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Shopping in Kashmir
Apart from the tourists destination, Kashmir is shoppers' paradise.
From the amusing trinket to a collector' item, the shoppers find all
in the valley. Kashmir is also known for its handicrafts prized with
exquisite craftsmanship. The must buy items are Kashmiri carpets,
woolen shawls, crewel embroidery stone jewellery boxes, mirror frames,
intricately carved walnut wood furniture and accessories etc.

What Attracts Tourists
Kashmir Valley is a paradise for nature lovers, holidaymakers and
honeymooners. Around the capital city Srinagar, there are several
places of tourist interests, among the popular attractions are :
Dal Lake
The
sweet water lake is the Jewel in the crown of the Kashmir and has been
the inspiration for poets and a major attraction for the tourists. The
6.4 Km long and 4 Km wide lake is divided into three parts - Gagri
bal, Lokut Dal and Bod Dal. Dal Lake is known worldwide for Shikaras
and Houseboats. Within the lake, two small islands called as Sona Lank
(Gold Island) and Rupa Lank (Silver Island) are famous picnic spots.
The tourists can enjoy Shikara rides, Kayaking, Canoeing and Angling
here.
Mughal Gardens
Kashmir valley is dotted with several large and small gardens in and
around Srinagar. The gardens with terraced lawns, cascading fountains,
bright colourful flowerbeds and the beautiful Dal Lake in front, are
the Mughal Emperors' concept of paradise on earth. The three famous
Mughal Gardens are Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh and Chasma Shahi, which
are very famous for picnics and excursions.
Harwan Lake
Set amidst the lofty Mahadeo hills, the clean and pure water lake
Harwan, offers the beautiful view of the surroundings. The Lake is the
source of water for the huge garden lined with flower beds and high
Chinar trees. The vast green lawns of the Harwan Lake make its ideal
for picnics and excursions.
Pahalgam
The world famous hill station is located 45 Kms from the District
headquarter Anantnag. Situated an altitude of 7,200 ft. from sea
level, Pahalgam lies on the banks of Lidder river. Pahalgam is the
major tourist attraction and the best health resort of the country.
Pahalgam also serves as a base for the popular Amarnathji Yatra.

Gulmarg
Gulmarg (Meadow of Flowers) is situated in the Baramulla district of
Kashmir. It is 56 Kms southwest of the capital city Srinagar. The
picturesque beauty and location of Gulmarg, make it one of the popular
hill stations in the country. Dotted with colourful bluebells,
daisies, forget-me-nots and buttercups, Gulmarg looks more beautiful
during springs.
Hazratbal Mosque
The
white marble mosque is located in Hazratbal village, on the banks of
the Dal Lake. Hazratbal is famous for housing a hair of the prophet
Muhammad. The hair is displayed to the public on religious occasions,
which is accompanied by fairs. The mosque offers the spectacular view
of the lake and the mountain beyond.
Adi Shankaracharya Temple
The temple was built around 2629-2564 B.C and is one of the anceint
landmarks near Srinagar. It is said that King Gopaditya built the
present temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. A ceiling covers the
inner sanctum of the temple and an inscription in Persian traces its
origin to the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The temple offers a
splendour view of the valley, the Dal Lake and the Mughal Gardens.
Amarnath
Situated 145 Kms east of Srinagar, Amarnath is considered to be one
of the major Hindu Dhams. Amarnath is known for an ice Siva-linga,
which changes its size with the seasons. The linga becomes 6 ft high
on the full moon day. The annual festival of Amarnath takes place at
this cave temple during July-August on the full moon day.
How to Reach Kashmir
Jammu is well connected by air, rail and road. From Jammu one has to
take the road journey to reach Kashmir.
Air : The Jammu airport is 8 Kms from the city
centre. Indian airlines operates flights from Delhi to Srinagar/ Leh.
Rail : Jammu Tawi Railway station is an important
railhead of the Norther Railways.
The trains are available from the major cities of the country to
Jammu.

Road : Jammu is connected by the National Highway
1-A to the rest of the country. The distance of some important cities
from Jammu are Amritsar (243 Kms), Chandigarh (436 Kms), Delhi (586
Kms) and Srinagar (305 Kms) etc.
Where to Stay in Kashmir
The Kashmir valley has several hotels which offer plenty of
accommodation options. The hotels range from 5 Star House Boats,
Heritage to Economic provide the comfortable stay to tourists.
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