Jammu and Kashmir Travel Map
The state of Jammu and Kashmir has been a symbol of eternal natural beauty since time immemorial. The once mountain retreat of Mughals, abode of Buddhist Lamas and Alps of India for the British rulers, was rightly termed as Jahangir's valley of paradise.
Thankfully, the things are getting better in the valley of lakes and houseboats after a disturbing era of insurgency of 20 years.
Kashmir is home to some of the highest and most beautiful parts of the Himalayas. It is necessary to dispel a doubt here that the entire Kashmir is not violent or affected by the insurgency. The state of Jammu and Kashmir is comprised of three major parts; the largely Hindu Jammu, a Buddhist dominated Laddakh and the Muslim majority Kashmir valley.
Laddakh is almost unaffected by the violent disturbances of Kashmir valley. Jammu is comparatively safer and Kashmir valley is getting better day by day; so you can travel to any part of the state including the Kashmir valley without any worries, if the security situation is normal over there.
The most beautiful city in the entire Kashmir valley is Srinagar. The scenic views of the valley vary according to the location you are at. The mountain peaks look heavenly from a distance, the sunlight and the clouds appear to be out of this world and deep blue sky makes us feel at peace and rejuvenated. Srinagar is also called the city of lakes. It is famous for enchanting Dal Lake, HazratBal shrine (Dargah) and the Mughal Gardens referred to as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh. Pahelgam is another beautiful valley with a wildlife sanctuary, ropeways and wonderful tracking routes. Gulmarg is known for its exemplary scenic beauty, ski resorts and the highest golf course in the world.
Travel map, hilly roads and highways
The National Highway in Jammu and Kashmir valley starts from Gulmarg, goes to Baramulla and ends in Pattan; and it further traverses a distance of 56km to reach Anantnag from Pattan. From Anantnag, it further stretches up to 128km to reach Patnitop. From Patnitop, it takes a right turn and passes through Kud and then Udhampur, which further takes us to Domain and then Jammu. The highway further extends up to 100kms to reach Pathanpur .
Zanskar, Leh and Kargil
Zanskar is very high up and is one of the best trekking destinations in the world. The entire Zanskar area is frozen. Both Srinagar and Leh are connected via air transport to the major airports of India. Train routes are available till Jammu and Udhampur. The Kashmir valley railway link is under construction.
Almost all the populated areas in the state of Jammu and Kashmir are accessible by the bus routes.
