🏔️ Overview

Jammu & Kashmir, often called "Paradise on Earth," is a union territory in northern India, known for its snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and serene lakes. It was reorganized in 2019 and now functions as a union territory with two capitals — Srinagar and Jammu.

🌍 Geography & Environment

The region lies in the Himalayan mountain range, bordered by Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. It is home to the famous Kashmir Valley and several major rivers such as Jhelum, Chenab, and Tawi.

• Terrain: Mountainous with valleys and lakes
• Climate: Alpine to temperate; snowy winters, cool summers
• Major Rivers: Jhelum, Chenab, Tawi

💰 Economy & Industry

The economy of Jammu & Kashmir is driven by agriculture, handicrafts, and tourism. Apple orchards, saffron fields, and pashmina shawls are world-famous. Tourism contributes significantly, especially in places like Gulmarg and Pahalgam.

• Key Sectors: Horticulture, Handicrafts, Tourism
• Major Products: Apples, Saffron, Pashmina, Dry Fruits
• Tourism Hubs: Srinagar, Jammu, Gulmarg

✈️ Tourism

Jammu & Kashmir is one of India’s most visited destinations, offering breathtaking landscapes, adventure sports, and religious sites. From Dal Lake’s houseboats to the Vaishno Devi Temple, it’s a land of natural and spiritual beauty.

• Dal Lake: Iconic lake with houseboats and shikaras in Srinagar.
• Gulmarg: Skiing and mountain resort surrounded by pine forests.
• Pahalgam: Popular hill town known for the Lidder River and meadows.
• Sonmarg: Valley of gold with stunning glacier views.
• Vaishno Devi Temple: One of India’s holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites.
• Amarnath Cave: Sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.

🎭 Culture & Heritage

The culture of Jammu & Kashmir reflects a fusion of Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist traditions. Kashmiri handicrafts, music, and cuisine are celebrated across India. Festivals like Eid, Diwali, and Baisakhi are widely observed.

• Languages: Kashmiri, Dogri, Urdu, Hindi, English
• Festivals: Eid, Baisakhi, Lohri, Navroz
• Influences: Persian, Mughal, and Himalayan Traditions

🎓 Education & Institutions

The region has several reputed institutions and universities offering higher education in science, arts, and technology.

• University of Kashmir, Srinagar
• University of Jammu
• National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar
• Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology

🍴 Cuisine

Kashmiri cuisine is rich in spices and flavors, known for its traditional Wazwan dishes. Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and Gushtaba are among its most famous preparations.