport.
• It is an international airport.
• Flights are operated by Jet Airways, Air Deccan, Spice Jet, Kingfisher Airlines, Go Air, Jet Lite and Indian Airlines from Delhi and Mumbai to Srinagar.
• The frequency is once or twice a day by each airline.
• The cost is approximately Rs 2,500 from Jammu, Rs 2,500-5,000 from Delhi one way and higher from Mumbai.

5. By taxi from Jammu to Srinagar
• Hiring a TATA Sumo SUV from Jammu costs approximately Rs 1,900-2,700 depending on time of year or even time of day.
• The journey takes around 8 hrs.

6. By bus from Jammu to Srinagar
• J&K State Road Transport Corporation (J&KSRTC) operates fairly comfortable buses from Jammu costing around Rs 350 and does the journey in around 12 hrs.
• 2 day buses run between Srinagar and Leh staying overnight in Kargil.
• There are also direct buses from Delhi taking almost 24 hrs to reach Srinagar.

Some travel books from Amazon about Sonamarg

The Vale of Kashmir	Travels in Kashmir: A Popular History of Its People, Places and Crafts	Agony Of Dal Lake

Places to stay (hotels / restaurants along with website / contact numbers)

• Hotels at cleartrip.com
• Hotels at tripadvisor.in
• Hotels at go2kashmir.com

Blogs / Sites about Chandanwadi

• Blogs and reviews at hoparoundindia.com
• Blogs and reviews at travel.sulekha.com
• Blogs and reviews at travelblog.org

Images and photos of Chandanwadi

• Images at google.com
• Images at panoramio.com
• images at holidayiq.com

Videos of Chandanwadi

Bijbehara – a town in Anantnag district in Jammu & Kashmir

Traveller — Thu, 17 May 2012 14:42:57 +0000

Bijbehara or Vejibyor is a town. It is a notified area committee in Anantnag district in the state of Jammu & Kashmir, India.
The town of Bijbehara is situated in the north of district headquarters. These headquarters are located on the banks of Jhelum River which are popularly known as “Veth”. It is one of the notable towns of the district. It is four miles to the north of Anantnag town.
The town is surrounded and intersected by plateaus. These plateaus are called “The Totak Shah”. From this plateau, the whole town can be seen. There are many other plateaus which are getting urbanised.
The town of Bijbehara is filled with Chinar trees. This town is hence also known as “The Town of Chinars”.The Chinar trees were imported by Mughal emperors from Iran.

Rajouri District comprise of six Tehsils
• Rajouri
• Nowshera
• Sunderbani
• Kalakote
• Koteranka
• Thannamandi
The seven blocks are:
• Rajouri
• Manjakote
• Darhal Malkan
• Budhal
• Kalakote
• Sunderbani
• Nowshera

1. Dara Shukoh Garden at Bijbehara
• The garden is a favourite camping-ground of Bijbehara.
• It is at the bottom of the Lidar valley.

2. Lake of Pir Panjal Rajaouri
• The Pir Panjal falling under the jurisdiction of Rajouri-Poonch districts.
• It is a repository of beautiful lakes.
• These lakes are situated at an altitude between 13,000–14,500 ft.
• A lake is called “Sar” and meadow is called “Marg”.
• This stretch of Pir Panjal is full of lakes and meadows.
• It is considered a place to be well enjoyed by the tourists.
• There are more than 27 lakes between Simar Sar to Nandan Sar.
• This stretch is of an area of 900 km.
• Of these seven lakes are big in size.
• The rest of the lakes are smaller.
• Next to Kaunsar Nag, Bhag Sar is the biggest lake.
• Most of the big lakes are situated at the boundary line between Jammu division and the Kashmir valley.
• All of these lakes drain into the Kashmir valley.

The important lakes are:
- Sukh Sar
- Akal Dakshni
- Nandan Sar
- Chandan Sar
- Katori Sar
- Raviwalli marg group of lakes
- Chamar Sar
- Bhsg Sar
- Diya Sar
- Padyaran Sar I and II
- Katori Sar in Bela Marg and Smat Sar

• All the above lakes are situated in the highlands of Pir Panjal Range.
• These lakes freeze during winter.
• These lakes are available for rafting or boating only during summer season.
• Summer season is from during the months from June to October.

During their visit to Bijbehara, tourists can also visit Pahalgam and Srinagar.

Attractions of Pahalgam

Attractions in Srinagar

Things to do in Srinagar

• Shikaras in Dal Lake
• Parihaspora, Dewar
• House boating
• Bird viewing

Best time to visit / climate

The best time to visit is between April and September.

Location on Google Maps

View Larger Map

Or click and paste the URL below on your browser:

http://maps.google.co.in/maps?q=Bijbehara&hl=en&hnear=Bijbehara&t=m&z=13

How to get there?

1. Srinagar by Air
• Srinagar domestic airport is connected with many airports of the major cities in India.
• Regular flights are operated between Srinagar and Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh and Shimla.
• International travelers get the connecting flights from Delhi International airport.
• This is at a distance of 876 km from Srinagar.

5. By taxi from Jammu to Srinagar
• Hiring a TATA Sumo SUV from Jammu costs approximately Rs 1,900-2,700 depending on time of year or even time of day.
• The journey takes around 8 hrs.

Places to stay (hotels / restaurants along with website / contact numbers)

• Hotels at hoparoundindia.com
• Hotels at packago.com
• Hotels at hotels.alc.co.in

Blogs / Sites about Bijbehara

• Blogs and reviews at hoparoundindia.com
• Blogs and reviews at mapsofindia.com
• Blogs and reviews at distancesbetween.com

Images and photos of Bijbehara

• Images at google.com
• Images at aikaindiaka.com
• Images at imagesofasia.com

Videos of Bijbehara

Sonamarg – path of gold or golden meadow in Jammu & Kashmir.

Traveller — Tue, 15 May 2012 11:41:17 +0000

Sonamarg which means path of gold or the golden meadow is a paradise on Earth. Sonmarg or Sonamarg is a town of Jammu and Kashmir state in India. Sonamarg itself signifies its beauty. This place is set in a backdrop of snowcapped mountains and bright flowers.
This place is located at 87 km from Srinagar and is a popular tourist destination. Sonamarg is at an altitude of 3,000 metres above sea level. Sonamarg is 87 km north-east of Srinagar. It is the Sindh nallah. The Sindh nallah is the largest tributary of the Indus River in the Kashmir valley. It is upwards of sixty miles long valley and deep rock-girt gorge. This gorge opens to grassy meadow land and village-dotted slopes.
Sindh abounds with trout and mahseer, snow trout can be caught in the main river. Ponies can be hired for the trip up to Thajiwas glacier. This glacier is a major attraction during the summer months. One can experience a breathtaking view of Himalayas from Sonamarg valley.
From Sonamarg, trekking routes lead to the Himalayan lakes of:
- Vishansar (4084 msl)
- Satsar
- Krishnasar (3810 msl)
- Gangabal Lake (3658 msl)
- Gadsar Lake

Attractions in and around Sonamarg

• Gadsar Lake is stocked with snowtrout and Satsar, glacier-fed and surrounded by banks of alpine flowers.
• A close by excursion is to Baltal which is 15 km north of Sonamarg.
• Baltal is a little valley that lies at the foot of the Zojila.
• It is only a day’s journey away from the sacred cave of Amarnath.
• Trekkers can also reach the starkly splendid roof-top of the world – Leh.
• Leh can be reached by crossing over the Zoji La pass.
• Breathtaking glaciers and serene lakes.
• Trekking and hiking trails in snow clad peaks of Himalaya.
• Nilagrad is a colony of the Baltics and is a picturesque location.
• Here a small stream splashes in to the River Sindh.
• Vishansar is located at an amazing altitude of 4,084 m above sea level.
• The gorgeous views of this lake can be experienced from Nichnai Pass.
• Trekking can be done to this lake from Sonamarg.
• Krishnasar Lake is at a height of 3,801m above sea level.
• It is popular for fishing especially for trout fishing.
• Baltal is at the foot of the Zoji-la pass.
• Baltal is situated about 15 km from Sonamarg.
• It is located at an altitude of 2,743 m.
• The place is the base camp of Amarnathiji yatra. This can be reached by a meandering trek of 14 km from Baltal.
• One can reach the Holy Cave.

1. Thajiwas Glacier
• Thajiwas glacier is located 3 km from Sonamarg.
• This is an ideal spot for enjoying a sledge ride on the snow even in mid-summer.
• The nearby area is perfect camping site too.

2. Zoji-La Pass
• About 20 km east of Sonamarg is Zoji-la pass.
• This is the gateway to the Ladakh plateau.
• This is located at a height of about 3,528 m above sea level.
• The pass connects Kashmir Valley to Ladakh, Kashmir Valley to its south and Ladakh to its North.
• It is an ideal spot to enjoy the scenic beauty.

3. Trekking
• Trekking season is from July to October.
• The fishing season extends from March to October.
- State: Jammu and Kashmir
- District: Srinagar
- Famous for/as: Trekking
- Languages: Hindi, Urdu, Kashmiri
- Best Season: Apr – Jun

Attractions in Srinagar

Things to do in Srinagar

• Shikaras in Dal Lake
• Parihaspora, Dewar
• House boating
• Bird viewing

Best time to visit / climate

• Sonamarg experiences cool climatic conditions to snow covered chilly periods.
• Summers are pleasant.
• Winters are very chilly and snow fall occurs.
• Trekking season is from July to October.
• The fishing season extends from March to October.

Location on Google Maps

View Larger Map

Or click and paste the URL below on your browser:

http://maps.google.co.in/maps?q=sonamarg&hl=en&hnear=Sonamarg&t=m&z=13

How to get to Sonamarg?

• One can reach Sonamarg by road through the Srinagar-Leh Highway.
• Srinagar is the nearest airport and the nearest railhead is Jammu.
• Tourist lodges run by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation are ideal places to stay in Sonamarg.
• You may also stay at tourist bungalows and hotels in Sonamarg.

1. Sonamarg by Air
• The nearest airport to Sonamarg is located at Srinagar.
• The airport is at a distance of 70 kms away.
• Srinagar is air connected to Delhi with regular flights.
• Taxis are available from airport to Sonamarg for a fare of about Rs 1,000.

2. Sonamarg by Train
• The nearest major railhead is at Srinagar, which is 70 kms away.
• One can reach Sonamarg from railway station by taxis or buses.
• Taxi fare is about Rs 1,000.
• Railway stations near Sonamarg are Udhampur, Jammu Tawi.

3. Sonamarg by Bus
• Sonamarg is connected by Jammu and Kashmir state owned road transport corporation buses.
• Sonamarg is well connected to Jammu (60 km, Rs 30) and Srinagar (70 km, Rs 35) by buses.
• Special luxurious buses will also be available from Jammu and Srinagar to Sonamarg.

Some travel books from Amazon about Sonamarg

The Vale of Kashmir	Travels in Kashmir: A Popular History of Its People, Places and Crafts	Agony Of Dal Lake

Places to stay (hotels / restaurants along with website / contact numbers)

• Hotels at adventuretoursofindia.com
• Hotels at mustseeindia.co
• Hotels at srinagar.nic.in

Blogs / Sites about Sonamarg

• Blogs and reviews at mustseeindia.com
• Blogs and reviews at travelkashmir.net
• Blogs at adventuretoursofindia.com

Images and photos of Sonamarg

• Images at google.co.in
• Images at trekearth.com
• Images at holidayiq.com

Videos of Sonamarg

Poonch – a border town in Jammu and Kashmir

Traveller — Sun, 13 May 2012 05:16:40 +0000

Poonch is a town and a municipal committee in Poonch District in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir.
Poonch is based on the Mah?bh?rata evidence. The evidence from 7th Chinese traveler Xuanzang. The districts of Poonch along with Rajauri and Abhisara had been under the sway of the Republican Kambojas in epic times.
Poonch has an average elevation of 981 metres (3218 feet). Pir Panjal range of mountains separates Poonch valley from Kashmir valley. The only road connection between the two valleys was from Jammu. With the completion of Mughal Road which connects Bufliaz in Poonch to Shopian in Kashmir, there is a direct connectivity between the two.
It consist of 4 tehsils viz Haveli, Mendhar Surankote and Mandi. Poonch is one of the remote and border district of Jammu and Kashmir state which is located at the Line of Control. Poonch is separated from Kashmir valley by the gigantic Pir Panjal range. The higheset peak is TATAKUTI which stands at 15560 ft. falls in Poonch.

Wild Life in Poonch

• Poonch District is rich in wild life.
• Forests in the district cover an area about 83.914 acres.
The rare mammals include:
• Markhor
• Musk deer
• Brown bear
• Leopard
• Ghoral
The birds include:
• Pheasant
• Black partridge
• Chakurs
• Snow cock kohlas

Poonch Specials

• Stunning scenic beauty
• Snow covered peaks
• Lush green meadows
• Dense forest
• Natural beautiful lakes
• Waterfalls

Attractions in and around Poonch

1. Noori Chhamb
• Noori Chammb is associated with the name of Mughal queen Noor Jahan.
• It is famous for its scenic beauty & water fall.
• It is located near Behram Galla in Surankote tehsil about 45 kms from Poonch town.
• The Emperor Jahangir had developed fancy & liking for this fall.
• Hence he named it Noori Chammb after the name of his beloved queen Noor Jahan.
• Mughal queen used to stay here for relaxation and bath on way to Kashmir.
• She had got fixed a mirror besides the fall on the mountain wall.
• Here she used to have her make- up after the bath.
• The remnants of the mirror are still there.

2. Girgan Dhok and Lakes
• It is a valley of seven lakes.
• It is located about 70 kms from Poonch town.
See the lovely and beautiful seven lakes which are:
- Sukhsar
- Neelsar
- Bhagsar
- Katorasar
- Kaldachnisar
- Nandansar
• These lakes are situated at the high altitude of 12000 ft. in the Buffliaz belt.
• Nandansar is one of the biggest lakes near Girgen dhok.
• The length of this lake is about one mile and its breadth is half a mile.

3. Poonch Fort
• The foundation of historic fort building in the capital of erestwhile Poonch Riyasat.
• This is the headquarter of truncated Poonch district at present.
• The Fort was planned as a composite structure for the fortification of the town.

4. Mandi
• It is a small village in a narrow valley.
• This village is enclosed by steep and grassy hills of no great elevation.
• This is situated near the confluence of two streams namely Gagri and Pulsta.
• Mandir Swami Budha Amar Nath Ji is situated in this village.
• Mandi is about 20 kms from Poonch town.

5. Rajouri
• Rajouri is a town and a municipal committee in Rajouri district in Jammu and Kashmir.
• Rajouri is important for defense point of view.
• Rajouri is about 130 kilometres (81 mi) away from Jammu city
• This town is on the Poonch Highway.
• Rajauri is also called the Vale of Lakes
• This is so as there are many lakes around the city.
• The area has seen a decline in tourists due to the Kashmir conflict.
• The District drives its name from Rajouri town.
• This town is historically known as Rajapuri/Rajapura.
• Rajouri District had been part of Poonch district prior to 1967
• On 22 September 1967, the government bifurcated district Poonch into two districts namely ‘Rajouri’ and ‘Poonch’

6. Lake of Pir Panjal Rajaouri
• The Pir Panjal falling under the jurisdiction of Rajouri-Poonch districts.
• It is a repository of beautiful lakes.
• These lakes are situated at an altitude between 13,000–14,500 ft.
• A lake is called “Sar” and meadow is called “Marg”.
• This stretch of Pir Panjal is full of lakes and meadows.
• It is considered a place to be well enjoyed by the tourists.
• There are more than 27 lakes between Simar Sar to Nandan Sar.
• This stretch is of an area of 900 km2.
• Of these seven lakes are big in size.
• The rest of the lakes are smaller.
• Next to Kaunsar Nag, Bhag Sar is the biggest lake.
• Most of the big lakes are situated at the boundary line between Jammu division and the Kashmir valley.
• All of these lakes drain into the Kashmir valley.

Other places near Poonch

• Loran
• Nandishool
• Surankote
• Behramgala
• Dehra-Gali

Religious Tourism in Poonch

• Mandir Budha Amarnath Mandi
• Gurudwara Nangali Sahib
• Gurudwara Deri Sahib
• Battalkote
• Mandi
• Ramkund Mandir, Mendhar.
• Shri Dashnami Akhara Mandir.
• Ziarat Sain Miran Sahib
• Ziarat Chhote Shah Sahib
• Ziarat Sain Illahi Bakash Sahib
• Ziarat Pir Fazal Shah Sahib

Trekking in Poonch

• Poonch to Gulmarg (Kashmir) via Jammia gali
• Poonch — Gaggrian Sawjian — Barshi Nallah — Barnara marg — Jamia marg — Jamia gali (15000 ft.) — Gulmarg(Tangmarg).
• Poonch to Nandishool via Loran (Sultan Pathri)
• Poonch to Yusmarg(Kashmir) via Nurpur gali and Khaara gali :
• Poonch — Loran — Sultan Pathri — Nurpur gali — Toshamaidan — Kundlan — Dood Ganga Bridge — Yushmarg.
• Poonch to Yusmarg(Kashmir) via Choti gali :
• Poonch — Behramgala — Chandimarh — Kabar Pathran — Choti gali(14100 ft.) — Kundlan — Yusmarg.
• Poonch to Tatakuti via Hill Kaka and Dhara marg
• Poonch to Shopian(Kashmir) via Peer ki gali :
• Poonch — Behramgala — Poshiana — Chita Pani — Peer gali(11500 ft.) — Aliabad Sarai — Hierpur — Shupian.
• Poonch to Hierpur (Kashmir) via Nandansar lake :
• Poonch — Behramgala — Girgen gali — Girgen marg — Panjtari marg — Khuooah — Gumsar — Nandan gali — Glacier — Nandansar lake – -six other lakes — Jaddi marg — Aliabad — Hierpur.
• Poonch to Gulmarg via Chor Gali :
• Poonch — Sawjian — Gali Maidan — Mangiana — Sari — Chor Gali — Gulmarg.

Best time to visit / climate

• It is generally pleasant and it is possible to visit the place throughout the year.
• The best time to visit is October and November.
• The summer season is from April to June and the conditions are warm for a short period.
• The monsoon season is from July till September.
• The winter season is really cold and temperature falls around freezing point.

Location on Google Maps

View Larger Map

Or click and paste the URL below on your browser:

http://maps.google.co.in/maps?q=Poonch&hl=en&hq=Poonch&t=m&z=16

How to get to Poonch?

• There is a small airport in Poonch.
• A railway is under construction.
• A bus across the LOC, the Poonch-Rawalakot bus has helped to re-establish ties across the border.

1. Srinagar by Air
• Srinagar domestic airport is connected with many airports of the major cities in India.
• Regular flights are operated between Srinagar and Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh and Shimla.
• International travelers get the connecting flights from Delhi International airport
• This is at a distance of 876 km from Srinagar.

2. Srinagar by Train
• Jammu is the nearest railway station to Srinagar
• This is at a distance of 290 km
• Jammu railway station is well connected to all major cities in India by rail.
• Direct train services are available from Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore and Trivandrum.
• Taxi services are available from Jammu to Srinagar
• The fare is about Rs 6000.

3. Srinagar by Bus
• Many tourist bus service providers arrange deluxe luxurious bus package tours from many neighboring cities to Srinagar.
Srinagar is well connected by tourist bus services to
• Chandigarh (630 km)
• Jammu (290 km)
• Delhi (876 km)
• Leh (434 km)
• Phalgan (96 km)
Packaged tours charge about Rs 4 – Rs 5 per km.

5. By taxi from Jammu to Srinagar
• Hiring a TATA Sumo SUV from Jammu costs approximately Rs 1,900-2,700 depending on time of year or even time of day.
• The journey takes around 8 hrs.

6. By bus from Jammu to Srinagar
• J&K State Road Transport Corporation (J&KSRTC) operates fairly comfortable buses from Jammu costing around Rs 350 and does the journey in around 12 hrs
• 2 day buses run between Srinagar and Leh staying overnight in Kargil.
• There are also direct buses from Delhi taking almost 24 hrs to reach Srinagar.

Some travel books from Amazon about Poonch

The Vale of Kashmir	Travels in Kashmir: A Popular History of Its People, Places and Crafts	Agony Of Dal Lake

Places to stay (hotels / restaurants along with website / contact numbers)

• Hotels at wego.co.in
• Hotels at tripadvisor.in
• Hotels at holidayiq.com

Blogs/Sites about Poonch

• Blogs and reviews at poonch.gov.in
• Blogs and reviews at mustseeindia.com
• Blogs and reviews at holidayiq.com

Images and photos of Poonch

• Images at google.com
• Images at poonch.gov.in
• Images at oktatabyebye.com

Mattan or Martand – Surya Temple and a major Hindu pilgrimage in Jammu & Kashmir.

Traveller — Thu, 10 May 2012 15:36:00 +0000

Mattan is a town and a notified area committee in Anantnag district which is in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Overview

• This pilgrim village is just off the road that leads to Pahalgam.
• The word ‘Mattan’ is an abbreviation of ‘Martand’.
• It has traditionally been a major Hindu pilgrimage.
• Lord Vishnu has been worshipped here in his Martand (Surya) manifestation.
• There are temples, and a gurudwara around this tank.
• Mattan has a Hindu majority and spiritual history.
• Mattan temple complex is located very near to the famous Pahalgam of Kashmir.
• It is a popular religious site of the Hindus.
• The Mattan temple of the Hindus is popular for the beautiful Shiva Lingam.
• The pious Lingam is preserved in this temple complex.
• The temple is a beautiful brick structure with surrounded crystal clear water on all sides.
• It is one of the religious places in India where the priests and pundits worship the Sun god.
• It was thus a popular place for Surya Tirth in the subcontinent.
• The Mattan temple complex is one of the much-guarded areas of Jammu and Kashmir.
• It is controlled by the para- military forces.

Attractions in and around Mattan

• BUMZOO is a small sleepy village just two killometres from Mattan which is in Lidder valley.
• Two caves of Bumzoo are very popular and worth visiting.

1. First cave
• One cave is just 1.5 Kms from Mattan town.
• This cave is about 7 metres from road height.
• After about 15 metres it branches into two further caves.
• One straight and the other to the left are there.
• Some manmade stone structures are present in both these caves.
• The cave is pitch dark.
• The cave is visible on right side of the base of the hill from road at a point just 1.5 km from Mattan Bazar.

2. Second Cave
• The other cave is the Old shiva temple of Bumzoo kalhana.
• The temple is about 50 feet from road that overlooks river Lidder.
• The temple is inside a natural enlarged fissure of limestone cliff.
• The door of the temple has the usual Hindu Triad at the top flanked by two stone carved window type structures.
• The Verandah or the gallery is tiled with Devri stones.
• A flight of about 150 steps takes you up from the road to the Cave entrance.
• This cave temple is a protected monument looked after by archeological survey of India.
• This cave temple is older to 8th centuary Martand Sun temple which was built by king Lalitaditya.
• A smaller cave also exists at the bottom of this cave temple.
• This has been closed with wooden gate at present.

Attractions of Pahalgam

Attractions in Srinagar

Things to do in Srinagar

• Shikaras in Dal Lake
• Parihaspora, Dewar
• House boating
• Bird viewing

Best time to visit / climate

The best time to visit Mattan is from April to September.

Location on Google Maps

View Larger Map

Or click and paste the URL below on your browser:

http://maps.google.co.in/maps?q=Martand+Mattan,+Anantnag&hl=en&geocode=FSnWAgIdJRx7BA&hnear=Martand+Mattan,+Anantnag&t=m&z=15

How to get there?

1. Srinagar by Air
• Srinagar domestic airport is connected with many airports of the major cities in India.
• Regular flights are operated between Srinagar and Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh and Shimla.
• International travelers get the connecting flights from Delhi International airport
• This is at a distance of 876 km from Srinagar.

5. By taxi
• Hiring a TATA Sumo SUV from Jammu costs approximately Rs 1,900-2,700 depending on time of year or even time of day.
• The journey takes around 8 hrs.

6. By bus
• J&K State Road Transport Corporation (J&KSRTC) operates fairly comfortable buses from Jammu costing around Rs 350 and does the journey in around 12 hrs
• 2 day buses run between Srinagar and Leh staying overnight in Kargil.
• There are also direct buses from Delhi taking almost 24 hrs to reach Srinagar.

Places to stay (hotels / restaurants along with website / contact numbers)

• Hotels at alltravels.com
• Hotels at tripadvisor.in
• Hotels at mybookingcorner.com

Blogs/Sites about Mattan

• Blogs and reviews at mapsofindia.com
• Blogs and reviews at autarmota.blogspot.in
• Blogs and reviews at gaffarakashmir.com

Images and photos of Mattan

• Images at google.com
• Images at flickr.com
• Images at travel.sulekha.com

Videos

Amarnath Yatra – a journey to the holy cave temple of Lord Shiva.

Traveller — Wed, 09 May 2012 14:19:03 +0000

Amarnath yatra packages are a complete tour to the holy temple of Lord Shiva. This yatra offers hassle-free tour packages to Amarnath Yatra. The Holy Amarnath Cave is situated at an altitude of 14000 ft. above sea level. This yatra is organised by the State Government. The yatra is taken during the month of July and August.

The intending pilgrims are allowed to perform darshan from Ashard Purnimashi to Shravan Purnimashi.
The core meetings are held at Srinagar as well as Pahalgam which is the base-camp for Amarnath Yatra. Advance registration of yatries is on first come first serve basis and within a stipulated period. Yatra to Baba Amarnath Holy Cave is reached via a trek of a height of about 14,500 ft. The trek is full of thrill and joy mixed with devotion.
The yatra is on a path that is surrounded by beautiful valleys, mountains as if on the paradise of the earth. The registration is done by J &K Govt. Tourist Offices.

These offices are located at:
• Delhi
• Mumbai
• Calcutta
• Chennai
• Ahmedabad
• Hyderabad
• Jammu
• Srinagar

Travelling Expenditure

1. Jammu to PahalgamBus Fare (Per Person)
• DELUXE Rs. 200.00
• SEMI-DELUXE Rs. 155.00
• ORDINARY Rs. 130.00
• ARTP Rs. 220.00

2. Jammu to Baltal Bus Fare
• DELUXE Rs. 240.00
• SEMI-DELUXE Rs. 200.00
• ORDINARY Rs. 160.00
• ARTP Rs. 270.00

3. Jammu to Pahalgam Taxi Fare (Per Person)
• Tata sumo: Rs.360.00
• Ambassador: Rs. 520.00

4. Jammu to Baltal Taxi Fare
• Tata Sumo: Rs. 550.00
• Ambassador: Rs. 760.00

Nearest Attractions to Amarnath Yatra

• Pahalgam
• Chandanwadi
• Sheshnag
• Panchtarni

Attractions of Pahalgam

Attractions in Srinagar

Things to do in Srinagar

• Shikaras in Dal Lake
• Parihaspora, Dewar
• House boating
• Bird viewing

Best time to visit / climate

• The Amarnath Yatra is organised every year by the J &K Govt.
• This yatra is organised during the month of sharavan, July and August.

Location on Google Maps

View Larger Map

Or click and paste the URL below on your browser:

http://maps.google.co.in/maps?q=amarnath+yatra&hl=en&hq=amarnath+yatra&radius=15000&t=m&z=11

How to get there?

• Air: The nearest Airport happens to be in Badgam Distt which connects to major cities of India.
• Rail: Jammu is the nearest Rail Head which is at 300 Kms away to get to all parts of the country and vice versa.
• Road: The Road transportation is fine with NH1A Highway and all sorts of buses to taxis are available for reaching places to places.

List of designated Branch of Jammu & Kashmir Bank Limited
• Andhra Pradesh Hyderabad – Pather Ghatti, J.N.Road
• Bihar Patna – Phulwari Sharief
• Chandigarh (Union Territory) Sector 17
• Delhi Azadpur; Chandni Chowk; Naraina; Navin Shadara; Okhla; Rohini; South Extenison; Sarita Vihar; Vasant Vihar
• Goa Panaji
• Gujarat Ahmedabad; Baroda (Lal Bagh); Surat
• Haryana Ambala Cantt; Gurgaon; Hissar; Karnal; Panipat;Rohtak
• Himachal Pradesh Dharmshala; Kullu; Shmla
• Karnataka Bangalore – SPJ Road; Infantry Road; Mysore
• Kerala Kochi; Ernakularm; Thriuvananthapuram
• Maharashtra Mumbai; Andheri (East); Kalbadevi, Mira Road, Vashi; Aurangabad; Nagpur; Pune
• Madhya Pradesh Bhopal; Indore
• Punjab Amritsar – Shastri Market; Majith Mandi; Batala; Bathinda; Ferozepur; Jalandhar; Ludhiana; Khanna; Moga; Mohali; Mandi Gobind Garh; Mansa; Pathankot; Phagwara
• Rajasthan Jaipur
• Tamil Nadu Chennai – Mount Road; Parrys
• Uttar Pradesh Agra; Aligarh; Allahabad; Bhadoni; Greater Noida; Kanpur; Lucknow; Meerut; Muradabad; Noida; Varanasi
• West Bengal Kolkata- R.N. Mukherji Road, Mullick Bazar
• Jammu & Kashmir Jammu – TRC Extension Counter; Rajori Jawahar Nagar ; Poonch – Main Branch; Kathua-Main Branch; Udhampur-Shakti Nagar ; Doda-Pul Doda
• Srinagar TRC Extension Counter

1. Srinagar by Air
• Srinagar domestic airport is connected with many airports of the major cities in India.
• Regular flights are operated between Srinagar and Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh and Shimla.
• International travelers get the connecting flights from Delhi International airport
• This is at a distance of 876 km from Srinagar.

5. By taxi
• Hiring a TATA Sumo SUV from Jammu costs approximately Rs 1,900-2,700 depending on time of year or even time of day.
• The journey takes around 8 hrs.

Places to stay (hotels / restaurants along with website / contact numbers)

• Hotels at southerntravelsindia.com
• Hotels at tripadvisor.in
• Hotels at amarnathjiyatra.com

Blogs / Sites about Amarnath yatra

• Blogs and reviews at amarnathyatra.in
• Blogs and reviews at amarnathyatra.org
• Blogs and reviews at amarnathyatra.net.in

Images and photos of Amarnath yatra

• Images at google.com
• Images at flickr.com
• Images at pahalgam.com

Videos of Amarnath Yatra

Patnitop – a hill top tourist place in Jammu and Kashmir.

Traveller — Mon, 07 May 2012 14:47:07 +0000

Patnitop or Patni Top is a hill top tourist place that is located in Udhampur district which is in Jammu and Kashmir, India. This place is situated on the National Highway 1A, on the way from Udhampur to Srinagar. It is about 112 km from Jammu. It is situated on a plateau in the Shiwalik belt of the Himalayas.

Patnitop is at an altitude of 2024 metres. The river Chenab flows in close proximity to this location. Patnitop’ is a distortion of the original name of Patan Da Talab meaning “Pond of the Princess”. Patni top is in the Lower Himalayan Range close to the Pir Panjal range. It is 35 kilometers from Udhampur.

The towns of Kud and Batote are nearby Patnitop. Kud is a very small town where a sweet shop makes fresh Patissa (a sweet). Batote is known as a place for quality rajma or the kidney beans.

Attractions in Patni Top

1. Trekking
• There are many pleasant walks around this popular hill station.
• Patnitop is a good starting place for many short or longer treks which go into the nearby mountains.
• An attractive one-day walk is to Shiva Garh which is about 11-km from Patnitop is at an altitude of almost 3,500 metres.
• There are three, gushing, ice-cold freshwater springs in this area.
• These springs are known to have medicinal properties.

The complete tourist circuit covers
• Jammu-Katra-Vaishno Deviji
• Kud-Sanasar
• Patnitop-Gourikund
• Sudmahadev
• Mantali
• Latti-Dhuna

2. Adventure Sports
• Patnitop is an ideal place for walks and picnics.
• Sanasar is a 19-km away was chosen by J&K Tourism for major development.
• This town is located in a Gulmarg-like meadow which has picnic spots around.
• The 6-hole golf course is being expanded to 9-holes.
• Pony rides along little known trails.
• Camping
• Walks
• Para gliding
• Basic skiing
• Sudh Mahadev is another sacred spot that is close to Patnitop.

3. Eco-Adventure Activities
• Dawariyai take off area at Patnitop.
• Paragliding at Patnitop.
• Tandem Paragliding Joyrides at Sanasar by Extreme Himalayan Adventures.
• Billo ki powri at Dawariyai,400 steps cut into the rock face.
• High Flying from Natha Top.

4. Sanasar
• Paragliding
• Camping
• Skiing
• Trekking
• Abseiling
• Rock Climbing
• Scenic nature walks

5. Kud
• Located 103 kms from Jammu, on the Jammu-Srinagar highway.
• This popular resort is situated at an altitude of 1738 mtrs.

6. Batote
• This is about 125 Kms from Jammu on the way to Patnitop.
• This is located at an altitude of 1560 metres.
• This is on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway.
• This resort straddles the forested slopes of the Patnitop mountain range.

7. Gauri Kund
• Some distance from Sudh Mahadev is the legendary spring.
• Here the Goddess Parvati used to have bath before commencing her daily prayers at Sudh Mahadev.
• This spring came to be named after her as ‘Gauri Kund’.

8. Mantalai
• This is located at a few kilometers further away from Sudh Mahadev.
• Mantalai is surrounded by lush deodar forests at an altitude of 2000 m.
• The place is associated with the legend of the marriage of Lord Shiva with the Goddess Parvati.

9. Mansar Lake
• This lake is located 90 kms from Patnitop.
• This is a beautiful lake fringed by forest-covered hills.
• Boating facilities are available on the spot.
• Every year around Baisakhi, a food and crafts festival is organised here by J&K Tourism.

Nearest Attractions to Patni top

• Pahalgam
• Chandanwadi
• Sheshnag
• Panchtarni

Best time to visit / climate

• Patnitop is an ‘anytime’ place.
• The best time for a visit is summer, during May-June, and autumn, September-October.
• For snowboard joys, December to March is the best time.

Location on Google Maps

View Larger Map

Or click and paste the URL below on your browser:

http://maps.google.co.in/maps?q=Patni+Top,+NH+1A&hl=en&sll=33.073327,75.335118&sspn=0.081562,0.169086&oq=Patni&hq=Patni+Top,+NH+1A&t=m&z=15

How to get to Patnitop?

• Patnitop can be easily reached due to its proximity to the town of Jammu.
• This hill station is well connected to the town of Jammu and also to the capital city of Srinagar through a network of buses.
• These buses connect regularly ply to Patnitop.
• Local buses and taxis can be taken directly to Patnitop, and trains can be taken to the nearest city.

1. Patnitop by Bus
• Buses to the town of Patnitop can be taken from Pathankot, Jammu and Srinagar.
• These are the three major places in the state with a huge network of buses.
• Patnitop can be reached from here.
• The journey from Jammu to Patnitop will take around three hours in an average.
• Bus fares will range around Rs 100 to 150.
• This is the locally preferred mode of travel.

2. Srinagar by Air
• Srinagar domestic airport is connected with many airports of the major cities in India.
• Regular flights are operated between Srinagar and Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh and Shimla.
• International travelers get the connecting flights from Delhi International airport.
• Delhi is at a distance of 876 km from Srinagar.

3. Srinagar by Train
• Jammu is the nearest railway station to Srinagar
• This is at a distance of 290 km
• Jammu railway station is well connected to all major cities in India by rail.
• Direct train services are available from Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore and Trivandrum.
• Taxi services are available from Jammu to Srinagar
• The fare is about Rs 6000.

Some travel books from Amazon about Patnitop

The Vale of Kashmir	Travels in Kashmir: A Popular History of Its People, Places and Crafts	Agony Of Dal Lake

Places to stay (hotels / restaurants along with website / contact numbers)

• Hotels at mustseeindia.com
• Hotels at patnitophotels.com
• Hotels at patnitop.net

Blogs / Sites about Patnitop

• Blogs and reviews at rangan-datta.info
• Blogs and reviews at patnitop.nic.in
• Blogs and reviews at mustseeindia.com

Images and photos of Patnitop

• Images at google.com
• Images at tripadvisor.in
• Images at holidayiq.com

Pahalgam – a beautiful hill station in Kashmir.

Traveller — Sun, 06 May 2012 09:35:14 +0000

Pahalgam is a town and a notified area committee in Anantnag district which is situated in India’s northernmost state of Jammu and Kashmir. This world famous hill station is 45 km from the District Head Quarter at Anantnag.
Pahalgam is situated on the banks of river Lidder. Pahalagam is at an altitude of 7200 ft. from sea level. Pahalgam is one among the five tehsils of Anantnag district. Tehsil headquarters are situated in the main town of Pahalgam.
It is a health resort. A number of treks in this region also begin from Pahalgam. The 35 km trail traverses through pinewoods to the spectacular Kolahoi Glacier.
Pahalgam is also associated with the Amarnath Yatra which takes place every year. Chandanwari (2,895 m), 16 km from Pahalgam, is the starting point of the yatra. This yatra takes place every year in the month of Sawan (July to August). The road from Pahalgam to Chandanwari is on fairly flat terrain. This path can be undertaken by car. From Chandanwari onwards the track is accessible on foot or by pony.
About 11 km from Chandanwari is the mountain lake of Sheshnag (3,574 m). About 13 km away is the last stop, Panchtarni. The Amarnath cave is 6 km away from Panchtarni. During the month of Sawan, an ice stalagmite forms a natural Shivling inside the Amarnath cave.

Flora and Fauna in Pahalgam

- Plant Species
• Cedrus deodara
• Pinus griffithii
• Abies pindrow
• Aesculus indica

- Major Shrubs
• Indigofera heterantha
• Viburnum spp
• Sorbaria tomentosa
• Rumex patientia
• Primula spp
• Anemone spp

- Animal Species
• Hangul
• Musk deer
• Serow
• Brown bear
• Leopard
• Rhesus macaque
• Grey langur
• Himalayan mouse hare
• Wild bears

- Common Birds
• Griffon vulture
• Monal
• Snow cock
• Koklas
• Blue rock pigeon
• Kashmir roller
• European hoopoe
• Jungle crow

Must go Places near and around Pahalgam

1. Kolohoi Glacier
• Kolohoi glacier is located up the Lidder Valley, just below Mount Kolohoi.
• This is currently a hanging glacier.
• It is accessible from Pahalgam via Aru.
• This was originally one of the longest glaciers of the Kashmir valley.
• This glacier extended for at least 35 km in the past.
• It is basically hollowed out from global warming.
• The Asian brown cloud and local environmental factors are associated with mountain hydrology.
• The glacier has receded by half since 1985.
• This glacier is not safe to study as it is hollow.
• In some places this glacier has 200-foot-deep (61 m) crevasses.

Activities
• Relax in nature’s lap
• Indulge in trekking/hiking
• Rafting
• Horse-riding
• Golfing
• Skiing
• Nature-photography
• Horseback riding for the kids
• Barefoot walks
• Green mountain meadows viewing
• Alpine streams perfect for swimming
• Water fights
• Golf
• Amusement Park
• River Rafting

2. Chandanwadi
• It is a rocky and verdant mountain valley near Pahalgam in Kashmir.
• Chandanwadi is situated about 16 kilometres from Pahalgam.
• This place is at an altitude of 9500 feet above sea level.
• Start out from Pahalgam in the Northeast direction.
• The stretch between Pahalgam and Chandanwadi is half the route to Amarnath Yatra.
• Pahalgam is the base camp for the Yatra.
• River Lidder flows all along this trail between Pahalgam and Chandanwadi.
• This is actually a lovely trek or drive between the two places.
• While drive one is surrounded by lush green conifers and meadows and rock patches with a sparkling gushing river
• The Valley of Chandanwadi is very beautiful.
• Camping on raw and rugged terrain by the River Lidder is very popular in Chandanwadi.
• From Pahalgam to Chandanwadi, one may travel by Mini-bus, jeep, pony or on foot.
• The entire trail follows the Lidder River up to the North.
• It is a very scenic trail with moderate grade trekking.
• Camping gear must be hired at Pahalgam before starting the trek.
• Always camp at designated campsites only.
• It is best to not camp in seclusion.
• Ponies may be hired at Pahalgam.

3. Water Gateways in Pahalgam
• Sheshnag Lake
• Tulian Lake
• Baisaran Meadow
• Betaab Valley
• Kolahoi Glacier
• Lidder River Rafting
• Lidderwat Valley Trekking Trail
• Pahalgam Golf Course

Best time to visit / climate

- The best time to visit is between April and September.
- Pahalgam has a cool and pleasant climate in summers and very cold climate in winters.
- Summers are warm and pleasant.
- Winters are very chilly with heavy snow fall.

Location on Google Maps

View Larger Map

Or click and paste the URL below on your browser:

http://maps.google.co.in/maps?q=Pahalgam&hl=en&hnear=Pahalgam&t=m&z=13

How to get there?

• Pahalgam is accessible from road.
• There is no railraod either.
• If you are driving from Jammu, go to Pahalgam some 45 kms before Srinagar (at Khanabal).
• Fly into Srinagar.
• Drive first to Srinagar and then drive to Pahalgam – which is 96 kms away.
• This drive can take 2-3 hours.

3. Srinagar by Bus
• Many tourist bus service providers arrange deluxe luxurious bus package tours from many neighboring cities to Srinagar.
Srinagar is well connected by tourist bus services to:
• Chandigarh (630 km)
• Jammu (290 km)
• Delhi (876 km)
• Leh (434 km)
• Phalgan (96 km)
- Packaged tours charge about Rs 4 – Rs 5 per km.

4. By Plane
• Sheikh ul Alam Airport is commonly known as Srinagar Airport.
• It is an international airport.
• Flights are operated by Jet Airways, Air Deccan, Spice Jet, Kingfisher Airlines, Go Air, Jet Lite and Indian Airlines from Delhi and Mumbai to Srinagar.
• The frequency is once or twice a day by each airline.
• The cost is approximately Rs 2,500 from Jammu, Rs 2,500-5,000 from Delhi one way and higher from Mumbai.

5. By Taxi
• Hiring a TATA Sumo SUV from Jammu costs approximately Rs 1,900-2,700 depending on time of year or even time of day.
• The journey takes around 8 hrs.

6. By Bus
• J&K State Road Transport Corporation (J&KSRTC) operates fairly comfortable buses from Jammu costing around Rs 350 and does the journey in around 12 hrs.
• 2 day buses run between Srinagar and Leh staying overnight in Kargil.
• There are also direct buses from Delhi taking almost 24 hrs to reach Srinagar.

Some travel books from Amazon about Pahalgam

The Vale of Kashmir	Travels in Kashmir: A Popular History of Its People, Places and Crafts	Agony Of Dal Lake

Places to stay (hotels / restaurants along with website/contact numbers)

• Hotels at cleartrip.com
• Hotels at tripadvisor.in

Blogs / Sites about Pahalgam

• Blogs and reviews at pahalgam.org
• Blogs and reviews at pahalgam.com
• Blogs and reviews at mustseeindia.com

Images and photos of Pahalgam

• Images at google.com
• Images at tripadvisor.com
• Images at pahalgam.com

Videos of Pahalgam

Gulmarg which means “Meadow of Flowers”- a hill station in Kashmir.

Traveller — Wed, 02 May 2012 15:26:04 +0000

Gulmarg which means Meadow of Flowers is a town, a hill station and also a notified area committee in Baramula district which is in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir.
Gulmarg is located 52 km from Srinagar. It has an average elevation of 2,690 m (8,825 ft). Gulmarg is a majestic hill station in the district of Baramula of Jammu and Kashmir. The hill station was earlier known as Gauri marg, where Gauri stands for Goddess Parvati the wife of Lord Shiva. The name Gulmarg was given to this place by the King Yousuf Shah Chak.

Gulmarg is known for its lush green backdrop, beautiful landscapes, flowering gardens, serene lakes and pleasant climate during the summer months and falls. This is one of the best ski resorts in India as it gets heavy snowfall, especially during winter. Some of the highest ski slopes in India lies in the sloppy Himalayan regions in Gulmarg.
Gulmarg is credited with the longest and highest cable car project in Asia. The experience of cable car is breathtaking.

Attractions and Activities

• Alpathar Lake
• Baba Reshi Shrine
• St Mary’s Church
• Gondola Ride
• Skiing
• Trekking

Must go places in Gulmarg

1. Alptar Lake
• This lake is calm, beautiful and a favorite picnic spot for tourists.
• Alptar Lake is located on the valley down the twin Afarwat peaks.
• These peaks are at an altitude about 4,511 m.
• This serene lake in a triangular shape.
• It is placed in the backdrop of scenic hilly snowcapped terrains.
• The lakeside gardens add the beauty to the surroundings.
• This attractive lake remains frozen until June and during the summer.
• The lake can be reached by an adventurous trek through the snowy mountains.
• This is a perfect location for trekking enthusiasts.

2. Baba Reshni Shrine
• Shrine (Ziarat) of Baba Reshi, dedicated to Muslim scholar and saint Baba Reshi.
• This is a sacred mosque in the valley of Gulmarg.
• This tomb was built in 1480. The five century old shrine was constructed with the architectural styles of Persian and Mughals.
• Baba Reshi was an important courtier during the period of King of Kashmir Zain-ul-Abidin.
• It is considered as a holy shrine.
• The shrine is located in a vast expanse of greenish lawns.

3. Gandola Ride
• The wonderful attraction in Gulmarg is the Cable Car ride.
• This is also known as Gondola Lift/Ride (1 km west of Gulmarg’s bus stand).
• Jammu and Kashmir State Cable Car Corporations manage the Gulmarg Cable Car ride.
The ride is divided into two sections – Gulmarg to Kongdori and Kongdori to Apherwat.
• The Gondola passes over the pine forests.
• They start from a height of 2690 m above sea level and rise up to 3090 m while reaching Kongdoor.
The ride also passes by the scenic spot of Khilanmarg – a meadow with a carpet of colorful flowers.

4. Skiing
• Skiing and snowboarding are two main activities of the place.
• The slopes in Gulmarg are all natural. The gentle slopes of ski range from 200 m to 3 km.
• Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering are located here.
• They also offer 10 day & 21 day short ski courses for newbies as well as advanced skiers.
• Gulmarg has many ski resorts with all kinds of facilities for skiing. Tourists can get the help of skiing guides.
• The best time for skiing is during January to March.
• Skiing races are also organized here during the festivals like Christmas and Easter.

5. Trekking
• Gulmarg is a very popular trekking base in the Himalayan regions.
• Many trekking trails offer medium to hard adventurous trekking.
• The trek originates from the hilly terrains of Gulmarg.
• There are many resorts offering all supports for trekking expeditions.
• The trek can be accommodated with many skilled guides.
• Gulmarg-Khilanmarg, Gulmarg-Apharwat and Gulmarg-Alapther trekking trails are very popular.
• The trek passes through the breathtaking snow covered sloppy Himalayan ranges.
• Majestic views of Namga Parbat, enchanting snow covered valleys and dense forests make the trek in Gulmarg special.
• Ideal time for trekking is from April to November.

Other activities to do in Gulmarg:

• View from the Gulmarg slopes
• Cable car is used as ski lift
• Gulmarg Gondola – The New Cable Car of Gulmarg
• Khilanmarg Ropeway near Gulmarg
• World class golfing
• Mountain biking
• Horse riding
• Water skiing
• Fishing

Best time to visit / climate:

• The hill resort of Gulmarg is a place that can be enjoyed throughout the year.
• There are winter months from November to February.
• These months are ideal for skiing.
• The summer months from May to September offer pleasant weather.

Location on Google Maps:

View Larger Map

Or click and paste the URL below on your browser:

http://maps.google.co.in/maps?q=Gulmarg&hl=en&hnear=Gulmarg&t=m&z=13

How to get to Gulmarg?

• 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.
• This caters to the rail transport to the hill resort.

3. Srinagar by Bus
• Many tourist bus service providers arrange deluxe luxurious bus package tours from many neighboring cities to Srinagar.
Srinagar is well connected by tourist bus services to:
• Chandigarh (630 km)
• Jammu (290 km)
• Delhi (876 km)
• Leh (434 km)
• Phalgan (96 km)
- Packaged tours charge about Rs 4 – Rs 5 per km.

5. By Taxi
• Hiring a TATA Sumo SUV from Jammu costs approximately Rs 1,900-2,700 depending on time of year or even time of day.
• The journey takes around 8 hrs.

Some travel books from Amazon about Gulmarg

The Vale of Kashmir	Travels in Kashmir: A Popular History of Its People, Places and Crafts	Agony Of Dal Lake

Places to stay in Gulmarg (hotels / restaurants along with website / contact numbers)

• Hotels at gulmarg.org
• Hotels at mustseeindia.co
• Hotels at srinagar.nic.in

Blogs / Sites about Gulmarg

• Blogs and reviews at mustseeindia.com
• Blogs and reviews at gulmarg.org
• Blogs at destinationsindia.com

Images and photos of Gulmarg

• Images at google.co.in
• Images at travel.sulekha.com
• Images at holidayiq.com

Videos of Gulmarg

Gulmarg, Kashmir – Skiing

Gulmarg Kashmir – Virtual Tour

Gulmarg Kashmir India – Sam’s Exotic Travel to A Winter Wonderland

Gulmarg Kashmir India

85 DEGREES (ARIF BASHIR) GULMARG KASHMIR.. about skiing and snowboarding

Srinagar – summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir famous for gardens, lakes and houseboats.

Traveller — Tue, 01 May 2012 10:16:16 +0000

Srinagar is the summer capital of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. The largest city is Srinagar in the Kashmir region. It is situated in the Kashmir Valley. It lies on the banks of the Jhelum River which is a tributary of the Indus.
Srinagar is composed of two Sanskrit words, Sri (venerable) and nagar, which means “city”. The city is located on both the sides of the Jhelum River which is known Vyath in Kashmir. The river passes through the city and meanders through the valley. It deepens in the Wular Lake.
This city is famous for its gardens, lakes and houseboats. This city is also known for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and dry fruits. The city is famous for its nine old bridges which connects the two parts of the city.

About Hokersar – a wetland situated near Srinagar

- Hokersar is a wetland that is situated near Srinagar—the capital of Indian Kashmir.
- Thousands of migratory birds come to Hokersar from Siberia and other regions during the winter season.
- They migrate between September and October and again around spring.
- Hokersar is 14 kilometres (8.7 mi) north of Srinagar.
- This world class wetland is spread over 13.75 square kilometres (5.31 sq mi).
- This wetland includes lake and marshy area.
- It is the most accessible and well-known of Kashmir’s wetlands.
- This includes Hygam, Shalibug and Mirgund.

Tourist Attractions in and around Srinagar

• Shalimar Bagh
• Nishat Bagh
• Dal Lake
• Shankaracharya Temple
• Mughal Gardens
• Chashme Shahi Garden
• Shikara Ride
• Hazratbal Mosque popular
• Pari Mahal (Quntilon)
• Nagin Lake popular
• Dastgir Sahib Shrine
• Khanqah of Shah Hamdan popular
• Sri Pratap Singh Museum
• Jamia Masjid
• Wular Lake
• Sangin Darwaza
• Masjid of Akhund Mullah
• Hari Parbat Fort
• Pathar Masjid
• Rozabal Shrine
• Kathi Darwaza
• Tomb of Madin Sahib
• Rainawari
• Naseem Bagh
• Harwan Garden
• Burzahom
• Garden of Char Minar
• Chatti Padshahi Gurudwara
• Khanqah of Khwaja Moinuddin Naqsbandi
• Jyeshtheshvara Temple
• Imambara Hassanabad
• Makhdoom Sahib Shrine
• Houseboats

Must go places in Srinagar

1. Dal Lake
• This lake is 8 km long and 4 km wide.
• The Dal Lake in Srinagar is one of the most important and beautiful tourist destinations.
• There are four other water bodies that surround the Dal Lake.
• They are Lokut Dal, Bod Dal, Gagribal and Nagin.
• The beauty of its landscape is that it has snow covered peaks. This makes the lake look more beautiful.
• The lake has a number of attractive houseboats which have converted into hotels.

2. Wular Lake
• Wular Lake is one of the largest of its kind in Asia.
• Boating on this lake is an added fun.
• Fishing in this lake is an important occupation.
• The fish species found here are:
- Common carp
- Rosy barb
- Mosquito fish
- Chirruh snowtrout
- Chush snowtrout

3. Hazratbal Shrine
• The relics of prophet Mohammad are kept at Hazratbal Shrine.
• This is a sacred pilgrimage center for the Muslims.
• It is located by the bank of Dal Lake.
• The name, Hazratbal has been derived from an Arabic word Hazrat, meaning holy.

4. Shankaracharya Temple
• This temple is located on Gopadari Hills.
• On the hill top called Takht-e-Suleiman, this temple is stationed which is over an altitude of 1100ft.
• It is in the southeastern part of Srinagar.
• This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• It is known to be one of the oldest shrines of Kashmir Valley.
• You will have to trek to reach the temple.
• This temple was built by King Sandhiman, who belonged to the Gonanda dynasty.

5. Khanqah-e-Molla
• It is believed that this shrine holds the secret of Allah.
• This shrine is also famous by the name of Shah-e-Hamdan.
• The shrine is situated by the bank of Jhelum.
• One can see creative wooden architecture here.
• This shrine was built in 1395.
• Till today it is one of the most important tourist attractions in Srinagar.

6. Jama Masjid
• This was built by Sultan Sikandar in 1400 AD.
• Jama Masjid is located at Nowhatta.
• This mosque has been ruined by fire three times. Reconstruction has been done as well.
• There are 370 wooden pillars and the courtyard makes it a beautiful place to visit.

7. Chashme-e-Shahi
• It is one of the famous mughal gardens, discovered by female saint Rupa Bhawani.
• The spring Chashme Shai is dedicated to Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
• The spring waters in this garden are believed to have therapeutic powers.

8. Shalimar Bagh
• It is one of the famous mughal gardens, created by Jahangir in 1619.
• It is also called as the Garden of Love.

9. Nishat Garden
• It is the second largest Mughal gardens, built in a terrace fashion.
• It is also called as ‘Garden of Happiness or Gladness or Bliss’.
• It has twelve terraces, one for each sign of the zodiac.

Best time to visit/climate of Srinagar

Srinagar has a humid subtropical climate. It is best to visit the place from April to October.

Location on Google Maps:

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How to get to Srinagar

3. Srinagar by Bus
• Many tourist bus service providers arrange deluxe luxurious bus package tours from many neighboring cities to Srinagar.
- Srinagar is well connected by tourist bus services to
• Chandigarh (630 km)
• Jammu (290 km)
• Delhi (876 km)
• Leh (434 km)
• Phalgan (96 km)
- Packaged tours charge about Rs 4 – Rs 5 per km.

5. By Taxi
• Hiring a TATA Sumo SUV from Jammu costs approximately Rs 1,900-2,700 depending on time of year or even time of day.
• The journey takes around 8 hrs.