INTRODUCTION

Jammu and Kashmir (Dogri: , Ladakhi: , Urdu: ) is the northernmost state of India. It is situated mostly in the Himalayan mountains. Jammu and Kashmir shares a border with the states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab to the south internationally with the People's Republic of China to the north and east and the Pakistan-administered territories of Azad Kashmir and GilgitBaltistan, to the west and northwest respectively. Formerly a part of the erstwhile Princely State of Kashmir and Jammu, which governed the larger historic region of Kashmir, this territory is disputed among China, India and Pakistan. Pakistan, which claims the territory, refers to it as "Indian-occupied Kashmir" (IoK) while most international agencies, such as the United Nations,call it "Indian-administered Kashmir." Jammu and Kashmir consists of three regions: Jammu, the Kashmir valley and Ladakh. Srinagar is the summer capital, and Jammu is the winter capital. While the Kashmir valley is famous for its beautiful mountainous landscape, Jammu's numerous shrines attract tens of thousands of Hindu pilgrims every year. Ladakh, also known as "Little Tibet", is renowned for its remote mountain beauty and Buddhist culture.

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE

Jammu and Kashmir is home to several valleys such as the Kashmir Valley, Tawi Valley , Chenab Valley, Pooch Valley, Sind Valley and Lidder Valley. The main Kashmir valley is 100 km (62 mi) wide and 15,520.3 km2(5,992.4 sq mi) in area. The Himalayas divide the Kashmir valley from Ladakh while the Pir Panjal range, which encloses the valley from the west and the south, separates it from the Great Plains of northern India. Along the northeastern flank of the Valley runs the main range of the Himalayas. This densely settled and beautiful valley has an average height of 1,850 meters (6,070 ft) above sea-level but the surrounding Pir Panjal range has an average elevation of 5,000 meters (16,000 ft). Because of Jammu and Kashmir's wide range of elevations, its biogeography is diverse. Northwestern thorn scrub forests and Himalayan subtropical pine forests are found in the low elevations of the far southwest. These give way to a broad band of western Himalayan broadleaf forests running from northwestsoutheast across the Kashmir Valley. Rising into the mountains, the broadleaf forests grade into western Himalayan subalpine conifer forests. Above tree line are found northwestern Himalayan alpine shrub and meadows. Much of the northeast of the state is covered by the Karakoram-West Tibetan Plateau alpine steppe. Around the highest elevations, there is no vegetation, simply rock and ice. The Jhelum River is the only major Himalayan River which flows through the Kashmir valley. The Indus, Tawi, Ravi and Chenab are the major rivers flowing through the state. Jammu and Kashmir is home to several Himalayan glaciers. With an average altitude of 5,753 meters (18,875 ft) above sea-level, the Siachen Glacier is 70 km (43 mi) long making it the longest Himalayan glacier. The climate of Jammu and Kashmir varies greatly owing to its rugged topography. In the south around Jammu, the climate is typically monsoonal, though the region is sufficiently far west to average 40 to 50 mm (1.6 to 2 inches) of rain per months between January and March. In the hot season, Jammu city is very hot and can reach up to 40 C (104 F) whilst in July and August, very heavy though erratic rainfall occurs with monthly extremes of up to 650 millimeters (25.5 inches). In September, rainfall declines, and by October conditions are hot but extremely dry, with minimal rainfall and temperatures of around 29 C (84 F). Across from the Pir Panjal range, the South Asian monsoon is no longer a factor and most precipitation falls in the spring from southwest cloud bands. Because of its closeness to the Arabian Sea, Srinagar receives as much as 25 inches (635 millimeters) of rain from this source, with the wettest months being March to May with around 85
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millimeters (3.3 inches) per month. Across from the main Himalaya Range, even the southwest cloud bands break up and the climate of Ladakh and Zanskar is extremely dry and cold. Annual precipitation is only around 100 mm (4 inches) per year and humidity is very low. This region, almost all above 3,000 metres (9,750 ft) above sea level and winters are extremely cold. In Zanskar, the average January temperature is 20 C (4 F) with extremes as low as 40 C (40 F). All the rivers freeze over and locals actually do river crossings during this period because their high levels from glacier melt in summer inhibits crossing. In summer in Ladakh and Zanskar, days are typically a warm 20C(68F) but with the low humidity and thin air nights can still be cold.

DEMOGRAPHICS
Jammu and Kashmir has a Muslim majority population. It is not the only Muslim majority state or territory in India, but shares this characteristic with the tiny union territory of Lakshadweep (total area being 11 square miles)Though Islam is practiced by about 67% of the population of the state and by 97% of the population of the Kashmir valley,[30] the state has large communities of Buddhists, Hindus (inclusive of Megh Bhagats) and Sikhs. In Jammu, Hindus constitute 65% of the population, Muslims 31% and Sikhs, 4%; In Ladakh, Buddhists constitute about 46% of the population, the remaining being Muslims. The people of Ladakh are of IndoTibetan origin, while the southern area of Jammu includes many communities tracing their ancestry to the nearby Indian states of Haryana and Punjab, as well as the city of Delhi. In totality, the Muslims constitute 67% of the population, the Hindus about 30%, the Buddhists 1%, and the Sikhs 2% of the population.[ According to political scientist Alexander Evans, approximately 95% of the total population of 160,000170,000 of Kashmiri Brahmins, also called Kashmiri Pandits, (i.e. approximately 150,000 to 160,000) left the Kashmir Valley in 1990 as militancy engulfed the state. According to an estimate by the Central Intelligence Agency, about 300,000 Kashmiri Pandits from the entire state of Jammu and Kashmir have been internally displaced due to the ongoing violence. Division Kashmir (53.9%) Jammu (43.7%) Ladakh (2.3%) Population % Muslim % Hindu % Sikh % Buddhist/Other 5,476,970 4,430,191 236,539 97.16% 30.69% 47.40% 1.84% 65.23% 6.22% 29.63% 0.88% 3.57% 2.03% 0.11% 0.51% 45.87% 1.36%

Jammu & Kashmir 10,143,700 66.97%

In Jammu and Kashmir, the principal spoken languages are Kashmiri, Urdu, Dogri, Pahari, Balti, Ladakhi, Gojri, Shina and Pashto. However, Urdu written in the Persian script is the official language of the state. Many speakers of these languages use Hindi or English as a second language.

ECONOMY
Jammu and Kashmir is one of the largest recipients of state-grants from the Government of India. Shown here is the $715 million Kashmir Railway. Tourism forms an integral part of the state's economy. Shown here is the Shalimar Gardens. In a famous incident, a Persian Emperor claimed it to be a paradise on Earth. Jammu and Kashmir's economy is predominantly dependent on agriculture and allied activities.The Kashmir valley is also known for its sericulture and cold-water fisheries. Wood from Kashmir is used to make high-quality cricket bats, popularly known as Kashmir Willow. Kashmiri saffron is also very famous and brings the state a handsome amount of foreign exchange. Agricultural exports from Jammu and Kashmir include apples, barley, cherries, corn, millet, oranges, rice, peaches, pears, saffron, sorghum, vegetables, and wheat, while manufactured exports include handicrafts, rugs, and shawls. Horticulture plays a vital role in the economic development of the state. With an annual turnover of over Rs. 300 crore, apart from foreign exchange of over Rs. 80 crore, this sector is the next biggest source of income in the states economy. The region of Kashmir is known for its horticulture industry and is the wealthiest region in the state. Horticultural produce from the state includes apples, apricots, cherries, pears, plums, almonds and walnuts The Doda district has deposits of high-grade sapphire. Though small, the manufacturing and services sector is growing rapidly, especially in the Jammu division. In recent years, several consumer goods companies have opened manufacturing units in the region. TheAssociated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) has identified several industrial sectors which can attract investment in the state, and accordingly, it is working with the union and the state government to set up industrial parks and special economic zones. In the fiscal year 200506, exports from the state amounted to Rs. 1,150 crore. However, industrial development in the state faces several major constraints including extreme mountainous landscape and power shortage.[65] The Government of India has been keen to economically integrate Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India. The state is one of the largest recipients of grants from New Delhi, totaling $ 812 million per year. It also has a mere 4% incidence of poverty, one of the lowest in the country. In an attempt to improve the infrastructure in the state, the Indian government has commenced work on the ambitious Kashmir
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Railway project which is being constructed by Konkan Railway Corporation and IRCON at a cost of more than US$2.5 billion. The Jammu & Kashmir Bank, which is listed as a S&P CNX 500 conglomerate, is based in the state. It reported a net profit of Rs. 598 million in 2008. Before insurgency intensified in 1989, tourism formed an important part of the Kashmiri economy. The tourism economy in the Kashmir valley was worst hit. However, the holy shrines of Jammu and the Buddhist monasteries of Ladakh continue to remain popular pilgrimage and tourism destinations. Every year, thousands of Hindu pilgrims visit holy shrines of Vaishno Devi and Amarnath which has had significant impact on the state's economy. The Vaishno Devi yatra alone contributes Rs. 475 crore to the local economy annually. Tourism in the Kashmir valley has rebounded in recent years and in 2009, the state became one of the top tourist destinations of India. Gulmarg, one of the most popular ski resort destinations in India, is also home to the world's highest green golf course.However with the decrease in violence in the state has boosted the states economy specifically tourism. The Jammu and Kashmir Economy depends mostly on traditional form of occupation. Unaffected and unaltered by modern day industrial developments and changing times, the indigenous traditional occupations of farming, animal husbandry and horticulture forms the backbone of the economy of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. A state affected by continued violence and insurgency, the economy of Jammu and Kashmir is an undeveloped one. However in the recent years, the government of Jammu and Kashmir has taken several significant steps to strengthen the financial condition of the state and improve the standard of living of the indigenous local inhabitants. Farming is one of the predominant economic activities of the state. The majority of the native population depends on primitive forms of shifting agriculture. The valleys of the region form suitable grounds to grow various kinds of crops that earn a large chunk of revenue for the state. Another important economic activity of the state of Jammu and Kashmir is animal husbandry. Apart from farming the undulating lands of the state, most of the local inhabitants also keep many animals like sheep. Sheep rearing is an important industry of the region. The fine quality of wools produced by the sheep are used for weaving colorful and attractive woolen carpets, shawls and other woolen garments that form an integral part of the handloom products of the state. The other important economic activity of Jammu and Kashmir is horticulture. Horticulture is one of the budding industries of the state that earns large revenue. The favorable weather helps in the production of many kinds of fruits. The state government of Jammu and Kashmir has turned its attention to the various infrastructural amenities of the region. Roads, power, health, primary education and water supply are some of the important areas that need the urgent attention of the state government. The Jammu and Kashmir farming is an important economic activity of the state. The majority of the indigenous local population of Jammu and Kashmir depends on agriculture and its related activities to earn their livelihood. Most of the districts of Jammu and Kashmir are unaffected and unaltered by the industrial developments of the modern era. With no other major source of income, a good number of the indigenous population of the state
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depends on the traditional occupation of tilling the land. The salubrious weather and fertile land of Jammu and Kashmir produces several crops that help the state to earn a large amount of revenue. The state government of Jammu and Kashmir has taken many decisive steps in the field of farming and allied activities to increase the agricultural productivity of the region. The Department of Agriculture of Jammu and Kashmir imparts the farmers of the state with modern technological knowledge of growing variety of crops. One of the most important departments of the government of Jammu and Kashmir, the Department of Agriculture has brought about a drastic change in the economic scenario of the state. Headed by Secretary and Principal Advisor of the Ministers of the Department of Agriculture, the government of Jammu and Kashmir has devised several modern technologies to improve the quality and quantity of pulses and oilseeds production. The Department of Agriculture also takes note of the proper distribution of pesticides, fertilizers and improved quality of seeds to the agriculturists of Jammu and Kashmir. Under the strict supervision and able guidance of the Department of Agriculture, the Jammu and Kashmir farming will help to further strengthen the economy of the state. The Jammu and Kashmir Economy is heavily dependent on the farming and agricultural sector. The Jammu and Kashmir animal husbandry forms the backbone of the economic structure of the state. Being continuously affected by insurgency and militant activities, most of the districts of Jammu and Kashmir have remained unaltered by the rapid industrialization of the country. The indigenous traditional occupation of animal husbandry or domestication of animals for commercial purposes forms an integral part of the economic structure of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The majority of the local inhabitants of Jammu and Kashmir depend on animal husbandry for their livelihood. Animals like sheep, cow, goat, and hen are kept for commercial purposes. The government of Jammu and Kashmir has taken several steps to improve the economic sector of animal husbandry. According to the official statistics the animal husbandry sector produces about three seventy million eggs, thirty lakh tones cow dung, forty lakh kilogram meat and sixteen lakh manure of the poultry animals. The concerted efforts of the state government and the local inhabitants have led to the successful eradication of the numerous deadly diseases like Rinderpest, parasitic diseases, and anthrax. Originally known as the Veterinary Department, the Animal Husbandry Department has accomplished several landmark achievements in the past fifty years that has helped to strengthen the economic condition of the state. The Jammu and Kashmir economy is heavily dependant on animal husbandry. One of the prominent economic sectors of the state, Jammu and Kashmir animal husbandry has contributed immensely to the financial improvement of the state. Popularly referred to as the valley of flowers, the Kashmir horticulture is one of the prominent economic sector of the state. Known for the wide variety of fruits and flowers, the horticultural sector forms the backbone of the economy of Jammu and Kashmir. The horticultural sector contributes around twelve hundred crores to the annual income of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The state government has declared the horticulture to be one of the most important economic sectors of the state that has contributed immensely to the strengthening of the financial condition of Jammu and Kashmir. Blessed with a salubrious climate and suitable soil, Kashmir produces many different kinds of fruits and flowers. The majority of the local population of Jammu and Kashmir is directly or indirectly involved with horticulture of the state. The government of Jammu and Kashmir has devised several plans to improve the marketing strategy of the
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numerous horticultural products of the state. Most of the products of horticulture are exported that helps the state to earn a large chunk of the revenue. The Department of Horticulture has formulated many different kinds of schemes to enhance the growth of horticultural products. Some of the most important schemes are the Agriculture Export Zones and Technology Mission. According to the Agriculture Export Zone, Kashmir has been acknowledged to be the Agri export zone of quality apples, and walnuts. The Technology Mission aims to further improve the infrastructural amenities of the horticultural sector of the state. The Kashmir horticulture is a symbol of flourishing economic condition of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. An integral part of the Jammu and Kashmir economy, the variety of horticultural products of the region has earned world wide fame because of its good quality and taste. Although the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is a world famous tourist spot, the Government of the state is laying much stress on the industries for all round improvement of Jammu and Kashmir. The Jammu and Kashmir Government has invited many industrial houses to promote industries in the state. The state Government and the union Government are also putting their best efforts to promote industries and generate employment opportunities in the state of Jammu and Kashmir.

EDUCATION
In 1970, the state government of Jammu and Kashmir established its own education board and university. Education in the state is divided into primary, middle, high secondary, college and university level. Jammu and Kashmir follows 10+2 pattern for education of children. This is handled by Jammu and Kashmir State Board of School Education (abbreviated as JKBOSE). Various private and public schools are recognized by the board to impart education to students. Board examinations are conducted for students in class VIII, X and XII. In addition there are various KendriyaVidyalayas (run by the Government of India) and Indian Army schools that also impart secondary school education. These schools follow the Central Board of Secondary Education pattern. Notable higher education or research institutes in Jammu and Kashmir include Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences Soura Srinagar, Srinagar, Government and the Government Medical College of Jammu. University-level education is provided by University of Jammu, University of Kashmir, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Islamic University of Science & Technology, Baba Ghulam Shah Badhshah University, Institution of Technicians and Engineers (Kashmir), and Government Degree College Kathua.

CULTURE
Buddhism is an integral part of Ladakh's culture. Shown here is a statue of Buddha in a monastery in Likir. Ladakh is famous for its unique Indo-Tibetan culture. Chanting in Sanskrit and Tibetan language forms an integral part of Ladakh's Buddhist lifestyle. Annual masked dance festivals, weaving and archery are an important part of traditional life in Ladakh. Ladakhi food has much in common with Tibetan food, the most prominent foods being thukpa, noodle soup; and tsampa, known in Ladakhi as Ngampe, roasted barley flour. Typical garb includes gonchas of velvet, elaborately embroidered waistcoats and boots, and gonads or hats. People, adorned with gold and silver ornaments and turquoise headgears throng the streets during various Ladakhi festivals. Shikaras are a common feature in lakes and rivers across the Kashmir valley. The Dumhal is a famous dance in the Kashmir valley, performed by men of the Wattal region. The women perform the Rouff, another traditional folk dance. Kashmir has been noted for its fine arts for centuries, including poetry and handicrafts. Shikaras, traditional small wooden boats, and houseboats are a common feature in various lakes and rivers across the Valley. The Constitution of India does not allow people from regions other than Jammu and Kashmir to purchase land in the state. As a consequence, houseboats became popular among those who were unable to purchase land in the Valley and has now become an integral part of the Kashmiri lifestyle. Kawa, traditional green tea with spices and almond, is consumed all through the day in the chilled winter climate of Kashmir. Most of the buildings in the Valley and Ladakh are made from softwood and is influenced by Indian, Tibetan, and Islamic architecture. Jammu's Dogra culture and tradition is much similar to that of neighbouring Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. Traditional Punjabi festivals such as Lohri and Vaisakhi are celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm throughout the region, along with Accession Day, an annual holiday which commemorates the accession of Jammu & Kashmir to the Dominion of India. After Dogras, Gujjars form the second-largest ethnic group in Jammu. Known for their semi-nomadic lifestyle, Gujjars are also found in large numbers in the Kashmir valley. Similar to Gujjars, Gaddis are primarily herdsmen who hail from the Chamba region in Himachal Pradesh. Gaddis are generally associated with emotive music played on the flute. The Bakkarwalas found both in Jammu and the Vale of Kashmir are wholly nomadic pastoral people who move along the Himalayan slopes in search for pastures for their huge flocks of goats and sheep.
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Distinct from the rest of the country, Jammu and Kashmir sports a multifaceted, multicolored and unique cultural blend. Not only the geographical conditions of the state are different but it can also be set apart demographically with varied ethical and social entities, diversity of religions flourishing in the area, different language and cultural forms and heritage albeit with an over-reigning harmony that blends in with the serenity and beauty of the region. One gets dazed by the sheer diversity and richness of art and architecture, fairs and festivals, rites and rituals, seers and sagas, languages and mountains that thrive amongst the unparalleled cultural cohesion, which is exemplary. Kashmir has been the highest learning centre of Sanskrit and Persian as Indo-Aryanic civilization has originated and flourished here. It also embraced the advent of Islam along with the virtues of Persian civilization such as tolerance, brotherhood and sacrifice. Nature's grand finale of beauty, Kashmir is the masterpiece of earth's creation and the folk performances of Kashmir are intimately mingled with the moods and movements of the seasons. Jammu, the land of the Dogras, has some beautiful dances and music that originated in its lap and were developed by the hardy and graceful women of the Duggar to divert themselves from the long spell of separations from their soldier husbands and brothers. Besides the purpose of adding cheer to their lives in their free moments, there are folk songs and dances that echo their feelings of separation and the ever-increasing yearning for reunion with the beloved, the hard life on the mountain slopes and various other themes that are connected with their dayto-day lives. Kud is basically a ritual dance performed in honor of Lok Devatas mostly during nights. A spontaneous dance, people of all ages and sexes participate in this folk dance form accompanied by musical instruments used during this dance are Narshingha, chhaina, flute and drums. Heren is a traditional theatre form performed during Lohri festival and is mostly performed in hilly regions of Jammu. The ladies perform Fumenie and Jagarana on the eve of groom's departure to in-laws house accompanied by the songs are sung by a group of females. This traditional dance form depicts the feelings and emotions of women folk. Bakh is known by many different names such as Gwatri, Kark and Masade and is actually a chorus narrative sung by a group of 10 singers without the accompaniment of any musical instruments. Gawatri is a tradition in which the singers narrate some text, which is enacted by the Gwatari dancers. Karak is a ballad with a story sung by the Jogi community who narrate a popular folk tale in their dance performance done by three members to the accompaniment of typical folk instrument called Rabab. The chorus singing tradition performed by specific tribal communities called Gujjars and Bakerwals is known as Benthe, which 5 to 7 members participate in the dance performance. Kashmir region has its own musical performances that have won the hearts of many of its visitors. Bhand Pather is a traditional folk theatre style exhibiting combination of play and dance in a satirical style where social traditions, and evils are depicted and performed in various social and cultural functions. Bhand Jashan is performed by a group of 10 to 15 artists in their traditional style accompanied by light music for the entertainment of people. The most popular form of Kashmiri folk music is called Chakri that bears resemblance to Chakra of mountainous regions of Uttar Pradesh. It was accompanied by Garaha, Sarangi, Rabab once as the musical
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instruments but today harmonium plays an important role in its presentation. Sufiana Music migrated to Kashmir from Iran in the 15th century and flourished here as the classical music form of Kashmir. It absorbed a number of Indian Ragas and Hafiz Nagma was once a part of Sofiana Music. In Hafiz Nagma a dancer is a female while her accompanists on various instruments are males. An Hafiza (dancer) moves her feet on musical notes. The instruments that go with this form are Santoor, Sitar, Kashmiri Saz, Wasool or Tabala. Today, only a few families in Kashmir are practicing this musical for.

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SHOPPING
The Jammu and Kashmir shopping offers the tourists with a plethora of handicraft and handloom items that bears relics to the rich indigenous traditional industries of the state. The exclusive products of the traditional industries of Jammu and Kashmir have an internationally acclaimed status.Known for their perfect blend of colors coupled with delicate designs, the product of the handloom and handicraft industries of Jammu and Kashmir attracts the attention of every single tourist who visits the state. an integral part of the art and craft of Jammu and Kashmir, the handloom and handicraft industries has helped the state to earn large chunk of the revenues. The marvelous products of the traditional indigenous industries portray the rich artistic skills and creative imagination of the local craftsmen of the state. Unaltered and unaffected by rapid industrialization, the exclusive products have become an indelible part of shopping in Jammu and Kashmir. The handloom and handicraft industries form the backbone of the economy of Jammu and Kashmir. Some of the most popular and common items of the Jammu and Kashmir shopping are hand woven carpets, shawls and saris. Srinagar may be truly described as a paradise of shopping lovers. Representing the rich art and craft of the state, Srinagar presents the tourists with a wonderful opportunity to go on a shopping spree and purchase the unique products of the handloom and handicraft industries. The exclusive products can be used on several occasions. While some of the items can be used for interior decoration of luxuriant apartments, others serve as souvenirs and gift items for near and dear ones. Below is the list of articles that one can purchase in Jammu and Kashmir Shopping: Carpets , Shawls ,Papier Mache, Walnut ,Wood Items ,Saris ,Pherans ,Basket weaving & Cricket bats ,Saffron,almonds, Honey

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FOOD HABITS
First of all, there is a clear demarcation between the food of the three main regions of Jammu and Kashmir state. The difference in eating habits is influenced by the two main factors of local climate and dominant religion/culture. But, to demarcate it in a easy to understand Vegetarianan and Non Vegetarian way, 1.) Vegetarian Dishes : Although you will not find many vegetarian dishes here, but few that are there are exquisitely delicious. The most famous veg dish of all is Dum Aloo (steam cooked potato curry) and Chaman (cheese) that have made a mark not only in J&K but in entire country. Few years back, a pure vegetarian had to struggle a lot to find a suitable place where he can get vegetarian food. But now, keeping its tradition of warm hospitality, the state has opened up many restaurants that cater to their vegetarian guests and take good care of them. After such a sumptuous meal, one really does not have any space left in stomach, but try making a bit as the special sweet dish is still remaining. Fireen is the name of that special dish that will keep your taste buds happy till the time you remember this dish. You can also enjoy the local snacks like Sheermal and baqerkhani, tsot and tsochvoru are different form of Kashmiri breads. All this only adds to the already vast range of delicacies in the Jammu and Kashmir cuisine. 2.) Non Vegetarian Dishes : In J&K, the one thing that everyone has almost every second day is non-vegetarian food. The grand feast, the 36-course meal that is called Wazwan, has around 30 non-veg dishes. The people who cook these gigantic feasts are called 'Wazas', the descendants of great chefs who were the masters of the unique art of cooking. The experimentation with the food that they do, is simply astounding. Almost every dish has a variant that is as good as the original, if not better. The main item that is served is rista (meatballs). They are made by finely smashing mutton and cooking it in gravy. In fried variety, you will find seekh kababs, tabak maz which are fried till the time they get a very crunchy and crispy texture. Other famous and mouth watering non veg dishes that are served in the Wazwan are Roganjosh, Yakhni and Gushtaba. The cuisine in the Ladakh area has a strong resemblance to the cuisine in Tibet and the cooking style is also very similar. The Ladakhis prefer to eat rice, wheat, millet, yak butter, and other dairy products along with vegetables and fruits. Kashmir is known for the growth of fruits, which is used in the preparation of the sweet dishes. The Phirni is a popular dessert prepared in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The regular diet of the local people of the state comprise of rice and hak, which is the vegetable preparation. Morel mushrooms and lotus root are also consumed by the local people.
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To Conclude, Cuisine of Jammu and Kashmir is nothing less than a treasure for the food lovers. The cuisine here is absolutely different from the cuisine of north India. In fact, every region has its own specialty. Unlike in other parts of India, the meals here are highly dominated by non- vegetarian dishes and the staple food here is rice. The variety during festivals is simply unimaginable and this variety brings a new edge to your travel in J&K during festivals. The use of spices in every dish is also highly intriguing.

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DRESSING STYLE
Costumes of Jammu and Kashmir reflect the richness of the culture and landscape of the region. It has been historically seen that the early Aryan descendants who lived in this region, interacted with various prosperous civilizations like the famous Greeks, the Romans and the Persians. Such influences of its cultural ethos and tradition coupled with the climatic factors find a reflection in the attires of its people. Most of the garments are made of wool, silk with intricate embroideries and cotton. In these mountainous regions, the traditional `pheran` is the most popular form of dressing among both men and women. The pheran has a lot of beautiful embroidery work done on it and is decorated with floral motifs and designs. Costumes worn by Kashmiri men The pheran is the most commonly worn garment among men. Hindu men usually wear churidars while the Muslim men are dressed in salwars beneath the formidable pherans. The pheran is a loosely fitted woollen garment which makes use of the `kangri`. The kangri is an earthen vessel which is filled with flaming coal. It is then placed within a container made of natural fibre. The kangri is usually placed in the front, skillfully shrouded by the pheran. It functions as an internal heating system in order to keep the wearer warm during the extreme cold winters. The `pathani` suit, also referred to as `Khan-dress`, is a popular garb among the men, especially in Srinagar. Turbans are common among Muslim men. Skull caps are extremely prevalent, especially among the peasants and the `karakuli` or fur skull caps along with the Pashmina shawls worn by men often symbolize royal lineage. The Pashmina shawls are made from traditional woollen textiles which are obtained from mountain goat. Intricate work is done on both sides of these shawls. The special Kashmiri embroidery work, Kasida, is done in such a manner that the patterns appear in a uniform manner on both sides of the fabric. The Pashmina belts and `kamarbands" are common too. The Muslim men wear lace-free shoes known as Gurgabis. Brocade, camel hair and cashmere are the main elements that are used in the making of coats and fleece for men.

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Costumes worn by Kashmiri Women The pheran is the prominent attire for Kashmiri women as well. Traditionally, there are the `poots` and the pheran, comprising two robes placed atop the other. The pheran worn by women usually has zari embroidery on the hem line, around pockets and mostly on the collar area. The pherans worn by the Muslim women are traditionally characterized by their broad sleeves and reach up to the knees. However, the Hindus of Jammu and Kashmir wear their pherans long, stretching up to their feet with narrowed down sleeves. Often, the pherans are wrapped tightly by a piece of creased cloth called `lhungi`. The Hindu women wear a headdress called the `taranga`, stitched to a suspended cap and it narrows down at the back, towards the heels. The taranga is an integral part of the wedding attire among Hindus. Elaborate zari embroideries or floral patterns around the neck and the pockets are a prominent feature of a Muslim woman`s pheran. Brocade patterns adorn their long sleeves. The pheran is accompanied by red headgears known as the `kasaba`. The kasaba is stitched in the form of a turban and is pinned together by ornaments and silver brooches. A pin-scarf suspended from the kasaba descends towards the shoulder. It is worn by the Muslim women as a part of their regular attire, and the `abaya` is also commonly worn by them. For unmarried Muslim women, the costumes vary to some extent. The elaborate headgears are replaced by exquisitely ornate skull caps embellished with threads of gold, talismans and gems. Accessories worn by Kashmiri Women The intricate patterns of a woman`s costumes in Jammu and Kashmir are further enhanced by the use of various accessories. Earrings, anklets and bangles are widely used apart from the use of ornamentation in clothing. Silver jewellery is popular among the Muslim women and they adorn themselves with neckpieces, bracelets and heavily bejeweled chains. `Dejharoos` or golden pendants are worn by the Hindu women. These dejharoos comprise two decorative gold pendants which are suspended through gold chains or silk threads. It is symbolic of a woman`s married status among the Kashmiri Pandits.

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Costumes worn by ethnic groups of Kashmir The Jammu and Kashmir landscape is dotted with various ethnic groups. The Dogras are tribes residing amidst the hilly topography of Jammu. The Dogra womenfolk are found attired in fitted pajamas and tunics accessorized with a suitable headdress. Similar fitted pajamas and kurtas of considerable length constitute the costume of the Dogra men. The use of kamarbands and turban are prominent among the Dogra elders. The Gujjars, also residents of Jammu, are the second-largest group of ethnic tribes inhabiting in Kashmir. The members of this tribe are mostly shepherds. The Gujjar women are dressed in loose sleeved tunics coupled with baggy salwars. They cover their head by an elaborate headgear, akin to the ones worn by the women in Turkish villages. The costumes of the inhabitants of the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir deserve special mention because of their extraordinary variety. `Kuntops` are woolen gowns worn by women. It is accompanied by a `bok`, a brightly decorated shawl that can aid in carrying packages and even children. The men wear `Goucha`, a woolen robe made of sheep skin fixed at the neck. It is wound at the waist by a bright sash called `Skerag`. It extends to about 2 meters in length and 20 cm in breadth. The Skerag serves as an enclosure for the Ladakhi men to carry their bare essentials. Men in Ladakh wear velvet multihued caps while the women adorn turquoise colored hats named `Perak`. According to tradition, upon a woman`s demise, the perak is handed down to her eldest child. In Ladakh, footwear made of Yak skin and wool is known as `Papu`. It has been seen that over the years, the people of Jammu and Kashmir have adopted the dressing style and habits of the west as well as those of other regional Indian cultures. This is noticed primarily among the men have appropriated the western attire to a great extent. The sari is more popular among the Hindu women after the 1930s Reform Movement. However, despite these influences, the traditional pheran continues to remain the symbol of the culture and couture of Jammu and Kashmir.

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TOURISM
The state of Jammu & Kashmir is rightly called the Paradise for the tourists. The state of Jammu and Kashmir is situated in the topmost part of the country and if Mother India is a 'Queen' then Jammu & Kashmir surely looks like the 'Crown' on her head. From sun-kissed mountains, lush green valleys, beautiful gardens, to blue lakes, the state of Jammu & Kashmir has it all. The economy of the state depends majorly on tourism. Among the long list of Jammu and Kashmir, the most popular destinations are: Jammu Gulmarg Sonamarg Srinagar Vaishno Devi Kargil Leh Zangla Zanskar Ladakh Pahalgam of places of tourist interest in the state

Apart from sight seeing in and around Jammu and Kashmir, one can also indulge into trekking in the lofty mountains of the paradisiacal state. The state of Jammu and Kashmir is one of the ideal places in India for trekking. Trekking is a kind of adventure tourism that is very popular in the state of Jammu and Kashmir amidst the lofty mountains. A tour to the heavenly beautiful state of Jammu and Kashmir will bring one to experience the different moods and looks of Nature. The unique land of Jammu and Kashmir has contrasting landscape and scenes. If one region displays long stretches of fantastic alpine pastures, another area will flaunt desolate and barren lands and rocky and rough mountains. A major attraction of tourism in Jammu and Kashmir consists of places of pilgrimage. The exclusive handicraft of the state is a big draw and appeals to all the tourists.

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The state has a large number of hotels to meet the needs of accommodation of the travelers. These hotels are extremely hospitable and are an added advantage of tourism of Jammu and Kashmir. Some of the hotels in the state are: Intercontinental The Grand Palace in Srinagar Hotel Broadway in Srinagar Hotel Hilltop in Gulmarg Vardaan Resorts in Patnitop The Vaishnodevi in Katra Hotel Asia Shripati in Katra Hotel Jai Maa Inn in Katra Asia - The Oasis Resort in Panchot Asia Vaishno Devi in Katra Country Inns and Suites in Katra

Staying in one of the beautiful and exquisite Houseboats on the lakes of Jammu and Kashmir would definitely be a lifetime experience. The state is easily accessible with a number of trains and flights available at regular intervals. It is in true sense the 'Heaven on Earth' and is worth paying a visit to the earthly paradise.

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FESTIVALS IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR

Makar Sankranti, popularly known as Lohri, is a festival that is celebrated on the 13th of January every year. It heralds the onset of spring. In the rural areas, custom requires young boys to go asking for presents from newly weds and new parents. A special dance called Chajja is performed on the event of Lohri. Thousands of people take a dip in the holy rivers on this occasion. Baisakhi, known as the harvest festival is celebrated either on the 13th or 14th of April. It is believed that the day Baisakhi is celebrated; it is an auspicious day for weddings. It is celebrated as the New Year of the state, where numerous fairs are organized and thousands of people come from all over the country to witness this celebration. The popular Parsi Navroz festival is celebrated with great fanfare in the State. It comes a week after the New Year day. They celebrate this nine-day festival with good eating and activities showing a spirit of gay abandon. The Urs (or Ziarats) is a typical Kashmiri festival. It is held annually at the shrines of Muslim saints on their death anniversaries. There is a saying " It snows when the Urs of Meesha Sahib is held, it is windy when the Urs of Batamol Sahib takes place, it rains on the occasion of the Urs of Bahauddin". These Urs are popular despite the rigors of weather. This is celebrated not only by Muslims but Hindus and Sikhs also. The inter-communal participation is the main feature of the Urs celebrations. The anniversary of Rishi Pir, a Hindu saint, held on the fifth day of the full moon of Baisakh, at his home in Srinagar is attended by Muslims also. Muslim festivals which are celebrated nationally include Shab-i Mairaj which is followed by Shab-i-Barat. The dates of these festivals change in accordance with the appearance of the moon and shift by 10 days each year. During the night of Shab-i-Barat, the Muslims keep vigil. Legend goes that on this night the Holy prophet visits each house and relieves the pains of suffering humanity. Then comes the Jeth Ashtami, succeeded in a month by Har Ashtami. These two days are the birthday and the incarnation day, respectively, of the Ragnya goddess. Hindus fast on these days and go on a pilgrimage to Khir Bhawani, a well known spring-girt temple. After a bath in the cool stream nearby, incense and candles are burnt at the altar of the goddess. The counterpart of Khir Bhawani, is Devibal in Anantang, which is also a spring-girt temple. It is visited on these Ashtamis by Hindus living in contiguous areas. A belief connected with these ancient shrines is that their water changes colour according to the state of the society. It has been known to become black before a disaster or calamity. Another Muslim festival of this area is Ramzan. During the month of
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Ramzan, Muslims abstain from eating or drinking during the day. The Muslim festival, Muharram, marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the prophet's grandson. Huge taziyas made of paper and wood are taken out in procession.

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FILMS Shot IN JAMMU And KASHMIR

Henna (film) Mission Kashmir Sikandar (2009 film) Noorie Tahaan Roja Kashmir Ki Kali Lamhaa

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