Jammu & Kashmir Set let like a jewelled crown on the map of India, Kashmir is a multi-faceted diamond, changing its hues with the sea J sons - always extravagantly beautiful. Two major Himalayan ranges, the Great Himalayan Range and the Pir Panjal, surround the landscape from the north and the south respectively. JK The Mughals aptly called Kashmir 'Paradise on Earth' to vjtere they journeyed to enjoy cool environs in summer. Kashmir is a land where myriad holiday ideas are realised.

In winter, when snow carpets the mountains, there is skiing, tobogganing and sledge-riding along the gentle slopes.

The Kashmir valley or the Vale of Kashmir, is a fertile, verdant region enclosed by the high snow capped ridges of the Pir Panjal range to the west and south, and the main Himalyan range to the east. Its population is predominantly Muslim, with a rich Islamic history which can be traced back to the 14th century. South of the Kashmir Valley is the region of Jammu, saituated on the north Indian plains, a short distance from the Siwalik Hills and drained by the Chenab river whose vast catchment area includes several narrow valleys that extend deep into the high Himalya. Making the state full of wide cultural and geographical contrasts.

Kashmir Valley
Kashmir is a paradise. The land of sparkling rivers and sleepy lakes, of startling gardens and regal Chinar trees, Kashmir boasts of some of the most beautiful flowering meadows and snow-capped peaks. The abundance of natural beauty has earned the valley a nickname of the 'Switzerland of the East'. It is mesmerizing to see how this endless beauty never fails to charm the viewers with its changing scenes from dazzling white snow of Winters to blooming fragrance of Spring. The sparkling greenery of Summers are welcome too as the flaming beauty of Autumn. The art house of the Seasons, the beauty of Kashmir is complete to the giggling girls with fair Indian complexion and rosy cheeks and the exquisite handicrafts of the area.

Dal Lake
Dal Lake has rightfully become an icon of the Kashmir tourism industry. A Himalayan urban lake, it has five basins and a number of channels that are well linked with each other. There are plenty of fishes in Dal Lake and fishery is the second largest industry of the region centered on the lake. The sparkling quiet waters of Dal surrounded by snow-capped mountains on its three sides, undoubtedly mark it as one of the most beautiful lakes of India. It is also the second largest lake in the State of Jammu and Kashmir with numerous gardens and orchards all along its shores. Houseboats form an indelible part of the scenery of the Dal Lake that are always ready to take tourists to a romantic and peaceful ride of the lake and soothe their nerves as the houseboat floats over the slightly rippling waters. They also offer some of the most exotic views of the splendid scenery of the Dal Lake.

House Boats of Kashmir
There are wide varieties of houseboats, one can choose from, according to one's needs and requirements. 'Firdaus' are known for their grandeur and has three double bedrooms with attached bathrooms, hot and cold water and a lavish living room. 'Khushal' is a little smaller with two double bedrooms along with the other desired comforts. However, the most beloved of the honeymooners are 'Nishat' and 'Khushdil' with one double bedroom, privacy and comforts along with the beautiful views of the lake. The Dal Lake or Nagin Lake of Srinagar is also famous for its 'Shikaras', the floating vegetable gardens, the visitors love to have a ride on, to all the way to the Mughals' Paradise.