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Page |1 Tourism: Introduction Tourism is one the fastest growing industries of the world, and in recent times the role of tourism in improving the economic prospectus of nations has grown manifold. There are various countries the entire GDP of which comes from tourism sector. The best example a country which entirely relies on tourism is Switzerland more than 90% of GDP comes from tourism sector. The other nation the economy of which depends on tourism includes china, U.S.A, France, Italy. The figures given above give us an idea of how important role tourism plays in taking economy of nation to new heights. Jammu and Kashmir has been bestowed by nature by its wealth of nature and natural resources, the gushing streams, splendid meadows, lofty snow clad mountains and pleasant weather make jammu and Kashmir a perfect place to seek peace and tranquillity it is known world over for its natural beauty and certainly is akin to paradise on earth no wonder people call jammu and Kashmir as Switzerland of Asia. The tourism industry in the state plays vital role in the development of the regions of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. The state has been a place of religious activities and shrines having

their own religious values, which attract thousands of pilgrims every year. With the arrival of winter, the state offers a multitude of options for winter sports activities. According to Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE), the tertiary sector in the state Contributes nearly 44.2 per cent to the states GSDP (at current prices, 2007-08). Amongst the various sectors coming under tertiary sector, Tourism is a key contributor to the sector growth of 8.7 per cent. Tourism involves the movement of people. That movement might either be within their own countries - which is called domestic tourism - or to and from other countries - which is called international tourism .In either case, the movement involves travel, by different means (by road, or rail or water or air)over long or short distances. Therefore, tourism and travel are completely interrelated. W.T.O defines tourism as movement of people from one place to another where the purpose of such movement is recreation , leisure or business Of course, not every person who travels is a tourist; and in fact there is no one allembracing definition of tourism. However, two which are of special interest to us are:Tourism is the temporary short-term movement of people to destinations outside the places where they normally live and work, and activities during their stay at those destinations; it includes movement for all purposes, as well as day visits and excursions.

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1981, by The International Conference on Leisure-Recreation-Tourism:-Tourism might be defined in terms of particular activities selected by choice and undertaken outside the home environment. Tourism might or might not involve overnight stays away from home. Unfortunately, it is generally accepted that neither of those broadly worded definition ns is complete. For instance the natures of the activities are not specified, nor is it stated the distance which a person might travel from his or her home base before being classed a tourist. For example, is a housewife who travels 5, 10, 15, 20 or more miles or kilometres from her home to shop at a particular shopping centre, instead of shopping closer to home, a tourist? Similarly, is a person who travels some distance in order to commit a crime (burglary, arson, etc) a tourist? A person who commutes 20 or 30 miles or kilometres to work by road or train 5 or 6 days a week would not consider him/herself a tourist, but he or she appears to fall into the definitions given. Similarly, the definitions do not specify the maximum duration of a stay in a country before a person is no longer considered to be a tourist (in practice that period is normally taken to be 12 months.)

Although a precise definition of tourism might be impossible to achieve, a technical definition for statistical purposes is not. Let us consider some of the components:Purposes of Travel - Motivations People travel today - within their own countries or to foreign (to them) countries - for many different reasons or motives. Those reasons which prompt or encourage people to embark on travel are called their motivation . We describe the most common of such motivations for you in the following sections, but we must point out that there might be other motivations for travel by different people. Although we show the reason or group of related reasons separately for your easier examination and understanding, you must appreciate that there are many possible combinations. For example one person might combine a business trip with a holiday/vacation, whilst another might travel to a ski resort in order to engage in some sport (skiing) and also to have a holiday/vacation. Yet another person might deliberately choose a

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holiday/vacation spot which offers opportunities for photography, sightseeing, game viewing, fishing, and so on, depending on his or her special interests. Holidays/Vacations This is a wide ranging classification, and there are many different reasons why people travel for holidays and vacations; common ones include: the need for a break from routine; the opportunity for rest, relaxation and leisure; the desire for a change of climate - the search for the sun entertainment, enjoyment and pleasure, adventure, romance The opportunity to engage in sport whilst on holiday/vacation and many more. Culture and Religion Many people travel to visit exhibitions, art galleries, museums, historic places or buildings, to attend concerts and festivals; whilst others visit holy cities and shrines, buildings, etc, or make pilgrimages. Many like to see and meet different peoples and to experience different cultures. Visits to friends and relatives (often called VFR travel) Although the primary motive is to see relatives and/or friends, such visits are also often holidays/ vacations. These purposes are self-explanatory, but in some cases they are combined with cultural/religious purposes.

New Experiences Some people travel to visit places of renowned beauty or to be awed by spectacular natural (and in some cases man-made) wonders, or in a search for the exotic and unusual. Yet others look upon travel as a challenge, something new and different, or seek adventure in travel. Sports, Activities and Recreation In some cases such travel is in the nature of business travel, for example, professional sports persons, such as golfers, football players, boxers, athletes, and so on travel in pursuit of their vocations. Many amateurs also travel to participate in sporting fixtures, although they have different motivations - e.g. pleasure or excitement rather than income - for doing so. Other people travel to attend, as spectators, sporting events, whilst yet others engage in sports or other activities as part of a holiday/vacation. Hobbies or Special Interests

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An increasing number of people travel in connection with their hobbies or special interests, for example to see (and often to study) and photograph wildlife, frequently whilst also on holiday/vacation. Some hobbies might, of course, be cultural ones. Health Some people travel to visit medical specialists or medical centres, clinics spas, etc. Other people might travel to areas in which the climate or other features might be beneficial to their ailments, or alleviate them; for example, some people feel better at low altitudes or even at sea level, whereas other people fare better at higher altitudes, or where the air is less polluted. Business The term business traveller is generally taken to include all those who travel for reasons of business, or to attend meetings, conferences, congresses and exhibitions in connection with their businesses, professions or occupations. Others The reasons for travel today are so diverse that there are bound to be many which do not fall conveniently into any of the foregoing classifications; take, for example, people who travel for humanitarian reasons, perhaps, to assist victims of natural disasters, such as famines, floods ,hurricanes, tsunamis, and earthquakes.

Chapter Review 1. What is tourism? What is socio-economic significance of tourism?

2. Who is a tourist? What are various travel motives?

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Tourists and types of tourists Travellers and Visitors All those who fall into the ten classifications which we have given you are termed travellers. But there are other people who also travel between countries - and who are thus travellers by definition - Who are not generally included in tourism statistics? They include: Members of armed forces travelling from their countries of origin to their duty stations, and vice versa. Border workers. Refugees and nomads. Transit passengers who do not leave the transit area of the port or airport. Diplomats and consular staff travelling from their countries of origin to their duty stations, and vice versa Those who are included in tourism statistics (and who were listed in our ten classifications) are called visitors. They can be broadly divided into: Business Travellers These people, as we have already explained to you, travel for reasons of business, or to attend meetings, conferences, congresses or exhibitions connected with their occupations. Tourists These are defined as visitors who spend at least one night in the country (or, in the case of domestic tourists, area of the country) visited. They might be non residents of the country (or area of it); or nationals resident in other countries returning for a visit to their country of nationality; or foreign air or ship crews docked or in lay over who use accommodation establishments (hotels, etc.) in the country visited. Types of tourists For convenience tourist are classified as inbound tourists , outbound tourists and domestic tourists

Domestic tourists, involving residents of the given country travelling only within this country.

Inbound tourists, involving non-residents travelling in the given country. Outbound tourists, involving residents travelling in another country

Given below are the statics of the tourists who visited India and Jammu and Kashmir during 2011

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Particulars

2008

2009 Domestic Foreign

2010 Domestic Foreign (in lakhs) 99.73 -11.1 88 143.72 -0.06 7402.14 178.53 10.7 24.2 (in lakhs) 0.48

Domestic Foreign (in lakhs) (in lakhs) Jammu & Kashmir J&K Growth Rate - All India

(in lakhs) (in lakhs) 76.39 0.55 92.35 0.54

20.9

-1.8 8 143.81 66 18.8

5630.34

All India Growth Rate - -

Key observations based on statistics mentioned in Table 2 are as follows: The total tourist visits in India during 2010 was 7580.7 lakhs out of which nearly 1.32 percent tourists visited Jammu and Kashmir. Amongst these 1.32 percent tourists, 99 percent were domestic tourists. f June-July and October to March Excursionists These might be day visitors - or day trippers - who arrive and leave the country visited on the same day; or cruise ship passengers who are in port for only a short time and who are accommodated on board their cruise ships; or crews who are not residents of the country visited, who stay in the country for only a short time, and who are accommodated aboard their ships. The distinction between the three groups is not always clear cut, however: for example: As we have already mentioned, a business traveller might also take the opportunity for a holiday/ vacation whilst in a country visited for business reasons. Or although accommodated in one country such a person might make a day trip to another country for business purposes and would thus be, in effect, a business excursionist. Similarly, persons holidaying/vacationing in one country might make day trips to one or more other nearby countries; for example a tourist visiting, say, the south coast of England might make a day trip to France; in Britain he or she would be classified as a tourist, but would be classified as an excursionist in France. We consider what are called tourism statistics in Module 2, but the foregoing will have given you an understanding of the many different reasons why people travel today, and you can see why it has proved so difficult for even world bodies to formulate one simply worded but complete definition of tourism.

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Chapter Review 1. What is difference between travellers and tourists?

2. What are various types of tourist?

3. What do you understand by excursionist?

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Tourism Industry It is quite accurate to refer to tourism and travel as an industry, because it produces, markets and provides products .However, many different business activities are involved in this industry, some of which might at first sight appear to operate independently of others. In reality, different types of activities depend upon each other for success, and they must be coordinated and must operate in harmony in order to provide the full tourist product. For example: Transport (both international and local) is essential to tourism. Accommodation and catering of different kinds and standards are vital. Both small and large scale entertainment and sporting facilities need to be provided. Leisure and holiday centres, sports resorts, sea cruises, fly-drive holidays, coach and motoring and walking holidays are organised and run by many different businesses, some small and some very large; There are individuals and businesses engaged in promoting, marketing and selling the tourist products: tour operators, advertising and publicity specialists, printers and, of course, the retailers- the travel agencies; In addition, many support or ancillary services, such as guide or courier facilities, travel insurance, foreign exchange, travellers cheques and credit facilities, are required to ensure full customer satisfaction with the actual tourist products provided. Not every type of business within the tourism/travel industry is necessarily involved in every tourist product, of course; but generally a number of quite different ones are. And it is essential that they mesh smoothly together, to ensure a trouble-free holiday/vacation. In very many instances the client - the tourist - should not even be aware that the holiday/vacation involves numerous distinct business activities; he or she might have purchased the product as a package. That might include transport, accommodation, catering, entertainment, sporting activities, etc. Nevertheless, separate activities are involved, and it requires considerable skill and experience and good behind the scenes organisation to ensure that they are efficiently co-ordinated.

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Tourism as a Product Product may be defined as anything which is offered to a customer and which satisfies the need of a customer. Going by that a tourism product as a market offering which is conceived to satisfy tourism related needs of a customer It is essential that all professionals who are engaged in the tourism and travel industry remember always that the product which they are marketing is intangible. By this term we mean that it is nonmaterial and cannot be seen, felt, tasted, heard or smelt. That is, it cannot be inspected, sampled or tested in advance by prospective purchasers as so many tangible products can: for example, refrigerators, clothing, foodstuffs, radios, perfumes. As far as jammu and Kashmir is concerned following are the tourism products of jammu and Kashmir 1) Jammu Region: Jammu, Akhnoor, Jhajjar Kotli, Aghar Jitto, Patnitop, Sanasar, Bhaderwah, Kishtwar, Baba-Dhansar, Reasi, Sihard Baba, Udhampur, Kud. 2) Kashmir Region: Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Daksum, Kokernag, Yusmarg, Aharbal, Watlab, Verinag, Lolab Valley, sinthan top, mughal road,naranag 3) Ladakh Region: Kargil, Zanaskar, Leh, Nubra, Lamayuru, Spituk. A tourism product is essentially a SERVICE, which is itself made up of a variety of different services. And, being intangible: it cannot be measured, tested or verified in advance of the purchase of it by a client; remember that only the RESULTS of the service provided can be experienced; that is, seen and/or felt .Some components of the tourist product are, to be sure, physical and tangible - such as accommodation, meals, vehicles, etc. But they are also really services and they only add to or detract from, if inferior - the feelings of pleasure, enjoyment, comfort, etc, which are what the client pays Because of the huge diversity of travellers and their motives for travelling, there is no one standard tourism product; and although many incorporate similar features, there are usually many different products between which clients can choose, to suit their requirements, expectations and pockets .And, of course, different categories of travellers (tourists, business travellers and excursionists) are interested in quite different products. Tourists ( explained separately)

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Holiday/Vacation Products A holiday/vacation, because of its intangible nature, is often likened to a dream. Its prime objective is to turn into reality for a relatively short time the holidaymakers dream or fantasy and the planning and anticipation of the holiday/vacation might be as exciting and enjoyable as is the reality in due course. And, of course, the memory of the holiday/vacation, and the recalling of it from photographs, videos, DVDs, etc, might also provide considerable enjoyment. A holiday/vacation might be the eagerly awaited high point in what might otherwise be an unexciting, drab, mundane and toilsome life. Excursion Products In some cases an excursion trip might also realise a dream for some or all participants; for example a day trip to the seaside or some other exciting location for otherwise deprived children, or for the elderly; again anticipation and memory of the trip might provide added pleasure. In other cases an excursion might be in the nature of a break, or might be a shopping expedition, or might be a business trip or part of one. Business Travel Products Although many people enjoy travelling for business - and the opportunity to travel might be welcomed, to some other people it is looked upon as being a chore, a possibly unwelcome or inconvenient one - but one which has to be performed. Frequently the business person has little choice in the matter of destination(s), in the timing(s) of a trip or in the length(s) of stay, and quite often business trips have to be arranged at short notice. The major priorities for such a businessperson will be transport at the right times and suitable accommodation at the destination(s). The business travel product is thus very different from the tourist product, although some of its components will be similar, such as transport and accommodation. The key difference is generally choice. Whereas, as we have already stated, a business traveller might have little choice as to destination(s), timing(s) or length(s) of stay, the holiday/vacation or leisure tourist frequently does have a choice (VFR travel being a possible exception in some cases.)That very element of choice means that the skilful marketing of tourist products, both at the tour operator level and at the retail level - at travel agencies - is required. It is essential that professionals who provide the tourist product try to ensure, as far as is possible, that the

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reality fulfils matches up to - the dream. That is no easy task, as certain features of services set them apart from tangible products (often called goods). The Special Features of Services It is very important for all professionals involved in tourism and travel to remember these important ways in which services differ from tangible goods: Firstly, as we have explained, being intangible services cannot be tested in advance, so neither the client nor the vendor can be certain that the holiday/vacation recommended or selected is exactly what is sought. Thus to a large extent the client buys on trust. Secondly, the success of a holiday/vacation can depend to a large degree on the personnel who provide the various services which together make up the full product. Such people might include some or all of: couriers, air hostesses or stewards, travel representatives and travel agency counter staff, hotel receptionists, restaurant and housekeeping staff, and many more, as most services- and tourism is definitely no exception - are labour intensive. Thus, the standard of performance of the various services can vary considerably depending on who provides them, and the manner in which they are provided: friendly, efficiently, helpfully, sympathetically, offhandedly, disinterestedly, carelessly, and and so on. What is more, much depends on the attitude of the person receiving a particular service, because very often the provision and consumption of a service are inseparable, and the recipient participates in the process. Some people are easy to please, whilst other people are very difficult to please; some people can overlook minor problems whilst other people are very critical and demanding; some people are determined that nothing will spoil their enjoyment whilst other people seem equally determined not to enjoy themselves!; and so on. Another feature of a tourism product is that it cannot be taken to the consumer; instead the consumer must be taken to the product and, of course, part of the product actually involves the taking - by one method or another - such as by road, rail or air. The many services which jointly make up a tourism product are perishable. They cannot be saved or stored for later use. For example, an unsold hotel bedroom or cruise ship cabin, aircraft or coach or train seat cannot be stored for sale at a later date (as can be often done with many tangible products); once a sale has been lost, it is lost for ever! That is why

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large discounts and/or other incentives might be offered for last minute holidays - in order to fill aircraft, hotels, etc. Finally, at least in the short-term, the supply of a tourism product is inelastic, that is, it is more or less fixed. For example, the number of hotel rooms or beds available at a particular resort cannot be substantially increased to meet higher than anticipated demand in a particular season. Some hotels/guest houses, etc, might close during the off season, but it is not easy to reopen them at short notice to meet greater than expected demand, in the way in which the rate or volume of production or manufacture of tangible products can be increased to meet increased consumer demand. Chapter Overview 1. How would you differentiate between product & service?

2. What are various players of tourism industry?

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Types of Tourism Products It will be useful for you to learn these definitions of words commonly used in the tourism and travel business: A tourism product is commonly called a tour. The word touring implies relatively continuous travel, involving visits to a number of different areas or countries, by coach for example. A cruise is travel by water - sea, lake, river - again often involving visits to different areas or ports, frequently in different countries. The word trip is often used to refer to a day excursion, although some laymen might use the word to refer to a longer tour. A domestic tour is one which is taken entirely within the national boundaries of the traveller sown country. For economic reasons, which we consider later, many countries encourage domestic holidays/vacations. An international tour is one which is taken in one or more countries outside the travellers own country. Independent and Packaged Tours It is very important that you understand clearly the difference between these types of tours. An independent tour is one in which the traveller makes his or her own travel arrangements ,either through a travel agent or direct (for example by telephone, fax, email or via a website) with a transport organization - e.g. an airline, or a coach or ferry company, etc. The traveller also arranges accommodation personally, directly or through a travel agency or tourist organization in advance, or as required during the actual tour. Similarly, arrangements for entertainment, meals, etc, are made as and when required. With a packaged tour or an inclusive tour (commonly abbreviated to IT), on the other hand, it is a tour operator who arranges the transport and accommodation, plus meals, entertainment ,etc, as required. Frequently a package tour includes transfers to and from the accommodation unit and the destination airport, railway station or port, plus baggage check-

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ins and handling. So the traveller has to do little but arrive at the original departure port or station on time. In some cases local excursions (called shore excursions on cruises), by coach for instance, might also be included, or they might be optional extras which a tourist might book (and pay for) locally or on board as required. Flight Only In some cases, in order to fill an aircraft, a tour operator might offer a flight only ticket as an alternative to a full package. As its name implies, the offer covers only the flights to and from the destination airport. The purchaser must make his or her own arrangements for accommodation and any other facilities required in the country visited. This can sometimes be an inexpensive method of travel for VFR tourists (who might stay with the friends or relatives visited), and for those who own or rent or time share property in the destination country concerned. However, flight-only tickets might not offer the flexibility of departure and return dates and lengths of stay as might be available when travelling on scheduled flights. Package Tours In order to be able to offer package tours at reasonable prices (usually well below the costs of independent tours of similar standards), a tour operator must purchase transport, accommodation and other facilities in bulk (in quantity) in advance; by so doing those components are generally obtained at lower rates. The various components involved are then packaged - often in different combinations to provide variety and choice, as well as price variations - and the tours are sold to holidaymakers (individually or in groups), either directly or through travel agents. Package tours can be of two types: The independent inclusive tour (abbreviation IIT), in which a tourist travels to his or her destination individually, The group inclusive tour (abbreviation GIT), in which the tourist travels to the destination with others who have purchased the same package or a similar package. Tourist Destinations

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The term destination used in relation to travel and tourism refers to a place to which a tourist travels, generally with the intention of staying (e.g. making use of accommodation) for some time. Some tourist destinations are transitory ones; perhaps on the way to another destination. For example, a tourist might visit a number of islands in a group, staying at each one for two or three days. Many tourists, on the other hand, travel direct to their final destinations, where they propose to stay - or to be based - for the duration of their tours .Some tours might provide a combination. For instance, a tourist might travel to - and stay for one or two days at - one or more transitory destinations on the way to the final destination, where he or she will stay for the remainder of the tour. Of course, in some cases - such as fly-drive tours - there might be no final destination as such, because the tourists decide where they want to stay, and for how long they want to stay there. Also, some fly-drive and coach tours and cruises start and eventually finish at the same seaport or airport, etc. The foregoing examples (and there are other variations, too!) illustrate just how wide is the range of types of tour available to tourists today. The range of destinations available to tourists from many countries is also very wide - and is continually increasing .Although some people are content to take the same holiday over and over again, in the same resort (sometimes staying at the same hotel, guesthouse, camp site, etc) many other people seek variety - something different, new or exciting. Indeed, in many countries the traditional type of holiday - to a national seaside resort, for example, has declined considerably in popularity. International travel has blossomed in recent years (although economic restraints and transport problems - such as airline and air traffic controllers strikes - tend to reverse the trend to some degree)and peoples horizons have widened. Low-fare airlines and tour operators offering modestly priced package tours have, of course, been responsible to a large degree for this change in attitudes, but they must be constantly on the lookout for new destinations (as well as new types of tours) as tourists demands and expectations change. .Chapter overview 1. What Is package tour 2. What are tourist products

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Tourist Destinations and features of tourist destinations Tourist destination features as one of the most prominent tourism product ,therefore for the sake of convenience we have discussed tourist destinations as a separate chapter . Tourist destinations include places ,events ,experiences which form main attraction of a particular destination. Tourist destinations satisfy a particular need of a tourist as a result they feature as prominent tourism products . Tourist crave for certain tourism related activities as a result we have pilgrimage tourist destination , adventure tourism destination , medical tourism destinations so on and so forth. It is very important for strategy makers to focus on the features of these tourist destinations so as to woo more and more tourist. What, then, are the factors which help a particular tourist destination to prosper? Basically there are three such factors, which are interrelated: The attractions of the destination, and how they have been promoted; The amenities or facilities offered by the destination, and their costs; and The accessibility for tourists of the destination, which includes the type and range of travel opportunities offered. We now examine each factor separately. Attractions An attraction in this context is something which appeals to a particular tourist or to a prospective tourist. It is something which creates and arouses interest and a desire to see or to participate in it is really an appeal to the senses or to the motivations for embarking on travel.Some tourists, particularly after a package holiday or a cruise, complain of having been treated like sheep, or of the regimentation at holiday centres or villages (note that the once commonly used term holiday camp even implied regimentation, hence the decline in its usage). It is true that some people do like having everything organised for them - that is part of their enjoyment. But it must always be borne in mind by professionals who organise and market tours, that tourists have individual characters and temperaments, likes and dislikes, prejudices and preferences. In the main they want a choice, and in no area is that more noticeable than with attractions; the attractions offered by a destination which appeal to one person might be disliked by another, to the extent of deterring a visit to that particular destination.Of course,

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in many instances the destination selected might have to be a compromise between, say, a husband and wife; one which has the most plus attractions and the least minus attractions ,or one in which minus features are offset by an attractively low cost, and so on. The possible range of attractions at destinations is very large and varied, and that range is continually being widened. Nevertheless, it is possible to categorise attractions as falling into: Site attractions - which might be countries or areas of countries or groups of countries, or geographical regions, or cities or resorts. In effect, it is the destination itself which appeals totourists. Event attractions - which might be exhibitions, sporting fixtures (e.g. the Olympics and the World Cup Football Final), international conferences, carnivals, festivals, religious ceremonies, and so on. Tourists opt to visit the destination because of what is taking place there at the time they propose to visit. Combined site/event attractions - many events are likely to have greater and added appeal to tourists if they are held in locations with inherent site attractions. You should note that there is also a distinction between: Natural attractions such as mountains (individual or ranges), volcanos, waterfalls, lakes, rolling countryside, beaches, game reserves, fjords, and so on; as well as climatic conditions, such as sun, blue skies, clean/fresh air, and so on. Man-made attractions, such as holiday resorts and complexes, theme parks, zoos, wildlife parks and marine centres, historic or religious sites and buildings and other constructions (for example the Pyramids in Egypt, the Great Wall of China and the Panama Canal), or those of architectural interest, and so on. Despite the distinction we have just shown you, there are many tourist destinations which depend, for their success on a combination of both natural and man-made attractions. For example,expansive golden beaches might themselves be an attraction; but relatively few tourists might visit them unless and until resorts have been developed or there are other manmade attractions in the,vicinity. Attractions in general can be further subdivided into:-

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Nodal attractions - this term refers to the situation in which the various attractions of a destinationare located in fairly close proximity to one another. Tourists stay in one resort or city, for example,which provides all or most of the attractions and amenities they seek, although they might make short excursions out of the immediate vicinity. Obviously such destinations make them particularly suitable for inclusive tours. Linear attractions - this term refers to the situation in which the attractions might be spread over a fairly wide geographical area, which might encompass more than one country, often with no one centre of attraction. Such destinations are most suitable for touring holidays, on foot or by coach or in private vehicles, for fly/drive holidays, and in some cases for cruises (perhaps by inland Amenities By definition, amenities are facilities provided to meet requirements. The basic requirements of tourists at a destination are, of course, accommodation, catering and cloakrooms. But the standards of them expected by different tourists can and do vary enormously. What one tourist might consider a luxury, e.g. a private en suite bathroom, another might consider a bare necessity. Some tourists might be perfectly happy accommodated in tents, caravans, chalets, etc, whilst others demand five star hotel accommodation. The same applies to food, as some people are content with self-catering or self-service canteen facilities, whilst other demand full restaurant services, or even gourmet catering. Good local transport facilities are often also essential. The amenities expected are closely allied to motivations for travel; different people might require different entertainment, sporting facilities, guide or sightseeing or other excursion facilities, and so on. In addition, and as we have already mentioned, facilities might be required to enable tourists to reach particular attractions or to engage in the activities for which they are visiting a destination, for example ski-lifts need to be provided at a skiing resort. Adequate facilities for the safety of tourists are also very important. The costs of the amenities offered are often important considerations, notwithstanding the fact that the better the standards of amenities offered or expected, the higher their costs are likely to be. The individual costs of some amenities might, of course, be included in the

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price of a package, but nevertheless they will of necessity contribute to the overall cost of that package. Too severe cost-cutting in the matter of amenities by tour operators, in an endeavour to keep prices down, can easily be counterproductive. A golfing enthusiast, for example, might be prepared to overlook uninspiring meals or even inadequate accommodation, but would complain bitterly if his golfing facilities were not up to expectation! Similarly, package tourists staying at a beach resort are often upset at being called upon to pay extra for beach chairs or loungers - even though they are often prepared to pay over the odds for drinks served to them on the beach. It is important that travel brochures state clearly and honestly, without ambiguity, what is and equally what is not - included in the price of what is described as an inclusive tour. It can happen that the amenities offered by a destination become themselves the attractions to that particular destination. For example, hotel/resort complexes have been constructed, sometimes in previously unexploited areas, offering a wide variety of entertainments and other facilities which in their own right attract tourists in substantial numbers. Accessibility Ease of access to - and from - a destination is an important factor; this is especially so if mass tourism is sought. To large numbers of travellers, the actual time spent travelling to (and back from) a destination is considered dead or wasted time, is boring and uncomfortable - delays caused by strikes, congestion, security and immigration checks, and the like, add to the distaste, whether travel is by rail, road, air or water. (And that can apply equally to the travel necessary to the starting point for coach tours and cruises, and travel back home from the finishing point or port of disembarkation.)It is generally important for a destination to have regular, convenient and reasonably priced forms of transport to and from it. Distance and travel-time from and back to the country/area of origin might be important considerations in deciding whether a particular destination will be visited or not. Another matter to be considered under this heading concerns immigration procedures, visas, etc. If it is a long and tedious matter to obtain a tourist entry visa, for example, then the destination is likely to lose much of its appeal to tourists - because it is not easily accessible.The amenities for arriving/departing tourists in the host country, or area of it, are also important, such as good, clean and efficient airports, sea ports, coach and railway stations, and good railway, coach/taxi services. Delays caused by slow immigration or

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entry processing, baggage reclaim/ handling and customs clearance can all be frustrating and can deter tourists from a further visit to the country/destination in the future. And bad experiences will be passed on to others back home, who might also be deterred from making visits there. Bad publicity does not help any destination.

Departing Tourists It is an unfortunate fact that the tourist authorities of some countries, and some tour operators, pay more attention to arriving tourists than to departing tourists. Departure facilities and areas might be poorly organised and be inefficient, dirty and/or poorly furnished/decorated, cramped, with inadequate - and far too often overpriced - catering and refreshment facilities, cloakrooms, etc. Far too often delays - and frustration - are caused by slow and disinterested immigration officials. And problems are often compounded by travel delays, and increasingly by the necessity for stricter security checks on both people and baggage. Some package tourists complain of being abandoned by couriers or travel representatives at their end-ofholiday departure points. Upsets or dissatisfaction at the end of a holiday can easily spoil an otherwise enjoyable tour, and it is such unpleasant experiences which will often be related to (and noted by) other people, rather than the satisfactory features. Therefore, the journey home MUST be catered for as part of the holiday Conclusion Although we have separated attractions, amenities and accessibility for your ease of examination and understanding, you will undoubtedly have noted the interrelationship and overlapping between them. In general, if tourists are to be encouraged to visit the attractions offered by a destination: adequate facilities must be available to enable them to do so adequate amenities must be available to ensure their enjoyment, comfort and safety once there. OVERVIEW 1. Enlist various tourism destinations of your region 2. What are the features of tourism destinations

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Segments of tourism sector and reasons for segmentation Tourism industry has been divided into various forms. Divisions and segments in tourism sector have been made in order to identify the potential of areas and devise marketing strategies keeping in view the potential of various tourism spots and preferences of tourists. The purpose of streamlining the vast tourism sector is to create the segments which are tailored the meet the needs and tastes of various tourists. A person who is interested in adventure tourism may not be attracted by a strategy which is meant to woo those who are interested in pilgrimage. An understanding of peoples motives - or their reasons - for wishing or needing to travel, or for considering embarking on travel, is very important for all professionals who are involved in marketing - and particularly in actually selling - tourism and travel. For example, a businessmans travel and accommodation needs and requirements are likely to differ a good deal from those of a person considering taking a holiday/vacation. In the former case , the client will generally already know when and to where he wishes to travel, and it is therefore merely a matter of arranging the best possible itinerary and accommodation to suit that clients needs and plans. However, in the case of the holidaymaker/vacations, his or her travel motivation(s) will provide a good indication of the most appealing location or type of holiday to recommend, and the most effective selling points to stress in o rder to convince the client to actually book a holiday/vacation. Other information will also be needed, of course, such as preferences in terms of destination, financial resources, etc, but the motivation(s) for travel is nearly always the starting point. A knowledge of - and understanding of - EACH persons travel motivation(s) is essential, because the prime responsibilities of professionals involved in selling travel are to: make the most suitable travel and other arrangements to meet The requirements of each individual traveller.

Hence classification of various forms of tourism is pivotal in understanding the needs of tourists and thereby devising strategies in order to maximise the no of arrivals at a particular place and ultimately increasing the revenue of the place concerned. Broadly tourism has been divided into mass tourism and niche tourism depending upon the number of people who travel from one place to another. Thus niche tourism essentially involves movement of few people from one place to another hence this activity is practised by few, while as mass

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tourism involves travel of large number of people from one place to another thus mass tourism is practised by a large section of population However the various other forms of tourism are 1) Leisure tourism 2) Adventure tourism 3) Space tourism 4) Dark tourism 5) Pilgrimage tourism 6) Heritage tourism 7) Musical tourism 8) Medical tourism 9) Sustainable tourism 10) Geo tourism 11) Ecotourism 12) Spiritual tourism 13) Sports tourism All of them have been briefly explained below Leisure tourism: leisure usually is the spare time that an individual has got and an activity, especially movement from one place to another seeking amusement and fun during leisure time includes the leisure tourism. Generally this activity rejuvenates an individual and fills him/r with new energy. Since this activity is undertaken by a large section of population therefore it is an example of Mass tourism Adventure tourism: it is a niche tourism generally involving movement of people from one place to another undertaking an activity which involves high element of risk and thrill Space tourism: Any activity involving movement of people to outer space exploring outer space. It happens to be most expensive form of tourism owing to use of specialised equipments, training and vehicles used for commuting people from one place to another Since a lesser number of population is involved in this kind of activity hence this kind of tourism comes under niche tourism

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Dark tourism: movement of people from one place to another in order to understand the miseries and sufferings of people in a particular location. Again very few people undertake this kind of tourism so again it is niche tourism Heritage tourism: a kind of tourism involving travel of people from one place to another to observe and explore the old monuments and places of historical importance Medical tourism: A kind of tourism involving movement of people from one place to another seeking medical health care which is less expensive and effective. Sports tourism ; movement of people from one place to another involving sports activities mega sports events like Olympics, world cups of football cricket hockey and other similar events Pilgrimage tourism: A kind tourism involving movement of people from one place to another for pilgrimage purpose, for e.g. lakhs of pilgrims visit Mata vaishano devi and similarly lakhs of people perform hajj every year Spiritual tourism A tourism activity undertaken to rectify and purify the soul. Generally

includes visiting place where an individual feels tranquillity and peace CHAPTER OVERVIEW 1) Why is it important to segment the tourism sector 2) What are various forms of tourism 3) What is mass and niche tourism

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Tourism marketing and role of tourist facilitators in promotion of tourist destinations Marketing may be defined as a process of identifying needs of consumers and meeting them in an effective manner. The marketers role is that of demand stimulation. Marketing is concerned with conceiving communicating and delivering value propositions to the customers in way that creates exchanges which satisfy both producers and consumers in an amicable manner Tourism marketing, thus, essentially is a process of identifying the needs of tourists (for e.g. whether they are interested in adventure, pilgrimage, leisure, dark etc) and devises offerings which satisfy their needs in an amicable manner. The role of marketing as said earlier is that of demand stimulation and marketers especially people associated with tourism marketing are adept with skills of demand stimulation. Generally there is a term marketing mix used in marketing which encompasses the whole marketing plan there are four ps in product marketing Product Price Place Promotion However in service marketing there is further addition of three more ps which makes it 7 ps Physical evidence People Process Anything major changes that need to carried out as far as marketing plan is concerned need to be carried out by altering these components of marketing mix hence it serves as useful tool as far as success of any marketing campaign is concerned. The fundamental of tourism marketing is to create a unique experience and build trust for your visitor. Building trust through communication uniquely positions your message to better achieve its desired outcome. The challenge for most people is how to create the experience.

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Start by asking yourself, "what's unique about my business, location or region?" Tourism marketing world-wide is undergoing significant change. Competition for visitors is intensifying between businesses, towns, states and countries. Each entity is aiming to grow and return greater economic benefits, so you'll need to give your visitor a great reason to visit. Thus tourism marketing campaigns are developed by major countries around the world in order to increase the influx of tourists and make their stay at a particular destination a memorable one and satisfying one Tourist facilitator happens to be first contact point of any tourist at a particular tourist destination. He/she happens to be the representative of the region he is working in. Thus tourist facilitator is a torch bearer a path breaker as he/she helps tourist explore new destination and he is the one who will provide the tourist with the information which is not going to be available anywhere else. Thus if new destinations are to be promoted it has to be via tourist facilitator thus he will direct them to newer destinations which have been recently brought on the tourism map and help in promoting the destination which are in dire need of promotion Whatever the types of attractions (or combination of them) of a particular destination, if tourists are to visit it - in the numbers which can be catered for - it must be promoted. By this we mean that potential tourists must be made aware of it and its various attractions. Obviously, if people do not know a destination exists, or what its attractions are, they will not visit it Advertising and other publicity is carried out for many destinations, and they and their attractions need to be described (often with the aid of colour photographs) in brochures, pamphlets, leaflets, videos, DVDs, etc, in such a way as to appeal to potential tourists; these documents are so important that they are dealt with at length in Module 12. In very many cases, effective and regular promotion of destinations is essential for their success. A form of promotion which should never be overlooked, however, is word of mouth; tourists who have enjoyed a visit to or a holiday at a particular destination are likely to recommend it to other potential visitors - a vital reason for always ensuring customer satisfaction .However magnificent the scenery of a destination, however beneficial its climate, however appealing its other attractions, tourists to it will be limited if: they cannot reach it easily and conveniently (e.g. by road, rail, chair lift, cable car, etc., as appropriate);or if:

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They cannot be accommodated or otherwise catered for there. We therefore now consider amenities and accessibility.

CHAPTER OVERVIEW 1) What is tourism marketing 2) What are seven Ps of tourism marketing 3) Why is marketing important for the tourism 4) What kind of marketing does j&k tourism need.

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Globalisation and its impact on tourism Globalization (or globalisation) is the process of international integration arising from the interchange of world views, products, ideas, and other aspects of culture Put in simple

terms, globalization refers to processes that increase world-wide exchanges of national and cultural resources. Advances in transportation and telecommunications infrastructure,

including the rise of the telegraph and its posterity the Internet, are major factors in globalization, generating further interdependence of economic and cultural activities. Though several scholars place the origins of globalization in modern times, others trace its history long before the European age of discovery and voyages to the New World. Some even trace the origins to the third millennium BC. In the late 19th century and early 20th century, the connectedness of the world's economies and cultures grew very quickly. The term globalization has been in increasing use since the mid-1980s and especially since the mid-1990s. In 2000, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) identified four basic aspect globalization are a) Trade and transactions, capital and investment movements, b) Migration and movement of people and the dissemination of knowledge c) Free exchange of trained and skilled manpower across borders d) Exchange of latest sophisticated technology i.e diffusion of technology across so as to help those countries which havent developed yet to realise their goals e) Further, environmental challenges such as climate change, cross-boundary water and air pollution, and over-fishing of the ocean are linked with globalization. Globalizing processes affect and are affected by business and work organization, economics sociocultural resources, and the natural environment If we take a cursory look at the various aspects mentioned by IMF we will come to conclusion all of them are a prerequisite for Tourism industry to flourish let us take them one by one Movement of people ; tourism essentially is a process which involves movement of people from one place to another , if there are hindrances in movement of people from one place to another certainly tourism industry cant flourish. Globalisation emphasises on th fact that there should be movement of people from one region to another that too with out any hindrance thus if visa regimes between countries are liberalised of course

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keeping the national security into consideration there are chances that tourism industry will flourish Transfer of skilled Manpower Globalisation means exchange of skilled and trained manpower across borders. This aspect again is very important as far as development is concerned. Less developing nations are dependent upon the technology and it is this transfer of technology that helps less developed nations in building tourism related infrastructure Transfer of capital across borders: This happens to be another very important aspect related to development of tourism of less developed countries as capital is life blood of any business and it is very important that countries that are deficient in capital start get investments from those where capital is in excess. Thus by way of Foreign direct investments and foreign institutional investors globalisation of capital is taking place Across borders which is allowing countries to increase capital in order to meet their financial pre requites as far as setting up of tourism related infrastructure is concerned CHAPTER OVERVIEW 1) What is globalisation 2) How has globalisation effected tourism in india 3) What are four major aspects of globalisation

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IMPACTS OF TOURISM Tourism can bring many economic and social benefits, particularly in rural areas and developing countries, but mass tourism is also associated with negative effects. Tourism can only be sustainable if it is carefully managed so that potential negative effects on the host community and the environment are not permitted to outweigh the financial benefits. Tourism Development contains a lot of political and economical values. Some of these are positive and some of which are negative. Tourism is a chance for people to get into contact with each other, and as tourism has an educational element to it, this can create an understanding between people and cultures and provide opportunities for an exchange of these own personal culture and ways of life. Tourism can contribute to the vitality of communities in many ways. An example of this is festivals, fairs and local events, as these attract local resident's which has been primary participants and spectators which are often revitalized and developed in response to tourist interest. There are jobs created through tourism. These can act as a vital incentive to reduce emigration from rural areas. Local people can increase their influence on tourism development, as well as improve their job and earnings Tourism has got both positive as well negative effects. The positive effects of tourism includes following Generation of employment and revenue Tourism industry is considered as one the largest employers and tourism and allied industry generates employment . Lot of people get employed in hotels , travel agencies etc. so we can say that tourism provides employment . Cross cultural diffusion Tourist with his unique culture goes to a new destination which has a different culture so cross cultural diffusion takes place Generation of foreign exchange Tourism industry happens to one industry which garners maximum foreign exchange. Tourists spend lot of the money which they have earned in their own countries at a tourist destination so we can say that tourism helps us to earn thr foreign exchange Protection of monuments and places having importance as far tourism is concerned

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When tourists get attracted towards a particular monument, the authorities take that monument seriously and it comes under different govt plans and policies which protects that particular monument. Development of overall infrastructural facilities ( like roads, bridges, hospitals, parks). The revenue earned by tourism sector gets channelized towards the development . New tourist places get explored due to overreaching capacity of prominent

destinations, then it becomes the part of plan to construct new roads , bridges etc. the foreign exchange earned by tourism helps a nation to invest in welfare sector like hospitals,asylums etc Negative impacts of tourism includes Environmental degradation. At certain tourist places the environment is very fragile and entry of tourism sector destroys the delicate balance of nature. By constructing new hotels or highways to meet tourist demands we end up destroying the habitat of some animals. The water ,air etc may also get polluted by tourists Adverse impact of cross cultural diffusion People pick up certain negative aspects of the culture of tourist, language may also get spoiled if the locals of tourist destination gradually feel more attracted towards it certain food items which Inflation Urban rural divide

Dal lake Dal lake is mentioned as Mahasharit in ancient Sanskrit texts. Ancient history records mention that a village named Isabar to the east of Dal Lake was the residence of goddess Durga.This place was known as Sureshwari on the bank of the lake, which was sourced by a spring called the Satadhara.[citation needed]During the Mughal period, the Mughal rulers of India designated Kashmir, Srinagar in particular, as their summer resort. They developed the

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precincts of the Dal lake in Srinagar with sprawling Mughal-type gardens and pavilions as pleasure resorts to enjoy the salubrious cool climate. After the death of Aurangzeb in 1707, which led to the disintegration of the Mughal Empire, Pashtun tribes in the area around the lake and city increased, and the Durrani Empire ruled the city for several decades. In 1814 a significant part of the Kashmir valley, including Srinagar, was annexed by Raja Ranjit Singh to his kingdom, and the Sikhs grew in influence in the region for 27 year During the British Raj, the British also made Srinagar their capital during the summer months, attracted by the cool climate of the Kashmir valley, amidst the back drop of the majestic snow covered Himalayan ranges. The lake precincts experience temperatures in the range of 111 C (3452 F) during winter and 1230 C (5486 F) during the summer season. The lake freezes when temperatures drop to about 11 C (12 F) during severe winter.Although the Dogra Maharaja of Kashmir restricted the building of houses in the valley, the British circumvented this rule by commissioning lavish houseboats to be built on the Dal Lake. After the independence of India, the Kashmiri Hanji people have built, owned and maintained these houseboats, cultivating floating gardens and producing commodities for the market, making them the centre of their livelihoods. The houseboats, closely associated with Dal Lake also provide accommodation in Srinagar. Following the Mughal and British rule, the place has became a haven for tourists and earned the epithet, "Jewel in the tourist crown

SHALIMAR BAGH Shalimar Bagh: Built by Emperor Jehangir for his wife Nur Jehan, Shalimar, 15 kms from the Tourists Reception Centre, is a beautiful garden with sweeping vistas over gardens and lakes, and shallow terraces. The garden is 539 m by 182 m and has four terraces, rising one above the other. A canal lined with polished stones and supplied with water from Harwan

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runs through the middle of the garden. The fourth terrace, by far the best, was once reserved for royal ladies. Shalimar Bagh, is a Mughal garden linked through a channel to the northeast of Dal Lake, on its right bank located near Srinagar city in the Jammu and Kashmir. Its other names are Shalamar Garden, Shalamar Bagh, Farah Baksh and Faiz Baksh, and the other famous shore line garden in the vicinity is Nishat Bagh. The Bagh was built by Mughal Emperor Jahangir for his wife Nur Jahan, in 1619. The Bagh is considered the high point of Mughal horticulture. It is now a public park HISTORY While the recent history and development of the Mughal types of gardens is credited to Emperor Jahangir, the ancient history of the garden can be traced to the 2nd century when it was built during the reign of Pravarsena II. Praversena II founded the city of Srinagar and ruled in Kashmir from 79 AD to 139 AD. He had built a cottage for his stay at the northeastern corner of the Dal Lake and had named it Shalimar (the meaning of the name remains unknown, Russian scholar Anna Suvorova in her book Lahore: Topophilia of Space and Place" has asserted that it is certainly an Arabic or Persian name since a Muslim King would never use a Sanskrit name for a royal garden). The king, on his visits to a local saint by the name Sukarma Swami at Harwan, used to stop at this cottage. Over the years, the cottage fell into ruins and later could not be located. However, the name of the village remained as Shalimar.It is here that Emperor Jahangir built his celebrated Shalimar Bagh, his dream project to please his queen.[3] He enlarged the ancient garden in 1619 into a royal garden and called it 'Farah Baksh' ('the delightful'). He built it for his wife Nur Jahan ('light of the world'). In 1630, under Emperor Shah Jahans orders, Zafar Khan the governor of Kashmir got it extended. He named it Faiz Baksh ('the bountiful'). It then became a pleasure place for thePathan and Sikh governors who followed Zafar Khan. During the rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh the marble pavilion was the guest house for European visitors. Electrification of the premises was done duringMaharaja Hari Singhs rule. Thus, over the years, the garden was extended and improved by many rulers and called by different names, but the most popular name Shalimar Bagh continues to this day.[2][4] During the Mughal period in particular, Emperor Jahangir and his wife Nur Jahan were so enamoured of Kashmir that during summer they moved to Srinagar with their full court entourage from Delhi at least 13 times. Shalimar Bagh was their imperial summer residence and the Royal Court. They crossed the arduous snowy passes of the Pir Panjal mountain

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range on elephants to reach Srinagar. The architectural details of the three terraces of the garden are elaborate. The first terrace is a public garden or the outer garden ending in the Diwan-e-Aam (public audience hall). In this hall, a small black marble throne was installed over the waterfall. The second terrace garden along the axial canal, slightly broader, has two shallow terraces. The Diwan-fa-Khas (the Hall of Private Audience), which was accessible only to the noblemen or guests of the court, now derelict, is in its centre. However, the carved stone bases and a fine platform surrounded by fountains are still seen. The royal bathrooms are located on the north-west boundary of this enclosure. The fountain pools of the Diwan-i Khas, the Diwan-i-Aam, and in turn, the Zenana terrace ae supplied in succession.[6] it has 410 fountainsIn the third terrace, the axial water channel flows through the Zenana garden, which is flanked by the Diwan-i-Khas and chinar trees. At the entrance to this terrace, there are two small pavilions or guard rooms (built in Kashmir style on stone plinth) that is the restricted and controlled entry zone of the royal harem. Shahajahan built a baradari of black marble, called the Black Pavilion in the zenana garden. It is encircled by a fountain pool that receives its supply from a higher terrace. A double cascade falls against a low wall carved with small niches (chini khanas), behind the pavilion. Two smaller, secondary water canals lead from the Black Pavilion to a small baradari. Above the third level, two octagonal pavilions define the end wall of the garden. The baradari has a lovely backdrop of the snow mountains, which is considered a befitting setting for the Bagh. The Shalimar Bagh is well known for chini khanas, or arched niches, behind garden waterfalls. They are a unique feature in the Bagh. These niches were lighted at night with oil lamps, which gave a fairy tale appearance to the water falls. However, now the niches hold pots of flower pots that reflect their colours behind the cascading water. Another unusual architectural feature mentioned is about the doors of the Baradari. In the garden complex, the Baradari had four exquisite doors made of stones supported by pillars. It is conjectured that these stone doors were ruins from old temples that were demolished by Shahajahan. The garden also provided large water troughs where a variety of fountains were fixed.It has been aptly described by a chronicler glowingly

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NISHAT BAGH Nishat Bagh: Situated on the banks of the Dal Lake, with the Zabarwan Mountains as its backdrop, (11 km. from Tourists Reception Centre), this 'garden of bliss' commands a magnificent view of the lake and the snow capped Pir Panjal mountain range which stands far away to the west of the valley. Nishat was designed in 1633 AD by Asaf Khan, brother of Nur Jehan. Nishat Bagh , is a terraced Mughal garden built on the eastern side of the Dal

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Lake, close to Srinagar in the state ofJammu and Kashmir, India. It is the second largest Mughal garden in the Kashmir Valley. The largest in size is the Shalimar Bagh, which is also located on the bank of the Dal Lake. Nishat Bagh is Hindustani, which means "Garden of Joy," "Garden of Gladness" and "Garden of Delight. Located on the bank of the Dal Lake, with the Zabarwan Mountains as its backdrop, Nishat Bagh is a garden of bliss that commands a magnificent view of the lake beneath the snow capped Pir Panjal mountain range that stands far away to the west of the valley. The Bagh was designed and built in 1633 by Asif Khan, elder brother of Nur Jehan. An interesting anecdote of jealousy of the Emperor Shah Jahan on beholding such a delightful garden, which almost shutdown the garden for some time, is narrated. When Shah Jahan saw this garden, after its completion in 1633, he expressed great appreciation of its grandeur and beauty. He is believed to have articulated his appreciation three times to Asif Khan, his father-in- law, with the hope that he would gift it to him. As no such offer was made by Asif Khan, Shah Jahan was piqued and ordered closure of the water supply to the garden. Then, for some time, the garden was deserted. Asif Khan was desolate and heartbroken; he was uninterested in the sequence of events. When he was resting under the shade of a tree, in one of the terraces, his servant was bold enough to turn on the water supply source from the Shalimar Bagh. When Asif Khan heard the sound of water and the fountains in action he was startled and immediately order closure of water supply as he feared the worst reaction from the emperor for this wanton act of disobedience. Fortunately for the servant and Asif Khan, Shaha Jahan, who had heard about this incident at the garden, was not disturbed or annoyed by the disobedience of his orders. Instead, he appreciated the servant for loyal service to his master and then ordered full restoration rights for the supply of water to the garden to Asif Khan, his Prime Minister and father-in-law. he details of the twelve terraces have been recorded as originally built: The first terrace is a water collection chamber that is also linked to the side flow from the garden.The second terrace is accessed through a gate. This terrace has five fountains that is supplied water from the third terrace, from where it flowed to the lowest terrace.The third terrace has a different design. The water chute has five arched open niches in the front and similar niches on the sides. A pavilion (baradari), a two-storied structure, which existed here when it was originally built, has since been dismantled. Stairways, on either side of the channel lead to the third terrace, which has a square chamber with five fountains. Moving up

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the flight of steps (four steps) on either side of the channel leads to the fourth terrace.The fourth terrace has two levels namely, a water channel and a square pool. Stairways with 7 steps lead to the fifth terrace.The fifth terrace, where a stone bench is provided across the channel to enjoy the scenic beauty. This also has a square chamber with five fountains.The sixth terrace is at two levels with five fountains and distinctive paving pattern. The seventh terrace, where the same pattern continues. The eighth terrace is only a water channel or chute.The ninth terrace, at the end of two stairways, there is an octagonal bench. The pool in this terrace has nine fountains.The stairways to the tenth terrace are along the side retaining walls where only the water chute with fountains is provided.Engraved paths lead to an impressive eleventh terrace, which has twenty five fountains in a pool. Up from this dramatic terrace is the last one. The Zenana chamber, the twelfth terrace, is covered in the front by 5.5 metres (18 ft) high wall with a faade of blind arches. Only one arch in this blind facade provides an opening to the twelfth terrace. Two small octagonal towers on either side of the retaining walls provide views of the lower level terraces. A two-storey pavilion here is surrounded by a lovely garden with lush plantings Out of all the terraces, the second terrace is considered the most impressive in view of the twenty three niches provided in the arched recess just behind the cascade. Originally lighted lamps used to be placed at these niches. The second terrace also has abundance of Persian lilacs and pansies coupled with sparkling cascading water over the chute, which provided a lovely sight. Another interesting feature in the Nishat Bagh is of the many marble thrones like seats placed at the head of the waterfall, across the channel

Cheshma Shahi: Cheshma Shahi has tastefully laid garden in terraces, which commands a magnificent view of the Dal Lake below and surrounding mountain ranges. The cool water of the spring is highly refreshing and digestive. The original garden was laid out by Shah Jehan in 1632 AD. By the side of Chashma Shahi Garden are huts where some of the state government officials have their official residences to enjoy the luxurious stay while serving the Jammu & Kashmir

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State Chashme Shahi (translation: the royal spring), also called Chashma Shahi, is one of the Mughal gardens built around a spring by Ali Mardan, agovernor of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan,[1] in 1632.[2] The garden is located in the Zabarwan Range, near Rajbhawan (Governors house) overlooking Dal Lake in Srinagar, KashmGovernment. The garden presents Mughal architecture as used in different Mughal gardens. The artistically build garden has Iranian influence in its art and architecture and the design is based on the Persian gardens. It is built around a fresh water spring, discovered by Rupa Bhawani, which flows through its centre in terraces. The topography and the steepness of the land has led the formation of the garden. The main focus of the garden is the spring which flows down in terraces and is divided into three sections: an aqueduct, waterfall, and fountains. A two-storey Kashmiri hut stands at the first terrace which is the origin of the spring. The water then flows down through a water ramp (chadar) into the second terrace. The second terrace serves as a water pool and a large fountain stands at its centre. The water again flows down through a water ramp into the third terrace, which is a square five-fountain pool. It is the lowest pool at the entrance of the garden. The visitors are received through a flight of stairs on both sides of the terraces which lead up to the origin of the spring. The garden was constructed around the spring by the Mughal Governor Ali Mardan Khan in 1632.[1] It was commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his eldest son, Dara Sikoh. In the east of Chashma Shahi the Pari Mahal (Fairy Palace) lies where Dara Sikoh used to learn astrology and where he was later killed by his brother Aurungzeb.[5] The garden is 108 m long and 38 m wide and is spread over one acre of land. It is the smallest garden among the three Mughal gardens of Srinagar; the Shalimar garden is the largest and the Nishat garden is the second largest. All the three gardens were built at the left bank of the Dal Lake, with Zabarwan Mountains at the backdrop Pari Mahal: Once the royal observatory, Pari Mahal has a charmingly laid out garden and is a fiveminute drive from Cheshmashahi. A Buddhist monastery at one time, it was converted into a school of astrology by Dara Shikoh, Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan's eldest son. Situated on the spur of a mountain overlooking the Dal, the ancient Pari Mahal. monument, with a well-laid spacious garden in front, is connected to Cheshmashahi by road. It is illuminated at night. Pari Mahal or The

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Fairies' Abode is a seven terraced garden located at the top of Zabarwan mountain range over-looking city of Srinagar and south-west of Dal-Lake. The architecture depicts an example of Islamic architecture and patronage of art during the reign of the then Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It is five-minute drive from Cheshmashahi, Srinagar. The gardens were established by Prince Dara Shikoh in the mid-1600s on the ruins of a Buddhist monastery. Dara, the son of Emperor Shah Jahan, followed the Qadiri order of Sufi Islam and made the garden for his tutor; it was further used as an observatory, useful for teaching astrology and astronomy. The gardens have since become the property of the Srinagar government

Green park Harawan Green park Harawan: On the hillside, south of the village of Harwan (19 kms from the Tourists Reception Center), remarkable remains of ancient ornamented tile pavements of the Buddhist period have come to light. The tiles depict the dresses of the people, such as loose trousers, Turkoman caps or close fitting turbans and large ear-rings which reveal Central Asian influence. Harwan Garden, situated in Harwan Village (19 km) from Srinagar is an impressive, large and admired tourist spot. A canal, beautifully bordered with chinar trees and

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blossoming flower beds, starting from a lake just behind the garden, flows through the middle of the garden. The major draw of the Harwan garden is its natural loveliness and charm. With greenery in the backdrop of snowy environment, this garden has big green grass lawns and attracts visitors virtually towards this place.

Reachable by taxis within half an hour, the garden is perfect place for picnics and excursions, also an ideal place for natures walk. It is the gateway to Dachi Gam Wildlife sanctuary and a beginning point of a Mahadev Mountain trek. Some close by attractions that can be visited includes Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh

DACHIGAM Dachigam National Park is located 22 kilometers from Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. It covers an area of 141 square kilometers. The name of the park literally stands for "ten villages" which could be in memory of the ten villages that were relocated for its formation.The park has been a protected area since 1910, first under the care of the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir and later under the observation of the concerned government authorities. It was initially created to ensure clean drinking water supply for the city of

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Srinagar. It was finally upgraded and declared a National Park in the year 1981. Dachigam National park is located among the high mountains of the mighty western Himalayas. The variation in altitude is vast, ranging from 5500 ft to 14000 ft above mean sea level. Due to this vast variation, the park is very clearly demarcated into an uneven region. The terrain ranges from gently sloping grasslands to sharp rocky outcrops and cliffs. Part of the park lies above the tree line and this area displays its own kind of natural beauty with bare rock mountains and crevices. The mountainsides below the tree line are heavily wooded. Most of this coniferous forest consists of broad leaf species. Interspersed between these are alpine pastures, meadows, waterfalls and scrub vegetation with deep gullies, locally known as Nars, running down the mountain face. Most of the grasslands and meadows, except in the harsh winters, are covered with brightly coloured flowers. Located high among its interiors is the Marsar lake from which flows the Dagwan river. This river flows all the way down to, and past, the lower region where it runs along the only proper road in the park and is also famous for its fish population, the trout. FAUNA FOUND IN DACHIGAM The main animal species that Dachigam is most famous for is the Hangul, or the Kashmir Stag. the other species are :Musk deer, Leopard, Himalayan Serow ,Himalayan Grey Langur ,Leopard Cat ,Himalayan Black Bear ,Himalayan Brown Bear ,Jackal ,Hill Fox ,Himalayan Weasel ,Yellow-throated Marten ,Jungle Cat ,Long-tailed Marmot Otter Birds Cinnamon Sparrow Black Bulbul Himalayan Monal Golden Oriole Minivet Pygmy Owlet Woodpecker Babbler Redstart Wagtail Koklass Pheasant Chough Orange Bullfinch Kashmir Flycatcher Tytler's Leaf Warbler Streaked Laughingthrush Himalayan Rubythroat Wallcreeper Black-and-Yellow Grosbeak Himalayan Griffon Vulture Bearded Vulture ,Red-billed ,Blue Magpie ,Titmouse Religious shrines in and around srinagar

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For centuries the Hindus and Muslims in Kashmir have lived together. The Kashmiri Muslims have been influenced by the Hindus, and the Hindus have been influenced by the Muslims. Kashmir is the only place in India where Muslims have surnames such as 'pandit' and 'bhat'. The Kashmiri Hindus and Muslims have a distinctive culture and way of living. Even the sufis of Kashmir are of a special type. How Sufism came to Kashmir is a long story. The famous sufis of Kashmir are Sayyid Bulbul Shah, Sayyid Ali Hamdani, and Mir Mohammad Hamdani. It is claimed that Hindu thought and religion greatly influenced Kashmiri sufis. The result was that Kashmir produced sufis with a different outlook. Some people call these sufis Muslim rishis . Among the "Muslim rishis", the most famous rishi is Sheikh-nur-ud-din. Out of love and veneration, the Hindus and Muslims call him Nandirishi. The Kashmiri Pandits also call him Sahzanand. The shrine of Nandrishi is locat.ed in Chrar-e-Sharief. This is a small village about five miles from Nagam. Both Hindus and Muslims go to this shrine to offer flowers. It is difficult to say when Nandrishi was actually born. It is said by some that he was born in 1377 in a village called Kaimuh. People also say that Lalded nursed Nandrishi as a child. In addition to this, there are many other stories about him that are popular in Kashmir. Some of these stories must be true, while others must have been created by the people. Many stories are also told about Nandrishi's parents. Some say that his parents made a living by stealing and robbing, which made Nandrishi unhappy. But others say that his father, Salar Sanz, was a pious man. It is said that Nandrishi left home when he was thirty years old He meditated for twelve years inside a cave. This cave was in a forest where he could not get much to eat. When Nandrishi completed his meditation, he spread his ideas among the Kashmiris. Many Kashmiri Hindus and Muslims became Nandrishi's disciples. They renounced the world and took shelter in a ziya:rath. They gave up eating meat and observed celibacy. They devoted themselves completely to meditation in their ziya:rath. On their death, these rishis were buried in their ziya:ratsi. Kashmiris have great reverence for these ziya:ratsi and devotedly go there to place flowers on the graves. These shrines are still found in Kashmir.

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Two well- known shrines are in Aishmukam and Anantnag. Janakrishi lived in Aishmukam, and Rishmol lived in Anantnag. There are three famous shrines in Srinagar. Batmal, Thagbab Sahib, and RishiPir lived in these. Out of all these rishis, Nandrishi is considered outstanding. That is why his sayings are uttered by Kashmiris with great reverence.

Hazrat Makhdoom Sahib, a Sufi saint.

The shrine of Makhdoom Sahib.

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The beautifully inlaid doorway to Shah Hamdan's shrine.

Pather Masjid, the valley's only unconsecrated mosque.

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Khwaja Nur-ud-Din Walli with Baba Nassar-ud-Din, the great saint who propounded Kashmiri Sufism.

En route to Lolab valley, the Sufi shrine of Shah Walli, who was reputed to have the power of raising the dead.

The shrine of Bamadin at Bamzoo.

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The shrine of Baba Reshi.

Rozabal, supposedly the tomb of Jesus.

The steps to the shrine of Zain Shah at Aishmuqam, where also is found Asa-i-Sharif or the Staff of Moses.

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Hazratbal The Hazratbal Shrine : Majestic Place), is a Muslim shrine in Srinagar,Jammu &

Kashmir, India. It contains a relic, the Moi-e-Muqqadas, believed by many Muslims of Kashmir to be a hair of the Islamic prophetMuhammad. The name of the shrine comes from the Arabic word Hazrat, meaning holy or majestic, and the Kashmiri word bal, (bal is a corrupted form of Sanskrit Vala which means an enclosure) meaning place. The shrine is situated on the left bank of the Dal Lake, Srinagar and is considered to be Kashmir's holiest Muslim shrine. History of the relic According to legend, the relic was first brought to India by Syed Abdullah, a descendant of the Islamic prophet Muhammad who leftMedina and settled in Bijapur, near Hyderabad in 1635] When Syed Abdullah died, his son, Syed Hamid, inherited the relic. Following the Mughal conquest of the region, Syed Hamid was stripped of his family estates. Finding himself unable to care for the relic, he sold it to a wealthy Kashmiri businessman, Khwaja Nur-ud-Din Eshai However, when the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb came to know of what had transpired, he had the relic seized and sent to the shrine of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti at Ajmer, and had Khwaja Nur-ud-Din Eshai imprisoned in Lahore for possessing the relic. Later, realizing his mistake, Aurangzeb decided to restore the relic to Khwaja Nur-ud-Din Eshai and allowed him to take it to Kashmir However, by that point, Khwaja Nur-ud-Din Eshai had already died in imprisonment In the year 1700, the relic finally reached Kashmir, along with the body of Khwaja Nur-ud-Din Eshai. There, Inayat Begum, daughter of Khwaja Nur-ud-Din Eshai, became a custodian of the relic and established the shrine.

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Hazratbal ShrineInayat Begum was married into the prominent Banday family in Kashmir, and since then, her descendants from the Banday family have been the keepers of the relic, known as Nishaandehs The relic was reported disppeared on 26 December 1963. There were mass protests all over the state on the disappearance of the Mo-e-Muqaddas (the Hair of the Prophet) with hundreds of thousands out in streets. Awami Action Committee was formed to recover relic. On 31 December the prime minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru made a broadcast to the nation on the disappreance of the sacred relic. The relic was recovered on 4 January 1964.

JAMIA MASJID SRINAGAR

Standing tall in Nowhatta in the heart of Srinagar city from the last 610 years, the colossal structure of Jamia Masjid, the grand mosque of Kashmir, has been witness to a palette of historical events. The history of Jamia Masjid is in fact a reflection of the history of political uprisings in the state. Thousands of people congregate here for prayers, especially on Fridays,

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and it is the biggest mosque in Kashmir known for its peaceful and tranquil ambiance. While the other heritage structures in Kashmir are inching towards their deplorable decay, the grand mosque remains steadfast in maintaining its charm and splendor. Inspired by Indo-Saracenic architecture, Jamia Masjid has an area of 384 X 381 feet. It is quadrangle in shape, roughly square, with four minars; one in the middle of each side covered with a series of pyramidal roofs which terminate in an open turret crowned by high pinnacle. The minars are connected by spacious halls, whose principal feature is the vast array of 378 wooden columns which support the roof. On the outside, the mosque is decorated with yellow poppies lining the mossy brick paths and lush green parks. Jamia Masjid can accommodate more than 33,333 people for prayers at one time. There is a square garden in the middle and the mosque is surrounded by wide lanes on all the four sides. Large entrance gateway is covered with a pyramidical roof surmounted by a square open pavilion (brangh) with a spire on top. Jamia Masjid is a local adaptation of the enclosed courtyard type mosque plan prevalent throughout the Islamic world .The main entrance on the southern side consists of a recessed portico leading into an inner courtyard based on the traditional chaar bagh plan with a tank at the centre. The court which was originally planted with a series of chinars is enclosed by arched liwans (cloisters) covered with two tiered sloping roof.The western wall of the cloister houses a black marble mehrab with beautiful calligraphic work. Ninety nine attributes of Almighty Allah have been engraved on it. The courtyard is made up of pointed arched, brick arcade which lends a solemn atmosphere to the whole area. The upper clerestory is reached through twin staircases located in the jamb of the arch along the western fa?ade. The compound is bisected by two broad paths which have been planted with cypress trees. The water tank in the courtyard was originally fed by a water channel known as Lachma Kul. The foundation for the mosque was laid by Sultan Sikandar Shah Kashmiri, father of Sultan Zainulaabdin (Budshah), a ruler of Kashmir in 1398 AD. The construction was completed in 1402 AD. Right from its inception, tragedies have been inherent to the mosque. The magnanimous mosque was damaged by fire on three occasions but the damaged portions were restored after every disaster. Historical records suggest a large conflagration reduced it to ashes in 1479 AD. The reigning sovereign, Sultan Hasan Shahm, then set about its reconstruction with greater splendor. Unfortunately, the king died before completing his task,

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which was then brought to a successful end in 1503 AD by Ibrahim Magre, Commander-inChief of Kashmir forces under the reigns of Muhammad Shah and Fateh Shah. In 1620, under the rule of Jehangir, a severe conflagration again broke out in Srinagar and destroyed twelve thousand buildings including Jamia Masjid. King Jehangir ordered its reconstruction which took 17 years. Malik Haider of Tsodur, a historian of Kashmir, was entrusted with the execution of the work.In 1674 AD, third blaze consumed Jamia Masjid. It is stated that when Aurangzeb heard of the accident, he first enquired whether the chinars were safe for the mosque could be rebuilt in a short time. A full-grown chinar can never be replaced. He engaged all the bricklayers and masons of the city and the mosque was completed within three years. The last restoration work was carried out under the reign of Maharaja Pratap Singh. Today, this mosque stands tall like the pride of Srinagar, holding within itself rich stories from the past and calling all Muslims to pray five times a day.

MUKHDOOM SAHAB SRINAGAR Nestled below the imposing Mughal Fort is the shrine of Sheikh Hamza Makhdum. Also known as Makhdoom Sahib, Mehboob-ul-Alam and Sultan-Ul-Arifeen. Shrine is towards the southern side of Hari Parbat Hill. It is one of the most sacred shrines in Kashmir. This double storied, many-pillared structure displays a remarkable architectural style. This shrine is visited not only by Muslims but by people of all faiths, throughout the year. Makhdoom Sahib, also called Hazrat Sultan, was a Sufi saint. Makhdoom Sahib (1456 1509): It a shrine on the southern side of the Hari Parbhat hill, is visited not only by Muslims but by people of all faiths. Sultan-Ul-Arifeen Hazrat Sheikh Hamza Makhdum R.A., entitled Mehboob-Ul-Alam, and Sultan-Ul-Arifeen, Popularly known as Makdoom Sahib, was born to Baba Usman, of the Chandra-Vanshi Rajput family,Raina Family (The Family name of Followers of Hindu Mythology called a Pandits or Brahmins in the region of India Held Kashmir) a hereditary landlord, a scholar and a mystic saint of high order. Sheikh Hamza Makhdum R.A. in this manner, inherited the mysticism.

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He inherited the mysticism, and from the very childhood was inclined to the company of holy men, and to the truth. Having read the holy Quran in the village, he went to the seminary of Sheikh Ismial Kabroi for higher studies.

Once he was playing instead of going to elementary school (maktab) His father happened to come there, grew angry, and beat him so severely that he fell ill. From the day he pledged that he would never play with his Grand Father Zaiti-Raina. He went to see Fatah Ullah (son of Hazrat Baba Ismial) the spiritual teacher of the Rena tribe, and learnt the Qu'Oran for a year in the monastery at Shamsi-Chak here he was enrolled into the seminary of Baba Ismial Kabroi, as a student, for higher studies. He studied the Jurisprudence, Tradition, Logic, Philosophy, Ethics, and Mysticism.

The title Sultan-Ul-Arifeen indicates to serious efforts and painstaking prayers did. During his studies s he meditated. Baba Davood opines that Hazrat Makhdoom did not rest during night for years but remained engaged in prayers.

Sultan-Ul-Arifeen says, "I was directed to say the daruds, mention of the names, and prayers because of His kindness and whenever I sluggish in the conduct I was reprimanded. "Hard work and painstaking prayers in the early youth made him old before time. The great sage followed the Sunni (Tradition) strictly not only in prayers but also in table manners, dress, manners, and etc. He scrupulously followed the Prophet and his love for him knew no bounds. These things helped him to reach the highest rank. Later, he had to forsake his love for isolation in order to serve the people. He remarks:

"In the early days I had completely abandoned the company of the people. God granted me the gift of peace at heart and composure of mind. He ordered me to serve the people so I came and started delivering the Message."

Generally the sages are indifferent to the Shairah. In the case of the persons of the Rishiyat Order, the indifference is evident. The suppression of self, renunciation of physical demands, asceticism, and other local effects are clearly visible on sages and the Islam here. His greatest contribution was that he delivered it in its purest form to the people. He followed the Shairah strictly but asked others to do it; opposed to their reluctance of legitimate things; joined the Shairah with Rishiyat and asked the people to follow into the footsteps of the Prophet; and relieved them of their superstitions. He made Hirdey Rishi eat meat under his orders, wore rich dress, declared superstitions as untrue, opposed and exposed the hypocrites, advised to work hard continuously, observed personal hygiene and cleanliness and instructed to take

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lawful food and to lead pious and pure life. These are the teachings that show that he tried to build a society on the pattern of the Book and Shairah. Rozabal Rozabal in Srinagar The mausolaeum of the Yuz Asaf the Islamic saint Syed Nasr-ud-Dinis is today located in the middle of Srinagar's old town, Anzimar in the Khanyar quarter..The building constructed is called "Razabal" or "Rauza Bal". "Rauza" is a term used to denote the tomb of a celebrated personality, someone noble, wealthy or saintly. Anjuna, which is Sanskit for John/Johannes, built the tomb around 89AD. The tomb was first mentioned in documents from 112AD which states, that a protective building had been constructed over the crypt. The tomb is said to have been tended by an Israelic looking family, in an unbroken line throughout the centuries. In 1766, the keepers of the tomb were issued with a charter, which were officially confirming the importance of the sacred site. The words in the formal decree issued by the Grand Mufti ("Teacher of Islamic religious Law") Rahman Mir are as follows:"Here lies Yuz Asaf, who rebuilt the Temple of Solomon at the time of King Gopadatta, and who came as a prophet to Kashmir. He ministered to the people, declared the unity with God, and was lawgiver to the people. Since then his tomb has been honoured by kings, state officials, high dignitaries and the common folk".Many people believe "Yus Asaf" is the Islamic name for Jesus. Many ancient literary works in Kashmir testify to the fact that Yuz Asaf and Jesus are the same person. One old manuscript desribes the shrine as the grave of Issa Rooh-Allah, "Jesus the Spirit of God". Thousands of the faithful visit this tomb - not just Muslims, but Hindus, Buddhists and Christians as well. The true importance of this modest shrine has been preserved in the memory of the descendants of the ancient Israelites to this day. They call the shrine, "The tomb of Hazrat Issa Sahib", "The Tomb of Lord Jesus". But according to Quran & Muslims it is not believed so. Prophet Jesus is not buried there for sure. Therefore this is a very controversial place as to who is buried there.In the past some great sufi poets Llike Hazrat Sheikh Noor-u-din Noorani, Lala Arifa, Shamas Fakir, Wahab Khar, Samad Mir,

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Ahmad Batwari, Souch Kral, Rahim Sahib, Naima Sahib, Rasool Mir, Mehjoor, Habba Khatoon and many others have lived in Kashmir & their Tombs are in various parts of the valley. Dastegeer sahib: Dastgeer Sahib is an 200 year old shrine situated in khaniyar. Gous E Azam never stayed there. It has the old Quran written by Hazrat Abu Bakr Sidiqqi R.A, Hazrat Ali R.A, and the Mouia Pak, a piece of hair from Gous E Azam. It was constructed in 1806 and expanded in 1877 by Khwaja Sanaullah Shawl. It is the center of the activity hub of the Khaniyar and is surrounded by a large market. On the Urs of the Gous E Azam thousands of people from all over Kashmir go there to pray to Allah and watch the ziyarat.There are five Graves Situated inside it. It is said that it is of the one of the members of Gous E Azam. The shrine was badly damaged in a fire on 25 June 2012. The relics of the saint that were located inside a fireproof vault were not damaged. The shrine is to be restored to its original state, which is expected to take two and a half years

Shankar achayara Temple The Shankaracharya Temple (Nastaleeq)), also known as the Jyesteshwara temple or PasPahar by buddhists, is located in Srinagar, Kashmir. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located on the summit of the same name at a height of 1,000 feet (300 m) above the plain, and is overlooking the city of Srinagar. The temple dates back to 200 BC, although the present structure probably dates back to the 9th century AD. The temple was visited by Adi Shankara and has ever since been associated with him, after whom the hill/temple got the name shankaraharya. It is also regarded as being sacred by Buddhists, who call the mandir "Pas-Pahar. The temple was originally a Buddhist temple nearly 2500 years ago and the Shiv ling was placed inside the temple by Adi Shankaracharya on his visit to Kashmir and the temple became a Hindu temple.The hill is also referred to as Takht i Suleiman (Throne of Solomon) and the temple also called "Throne of Solomon."It is believed that king Solomon came to worship on the hill which makes the place sacred from ancient times. According to Pandit Anand Koul (1924) the temple was originally built by "Sandiman" (unknown) who according to Koul reigned in Kashmir from 2629 to 2564 BC.[4] It was repaired by King

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Gopaditya (426 365 BC) and by King Lalitaditya (697734).[ Its roof was also repaired by Zain-ul-Abidin after an earthquake; later, its dome was repaired by Sheikh Ghulam Mohiuddin, a Sikh Governor (18411846

GURUDWARA CHATI PADSHAHI Gurdwara Chatti Patshahi, Kathi Darwaja, Rainwari, Srinagar is one of the most important Sikh Gurudwaras in Kashmir. It is believed that the sixth guru of Sikhism traveled through Kashmir, stopping to preach occasionally and stayed for few days.GURUDWARA SHRI GURUHARGOBIND SAHIB JI (GURUDWARA SHRI CHATTI PATSHAHI SAHIB) is situated near Kathi Darwaza in Rainawari Area of Distt City Srinagar, J&K State. A Old Blind lady Bag Bhari was a great disciple of SHRI GURU HARGOBIND SAHIB. She had prepared a Khadar Chola for GURU SAHIB and was waiting for GURU SAHIB as she being blind couldnt travel. So to fulfill her wish GURU SAHIB came here at Srinagar and met her. She offered GURU SAHIB chola, and requested that she wanted have a glimpse of GURU SAHIB. GURU SAHIB hitted ground with his Barcha, a spring of water started coming out of ground. GURU SAHIB asked Mai Bhag Bhari to wash her eyes with that water. When Mai Bhag Bhari did that her eye sight came back. Seeing GURU SAHIB with her own eyes, She fell on GURU SAHIB's feet. And further Mai Requested that now she had darshan of GURU

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SAHIB and she doesnt want to see anything else in this world. She requested to GURU SAHIB to relese her from this birth. Her request was accepted and she left for heavenly aboad. GURU SAHIB himself creamated her body on the left side of GURUDWARA SAHIB. That placestill exist here. From here GURU SAHIB left towards Baramulla, Uri

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GULMARG A beautiful valley which attracts the tourists from farthest corners of the world throughout the year Gulmarg happens to be one of the most visited tourist destination in Kashmir. Surrounded by snow clad mountains and splendid meadows Gulmarg catches attention of one and all. As per the estimates Gulmarg comes next after mughal gardens of Kashmir as far as tourist arrivals are concerned hn Gulmarg the existing carrying capacity is almost exhausted and if the existing development continues then in 2020 it crosses the limit of sustainable development. Gulmarg is a destination which has a very fragile environment where development should be handled with extreme caution such that they do not contribute further to the unsustainable development of the place. Hence, only upgradation of the existing infrastructure is advisable. To cater to the heavy tourist inflow at Gulmarg (highest in the Kashmir Circuit) it is suggested to develop Tangmarg as a night stay destination. This is because Tangmarg is at the base of the climb to Gulmarg (5km from Gulmarg) and the eco-sensitivity of Tangmarg is lower than that of Gulmarg. Moreover, Tangmarg has sufficient carrying capacity even in 2020.owever Gulmarg (translation: "Meadow of Flowers") is a town, a hill station, a popular skiing destination and a notified area committee in Baramulla district in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir.The town is within the Himalayas and is within miles of the Line of Control between India and Pakistan. Gulmarg has been a resort for the kings like Yousuf Shah Chak and Jahangir who used to visit frequently. The old name of Gulmarg was "Gaurimarg", the name of Lord Shiva's wife. Yousuf Shah Chak changed its name to Gulmarg, meaning the place of roses. During the early part of the 20th century the famous Central Asian explorer Sir Marc Aurel Stein (1862 1943), made his home here in a tent between his expeditions. It was a favourite summer holiday destination for the British stationed in India. The surrounding areas were politically restive during a period of relative peace and quiet. The town is nestled within the imposing Himalayan peaks, and lies within miles of the Line of Control. It receives heavy snowfall during the winter season and is a popular ski resort.[3] Gulmarg has quickly become one of the state's most visited destinations. The slopes of Afarwat Hills of the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalaya Chain boast one of the longest and

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highest ski slopes in Asia. The total distance covered by ski lifts is five kilometres and the resort peaks at an altitude of 3,950 m (12,959 ft), accessed by an aerial gondola (tele cabine). The skiing project was inaugurated by the Chief Minister on 25 December 2004. The entire hill is guarded by the army at all times. The army, which is seen everywhere in the cities of Kashmir, is not in the town or the actual hilltop. Frisking is only done midway on the access road at 3 places: Tangmarg, near an army camp on the road from Tangmarg, and 5 km before entering Gulmarg. Gulmarg does not have any permanent residents. All living in Gulmarg is hotel employees and guests. ACCESSIBILITY Gulmarg is easily accessible from Srinagar or Srinagar Airport (SXR), the capital of Kashmir, in under 2 hours by car or bus. Just 1 hour on the way is the town of Tangmarg, a key tourist attraction and also a main destination for skiers riding down from Gulmarg during the winter months. From Tangmarg, the Gulmarg plateau is just 30 minutes travel. Gulmarg has around 40 hotels ranging from extremely budget accommodation in private huts to hotels that are of a similar standard to a western Bed & Breakfast. When hotels say 5 star expect similar standards to the aforementioned bed and breakfast or motel. The peak season starts with the snowfall in December and lasts until March (April if it is a good season). The charges for one night stay during peak season in a hotel range typically between Rs1500 to Rs6500+, however there is also accommodation available for Rs500 which is only for the hardcore. The pre-season and post-season rates may have a discount but this is not standard. According to CNN, Gulmarg is the "heartland of winter sports in India." Gulmarg was being mooted as a possible host for the 2010 CWG As such, Gulmarg has been rated by CNN as Asia's seventh best ski destination.]This resort is famous because of its "gondola one of the highest cable car in the world, reaching 3,979 metres. The two-stage ropeway ferries about 600 people per hour to and from the gondola main station in Gulmarg to a shoulder of nearby Mt. Apharwat Summit (4,200 m (13,780 ft)). The ropeway project is a joint venture of the Jammu and Kashmir government and French firm. The first stage transfers from the Gulmarg resort at 2,600 m (8,530 ft) to Kongdoori Station in the bowl-shaped Kongdori valley. The second stage of the ropeway, which has 36 cabins and 18 towers, takes skiers to a height of 3,950 m (12,959 ft) on Kongdoori Mountain, a shoulder of nearby Mt. Afarwat Peak (4,200 m (13,780 ft)). The second stage was completed in a record time of about two years at a cost of Rs11 crore and opened on May 28, 2005. The French company had also built the first phase of the gondola project, connecting Gulmarg to Kongdoori, in 1998.

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The heartland of winter sports in India, as quoted by CNN, is a gathering ground for all things extreme sports and outdoors related. In the winter, the diverse and extreme terrain combines with torrential snowfall to create a snow destination that is among the best in the world. As the destination itself is still undeveloped, skiers and riders never have to suffer the long queues that are so prevalent in other international snow destinations it is not uncommon to get up to 10 runs in a day from the top of the gondola and to be carving fresh lines in untracked snow for the best part of a day. Due to Gulmarg's steep terrain, the region is popular amongst advanced and extreme skiers from around the world and has been visited by a number of ski profssionals and featured in a number of ski films. During the 2012/13 winter season the Australian skier known as 'Wolf Pack' was widely regarded as the best and fastest skier on the mountain.The summer is just as busy. With temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 C, Gulmarg attracts outdoor sports fanatics with its world class golfing, trekking, mountain biking, horse riding, water skiing, and fishing.Gulmarg has a lot of highest things along with its name, and of them is the Gulmarg golf club. It is the highest green golf course in the world. There are a few places of religious importance near the resort within a 5 to 20 km radius like Baba Reshi, Haji Murad at kreei and Tangmarg.Gulmarg is among the most famous tourist destinations in India and there is a need for some tightened regulation to save the environment of the area from over tourism.

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Toosamaidan Tosa maidan is a popular pasture having great historical significance. Sprawling over an area that is 4.8 km long and 2.4 km wide, it is the largest pasture in the region. Situated in the Himalayan range and surrounded by dense forests, the pasture is believed to have been used by the Mughals to reach the valley of Poonch. A seven stories building, known as Dam Dam, was said to be constructed by them there. The Basmai Gali pass leads the way to Tosamaidan, it is one of the favourite trekking destinations thronged by many trekkers.. there are many small lakes in tosamaidan ,, the source of their water is melted snow. DRANG Drung (sometimes spelt as Drang), not to be confused with Drang Drung, is one of the recently discovered tourist places where development work is still going on. Located just 38 kms from Srinagar city, Drung, on the other hand, is a glacier, a beautiful one at Penzilla Pass, Ladakh. Drung lies on way to the charming Gulmarg, just 3 kms from Tangmarg. The final 3 km stretch is still under construction and the road is yet to have a concrete surface. Drung looks similar to Pahalgam, with a large stream, although not as much as Lidder, flowing downstream into the city. It is a small place, unlike Pahalgam, and ideal for short duration trips or a days picnic. Gulmarg Development Authority has been working for the development of this tourist place and has taken cognizance of starting eating joint and other leisure facilities. As of now, it is being promoted for trout fishing and rock climbing. Drung does not have any hotels or restaurants; however travelers can make use of the accommodation in the Tangmarg, which is just 3 kms away.

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The place is tucked away in the pine forests, with log bridges to cross over the stream at many points. The best part is that no artificial touches or constructions have altered in any way the beauty of this place. A small path over the hills takes you to a place where some monuments are located. The monuments are believed to be ruins of the Pandava temples. Only few blocks have survived and the area is not much protected. A stroll through the woodlands leads you to a small village which survives on the basic necessities. There are beautiful fields along the way, old mud houses, pine trees in the backdrop and the gentle stream. Fruit trees and terrace farms also offer some stunning views. The visit to Drung can best be enjoyed if you are about to visit Gulmarg and stop by to be caressed by the woodlands and water. The missing ingredient felt by many travelers at Gulmarg is the water and Drung covers for it. Public transport is available till Tangmarg. From there on you can either walk the distance, which is a pleasure in itself, or ride a pony. Make sure to carry food and eatables Khilanmarg The little paradise can be reached by moving about 6 kms from the Gulmarg bus station. The green meadow is carpeted with flowers of all colours in the springs and in the winter it changes in to a dream destination for the skiing overs and para gliders. The peaks are in clear view from the skiing slopes and they provides a beautiful background to the amusement. The 600 meters slope seen many tourists coming to the place for a wild adventure. Another beauty of it is that the famed Nanga Parbat is of height 7,100 meters is close to it on the south east and gives a perfect scenic photograph. The little paradise can be reached by moving about 6 kms from the Gulmarg bus station. The green meadow is carpeted with flowers of all colours in the springs and in the winter it changes in to a dream destination for the skiing lovers and para gliders. The peaks are in clear view from the skiing slopes and they provides a beautiful background to the amusement. The 600 meters slope seen many tourists coming to the place for a wild adventure. Another beauty of it is that the famed Nanga Parbat is of height 7,100 meters is close to it on the south east and gives a perfect scenic photograph. Alpather Lake (Frozen Lake)

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Found 13 kms from Gulmarg at the foot of the Apharwat peak reaching a height of 4511 meters. 3843 mtrs, 13km, is a one-day trek from Gulmarg via Khilanmarg and 1.5km walk from Gondola Phase II top of Apharwat. The lake is frozen in winters and stays as it is till the middle of June. Lumps of ice are seen floating on the cold waters and the most striking thing is that theducks are seen walking on the lake instead of swimming. The lake area makes a good horse riding aficionados starting early in the morning and returning by the evening Bhutapathri; Located in the close proximity of LOC trekking in this area was restricted but recently in 2012 army allowed tourists to enter Buttapathri. It is very beautiful spot with many small streams of clear crystal flowing water. This area is known for a flower which is pink in colour and astounding grassy meadows in the lap of snow laden mountains. This area is being developed and promoted by Gulmarg Development Authority as one the upcoming tourist attractions. Buttapathri acts as base camp for trekking to Boniyar. GDA has already developed few camping sites in Buttapathri

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Baba payam u din reshi Hazrat Payam Uddin alias Baba Rishi Tang-Marg Sheikh Alam Noor Uddin Noorani impressed upon the Kashmiri intellectuals, powerful men, and rulers, the reality and importance of Islam. He employed discourses, discussions, debates, revelations and miracles for the purpose. He initiated a new system Rishiyat bearing a strong impression of the country. With the passage of time from Sheikh-Ul-Alam Noor Uddin to Baba Payam Uddin Baba Rishi via Baba Zain Uddin grew stronger. There were many sages (Rishis) but the word Rishi simply refers to Baba Payam Uddin. Many places are related to him such as: Khanqahe-Rishi, Islamabad, Ziariat-e-Rishi (Shrine) Habba Kadal, and a shrine, of the Rishi by the side of the road, on the reaches of Gulmarg hill. The Gulmarg monastery appears to be a place of solitude and peace from a distance. The poet describes it: This is a land of flowers, of hills, of beautiful scenes, of sweet smelling shrubs, where the colorful lala flowers bloom in abundance and the bounties of God drop in plenty. The place is no less than the supreme paradise because the shrine of Hazrat Payam Uddin stands here. The shrine and tomb are built in the pagoda style and placed amid wondrous scenic beauty. It has the Jama Majid on one side and a market on the other. One reaches the shrine through a flight of stairs. The langar (public, free eating place) adjoins the tomb. It has a tradition. The king had no male offspring. He went to the sage and requested him for it. The sage prayed to God and the king was bestowed with a male child. The father and the son became his followers. Even today the seekers of offspring's plaster the oven of the langar and receive God's grace. Most of the chroniclers are silent about him. A short mention has been made in the pamphlet issued by the Department of Information and Publicity of the Aqua of the Jammu and Kashmir does not satiate the seekers.Baba Payam Uddin was born to a noble and a minister of the contemporary ruler, at Chander-nau-gaon in the region of Lar. It is also said that Baba Payam Uddin was himself a noble of high rank and a trusted man of the king and lived a life of ease and luxury. Still he liked the company of the saints and sages and sought their blessings.One day he rode a horse. On the way he saw a train of ants carrying grains. He descended and observed them. If God wills, He directs him with small things. He thought that the small ants were working hard to gather grains for winter. He was there entrapped in the glamour of the world unmindful of his next life. (A'khirat), Anxiety of the life after death sat so heavily on his mind that he resigned his job, renounced his home, and came to Baba Zain Uddin who put him to prayers and meditation. On completion of the internal training he

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asked his permission to retire in solitude at Tang-Marg in Rabnoh village. There lived men ill of nature and low of character that objected to his stay but finally he won them over and improved them.At the time of leaving his house, his wife was expecting a child. A son was born in his absence, grew up, and saw his father, and started serving him. He ordered him to move to a village. There he committed an act not according to Sunni. This so much infuriated Baba Payam Uddin that he cursed him to death. Eventually he died Death Baba Payam U ddin died on 3, Zil Haj 889 Hijri and interned at a place, 3 miles from TangMarg, by the side of Gulmarg. People from all corners of Kashmir; visit the Shrine in large numbers. It is believed whenever a fire breaks out in the Shrine some severe calamity befalls on the people of Kashmir.

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Gondola Gulmarg Gondola in Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir is the world's second highest operating cable car since the closure in 2008 of the Mrida cable car in Venezuela.Gulmarg boasts Asia's highest and longest cable car project, the Gulmarg Gondola. The two-stage ropeway ferries about 600 people per hour to and from Kongdoori Mountain, a shoulder of nearby Apharwat Peak (4,200 m (13,780 ft)). The ropeway project is a joint venture of the Jammu and Kashmir government and French firm Pomagalski. The first stage transfers from the Gulmarg resort at 2,600 m (8,530 ft) to Kongdoori Station in the bowl-shaped Kongdoori valley. The second stage of the ropeway, which has 36 cabins and 18 towers, takes skiers to a height of 3,747 m (12,293 ft) on Kongdoori Mountain, a shoulder of nearby Apharwat Peak (4,200 m (13,780 ft)). The second stage was completed in a record time of about two years at a cost of 110,000,000 Indian Rupees (i.e. some US$2.3 million) and opened on May 28, 2005. The French company had also built the first phase of the gondola project, connecting Gulmarg to Kongdoori, in 1998.The timing of the gondola is 10 AM (IST) to 5 PM (It's highly dependent upon the weather at both stages). A gondola can carry six people at a time. The price is 400 Indian Rupees(6 US$) for the first stage and 600 Indian Rupees (9 US$) for the second stage. Also offered is Chair Cars for phase-II for 300/- INR. It takes approximately 9 minutes to reach the first stage and 12 minutes for second stage

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Phalgham Pahalgam also known as valley of shepherds is one the main tourist attraction as far as jammu and Kashmir tourism is concerned. Nature has bestowed pahalgam with beautiful valleys, gushing rivers and breathtaking beauty. It a town and a Municipal

committee in Ananatnag district in India's northernmost state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a popular tourist destination, and every year, many tourists visit Pahalgam. This world famous hill station is 45 km. from the District Head Quarter at Ananatnag and located on the banks of river Lidder at an altitude of 7200 ft. from sea level. Pahalgam is one among the five tehsils of Ananatnag district and Tehsil head quarters are located in the main town of Pahalgam. It was once a tourist attraction and a favourite place for shooting of Bollywood films, and is still a health resort. Besides tourist huts, several hotels in private sector have come up here and these hotels provide modern facilities to their guests. A number of treks in this region also begin from Pahalgam, as the 35 km trail traverses through pinewoods to the spectacular Kolahoi Glacier. Pahalgam is also associated with the annual Amarnath Yatra. Chandanwari (2,895 m), 16 km from Pahalgam, is the starting point of the yatra that takes place every year in the month of Sawan (July to August). The road from Pahalgam to Chandanwari is on fairly flat terrain and can be undertaken by car. From Chandanwari onwards the track becomes much steeper, and is accessible on foot or by pony. About 11 km from Chandanwari is the mountain lake of Sheshnag (3,574 m), after which, 13 km away is the last stop, Panchtarni. The Amarnath cave is 6 km away from there. During the month of Sawan, an ice stalagmite forms a natural Shivling in the Amarnath cave. Demographics As of 2001 India census, Pahalgam had a population of 5922. Males constitute 56% of the population and females 44%. Pahalgam has an average literacy rate of 35%, lower than the Indian national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 49%, and female literacy is 17%. In Pahalgam, 14% of the population is under 6 years of age. Flora and fauna The area holds a rich cover of vegetation, the dominant forest consisting of conifers which account for over 90%. The principal species are Cedrus deodara, Pinus griffithii, Abies pindrow, Aesculus indica etc. The major shrubs are Indigofera heterantha, Viburnum spp.,

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Sorbaria tomentosa etc. the ground cover is very rich and dicotyledonus herbs dominate: Rumex patientia, Primula spp., anemone spp., etc. There are many species of rare, endangered and protected species. The main species are hangul, musk deer, serow, brown bear, Leopard, rhesus macaque, grey langur, Himalayan mouse hare, etc. Wild bears still roam much of the area, and local villagers are on constant alert for their presence. Due to the constant threat of illegal border crossings, the Indian army is always patrolling the area and is on constant high alert. As the local population cannot carry firearms, this has saved the bears from being hunted to extinction. With the abundance of fresh trout in the rivers and local farm animals, they have plenty to eat. Monkeys also populate the area. The area houses a good population of pheasants and upland birds apart from other species, both resident and migratory. The common birds are griffon vulture, monal, snow cock, koklas, blue rock pigeon, Kashmir roller, European hoopoe, jungle crow etc.

BETAB VALLEY Betaab valley is situated at a distance of 15 kilometers from Pahalgam in Anantnag district in India's northernmost state of Jammu and Kashmir. The valley got its name from the Sunny Deol-Amrita Singh hit debut film Betaab.[1] The Valley is towards northeast of Pahalgam and falls between Pahalgam and Chandanwadi and is en route Amarnath Temple Yatra. The valley surrounded by lush green meadows, snow clad mountains and covered with dense vegetation. Betaab Valley, which is a part of Pahalgam area one of the several valleys of Kashmir came into existence during the post geo synclinal stage of the development of the Himalayas.Betaab Valley lies between the two Himalayan Ranges Pir

Panjal and Zanskar. Archaeological evidence proves the human existence in this region from the Neolithic Age, especially at Burzahom, Bomai and Pahalgam. Betaab Valley a part of the Kashmir region, was ruled by the Mughals since the 15th Century. In latter part of the 1400s the Turko-Mughal Military General Mirza Muhammad Haidar Dughlat ruled over Kashmir first on behalf of Sultan Said Khan of Kashgar and then on behalf of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. A polyglot and a historical writer, General Haider wrote the Tarik -iRashidi a personal memoir of the Central Asian History.Sultan Ghiyas-ud-Din Zain-ul-

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Abidin known by all his courtiers and Nobles as the greatest local King ruled the entire Kashmir region for about 40 years during which he was famous for promoting peace and harmony in Kashmirs pluralistic society. He even gave a directive to restore and restructure Kashmir during his reign quite contrary to conventional foreign invading rulers. It was under him that Kashmiriyat a social and cultural consciousness of Kashmiri people was developed. Betab Valley is a very popular touristic destination. Betaab Valley is also a favorite campsite of travelers as it also serves as a base camp for trekking and further exploration of the mountains.[3] The valley is a walk-able distance from Pahalgam. The crystal clear & chilly water of the stream bubbling down from the snowy hills is a delight; locals here drink this water too. Baisaran and Tulian Lake are few nearby attractions that can be visited. Kashmir was home to the Indian film industry from the sixties to the eighties. Scores of films were shot in the Valley like Aarzoo, Kashmir Ki Kali, Jab Jab Phool Khile, Kabhie Kabhie, Silsila, Satte Pe Satta and Roti (1974 film), the list is endless. Film shooting almost came to a halt after militancy erupted in the Valley but with things improving now, one can hope that Bollywood would soon return to what many believe is its original home. The threat of militancy was a deterrent for over 30 years but with director Imtiaz Ali shooting for his film Rockstar (2011 film) in the beautiful valley with actorsRanbir Kapoor and Nargis Fakhri, the violence seems to be a thing of the past.[5] The hut where Bobby was shot continues to be famous as the 'Bobby Hut'. KOLAHOI GLACIER Kolahoi Glacier is a valley glacier in the north western Himalayan Range situated 26 kilometers north from Pahalgam and 16 kilometers south from Sonamarg, in the state of Jammu and Kashmir.Kolahoi glacier lies at an average elevation of 4700 meters. The highest peak named after the glacier is Kolahoi Peak has an elevation of 5425 meters. The origin of the glacier is below the cirques on the north flank of Kolahoi Peak. It is the source of Lidder River and some melt waters become the tributaries of the Sind River. Kolahoi Glacier is among the victims of global warming, and has shrunk in area from 13.57 km2 in 1963 to 10.69 km2 in 2005 or a loss of 2.88 km2 in three decades. In 1974 the glacier was about 5 km long and is known to have extended for at least 35 km during the Pleistocene. According

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to another report, Kola hoi is a hanging glacier and hollowed inside. It is a matter of great concern for Kashmir Valley Shri Amarnath ji shrine Amarnath Yatra one of the most sacred and popular pilgrimages to the holy snow-clad cave shrine of Lord Shiva in the beautiful northern Indian state of Jammu & Kashmir. Of all Hindu pilgrimages, Amarnath situated at an altitude of 3,880 meters in the southern Kashmir Himalayas is considered one of the holiest visit or 'darshan' to the Holy Cave is generally open from mid June-early July (Ashad Purnima) to early August (Sharvan Purnima). The pilgrimage starts in June-July and draws thousands of pilgrims to the naturally-formed iceShiva Lingam at the holy cave shrine. The 'yatra' or pilgrimage concludes in August, around the Raksha Bandhan festival. The Amarnath cave has been a place of worship since times immemorial. There are references to the legendary king Aryaraja who used to worship a lingam formed of ice in Kashmir. The book Rajatarangini refers to Amareshwara or Amarnath. It is believed that Queen Suryamathi in the 11th century AD gifted trishuls, banalingas and other sacred emblems to this temple.Rajavalipataka, begun by Prjayabhatta has detailed references to the pilgrimage to Amarnath Cave. Other than this, there are further references to this pilgrimage in many other ancient texts Although the existence of the Holy Cave has been mentioned in the Puranas, the popular story narrated by people about the re-discovery of this Holy Cave is of a shepherd Buta Malik. Story goes like this: a saint gave Buta Malik a bag full of Coal. On reaching his home when he opened the bag, to his utter surprise the bag was full of gold coins. This overwhelmed him with joy. He ran to thank the Saint. But the Saint had disappeared. Instead, he found The Holy Cave and the Ice Shiv Lingam there in. He announced this discovery to the Villagers. Then onwards this became a sacred place of Pilgrimage. t is believed that after the Middle Ages, this cave was forgotten by people before it was discovered by a shepherd in the 15th century once again .Another story relates to Bhrigu Muni. Long time ago it is believed that The Vale of Kashmir was submerged under water and Kashyapa Muni drained it through a series of rivers and rivulets. Therefore when the waters drained, Bhrigu Muni was the first to have Darshan of Lord Amarnath. Thereafter, when people heard of the Lingam, it became an abode of Lord Bholenath for all believers and a pilgrimage which is done by lacs of people each year

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Aru valley Aru is a tourist spot in the Ananatnag District of Jammu & Kashmir, India. It is located around 12 from Pahalgam, 11 km upstream from the Lidder River. Noted for its scenic meadows, lakes and mountains, it is a base camp for trekking to the Kolhoi Glacier and Tarsar Lake. The village lies of the left bank of the Aru river, which is a tributary of the Lidder river. The Aru valley is noted for its scenic meadows. It is popular among the tourists for its peaceful environment and scenic beauty.The village is a base camp for trekkers to the Kolahoi Glacier, the Tarsar-Marsar lakes and the Katrinag valley. It is also a base for the treks to Lidderwat, the Vishansar-Kishansar lakes and Kangan. The Kolahoi is the largest glacier in the Kashmir Valley, and is located near Mt. Kolahoi (5425m), the highest peak in the Valley. A number of hotels, restaurants and huts are available for boarding and lodging.There are about 20 alpine lakes, peaks and meadows around the Aru Valley. In the winters, when Aru receives heavy snowfall, skiing and heliskiing are practiced. Other popular tourist activities include fishing of trout in the Lidder river, trekking, hiking, horse riding, sightseeing and photographyThe Overa-Aru Biosphere Reserve is located 76 km from the state capital Srinagar. It has the status of a Wildlife sanctuary, and is spread over an area of 511 km2.[6] The altitude ranges from 30005425 m above the sea level.[citation needed] It is famous for several rare and endangered species

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