Jmmu and Kashmir has been famous for its natural beauty since time immemorial and has been aptly described as "heaven on earth". The state has some of the best tourist spots in the entire country. Tourists from not only India but also the world over come to enjoy the scenic beauty of the state. The tourism industry has greatly benefited the state economy. Some of the major tourist attractions in the state are Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Leh, Patnitop, and Ladakh. The city of Jammu is popularly known as the City of temples. Srinagar is famous for its lakes and houseboats while Kashmir, known for its scenic natural beauty and rich cuisine is quite popular among tourists. The Dal Lake houseboats are one of the major attractions of Kashmir. Another major tourist attraction is the Mughal Gardens of Srinagar. While on a visit to Kashmir one should also not miss some of the various adventure prospects available, like trekking, rafting and skiing. Kashmir also has some of the best handicrafts in the entire country. Srinagar is known for its traditional crafts.

According to a legend, the great sage Kashyap drained a lake and the Brahmins then inhabited it. The place came to be known as Kashmir. A land of turbulent past and present, the missionaries of Emperor Ashoka introduced the Buddhism in the region. The religion flourished under the rule of Kushan in 2nd Century. However, Hinduism continued to be the dominant religion of the region for many centuries. In the 7th Century, Durlabhavarrdhana founded the Karkota dynasty, which was replaced by Utpalas in 855 AD, which were succeeded by the Tantrins, Yaskaras, Guptas abd Loharas ruled respectively. The first Muslim who reigned Kashmir was Shams-ud-Din who replaced the last Hindu king, Udiana Deva in 1346. Moghul emperor Akbar conquered it in 1586 and thus Kashmir became a part of his vast empire.

1757 saw the victory of Ahmed Shah Durrani and Kashmir went out to Pakistan until 1819, when Ranjit Singh won it again to annex it to his Sikh empire. In 1846, the British defeated the Sikhs and sold it to Ghulab Singh of Jammu for Rs 7.5 million under the Treaty of Amritsar and gave him the status of an independent princely ruler of Kashmir. He conquered Ladakh and added it to his dominion. Maharaja Ghulab Singh died in 1857 and was succeeded by Maharaja Rambir Singh. Maharaja Partab Singh and Maharaja Hari Singh ruled over Kashmir in succession.

The India-Pakistan partition took place during the reign of Hari Singh in 1947 and the rulers of princely states were given the choice to freely accede to either India or Pakistan or to remain independent. However, since the Maharaja of Kashmir was a Hindu, he chose to join India despite the majority of the Muslim population in his dominion. However, since then there have been controversies over the decision and Pakistan claims that the decision was partial and the region should be a part of its dominion.

Tourist Attractions in Jammu and Kashmir:

JAMMU -
popularly known as the 'City of Temples' - is located in the foothills of the Himalayas with the picturesque river Tawi flowing alongside. Nestling in the lap of dazzling, snow-capped Himalayas, Kashmir is ideally a honeymooners' paradise. Besides being an inspiration for art, music and poetry, Kashmir is also a nature lover's wonderland and a shopper's dream come true.

With its perfectly maintained gardens, rows of golden chinar trees, sparkling rivers, alpine pastures and the backdrop of snow peaks, Kashmir is the most sought-after honeymoon destination for romantic couples the world over. This place is indeed the jewel in the crown of the Indian Republic.

SRINAGAR -
is famous for its lakes and houseboats.Dal LakeThe stunning views and comfort in the house-boats floating in the lake make you feel as though you are in Paradise. The aesthetic Shikaras take you through a maze of intricate waterways passing by the majestic house boats, old wooden houses, floating shops and floating vegetables gardens. The house-boats are adorned with ornate wood-carving, furniture and the famous Kashmiri carpets. The shops floating on the lake sell everything from sarees to shawls as well as ornaments to works of art and craft, all having a touch of the Persian culture and the mughal era.shrinagar At times as you are winding your way through these water, Shikara's selling Kashmiri ornaments shawls with fine embroidery and woolen clothes and amazingly colourful flowers come to you, to hold transactions amidst the lake. This picturesque location leaves a indelible mark in your memory.

GULMARG -
The Apharwat peak can be seen from here, along with the Alpather Lake, a pictographic alpine lake. The lake remains frozen till late June. For ardent fans of horse riding, the Alpather lake has wonders in store. A little below Gulmarg, one comes across the holy shrine of Baba Reshi, a Muslim Saint. Gulmarg houses the world's highest golf courses. The club house nearby is a splendour in itself. Facilities for golf training are also available here including golf sets on hire, pros to instruct one in the game, and temporary memberships.

PAHALGAM -
is another interesting place in Jammu and Kashmir and has a lot of attractions for its tourists. Chandanwari, situated 16 kms. from Pahalgam, is the starting point of the Amarnath yatra.

SONAMARG -
is 80 Km from Srinagar, the place is popular as a base for undertaking trekking expeditions.

Amarnathji
is an important pilgrimage in the region. Devout Hindus undertake the long tedious trek to reach the caves during the months of July-August, when icon of Lord Shiva, is formed naturally of an ice-stalagmite.

Ladakh :
The region of Ladakh bears close similarity to the barren moonscape. Here snowcapped mountains of the Great Himalayas and the Karakoram reach several thousands feet up to the arch of azure sky. Quaint little hamlets and crumbling old monasteries hide in the rocky cliffs. The prayer flags flutter in the wind and the river Indus meanders gracefully through the towering willows and poplars.Leh is the most significant town in the region, which also serves as the base for exploring further towards the Himalayas. Important sites in Leh-Ladakh region are: Leh palace, Shey Palace, Stok Palace, monasteries of Phiyang, Hemis, Thiksey, Likir, Spituk, Alchi, Lakes of Pangong and Tso-moriri etc. If you have a passion for adventure, you can also opt for river rafting, mountain climbing and trekking.