Jammu & Kashmir Tourist Guide

8/4/2019 Jammu & Kashmir Tourist Guide

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Jammu and Kashmir tourist guideJAMMU

Jammu is a beautiful city blessed by nature & situated at the footsteps of the mountains of the

Himalayas. A beautiful & enchanting river called Tawi flows through the city. Jammu is alsoknown as the City of Temples, coz it has so many small and big temples & shrine. It is one of the

three regions comprising the Jammu and Kashmir. It consists of six districts of the state, namelyJammu (the largest city), Kathua, Poonch, Rajouri, Udhampur and Doda. More than 60% of

population is Hindu. The city is ideal for nature lovers, adventure lovers and Pilgrimages. Themain highlight is the Mata Vaishno Devi temple, located just 61kms from Jammu.

HOW TO REACHBy Air - Jammu airport is well connected other major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh and Amritsar

etc. There are frequent flights operated by Indian Airlines.

By Rail - Jammu is well connected with the rest of India by rail from Jammu Tawi railwaystation: long-distance trains from many parts of the country serve Jammu Tawi.

By Road - Jammu's road network is good and connected to the other major cites. Buses are

frequently available from Delhi. You can take the J&K State Transport buses or private luxurycoaches.

WHEN TO GOJammu can be travelled round the year, the best time to visit is during the water sports season i.e.from April to August & these festive times : Lohri (13 January), Baisakhi (April 13 or 14), Bahu

Mela (March-April & September-October), Chaitre Chaudash (March-April), Purmandal Mela(February-March), Jhiri Mela (Oct-Nov.), Navratra Festival (Sept-Oct).

WHAT TO SEEVaishno Devi - Jammu is home to the famous Vaishno

Devi shrine. Nestling on top of the Trikuta Hills at aheight of 1700 m is the sacred cave shrine of Vaishno

Devi, the mother goddess. At a distance of 61km fromJammu, the cave is 30 meters long and just 1.5 m high. Atthe end of the cave are shrines dedicated to the three forms

of the mother goddessMahakali, Mahalakshmi andMahasarasvati. Pilgrims enter in small groups through a

narrow opening and walk through ice-cold waters to reachthe shrines. According to legend, the mother goddess hid

in the cave while escaping a demon whom she ultimatelykilled. The cave shrine of Trikuta Bhagwati has been a

beacon of faith and fulfillment for millions of devoteessince time immemorial.


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Akhnoor - This small historic town is located on the banksof Chenab river. It is just 32kms way from Jammu & has

the ruins of the Indus Valley civilization. It was the townof two very famous lovers called Soni & Mahiwal.

Baba Dhansar - It is a lovely picnic spot with amazinglandscaping which includes incredible mountains,

waterfalls, the holy Banganaga river, the groves oftrees.Next to the spring in a small grove in the rock face is

a naturally formed Shivling. It is located just 65 kms fromJammu.

Bahu Fort - This fort is just 5kms from the city center and

was built by Raja Bhaulochan about 3000 years ago. It hastemple of Goddess Kali and the other highlight is the the

terrace garden called Bagh-e-Bahu.

Batote - It has a small spring called Amrit Chasham,located just 125 kms from Jammu on the the Jammu-

Srinagar highway.

Jajjar Kotli - It is the Jajjar Kotli Tourist Complex, builton the banks of the Jajjar rivulet. The crystal clear cool

water surrounded by unprecedented natural beauty makes

this place an ideal picnic spot, located just 35 km fromJammu on the national highway leading towards Srinagar.

Krimchi - The way to Shudh Mahadev Mantalai, a shortdetour takes one to Krimchi, site of three of the oldest

temples of Jammu. The architecture of the temples showsdistinct Greek influences.

Kud - Enroute Srinagar from Jammu, Kud is a popularstop of the tourists. It is a hill resort in its own authority

with a small but well-known mountain spring calledSwami ki Bauli. Natural beauty in Kud exceeds any

type of description. This place is also good for small treksand options for adventure sports are being considered in

the nearby areas.


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Mansar - Lake 60 km from Jammu is this beautiful lakefringed by forest-covered hills deriving the name from

Manasarovar, the Mansar lake is not only considered as anabbreviated form of the name of that great lake but also

shares its sanctity.

Mubarak Mandi Palace - The architecture of this palacehas a unique blend of Rajasthani, Mughal and Gothic

styles. The Sheesh Mahal segment in the palace is mostfamous. The Pink Hall now houses of Dogra Art Museum

which has miniature paintings of the various Hill Schools.

Patnitop - This beautiful place is 112 km from Jammu andin recent times the place has really come up, as a tourist

destination in J&K. It is located on the Jammu Srinagarhighway and offers beautiful picnic spots, peaceful walks

and breathtaking views of the mountains cape of theChenab basin.

Peer Baba - This is the famous dargah of the Muslim saint,

Peer Budhan Ali Shah and it is believed that it is theshrine that protects the people of this city from mishaps

and evil spirits. On Thursdays apart from Muslims,Hindus and Sikhs also come in large numbers to pay their

respects.

Peer Khoh - Peer Khoh is a cave shrine located on theCircular Road, dedicated to Shiva and a naturally formed

Shivaling is worshipped here. The antiquity of this lingamis not known.

Purnamandal - Proceeding towards Jammu, Pathankot ison the highway and we find few ancient temples. Its

believed that these temples are built on the banks of theunderground river Devak. Also referred as "Chota Kashi",

the main temple here is dedicated to "Umapati". TheShaivites of Kashmir Valley built these temples.

Raghunath Temple - This temple is dedicated to Lord

Rama and is surrounded by a group of other temples,dedicated to various Hindu deities from the epic

Ramayana. The inner walls of the main temple arecovered with gold sheet on three sides. There are many

galleries with innumerable salagrams.


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Ranbir Canal - A small garden along the Ranbir Canal, 2km from the heart of the town, provides a cool picnic spot

during the summer. These gardens provide excellentwalkways and viewpoints of the surrounding areas. Even

in summers, water in the canal remains ice cold.

Ranbireshwar Temple - Located on Shalimar Road thishistoric temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, which was built

by Maharaja Ranbir Singh in 1883 AD. It has one central"lingam" measuring seven-and-a-half ft in height, twelve

Shiva "lingams" of crystal and galleries with thousands ofothers carved on stone slabs.

Salal Dam and Lake - 95 km from Jammu to the west of

the Holy Shrine of Vaishnodeviji is the Salal Dam andLake. This is the largest Hydroelectric Project

commissioned in the state so far. The lake behind the damis 33 km long and can be visited with the permission of

project authorities.

Sanasar - About 17 kms from Patnitop, is a cup shapedmeadow surrounded by gigantic conifers. A place for a

quite holiday, the meadow has now been developed as agolf course. It also provides opportunities for para gliding.

Shiv Khori - This holy cave is 100 km from Jammu,

nearly a kilometer long with a 4-feet high naturallyformed Shivling, is considered second only to the shrineof Vaishnodeviji. A festival is organized on Shivratri day.

Sudh Mahadev - Situated about 120 km from Jammu, this

shrine is visited by pilgrims on the full moon night of`Sawan" (July- August) to worship the "Trishul" (trident)

and a mace belonging to Lord Shiva. The Devak streamoriginates at Sudh Mahadev and disappears among the

rocks down-stream.

Surinsar Lake - This lake is located approximately 42 km from Jammu and is a mustsee for its breathtaking view.


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SRINAGAR

Srinagar is a beautiful and romantic city located in the gorgeous Kashmir valley. It is the summer

capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and is the pride of the beautiful valley of Kashmir.

Srinagar is famous for its lakes and the charming rows of houseboats floating on them. It is also

known for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and dry fruits. Srinagar is located in the western partof the northern state of India called Jammu and Kashmir. River Jhelum passes through Srinagarcity. Srinagar is 876 km north of Delhi.

The northern most state of the Indian mainland is rightly called "Paradise on Earth". The

sparkling rivers, placid lakes, gorgeous gardens and indescribable beauty of nature in the state ofJammu and Kashmir leave you completely speechless. Home to the unparalleled virgin

landscapes of Kashmir, Leh and Ladakh, a travel and tourism experience to this joyous state is anunmatchable experience that will leave you feeling cleansed and pure.

Srinagar, a romantic Kashmiri city situated around glistening lakes and snowy tree forested

mountain slopes, is a lively, vibrant, and organic canal city; with one on the most pleasantclimates in all of India (The climate chart is incorrect). The summer paradise for many of the

great rulers of antiquity, Srinagar lays claim to many wonderful opportunities for exploration andrelaxation, such as hiking in the unique destinations scattered around the fabled valley, or read a

lovely novel while resting in an ornate floating palace. Srinagar and the Kashmir Valley is adream adventure for those of an open mind, and when security concerns die away, the city

should become a top international destination for all.

HOW TO REACH

By Air - Srinagar is well connected to the major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, Amritsar, andJammu.

By Rail - The nearest railhead is Jammu Tawi, i.e. 305 km from Srinagar. However, it is wellconnected by road to important places like Chandigarh (630 km), Delhi (876 km), Jammu (298

km), Leh, Kargil, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam. The main bus station is at Lal Chowk,which is the city center. Travelers can use auto-rickshaws and mini-buses to move around the

city.

By Road - Srinagar is connected by an all weather road to Jammu, which in turn is connected tomany parts of North India. One can catch buses from Delhi but people making the trip by roadshould take up the route via Chandigarh, Amritsar or from the Himachal Pradesh hill stations.

WHEN TO GO

The best time to visit Srinagar is during summers between April and June.


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WHAT TO SEE

Dal Lake - The Dal is famous not only for its beauty, but for its

vibrance, because it sustains within its periphery, a life that is

unique anywhere in the world. The houseboat and Shikaracommunities have lived for centuries on the Dal, and so completeis their infrastructure on the lake, that they never have to step on

land! Doctors, tailors, bakers- one can see them all in tiny woodenshops on the lake, near picturesque vegetable gardens and acres of

lotus gardens.

Nagin Lake - Nagin Lake, which is usually thought of as a separatelake, is also divided from Dal Lake only by a causeway. The

causeways are mostly suitable for walkers and bicycles only sothey make a very pleasant way of seeing the lake without having to

worry about traffic or Shikaras. The main causeway across the lakecarries the water pipeline for Srinagar's mains water supply.

Mughal Gardens - Kashmir was a favourite of the Mughal

emperors who visited it as often as they could. Cool and refreshingafter the plains of North India where the business of governance

kept them, they planted gardens with stepped terraces and flowingwatercourses. Cheshma Shahi is the first Mughal garden one will

pass after Nehru Park. Built at a height above the city, its viewsare as stupendous as its layout.

Nishat Garden - The next garden along the road that encircles the

Dal is the Nishat, built by empress Nur Jahan's brother Asaf Khan.The third Mughal garden - the Shalimar - was planted by Jehangir,

the Mughal emperor, whose love for Kashmir was legendary.

Hazaratbal Mosque - Across the Dal from Shalimar is the mosqueof Hazratbal, the only one of its kind architecturally in Kashmir.

Made of white marble with a dome and a minaret, Hazratbal is therepository of a single hair of the Prophet Mohammed, exhibited to

the public on certain days of the year.

Shankaracharya Hill - Within Srinagar, on its highest hill is theShankaracharya temple, nearly one thousand feet above the city. It

is devoted to Lord Shiva. The site dates back to 2,500 BC. Thephilosopher Shankaracharya stayed at this site when he visited

Kashmir ten centuries ago to revive "Sanatan Dharma".


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Hari Parbat Fort - The 18th century fort tops the Sharika Hill,which is clearly visible, rising to the west of Dal Lake. The fort

was constructed by Atta Mohammed Khan from 1776 but thesurrounding wall is much older, it was built between 1592 and

1598 during the rule of Akbar.

NEAR BY ATTRACTION FROM SRINAGAR

Charar-e-Sharief - Situated on the road to Yusmarg, this is the site

of the shrine or Ziarat of Sheik Noor-ud-Din, the patron saint ofKashmir. The valley also has the Ziarats of a number of his

followers.

Yusmarg - Standing in the Pir Panjal hills, out beyond the airport,at an altitude of 2,700 metres, the meadow of Yusmarg is reputed

to have the best spring flowers in Kashmir. The beautiful valley isat the foot of the Sangisafaid valley on the northern slopes of the

Pir Panjal range.

Dachigam National Park - This wildlife reserve was, at one time,

the royal game reserve but animals within its boundaries are nowcompletely protected. There are said to be Panther, Bear and Deer,

besides other smaller animals, in the reserve. There is a goodchance of seeing the endangered Hangul, Langur Monkeys and

perhaps other species.

Gandarbal - Just beyond the Wular and Manasbal lakes turn offfrom the Leh road, this pleasant little town marks the point where

the icy Sindh River leaves the mountains and enters the plains.Gandarbal is the official headquarters of the Sindh valley and was

originally called "Doderhom".

Wular Lake - Wullar Lake is the largest fresh-water lake in India is60-km from Srinagar. Spreading over a 125-km area, the lake, by

drawing off excess water from the Jhelum, acts as a natural floodreservoir. Interesting ruins in the centre of the lake are the remains

of an island created by King Zain-ul-Abidin.

Canoeing & Water Skiing - Kashmir has many lakes - Dal, Nagin,Mansbal and Wular. These are excellent spots for canoeing -

whether it is a Shikara or a racing skull. No OIIC has tried canoe-ing in these lakes so far. These lakes are inter-connected as also

the river Jhelum which flows through the entire length of thevalley and connects with all the lakes. An interesting sport is what


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is locally called 'Water Trekking'. One can have a three to four daytrip along the river to various lakes in a Shikara with all the

camping gear. There are lovely spots to camp for the night. Thelakes are also famous for water skiing.

GULMARG

Gulmarg is a hill station in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The town had witnessed militancy

in the 1990s, but after a ceasefire between India and Pakistan in 2003, the town is now peaceful.

British discovered the hill resort of Gulmarg in 1927 during their colonial rule in India.

Originally called Gaurimarg by shepherds, its present name was given in the 16th century bySultan Yusuf Shah, who was inspired by the sight of its grassy slopes emblazoned with wild

flowers. Gulmarg was a favourite haunt of Emperor Jehangir who once collected 21 differentvarieties of flowers from here. Today Gulmarg is not merely a mountain resort of exceptional

beauty- it also has the highest green golf course in the world, and is the country's premier skiresort in the winter.

Location - Gulmarg is Located in the Baramulla district, 57 kms southwest from the capital city

of Srinagar, it is perched at an altitude of 2730 meters above sea level.

WHERE TO STAY

There are several hotels and huts that cater to the needs of the tourists. There are hotels that suit

the varying budgets of the tourists to Gulmarg. All the basic facilities are available to make yourstay in Gulmarg comfortable. You may check out for accommodation options run by the Jammu

and Kashmir Tourist Development Corporation or the private parties. It is advisable to go inadvance reservations in the peak seasons. Delicious and hygienic food is easily available in the

restaurants and the eateries of Gulmarg. In the non-vegetarian food there is the traditional dish ofRogan Josh that must taste.

HOW TO REACH

By Air - The airport at Srinagar at 57 km is nearest to Gulmarg. The airport caters to the air

transport to the adventure destination. Regular flights connect Srinagar with the other majorcities in India..

By Rail - The railway station in Jammu is the nearest to Gulmarg that caters to the rail transportto the adventure destination.

By Road - The road to Gulmarg is very beautiful and is lined with poplar trees all through. All

sorts of transport are available to Gulmarg from Srinagar bus stand at Batmallo and from privatetransport operators.


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WHEN TO GOThe best time to visit Gulmarg is during winters between Novembers to February.

WHAT TO SEE

Khilanmarg - A 40-minute journey through valleys of wild flowersfrom Gulmarg to Khilanmarg offers a breathtaking view of themajestic peaks with their reflections in Wular and other lakes.

Baba-Reshi - It is a charming shrine a few kilometers from

Gulmarg. Drung is a developing resort where the downhill road[3.5 km] from Tangmarg reaches the Ferozepore stream. On the

hill across the river there are the ruins of an ancient temple and ameadow slightly higher up the hill.

Alpather Lake - Streaks of floating ice in this triangular lake,nestled in a hollow under the shadow of Apharwat mountain are a

visual delight. A well-graded pony track joins Apharwat Ridgewith Gulmarg.

Outer Circular Walk - The road encircles Gulmarg and providesscenic views of the massifs of Nanga Parbat, Harmukh, and the

rugged slopes of Ferozepur, Sunset Peak and Apharwat Ridge.

Ningle Nallah - This beautiful mountain stream flows from themelting snow and on Apharwat peak to Alpather Lake. It is about

10 km from Gulmarg. The stream continues down into the valley

below and joins the Jhelum River near Sopur. This long, grassyvalley is a popular picnic spot and the walking path carries on,crossing the Ningli (also spelt as Ningle) Nallah by a bridge and

continues on to the Khilenmarg, another grassy meadow and agood spot for camping.


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Ferozpore Nallah - It is about 5 km from Gulmarg and is reputedfor good trout fishing. From here one can continue to Tosamaidan,

a 3 day, 50 km walk to one of Kashmir's most beautiful meadows.It can be reached from the Tangmarg road, or from the outer

circular walk.

Trekking In Gulmarg - Gulmarg is an excellent base for trekkingin the northern Pir Panjal Range. Nanga Parbat can be viewed to

the north from several view points, including Khilanmarg, westand over 1,500 feet up the woody hillside from Gulmarg.

Golf In Gulmarg - Gulamarg has got the highest green golf coursein the world. The layout of the course is quite striking and the

layout is similar to a normal golf course with land slopes andinclines along the complete area of the course, which has a par of

72. The golf club was started by the British who used Gulmarg asa holiday resort, and opened it for golf lovers in the year 1904. At

present the J&K Tourism Development Corporation manages theclub.

Skiing In Gulmarg - Gulmarg makes an excellent base for trekking

in the northern Pir Panjal Range. Nanga Parbat can be seen to the

north from several view points, including Khilanmarg, west andover 1,500 feet up the forested hillside from Gulmarg. From adistance, the Pir Panjal appears somewhat rounded, but when you

are actually walking up its slopes, you will find that its smootherpeaks rise above evergreen clad slopes that seem quite equal in

steepness to those of the main Himalayas.

PAHALGAM

Pahalgam, in Kashmir's Anantnag district, is about 96 km from the state capital of Srinagar. It isa quaint little village sitting on the banks of river Lidder. Untouched by urban development,

Pahalgam is an angler's paradise. The thick pine and cedar forests around this hill town provide anatural habitat for the large brown bear. Pahalgam has a golf course at 2400 meters above sea

level. For adventure-seekers, camping equipment, ponies and skiing equipment are easilyavailable. Kolahoi is a popular destination for trekkers via Aru, a fascinating meadow. Pahalgam

is also the base camp for pilgrims proceeding to the shrine of Lord Shiva at Amarnath.


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Situated at the confluence of the streams flowing from Sheshnag Lake and the Lidder River,

Pahalgam (2,130 m) was once a humble shepherd's village with breathtaking views. Now it is

Kashmir's premier resort, cool even during the height of summer when the maximumtemperature does not exceed 25 C. A number of hotels and lodges cater to all preferences andbudgets, from luxurious hotels to unpretentious trekkers' lodges.

The most beautiful of these is the huge, undulating meadow of Baisaran, surrounded by thickly

wooded forests of pine. Hajan, on the way to Chandanwari, is an idyllic spot for a picnic.Filmgoers will recognize it instantly as it has been the location of several movie scenes.

Pahalgam has within it no fewer than eight tiny villages, one of which is Mamal. There is a Shivatemple here, generally considered to be Kashmir's oldest existing temple,

dating to the 5th century.

Pahalgam is an ideal place for an adventure sports enthusiast. It offers wonderful treks, skiing,mountaineering and camping sites. Facilities for roller-skating, table tennis, badminton and cards

are available at the Pahalgam Club. One can take a temporary membership at the Pahalgamnatural golf course. Pahalgam is the base camp for pilgrims going to Amarnath Cave.

HOW TO REACH

By Air - The nearest Airport is in Badgam Dist.

By Rail - The nearest rail station is at Jammu.

By Road - Bus service is available from Srinagar and Anantnag. Taxis can be hired from

Srinagar at pre-fixed rates. The J&K Road Transport Corporation runs daily sightseeing toursfrom Srinagar. Assistance is available at Tourist Reception Centre, Srinagar.

WHEN TO GO

The best time to visit Pahalgam is during summers between May to September.

WHAT TO SEE

Chandanwari (16km: 2,923m) - It is famous for its snow bridge.

Baisaran (5 km: 2,438m) - Pine forests dot this meadow whichpresents a picturesque view of the snow-clad mountains. The snow

covered Tulian lake at an altitude of 3353 m is 11kms from Baisaran.


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Sheshnag Lake (27 km: 3,658m) - The waters of this greenish bluelake is covered with ice till June.

Panchtarni (40 km) - It is the confluence of five streams and givesPanchtarni its name. A good camping site.

Amarnath Cave - Pahalgam is the base for the religious trek to theabode of Lord Shiva. A narrow spiraling path from Panchtarni leads

to the Amarnath Cave. The massive ice shivlingam is visited bythousands of pilgrims between July and September.

Aru (11 km: 2,408m) - This charming meadow can be reached by

walking along a mountain path. The river Lidder disappears at GurKhumb and reappears after 27 m.

Lidderwat (22km: 3,408m) - A beautiful camping site set among

dense forests. Starting point of the trek to the Sindh Valley.

Kolohi (1,467 m) - Base for a three-day return trek to the KolohiGlacier.

Tarsar Lake (34 km: 3,962m) - It can be reached from Lidderwat.

There are delightful camping sites and flower meadows at Sikiwas,24 km from here. To reach the nearby Mansar lake one has to cross a

243 m high bridge.

LEH

Leh is a beautiful barren desert situated at 3,505 meters above sea level in lap of the GreatHimalayas. Leh is the main tourist gateway; its the largest town in the Ladakh region. It is ideal

destination for nature lovers and adventure freaks. The main highlights includes the breathtakinglandscaping, the enchanting rives, snowcapped mountains complimenting the blue sky, time

stopping silence of the desert, temperature below zero and Ladakh festival, in short nature'suntouched beauty and incredibly attractive. Leh has so many monuments, monasteries, great

options for trekking and mountaineering, river rafting, horse riding and polo.


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HOW TO REACHBy Air - Leh has the highest airport in India, it is just 8km away from the city centre and well

connected to Delhi, Jammu, Chandigarh and Srinagar.

By Rail - Jammu is the nearest railway stations i.e. 620 km from Leh. The station is well

connected to all major cities with few express and regular trains.

By Road - Leh-Shrinagar road is the main route to Leh which include a night halt at Kargil. You

can try the regular or the deluxe buses operated by the Jammu and Kashmir start road transportor you can take private taxis.

WHEN TO GOBest time to travel Leh-Ladakh is between July and September.

WHAT TO SEELeh Palace - The beautiful nine story 17th century palace

was the residence of the royal family. The royal palaceresembles a mini-Potala Palace. The palace house

Buddhist paintings on walls and artifacts. On the top ofthe Namgyal hill, the palace has the Victory Tower, built

to commemorate Ladakh's victory over the Balti Kashmirarmies in the early 16th century. The palace was built for

King Singge Namgyal, It serves as Indian Government'sarchaeological conservation organization office in Leh.

Leh Monastery and Gompa - The central area of Ladakh

has the greatest concentration of major Buddhistmonasteries or gompas. Of the twelve situated on or near

the Indus, the oldest monastery is that of Lamayuru,which is believed to have been a sacred site for the pre-

Buddhist religion known as Bon. The monasteries ofPhiyang, Hemis and Chemrey were all founded under the

direct patronage of members of the ruling Namgyaldynasty. Phyang represents an act of penance by the 16th

century King Tashi Namgyal for the violence andtreachery by which he reached the throne.

Spituk Monastery - The gompa stands prominently on the

top of a hillock, 8 Kms. from Leh, and commands apanoramic view of the Indus Valley for miles. Many icons

of Buddha and five thankas are found in 15th centurymonastery. There is also a collection of ancient masks,

antique arms, and an awe inspiring image of Mahakal.


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Shanti Stupa - Shanti Stupa (means 'World Peace' inJapanese) was built by a Japanese who harbored the

ambition of spreading Buddhism across the world, in 1985with aid from the Japanese Government. It is located at

Changspa, on the hilltop, and was inaugurated by Dalai

Lama in 1985. Its state of the art work attracts a lot oftourists to Ladakh and is spectacular to watch. The stupa

is connected by a motorable road and a steep flight of

stairs. Once on top, you can stop for a snack in the teashop, then relax and enjoy the panoramic view of the

chain of mountains and the peaceful little village ofChangspa with typical Ladakhi houses built along a

gushing stream, and the towering Namgyal Tsemo in thedistance.

Namgyal Tsemo Gompa - The Namgyal Tsemo Gompa

was built in 1430 by King Tashi Namgyal on NamgyalTsemo peak overlooking the town. The monastery

contains a three-story high solid gold idol of MaitrieyaBuddha (future Buddha also called laughing buddha) and

a one-storied statue of Avaloketesvara and Manjushrialong with ancient manuscripts and frescoes. The fort

above this gompa is ruined, but the views of Leh fromhere are breathtakingly beautiful. The associated temples

here remain intact, but they are kept locked except duringthe morning and evening hours when a monk toils up the

hills from Sankar Gompa to attend to the butter - lamps infront of the images.

Sankar Gonpa - The Sankar Gonpa is a couple of

kilometers away from Leh town. It belongs to theGelukspa school of Tibetan Buddhism. This small Gonpa

is a branch of the Spituk Monastery, founded by the firstincarnation of Skyabje Bakula (head monk of Spituk)

Shey Gompa - 15 Km upstream from Leh the palace isbelieved to have been the seat of power of the pre-Tibetan

kings. A 7.5 meter high copper statue of Buddha, platedwith gold, and the largest of its kind, is installed in the

palace.


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Soma Gonpa (Jokhang), Leh - The Ladakh BuddhistAssociation in 1957 built the small Gompa opposite to

SBI, in the main bazaar, which is open throughout the dayfor visitors. The Gonpa contains a statue of Joyo

Rinpochey (crowned Buddha).

Leh Mosque - The striking green and white Leh Mosque,an exquisite work of Turko-Iranian architecture, stand in

the Main Bazaar of Leh. This historical mosque was builtin 1666-67 A.D. consequent to an agreement between the

Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and then ruler of Ladakh,Deldan Namgyal. The mosque is open only to men. This

is also a good place to find out about the possibility ofdoing voluntary work with various organizations. If

interested, inquire at the reception centre or simply checkthe information board.

Stok Palace Museum - 17 km from Leh town, this

museum exhibits precious stones, thangkas, coins, royalcrowns and dresses and prayer instruments.

The Nubra Valley - Known as a flowering den Nubra

valley gets clad in endless bushes of yellow and pink wildroses. Once the valley is through with the season of roses

around August, a carpet of wild lavender lies gently on it.

Nubra is also a relatively warmer valley in Ladakhmaking it perfect for crops and fruits to grow. DiskitVillage located near Khalsar, dotted with apricot

plantations is one of the larger villages of the Nubravalley. The road between Diskit and the quaint little

Hunder Village winds through a gorgeous stretch of sanddunes. A quiet and pleasant evening can be spent amidst

nature with snowcapped peaks in the background.

Pangong Lake - This lake is situated at a elevation of14,000ft. In the Eastern sector of Ladakh, at a distance of

154km. from Leh across Changla pass (17,000ft.). Thislake is one of the largest and most beautiful natural

brakish lakes in the Country.


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Down in the bazaar, the main sites to visit are the Jo-khang, a modern ecumenical Buddhist temple, Chang

Gali, behind the main bazaar, are less bustling but haveintriguing little shops selling curios and jewellery. Leh

offers some delightful walks, especially around Changspa

Village. Just take any of the cobbled lanes in the villageand feel free to carry on as you please. There are severalattractive destinations within a 10-km radius of Leh. Sabu,

a charming village with a small gompa, nestles betweentwo southward-stretching spurs of the Ladakh range about

9 km away. In the same direction, but nearer town, isChoglamsar, with the Tibetan refugee settlement

including a children's village, a handicrafts centre devotedlargely to carpet-weaving, and the Dalai Lama's prayer-

ground. And in the opposite direction, about 8 km on theSrinagar road, is the turning for Spituk village and its

imposing monastery.

Enough reading, now welcome yourself to the Paradise on

Earth.

Have a nice holiday.

Jammu & Kashmir Tourist Guide

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Transcript of Jammu & Kashmir Tourist Guide