Betab Valley

Betaab Valley is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pahalgam which is a breathtaking combination of picturesque surroundings encircled by tall deodar trees and pine forests, with the Lidder River flowing right through it. The valley is located at a distance of 15 kilometres from Pahalgam in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. Betaab Valley got its name from the Bollywood movie Betaab starring Sunny Deol and Amrita Singh shot here.

The valley falls between Pahalgam and Chandanwadi on the way to the Amarnath Temple Yatra and is one of the three angelic valleys of Pahalgam, the other two being Aru and Chandanwadi. Sprawling fertile pastures, snow-capped mountains and meandering streams are characteristic of Betaab valley. Apart from being well-known for this stunning landscape, the valley is also a renowned as a famous trekking base and camping site for travellers who want to explore the nearby regions or set out for the Amarnath Yatra.

Things To Do at Betaab Valley

Tourists visit the Betaab Valley mainly to witness the picturesque scenes here. The valley is rich in pine and deodar trees, colourful huts, Walnut and Willow trees and a plethora of other colourful flowers. Along with that, you can also find lots of species of birds chirping around.
The Betaab Valley is an ideal place for horse riding. You can hire horses by the hour and enjoy the fun-filled rides.
The valley is also a popular campsite of travellers from America and Europe, as it also serves as a base for trekking and further exploring the mountains.
The half an hour walk along the river Leddar here is also a good option. You can also view the majestic Amarnath mountain range in the backdrop. An island on Lidder, a one and a half kilometre walk from the valley, is full of willow trees and is a pleasant place to be at.
Local Kashmiri dresses are available on rent for just INR 60 per dress, so do not forget to rent a dress and get yourself clicked amidst the beautiful valley.
There is an amusement park for kids as well, wherein they can enjoy fun rides.
Baisaran and Tulian Lake are the few nearby attractions that you can visit too.

Chandanwari

Pahalgam

Baisaran

Lidder River

Aru Valley

Kolahoi glacier

Sonmarg

Yushmarg

Yusmarg is a hill station in the western part of Kashmir Valley in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated 47 km south of Srinagar the capital of the state.

Location : Approx. 47 Kilometers from Srinagar

Famous For : River, Nilnag Lake and numerous trekking routes

Yusmarg is 'the meadow of Jesus' a glorious alpine valley where local people believe Jesus came and stayed. The grassy pastures give way slowly to dense pine forest, framed by a mountainous backdrop. Exceptionally photogenic and a prime spot for walks and picnics, it is also significantly quieter then the likes of Sonamarg and Gulmarg.

The word “Yus’ is said to be the short form of Youza or Jesus Christ (Peace Be Upon Him) who according to a popular belief is said to have passed through this valley while traveling to Kashmir.

Yusmarg is also a place that’s renowned for some of the beautiful flowers in the region. There are many varieties of colorful and appealing flowers that will mesmerize your senses here. This is also a place that is largely used by trekkers and excursionists when they are on their way to the neighboring peaks and mountains. There are several points that are alluring destinations with their heightened natural wonders and beauty.

One of the main aspects of Yousmarg is that it is a natural setting that’s aplenty with unspoiled beauty of nature. There is nothing here that will stand between you and Mother Nature and will truly leave you spellbound. People come here tired and restless and when they leave it is with a sensation of refreshed and rejuvenated souls

Tourist Attractions

A short trek of 4km to Nilnag a small lake amidst pine trees, near a hamlet gives an ultimate pleasure to visitors. On the valley side there is an interesting trekking from Gulmarg to Yousmarg via Tosamaidan. The trekking starts from Ferozepore area close to Tangmarg and goes towards Sunrise Peak after crossing the nallah. The first slowdown is DrangHabar. The trail then crosses through a dense forest and across the ridge is Tosamaidan. From here one can track the higher trail across mountains or descend to DrangKhag and take a rough road up to Gretabal and thence trekking across to the region.

A full day trek from Yousmarg to frozen lake in Sang e safe valley 10 km is quite fascinating one. Most of the portion of the lake is covered under ice throughout the year.

Horse riding in Yusmarg

Horse riding in the valley can be great fun; the pony-wallas in Yusmarg have quite reasonable charges for a ride compared to other destinations. A visit in summer to a place like it will positively be cherished by everyone in a group. This tourist place is suitable for young couples, as it is quietest place out of all tourist destinations.

Pony riding Routes

Neelanga

Doodganga

Fresnag

Haljan

Burgah

Sung Safade

Lidder Mad

Tripur

Shamnari Dargah

Dhoodhpathri

Yet another recently developed beautiful place of the Paradise Kashmir is Doodhpathri, located in the Budgam district. The region is literally meaning valley of milk is a beautiful resort with carpet like meadows. It is located about 42 km from Srinagar. The area is rich in the production of milk, hence the name “Doodhpathri”. It is also believed that the cattle who graze in the meadows of this place give a large quantity of milk and that is why it is called DoodhPathri.

Doodhpathri is a beautiful meadow with emerald grass that looks like a green carpet. A beautiful river dancing and reverberating with the wind flows in the middle of the meadow, lending it a splendid charm and vibrancy. The place looks very beautiful and pleasant. The green grass under the feet is really wonderful.

Doodhpathri however is a recent inclusion in the Jammu Kashmir tourist map. This is the reason that the place is not overcrowded and not many tourists visit here. However, it has become a real hit among the local population, who find it a welcome step. The road from Khansahib area in Badgam to the Doodhpathri is not in a good condition. There is not a full-fledged market or any hotel in the area, so the trip is always going to last for a day only and you need to pack your lunch. Tea and snacks are available in the shops run by local people.

Travelling to the area can be hectic, but the place is worth the trouble. The local government is taking steps on fast track basis to make the access easier and comfortable. Work is going on to connect Doodhpathri with all the concrete roads. Once completed, it is believed that the place will be at no. 3 of the most preferred tourist destinations of the valley.

As already mentioned, travelling can be hectic. You need to take a bus to Budgam from Lalchowk Srinagar, from where you can catch a vehicle to Khansahib. From Khansahib stand you can get a cab for Doodhpathri. Alternatively if you come to Kashmir by Air, you can take the bus to Budgam from Humhama area, just two kilometres from the Airport.

Weather of the place remains moderate. The best time to visit is during the spring and summer months from May to September. The place is primarily for sightseeing as it has not been developed completely as yet.

Gurez

Sinthan Top

Kisthwar

Kishtwar district situated amidst snow-capped mountains, emerald valleys, fruit orchards, whispering deodar and pine forests with their rich flora and fauna, gurgling streams meandering through lush green meadows, sprinkled with colorful natural wild flowers, create a grandeur that is hard to match. The valleys of Chhatroo, Dachhan, Marwah, Paddar and Warwan in particular have an enchanting and mesmerizing natural beauty which has a great potential for adventure, pilgrimage, eco, health, rural, cultural and film tourism. Unexplored and unexploited due to scarce road connectivity, these areas, having lush green forests, humming heights talking to the sky, green meadows and alpine pastures in the lap of high rising mountains where sight of neighing horses, bellowing cattle, bleating sheep and goats which have ascended from hot plains, display an absorbing view in summer months and remain under a white blanket of snow during the winter. The prominent Tourist circuits along with the main beauty spots, worthy of mention are the following:

Some of the beautiful spots in Kishtwar are given below:-

1. Qilla Kishtwar:-

To the south west of Kishtwar town is a hillock where a fort and palace existed during the rule of the Raja’s of Kishtwar. There are said to be built by Raja Kahan Paul. With the passage of time, the house and the fort at Kishtwar became non-existent excepting the throne, made of stone, which stands there even today. The one piece seat of stone slab with a thickness of 15cms, stands on four stone pillars of greenish colour 42 cms high. As it is a heritage site, it needs be preserved, otherwise the slab too will get lost in due course of time. The two guns locally called ‘TOPE’ have been preserved and installed within the premises of the office of the Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar.

From ‘Qilla’ site a panoramic view of Kishtwar town, NHPC colony and Mandal along with tall mountains surrounding the valley of Kishtwar can be seen. The ‘Kishtwar Development Authority’ proposes to develop this place by laying a park and fountains there and connecting it with a road.

2. Katarsamna:-

The place at a distance of three kilometers from Kishtwar and connected with a road is another beauty-spot, wherefrom the view of Kishtwar town, Dul-Hasti Project Colony, and its beautiful surrondings, Nagin- Shiru peak to its North and roaring river Chenab to its South can be seen. The premises of the ‘Kartik’ Swami temple are situated at a prominent place. there is a vast ground in front of temple, a two room suite, a kitchen and a toilet for the convenience of the pilgrims.

3. Bharnoin:-

The picnic spot of Bharnoin, below Pochhal village, 3 kilometers away from Kishtwar town is known for its eye-captivating beauty. The place is situated in a forest area dense with conifers like deodar and kale trees. The place nearby busting Kishtwar town is cool, calm and pollution free. Down below the slopes of Bharnoin is the majestic view of roaring Chenab whose roar is heard here. Side by side is the beautiful forest patch of ‘Bindraban’. The whole area is, indeed, full of mesmerizing beauty. The Kishtwar Development authority has constructed a ‘Shelter Shed’ a toilet block, an eating point, viewing deck and some view points keeping in view the eco aspect of development. The place is full of hustle and bustle created by various picnic parties. After this place, the visitors feel themselves free of stress and strain and return relaxed.

4. Saffron Safari:-

A place of attraction for the tourists are the saffron fields of Kishtwar located mainly in Pochhal, Hatta, Bera-Bhatta, Matta and Berwar villages nearby Kishtwar town. Saffron flowers are in full blossom in the months of October and November every year, so this time is the best for visit to Saffron Safari. The view of purple colored Saffron flowers, spread like a blanket over the fields, early in the morning is, really, enthralling and mesmerizing. The fragrance scattered by this blossom in the atmosphere gives a heavenly touch the environment. Early in the morning women folk, men and children in their colorful attires go to the saffron fields for plucking flowers, preferably, before sun-rise otherwise its red carpel’s get separated from the petals after sun rise, causing inconvenience in handling these later on.

For the convenience of the tourists and their comfortable stay at Pochhal, the Kishtwar Development Authority has constructed a rest house there.

1. Kishtwar-Chhatroo-Synthen Top- Dakshum-Anantnag Circuit

The circuit having matchless beauty is one of the most beautiful toursit circuits of the country. Recently, on 26th and 27th June 2010, a motor rally was organised by the “Himalayan Motor Sports” in which 33 racers, drawn from various states of the country, passed through this beautiful circuit. It traversed through Dakshum, Synthen, Mughal Maidan, Kishtwar, Udhampur, Mansar, Surinsar, Jammu, rajouri, Poonch, Mughal Road, Shopian and back to Srinagar. The motor rally has attracted the attention of the adventure tourists of this country and the world towards this beautiful region, hither to neglected. The government of Jammu and Kashmir has taken up the construction of road, with liberal central assistance, from Kishtwar to Dakshum via Synthen Top through GREF. The road is operational now. The government is also proposing to connect this circuit to Kathua, Bani, Bhaderwah, Doda circuit which will open an area of immense natural beauty, places of pilgrimage and adventure for the local as well as the foreign tourists. This road will also be the most comfortable road for the Yatries of baba Amar Nath Ji or reavhing the base camp at Pahalgam within shortest possible time.

o Bhandarkoot:-

The place is situated at a distance of about 12 Kms from kishtwar town on Kishtwar-Synthen-Anantnag road. A big mela is held here on Baisakhi every year. After a dip in the ‘Sangam’, the visitors pay their obeisance to the two most revered religious places, the Astaan of ‘Shah Zain-ud-Din‘ on the left side of Chanderbhaga, an the ancient ‘Neelgangeshwar’ pond and the temples of other gods and goddesses on the right bank of the river. These two places of religious importance attract thousands of pilgrims not only on Baisakhi but for the whole year round. Cocks and Sheep are offered at the Astaan by both the main communities for taking the blessings of the great saint.

1. Bhandarkoot, thus, is symbolic of complete mutual brotherhood and communal harmony. A small army cantonment at the place has added to the hustle and bustle of the place. The scenery around Bhandarkoot is quite charming. This is an ideal place for rock climbing.

o Mughal Maidan:-

Eight kilometers ahead of Bhandaroot comes Mughal-Maidan a scenic spot on the bank of Chatroo river. The market place and some govt. buildings and add to the beauty of this place. The place is being developed as tourist spot. Chatroo River is known for rearing ‘Trout’ fish. Therefore the fisheries Department of Jammu and Kashmir had established a ‘Fish-Hatchery’ here and constructed some buildings, Fish trade, if promoted, will raise the economic standard of the people.

o Sinthan Top:-

From chingam onwards, we find an ascending road amidst Zigzag road and forest cover; we reach Synthen Maidan, 60 kilometers away from Kishtwar. The alpine pastures of this place have matchless natural beauty. The cool and salubrious climate of the place has a refreshing effect on the tourists. Here we find unending slopes and plain meadows on the foot of the Synthen-top. The place is ideal for games like Para-gliding, horse riding, rock climbing and winter games like skiing, skating, ice –hockey etc.

1. 24 kilometers ahead of Sinthan Maidan is the Sinthan Top at an altitude of 3784 meters from sea level. On reaching the top, one feels at the top of the world, quite light and detached from the worldly worries. View of the surrounding area is very charming. A potato farm established here by the Agriculture Department yields a good potato-crop which is superior in quality and tasty to eat. From Sinthan top, the descending road leads to Daksum, a health resort of Anantnag district in the Kashmir valley.

1. There are several other picnic spots in Kishtwar like Har Gaddi, Tel Mochay, Godresh Naag, Varda on NH1B,Gali Gaad on Sarthal road and various other fascinating and eye-captivating places are here in Kishtwar. You can enjoy the real charm of natural beauty.

2. Kishtwar-Dool-Nagseni-Paddar-Suncham Tourist Circuit

o DOOL DAM:-

22kms ahead of Kishtwar town is a water body at Dool, the site of the Dool-Dam of the famous Dul Hasti Hydroelectric Project of 390MW capacity. The NHPC has constructed a good road up to the Dam site. The water body formed due to the construction of 65 meters high dam on Chenab is being developed for water sports as the surroundings area of the reservoir has a huge potential to attract tourists. Dool dam is one of the four water bodies of Jammu region namely Mansar, saruinsar, bagilar dam and Dool dam for which experts of the Goa based ‘national Institute of Water Sports’ have recommended boating and water sports. Use of motor boats and Shikaras with specific horse power and seating capacity has been recommended for this water body. The department of the tourism has decided to encourage private participation in starting these activities here. The department will provide license for operation of boats, make rescue boats available, take safety measure, set up launching pads, jetties, view points and all other basic infrastructure but for the purchase of boats and Shikaras private participation will be encouraged and provided proper training and guidance. At present the KDA has completed the following works at site:- A guest House

· Launching Deck

· HRT Building to be used for training purpose

· A park in about 8kanals of land.

· A work shop for repair of boats and Shikaras

· View points On the start of the boating, avenue for the employment of the local youth will usher in an era of economic prosperity in the area.

Padyarna:-

At a distance of about 30 Kms from kishtwar town by bus we reach Padyarna village, the block headquarter of Nagseni block where from historical sites of Nagseni block can be visited. 8 to 20 Kms above Padyarna are some villages where ruins of stone- temples, broken idols and stone inscriptions have been found. Padyarna, a picturesque spot on the right bank of Chenab. Qomiye Naag is also a place where you must visit.

1. Kishtwar-Dachhan-Marwah-Margan Top-Anantnag Tourist Circuit

The circuit abounds in matchless natural beauty, forests with rich flora and fauna, meadows and pastures and places of interest for adventures, mountaineers, film makers, rock climbers and sportsmen. This circuit has, already, attracted hundereds of trekkers during early seventees when the ‘Youth Hostel’s Association of India’ organized trekking on this circuit by making Kishtwar, the base camp. foreign Mountaineers have been visiting this area to scale a number of internationally famous mountain peaks and places of absorbing natural beauty.

2. From Bhandarkoot, 12kms away from Kishtwar, one has to go alog Kishtwar-Marwah road up to Patimhala, the last bus point, 32 kms away from kishtwar. From Patimhala onwards light vehicles take us to Ikhala further 6kms away. Ikhala, a beautiful village situated amidst sylvan scenery on the bank of ‘Mariv Sudhir’ has a Guest House made by the forest department, where tourist can have a comfortable night stay. Ahead of Ikhala, we have to travel on foot or on horse back. The path passing through sky-rising mountains, dense forest cover with rich flora and fauna. gushing streams and water falls keeps off the tiredness of the journey. there are few habitations on the way from Ikhala to Dachhan sparsely populated till we reach sounder, the gate way to Dachhan valley.

3. Sounder:-

This place is situated at a distance of about 20 Kms from Ikhala. The village has natural beauty in the true sense of the word. As it lies within the precincts of ‘Kishtwar National Park’ , so it has much offer to the tourists. The J&K state P.W.D., Wild-Life and Forest Departments have constructed Rest-Houses here where tourists are provided the facilities of boarding and lodging. Mountaineers who want to reach the ‘Brahma Peaks’ via Kiber nalla can make this place as their base camp. It is also the base camp of famous ‘Hud Mata yatra’ which starts from Radha Krishen Temple here in the month of July every year.

4. Some other tourist places in this circuit are SIRSHI, Nanth Nalla, Kiyar Nalla Marwah and Warwan valley.

4. INSHAN:

the head quarter of Warwan block has now been connected witha motor able road from the Kashmir Valley side and it is hoped that the area will now get due attention as far as its development from tourism point of view is concerned. As Warwan valley is now open for tourist flow from Anantnaag so time is not far when it will find its due place in the tourist map of India.

5. The famous mountain peaks ‘NUN’ and ‘KHUN’ can be reached easily from the Sukhnai village of Warwan by crossing ‘Lanwilla’ pass. From Inshan the ascending motor able road leads us to Margan Top at a height of 4470 Mtrs above sea level and thence from the descending road takes us to Anantnag in the Kashmir Valley.

How to Reach

District Headquarter Kishtwar is located about 210 Km. from Jammu and about 280 Km. from Srinagar. There are two National Highways connecting the District viz.NH-1A and NH-1B. The general approach to the whole of the District is through road transport i.e. Taxi, Deluxe Buses etc. Visitors coming from other parts of the country can also utilize the Flight services up to Jammu/Srinagar and train services up to Udhampur. From Jammu / Srinagar, road transport services are easily available to reach District Headquarter Kishtwar and to other Tourist Spots of the District. One can have the view of River Chenab while approaching to Kishtwar.

Reaching Here :

The main hub to reach Kishtwar is Jammu. It is approximately 235 Kms form Jammu to Kishtwar by road. There are lot of Deluxe Buses operated by various Private agencies as well as J&K SRTC. The whole journey costs about 6 -7 Hrs. form Jammu and 5 – 6 Hrs from Udhampur by bus.

Machail Mata Yatra in Kishtwar

he Himalayan pilgrimages are the oldest organized travel system, evolved over time by Hindu sages and embodying the spirit of wander, adventure and spirituality”. One of the holy trinity, Maa Chandi is a living goddess. Vedic myths, spiritual and even astronomy testify to his existence from the dawn of time. Recently village Machail in Paddar has turned out to be important place of religious importance and sanctity because of the temple of ‘Chandi Mata’. On the day of first Bhadon or Bhadoon Sankranti (15th or 16th August) every year, when the doors of temples in Paddar are thrown open, a big mela is held outside Chandi Mata temple at Machail where people from all over Paddar assemble and offer prayers to the deity and invoke her blessings.

A mace or Holi Chhari of Goddess Chandi Mata is taken out by the devotees from village Chinote Bhaderwah, the home village of Thakur Kulbir Singh. Under his auspicious control a procession is taken to Machail with people singing bhajans in praise of the goddess amidst beating of drums, playing upon flutes and chanting of mantras. Now days the yatra is also taken out from Jammu. This yatra has played the greatest role in highlighting the peculiarities of Paddar and influencing among people the spirit of adventure. This procession starts from Bhaderwah than reaches Pul Doda on mid-day after that yatra moves towards Kishtwar crossing Thatari, Drabshalla, Kandni, Hasti than reaches Kishtwar near about 4pm. On next day, Yatra moves from Kishtwar towards Atholi Paddar.

The Machail Yatra pilgrimage to the high altitude Himalayan shrine of Mata Chandi, one of the manifestations of Goddess Durga is continuously becoming popular day by day and is assuming the status of the second biggest pilgrimage in the Jammu Region, where more than 50 thousand pilgrim pored at Chandi Dham Machail at a time. The Chandi Mata basically has over the years manifested elsewhere mostly confined to Himalayan region. In Jammu itself she has her origin in the Mahalaxmi Mandir at Pacca Danga and thence at Bhadarwah where from her Chhari (Holy Mace) starts in the month of August every year. Situated around 306 kms away from Jammu by (Jammu-Batote) (120 Kms), Batote-Kishtwar (121 Kms), Kishtwar-Atholi – Gulbgarh-65 kms) by road and thence on foot to Machail Mata which is bearely 30 kms. Though the terrain is too tough to trek but with the grace of almighty Mata Chandi, one feels hillbilly joyous in association with enchanting pilgrims echoing Jai Mata Dip Jai Chandi Mata. The entire track is dotted all along with yatries of all hues with colourful attire. The main stop-overs en route are from Atholi Gulabgarh are Layondee, S Kunderpul, Chishoti, Hamooree and thence Machail Matas scared temple. The entire arees is land locked surrounded by lushgreen, vibrant and salubrious greenery of pine (Deodar, Kail, Fir, Spruce), oaks, shrubs and herbs. The river Chandra and Bhaga confluences at Atholi and while traversing this long stretch of 30 kms, you follow proud Bhaga sometimes accompanying you and some times going against your track with roaring echoes and foaming firry watery flames so gorgeously against perpendicular rocks. The Chhari starts from Bhadarwah town on 19th August on foot led by the Punjari of Bhadarsah temple accompanied by the delighted devotees.

Dal Lake

Bangus Valley

Bangus Valley is a stunningly beautiful place with a vast tourism potential. The tragedy however is that it is a relatively unknown station and has not yet been completely developed as a tourist station. However, the work is in progress on fast track basis to bring it on the tourist map of Kashmir. The Valley is located in the Kupwara district in North Kashmir. It is located at an altitude of 10,000 ft. at a distance of about 115 km from Srinagar. It lies within the Handwara sub district. The valley lies close to the Line of Control between India and Pakistan. The valley consists of Bod Bangus (Big) and LokutBangus (small). It covers an area of about 300 sq. km.

Bangus Valley is a part of unique ecological area which comprises mountain and Grassland. The valley is more beautiful than the famous tourist places in the valley and is also virgin as not many tourists travel to this part of the valley. The valley is blessed with some splendid natural beauty and has yet not faced the destruction of human interference. Natural vegetation, flowers and forests are abundant. It has been proposed to be developed as a Himalayan Biosphere valley by INTACH. The valley is calm, serene and mesmerizing.

The Bangus stream, which is one of the headwaters of the Kamilriver, originates here. The Qazinag spring is said to be the source of the various springs and streams in Bungus. The Dodkol has sweet and cold water. It emerges from the Dudi hill and merges with the TilwanKol at the BaddiBehek meadow. RoshanKol, Satkol Nag, and its seven streams, are some other streams and lakes of the valley.

The large pasturelands of the area produce some of the finest grass in the state. Bungus has more than a hundred meadows. A little more than half of these are on top of plateaux, while the rest are in the plains. The meadows have a great cushioned fee as the grass is soft. The grass has a tremendous nutritional and medicinal value for the cattle.

Bungus can be approached from Srinagar through two routes. One is through Handwara through Satkoji and other through Chowkibal, through Malasari. Transport is not readily available as the road is not in a good condition. The place is yet to be brought on the tourist map of Kashmir and hence you may have a difficult time while reaching there, but the place is worth all the trouble.

Kokarnag

Kokernag is another beautiful and attractive tourist destination in Kashmir. It is located in Anantnag district, at a distance of about 70 km from Srinagar. The place has splendid natural beauty which is serene and calm. The place is blessed with some gorgeous natural beauty. Various rare varieties of plants and flowers are found here.

Kokernag has various interesting legends attached to it regarding its name. It got its name comprises of two words ‘koker’ meaning ‘chicken’ and ‘nag’ meaning ‘serpent’. ‘Nag’ also means a sulphurous water spring in Kashmiri. According to the legend, it was a saint who came to the place with a bucket. He slept and kept his bucket nearby. After sometime some women came in search of water, but could not find any. They saw the sleeping saint and the bucket and decided to take water from the bucket. However, as soon as they went near, a serpent came out of the bucket, escaped and crept in the ground. Soon it emerged in the form of a chicken. The chicken began to dig the soil with its claw and water came gushing out of it. This originated the spring and was named Kokernag. It is also believed that the spring is called kokernag, because of it originates from a claw shaped origin in the earth and moves ahead like a serpent. It is also said that since the collection of various springs forms the shape of a chicken claw, that is why it is called kokernag. Otherwise the real name of the place is Bindoo Zalangam.

Kokernag is a beautiful place with splendid scenic spot; the favourite being the garden that surrounds the spring. Waterfall is a beautiful attraction for the tourists. However, the most important tourist attraction is the Papa-shudan Nag, the sulphurous spring believed to possess magical powers of healing. The water is known for its digestive properties and other medical importance.

This tourist place is also popular for fishing as trout fish are found in the waters here. Trout fish are reared in small pools that have been set up by the department. You can purchase the fish from the department. These fish have a great taste and are considered as one of the superior species.

There is a botanical garden laid in Kokernag as well, which has become very popular with the tourists and the locals as well. The garden has a number of flowers, plants and trees in it. It is set against the backdrop of high alpine forests, where you can find some rare animals.

Khir Bhawani

Khir Bhawani, the spring temple in Tulmula Ganderbal Srinagar is the most revered shrine Kashmiri Pandits. The spring Shrine of Khir Bhawani is located in Tulmula Village of Ganderbal, 25 km east of Srinagar. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhawani and it is known as Kheer Bhawani as thousands of devotees pour milk and Kheer in the sacred spring, over which the temple is constructed. The spring is very large and is revered by the local Brahmins. The temple is located in the middle of the spring. The area around the temple has been covered with smooth polished stones giving it a beautiful look. The temple has been built with marbles. It is set in very beautiful surroundings as well. Huge Chinar trees in the complex provide respite to the pilgrims from heat and the pilgrims sit or sleep under the shade of these giant trees.

Kheer Bhawani wears festive look on the eighth day of the full moon in the month of May or June. Brahmans from all over the state throng the temple to worship their beloved deity. The occasion is known as Mela Khir Bhawani. This year, in 2013, the Mela will be celebrated on 17th June. On this day the devotees fast and gather in the spring temple complex. People pour milk and kheer in the spring, which magically changes colour of the water in different shades. These colours have significance as they are ascribed to different manifestations of the Goddess. For example, if the colour of the water turns black, it signals some approaching danger.

It is believed that there were 360 springs around the main spring, but all these disappeared leaving behind marshy land. Holy journey to Khir Bhawani is considered to be the most important pilgrimage for Kashmiri Brahmins, who throng the temple in huge numbers on the occasion of the festival.

The significance of the temple comes from the famous legend attached to it. It is believed that Lord Rama worshipped Goddess Ragnya during the period of his exile, after which he asked Hanuman to shift the seat of the goddess. Hanuman brought the seat to Shadipora and then to the site of the temple. The legend also goes that it was the wish of Ragnya Devi that her seat should be placed at the Khir Bhawan temple and the wish was conveyed to a pandit, Ragunath Gadroo in his dream.

On the day of Khir Bhawani whole Kashmir wears a festive look as the Muslims of the valley also team up with the Hindus and help them in performing the religious rites. Muslims, as a goodwill gesture and a traditional heritage provide milk and special herbs to the pilgrims who offer them to their deity. Khir Bhawani Temple is also popular among the tourists as the temple is surrounded by rich natural beauty. The rich religious and historical significance of the temple also attracts tourists to this place.

Amarnath Ji

Journey to Amarnath Cave for darshanis considered to be the most holy pilgrimage for Hindus in Kashmir valley. Amarnath pilgrimage is organised annually in Kashmir during the months of May and June. Amarnath cave is located on the Amarnath Mountain at a distance of around 145 km east of Srinagar. The cave is visited by the Hindu devotees to pay homage to the Ice Shiv lingam that is formed automatically during the winters. The ice lingam is shaped like the deity of Shiva. Lord Shiva is considered as one of the major gods of Hindu religion. People from all parts of India travel to Kashmir and undergo all kinds of troubles of the journey to pay homage to their great lord. However, Amarnath Yatra (pilgrimage) has become equally popular among the tourists and the local population who also visit the cave frequently.

The ice lingam changes size according to the seasons and according to the moon. On a full moon night, the lingam is as high as 6 feet. It is believed that Lord Shiva first appeared in the cave on the full moon day and thus every year on this day in July and August is held a festival in the cave temple.

The cave in itself is about 150 feet high and 90 feet long. In the cave four to five ice lingams are formed that resemble figures of different gods, the biggest being regarded as the figure of Lord Shiva. The other lingams formed include the figures of Ganesh, Parvati and Bhairva. Amarnath cave finds a mention in the Hindu scriptures as well. There is an interesting legend associated with the cave. The cave is believed to be found by a Gujjar, named Butta Malik, a Muslim. It is said that a saint had given him a bag of coal, which turned into gold as soon as he reached home. Jubilant, he went to thank the saint, but could not find him. Instead he found the cave there.

Amarnath Cave is open for the pilgrims during the months of July and August, and during the rest of the year, the area remains inaccessible due to snow. Each year around 25000 pilgrims visit the holy cave during the period. However, the two months witness frequent rainfall, so the pilgrims face difficulties and also the risk is high as the road is not well maintained and thus prone to slips.

Amarnath Yatra usually begins in June till August and during that time many areas like Sonamarg and Pahalgam are over-crowded with devotees. Amarnath is a must visit place for nature lovers as well. However the climatic conditions are uncertain and the route is not well developed. It is therefore recommended to strongly follow the travel advisory before adding for the place. Sufficient warm clothes should be carried. Medical assistance and ration is available en route.

Alternatively you can book a helicopter to the cave, which will save you all the time and energy of the journey.

It gives us immense pleasure to introduce our self and our tourism hub "KASHMIR TRAVELS", one of the premier tourism hubs in the state of Jammu & Kashmir.

Mugal Garden

Kashmir’s natural beauty remains unparalleled in the world. The majestic mountains, lush green meadows, beautiful gardens, the dancing springs, furious rivers, scintillating lakes andthe moderate climate of the place makes it a place that finds no match in any part of the world. Apart from naturally blessed beauty, however, Kashmir valley has been fortunate enough to come under the rule of some of the most famous beauty lover rulers, The Mughals. Mughal dynasty ruled Kashmir for a long period of time and during that time they did everything to make beautiful the already beautiful Kashmir. Of all the efforts for the beautification of the valley, one thing that stands out is the laying of the Mughal Gardens, throughout the length and breadth of Kashmir valley. The gardens have been made artistically at some exquisite places making them a perfect paradise. There are many Mughal gardens in Kashmir valley. The most famous among them are Nishat Garden, Shalimar Garden and Achabal.

NISHAT GARDEN

Nishat garden is the most famous Mughal Garden of Kashmir Valley. It was laid in 1633 AD by the brother of Mughal Queen Noor Jahan, Asif Khan. The garden lies at the foot of the Zabarwan Hills, which provide it a majestic backdrop. Nishat Garden offers a panoramic view of the world famed Dal Lake. The garden is laid over an area of around it. it is bounded by strong stone walls on its sides. The garden is sloping. An artificial water channel runs right through the middle of the garden, and the sloping channel gives it a look of waterfall. The channel has fountains in it. The water channel empties into the Dal Lake. Huge chinars, lush green parks, and a variety of beautiful flowers and other trees adorn the garden.

This garden is a favourite with the local as well as foreign tourists. People from nearby areas in Kashmir valley visit the garden in the evenings. The garden witnesses a huge rush of tourists throughout the spring summer and autumn season. However, the garden remains closed on Thursdays for maintenance and cleaning purposes. Just outside the gate of the Nishat Garden is a busy market and a ghat, where you can board a shikara boat for a ride in the Dal Lake to Char Chinar or Hazratbal and many other places.

Transport to Nishat Garden is readily available from the city centre Lalchowk and the journey takes almost 30 minutes. The atmosphere is beautiful and the drive goes via the famous boulevard road along the Dal Lake, which dominates the major part of the drive. Alternatively you can take a bus to Hazratbal, from where you can board a bus for Nishat Garden. From Hazratbal you can also take a Shikara to Nishat Garden, which is a more beautiful access to the garden.

SHALIMAR BAGH

Shalimar Garden is located close to Nishat Garden. It is yet another beautiful garden laid by the greatest lover of nature and beauty, Mughal Emperor Jehangir, Son of Akbar the Great, in1619. This garden looks quite similar to Nishat Garden as it also has Zabarwan hills in the backdrop, a water channel in the middle lined by fountains. The water from the fountains, reflecting the sunlight come down in amazing rainbow colours. This garden is also sloping and thus the water channel forms artificial waterfalls at places. Huge chinars, flower beds, trees, parks also adorn this garden. Shalimar Garden is located towards the north-east of the Dal Lake. ShikaraGhat is located outside the gate of the garden as well.

Kasmir Lakes

et another feather in the cap of the beautiful Kashmir is the scintillating lakes that are found across the length and breadth of the valley. Kashmir valley is surrounded by lofty majestic mountains on all sides, which remain snow covered throughout the year. Many enormous glaciers are found in the valley of Kashmir. Water originating from these glaciers gives rise to various springs, lakes and rivers. The meres found in Kashmir Valley have clear waters, scintillating view. Most of the lagoons are located in Srinagar, central Kashmir. Because of its meres, Srinagar is often referred to as the “Venice of the east”.

The lakes located in Srinagar are

Dal Lake

Nagin

Other notable lakes of the Kashmir valley are

Manasbal

Wullar

Alpatthar

Kishansar

Vishansar

Gangabal

Naranag

Gadsar

Besides the lakes in Srinagar there are many meres in other parts of the beautiful valley as well. The lagoons are very beautiful and most of these are set in the backdrop of majestic mountains.

The most famous lake of Kashmir Valley is the Dal, which lies in the heart of Srinagar. This is the second largest freshwater of the state and is integral to tourism. It is beautiful and is often referred to as the “Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir”. It is spread over an area of 10 square miles with a length of 4 miles and a breadth of 2.5 miles. Dal-Lake lies at the foot of the Zabarwan Hills which provide it a breath-taking backdrop. However, there is more to the beauty of Dal-Lake. In the inside of it is a world of its own. Numerous people derive a livelihood from it. Sustains a vibrant life in its vicinity with a complete floating market. Shikaras (low bottomed boats with cloth canopy) ply on the lagoon, which take you into the beautiful and amazing world of Dal. If you are lucky enough to come at the perfect time, beautiful lotuses will greet you during your shikara ride. There are houseboats on the Dal-lake that offer you a novel and a wonderful option of stay on water.

Naginis another beautiful lake situated in the close proximity of the Dal. It is actually known as named Nigeen, which means the “jewel in the ring” but many tourists, particularly refer to it as Nagin. It leads from the Dal and is separated from it by a causeway. This freshwater is also very beautiful and many tourists prefer staying in it and enjoy a shikara ride over its clean waters, because of the calm atmosphere surrounding it. There is a club on its banks known as Nigeen Club, which has a lot to offer.

Manasbal is another beautiful lake situated at a distance of around 30 km from Srinagar towards its north. This is the deepest lagoon of the state, so much that it is considered as unfathomable in Hindu legends. The freshwater is full of lotuses and shikaras ply on it. Beautiful parks have been made on its banks where you can enjoy your day perfectly.

Wullar is another main attraction here. It is the largest fresh water lake of Asia.

There many other meres in the valley that are even more beautiful and clear than the lagoons in the city, however most of these ponds are alpine and are situated at high altitude. Some of the most beautiful lakes of the valley lie at high altitudes in the Sonamarg areas; Gangabal, Naranag, Kishansar, Vishansar and a few other meres lie in the mountain ranges surrounding Sonamarg. To access them, however, you need to trek for a few days into the mountains. Alpatthar is another alpine lake situated near Gulmarg. However, this has an easier and more beautiful access. Gulmarg gondola takes you to the beautiful Alpatthar.

About Kashmir

Some of the beautiful spots in Kishtwar are given below:-

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