Jammu and Kashmir is a region in northern India, often referred to as J&K. It lies mostly in the Himalayan range and shares borders with Himachal Pradesh and Punjab to the south. To the north and east, it touches China, and to the west and northwest, it is separated from areas administered by Pakistan (Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan) by the Line of Control.
Historically, the region was part of the former princely state of Kashmir and Jammu, and it has been at the center of a long-standing territorial dispute between India, Pakistan, and China. Pakistan controls the western parts, while the eastern Aksai Chin region has been under Chinese control since 1962.
Jammu and Kashmir used to enjoy special autonomy under Article 370 of the Indian Constitution. The region is divided into three parts: Jammu, Kashmir Valley, and Ladakh. Srinagar serves as the summer capital, while Jammu functions as the winter capital. It is also the only region in India with a Muslim-majority population.
Best places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir
Pangong Tso
Pangong Tso, meaning “high grassland lake” in Tibetan, is a stunning high-altitude lake located in the Himalayas at around 4,350 meters. Stretching 134 km, it crosses from India into China.
Raghunath Temple
Located in Jammu, Raghunath Temple is one of North India’s largest temple complexes, made up of seven shrines. Each shrine has a distinct spire and is dedicated to Lord Rama.
Amar Mahal Palace
This former royal palace in Jammu has been transformed into a museum. Built in the 19th century, it showcases Dogra heritage and offers views of the Tawi River.
Chemrey Monastery
Chemrey Gompa, a Buddhist monastery of the Drukpa lineage, was built in 1664. Located 40 km east of Leh in Ladakh, it stands peacefully against the mountain backdrop.
Khanqah-e-Moula
Found in Srinagar, this mosque and shrine honors the Sufi saint Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani. Known for its wooden architecture, it holds spiritual and cultural importance.
Vaishno Devi Mandir
This sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Vaishno Devi is located near Katra in the Trikuta Hills. It’s one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in India.
Aru Valley
Aru Valley is a scenic spot near Pahalgam in Anantnag district, nestled along the Lidder River. It’s popular for its meadows, forests, and adventure activities.
Sheesh Mahal
Built in 1885 near Ramnagar Fort in Udhampur, Sheesh Mahal is a historical palace known for its mirror-decorated interiors and royal heritage.
Betaab Valley
Named after the Bollywood film Betaab, this picturesque valley lies 15 km from Pahalgam. Surrounded by pine trees and snow-capped peaks, it’s perfect for nature lovers.
Thajiwas Glacier
Just a short walk from Sonamarg, Thajiwas Glacier is a major tourist attraction offering icy views, pony rides, and chances to enjoy the snow even in summer.
top destinations in Jammu and Kashmir
Srinagar
Srinagar, the largest city and summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, lies in the heart of the Kashmir Valley along the Jhelum River and Dal Lake. Known for its gardens, houseboats, and vibrant Kashmiri culture, the city is a hub for traditional handicrafts and dried fruits. Often called the “Venice of the East,” Srinagar is a symbol of the natural beauty that defines the region.
Jammu
Jammu is the winter capital and the largest city in the Jammu Division. It is known for its ancient temples, palaces, and heritage structures. Nestled at the base of the Pir Panjal Mountains, Jammu forms the transition between the Himalayas and the plains of Punjab. The city blends spirituality and history with a rich cultural legacy.
Anantnag
Anantnag, located in the southern Kashmir Valley, is often referred to as the commercial capital of Jammu and Kashmir. Surrounded by natural beauty and folklore, it’s believed that Lord Shiva shed all worldly ties here on his way to the Amarnath Cave. Today, the city is a mix of scenic landscapes and bustling trade activity.
Leh
Leh, a high-altitude town in Ladakh, was once a major stop on ancient trade routes between Tibet and India. Known for its Buddhist heritage, monasteries, and rugged terrain, Leh is a gateway to adventure and spiritual exploration in the Himalayas.
Ladakh
Ladakh, meaning “land of high passes,” stretches from the Kunlun Range to the Himalayas. Home to Tibetan and Indo-Aryan communities, Ladakh is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, ancient monasteries, and unique culture. It’s a dream destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Udhampur
Udhampur is a green and scenic city located in the Jammu region, surrounded by eucalyptus forests. Named after Raja Udham Singh, it serves as a key base for the Indian Army and is known for its peaceful setting and religious sites.
Gulmarg
Gulmarg, in the Baramulla district, is one of India’s top skiing and adventure destinations. Located in the Pir Panjal Range, it’s famous for snow-covered peaks, lush meadows, and the Gulmarg Gondola — one of the highest cable cars in the world. It’s perfect for families, trekkers, and thrill-seekers.
Sonmarg
Sonmarg, meaning “meadow of gold,” is a beautiful hill station in the Ganderbal district. Surrounded by glaciers and towering peaks like Kolhoi and Amarnath, it is a starting point for treks and known for its surreal alpine beauty.
Katra
Katra is a small town at the foothills of the Trikuta Mountains and the base for the sacred Vaishno Devi Temple. It draws millions of pilgrims each year and offers a peaceful and spiritual retreat amid scenic hills.
Pahalgam
Pahalgam is a picturesque hill station in Anantnag district, famous for its valleys, trekking trails, and proximity to the Amarnath Yatra route. It’s surrounded by the Lidder River, Betaab Valley, Tulian Lake, and Aru Wildlife Sanctuary — making it a haven for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit Jammu and Kashmir
Jammu and Kashmir is a year-round destination with each season offering a unique charm.
Spring (March to May) is perfect for flower lovers and blooming gardens.
Summer (June to August) is ideal for trekking and visiting hill stations like Srinagar and Pahalgam.
Monsoon (September) brings light rain and fewer crowds, perfect for quiet getaways.
Winter (December to February) is best for snow sports in places like Gulmarg.
Season-Wise Travel Guide
| Season | Months | Temperature Range | Highlights | Best Places to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | March to May | 10°C to 25°C | Flower blooms, pleasant weather | Srinagar (Tulip Garden), Pahalgam |
| Summer | June to August | 15°C to 30°C | Trekking, sightseeing, Amarnath Yatra | Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Pahalgam |
| Monsoon | September | 13°C to 17°C | Light rain, low humidity, fewer tourists | Leh, Katra, Aru Valley |
| Winter | December to Feb | -2°C to 12°C | Snowfall, skiing, snow adventures | Gulmarg, Srinagar, Sonmarg |
