The natural beauty of the valley of Kashmir is well known
widely and has deservedly
won high praise from travelers, since time
immemorial. The first Himalayan State of India, Jammu and Kashmir is divided
into mainly three regions, the foothill plains of Jammu; the lakes and blue valleys
of Kashmir rising to alpine passes, the high altitude plains and starkly
beautiful mountains of Ladakh, which lies beyond those passes.
The valley, practically one large health resort, is
enchanting all the year round. The colourful flower season starts from the
middle of March and April. May and June find fruit trees laden with many
hued carpets of flowers decking the meadows and hill slopes. One of the most attractive
aspects of Kashmir is its adventure prospects which includes trekking,
mountaineering, fishing, rafting, heli- skiing to trans Himalayan Jeep Safari. June and July
is the best time for
swimming, sun-bathing, surf-riding and trekking. August and September are
good for fishing trout and mahseer in ice-cold mountain streams. Big and small
game are to be found aplenty in September and October; Autumn is the fruit
season and also a good time for trekking. December to February is the season for
winter sports in Gulmarg.
The state experiences extreme climates in the summer and
winter. The weather is pleasant from October onwards. However, the best time to enjoy
Kashmir and the adventures of Ladakh region is between the months of May and
September.
Kashmiri handicrafts
are known throughout the world for their exquisite craftsmanship. Srinagar is a
shoppers paradise of traditional crafts. Several craft shops line the streets
of Srinagar. The diverse articles range from woolen textiles of fleecy soft
texture and matchless excellence in weaving, hand-woven carpets in
both wool and silk with their intricate Persian design, to the exquisite designs
worked on papier-mâché, wood work, silverware etc are products of unique
craftsmanship.
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