Let us discuss about Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir, famously known as “Paradise on Earth,” is known for outstanding natural landscapes, a treasure trove of cultural heritage, and historical importance. It is a state of breathtaking beauty and diversity that lies at the northernmost end of India.
1. General Geography
Location: Located in the northern region of India, borders Pakistan, China, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Ladakh.
Union Territory: When Article 370 was revoked, the entity that was constituted as a Union Territory is Jammu and Kashmir on 31st October, 2019.
Capital:
Summer Capital: Srinagar.
Winter Capital: Jammu.
Area: About 55,673 square kilometers.
2. Administrative System
Jammu and Kashmir is administered as a Union Territory by a Lieutenant Governor.
The region has its own legislative assembly.
It has two main areas:
Jammu: Land of temples and religious tourism.
Kashmir: Valley is known for its pure beauty and culture.
3. Demography and Population
Population: Over 13 million+ (2024 estimate).
Languages: Officially, languages are Kashmiri, Dogri, Hindi, Urdu, and English.
Mixed communities of Kashmiris, Dogras, Gujjars, and Ladakhis are there.
Religions: It has a Muslim majority with Hindu, Sikh, and Buddhist populations.
4. Historically Important
Ancient Heritage: This place was once under the Maurya and Kushan empires, later followed by Hindu and Muslim kingdoms.
Dogra Rule: The Princely state was established by Maharaja Gulab Singh in the 19th century.
Post-Independence: It became one of Indian states in 1947 through the Instrument of Accession.
5. Economy
The economy of Jammu and Kashmir is sustained through:
Tourism: The primary activity to generate income as the region has scenic attractions and historical/ cultural places.
Agriculture : Famous for saffron, apples, and walnuts.
Handicrafts: the place is famous for shawls, carpets, and wood carvings.
Horticulture: Highest Apple Producer in the Country.
6. KEY FEATURES
DAL LAKE: Famous for houseboat, it provides Shikara rides.
Vaishno Devi Shrine: A revered pilgrimage destination in Jammu.
Gulmarg: It houses the famous ski resorts and cable cars.
Amarnath Yatra: It is an important religious pilgrimage to Amarnath Cave.
7. Culture
Festivals:
Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha (Islamic festivals).
Lohri and Baisakhi (celebrated in Jammu.).
Shivratri (observed by Kashmiri Pandits).
Cuisine: Known for dishes like Rogan Josh, Yakhni, Kahwa (tea), and Gushtaba.
Music and Dance: Chakri and Rouf are the traditional music and dance.
8. Transport and Access
Roadways: Well connected by National Highway 44 (Jammu-Srinagar Highway).
Railways: The important railway station is Jammu Tawi.
Airways: There are air links from Srinagar and Jammu to major cities.
Development of railway lines to the Kashmir Valley: Future Proposals.
9. Tourist Attractions
Key attractions include:
Srinagar: Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens and Shankaracharya Temple.
Gulmarg: Paradise for skiers and snowboarders.
Pahalgam: Scenic town and an important base for Amarnath Yatra.
Sonamarg: Also known for glaciers; trekking routes.
Jammu-Vaishno Devi Temple and Raghunath Temple.
10. Weathers
Summer: Temperate and tolerable (April–June).
Monsoon: Intermittent rain (July-September). Winter: It is freezing and snowy throughout Kashmir Valley (November-February). It’s such a region of immense natural beauty with rich culture, providing adventure and abodes of spirituality and history.
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