Jammu and Kashmir

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Jammu and Kashmir is the northernmost state in India. It's part of the historic Princely State of British Imperial India, now divided between India and Pakistan; both countries lay claim to the whole. While some Kashmiris hope for an independent and unified Kashmir, the majority seem to simply want peace. It is a mountainous region of great beauty and diversity offering much in the way of outdoor activities and sights for the tourist. The unrest had pretty much completely shut down what was once a thriving tourist industry in Kashmir, and it’s now only starting to make a slow comeback. As a rule of thumb, of the western area remains unsafe, while the eastern area of Ladakh is fine - see "Stay safe" below.

[edit] Regions

• Jammu - most will only stop here to change from train to bus en route to Kashmir. Jammu is the winter capital of state and main political hub of the state. Negligance of the Kashmiri government from more than 5 decades, has kept this destination out of the reach of Travellers and nature lovers.
• Kashmir - Some say it's Heaven on Earth; friendly people and gorgeous landscapes, but see "Stay safe" below.
• Ladakh - Truly amazing landscapes high up in the Himalayas, popular for trekking and with those on a search for the most beautiful place in the world.

[edit] Cities

• Gulmarg - decent skiing and the World's highest gondola.
• Jammu - The winter capital of the state
• Leh - The jumping off point for treks and adventures around Ladakh.
• Nubra
• Srinagar - The summer capital of the state, set around famous Dal Lake, with its floating houseboats.
• Zab Baihk
• Zachaldor
• Zanskar
• Zunnamar
• Zūti
• Bhaderwah

[edit] Understand

The inhabitants of J&K belong to three religions, with Kashmir being mainly Muslim, Jammu being mainly Hindu and the Ladakhis divided almost equally between Buddhists and Muslims.

[edit] Talk

The main languages spoken are Kashmiri, Ladakhi and Dogri. Most people speak at least a little Hindi/Urdu and you may even hear Punjabi.

As elsewhere in India, English is fairly widely spoken among the educated classes and those involved in the tourist industry.

[edit] Get in

[edit] By air

Flights operate to Srinagar and Leh. Try Indian Airlines, Jet Airways and Air Deccan.

[edit] By train

The last stop on the railway line north is Jammu, where you can catch onward buses and 4wd jeeps.

[edit] By bus

There are two ways to get in by land - via Jammu and up to Srinagar or via Manali in Himachal Pradesh and up to Leh.

[edit] Get around

• Buses are operated by J&K SRTC to most points around the state.
• 4wd jeeps are quicker, a little more expensive and reach more locations. Private hire jeeps are also available.

[edit] See

[edit] Do

[edit] Eat

[edit] Drink

[edit] Stay safe

While the situation in the Jammu and Kashmir regions of the state has steadily improved over the last 10 years, much of the Kashmir area still remains unsafe for travel. Kashmiri separatists still occasionally carry out attacks, but generally against the Indian Army and Indian interests, and aren't usually targeting foreigners.

While you are very unlikely to be directly affected by the unrest, the security measures in place (roadblocks, random ID checks) will take away from visitors' enjoyment in a place that was once known for its calm and beauty. The cities and major roads are probably safer than the countryside, considering the massive army presence – at least 1 soldier is stationed every 10 meters or so, and the roads are clogged with army convoys.

Much of the Kashmiri countryside remains unsafe, and trekking in this area would be unwise.

You will encounter Kashmiris all over India in the tourist areas, usually shop owners, who will encourage you to go to Kashmir and insist that it is completely safe. They aren't the best source of information, and have an obvious interest in reviving the tourist industry in their homeland. Instead, check with your embassy and read the local papers for current information on the ever-changing situation.

Ladakh is far removed from the tension and can be considered totally safe.

A British government travel advisory indicates there have been a number of fatal incidents in Srinigar in 2006, some including overseas travelers. Foreigners are not being specifically targeted in this long running dispute, and those that were killed were in mixed crowds. However, with heightened tensions it becomes more difficult to avoid areas of conflict. Travelers planning to visit Srinigar should therefore maintain awareness at all times and regularly check travel advisories.

[edit] Get out

WikiPedia:Jammu_and_Kashmir