Kashmir

The metrical chronicle of the kings of Kashmir, called Rajatarangini, has (erroneously) been pronounced by Professor H.I. Wilson to be the only Sanskrit composition yet discovered to which the appellation "history" can with any propriety be applied. It first became known to the Muslims when, on Akbar's invasion of Kashmir in 1588, an amalgamated version was presented to the emperor. A translation into Persian was made at his order. A summary of its contents, taken from this Persian translation, is given by Abul Fazl in the Ain-i-Akbari. The Rajatarangini was written by Kalhana in the middle of the 12th century. His work, in eight books, makes use of earlier writings that are now lost.

The Rajatarangini is the first of a series of four histories that record the annals of Kashmir. Commencing with a rendition of traditional 'history' of very early times (3102 BC), the Rajataranginicomes down to the reign of Sangrama Deva, (c.1006 AD) and Kalhana. The second work, by Jonaraja, continues the history from where Kalhana left off, and, entering the Muslim period, gives an account of the reigns down to that of Zain-ul-ab-ad-din, 1412. P. Srivara carried on the record to the accession of Fah Shah in 1486. The fourth work, called Rajavalipataka, by Prajnia Bhatta, completes the history to the time of the incorporation of Kashmir in the dominions of the Mogulemperor Akbar, 1588.

Kashmir is truly regarded as the paradise in India and you can expect much more here since its diverse topography has endowed it a completely unique appeal. Its snow clad peaks, verdant jungles, gushing rivers and serene lakes have made it reach on the top of the priority list of an ardent traveler. The tourist attractions in Kashmir are worthy of a visit by the tourists on their tour to Kashmir.

Jammu is the southernmost region of this state and is blessed by various rivers such as Ravi, Tawi and Chenab that make it perennial all the year round. These rivers making their way through the spectacular gorges add to the beauty of this state. Among the Kashmir tourist attractions, you will come across several religious places that are located in Jammu that are peaceful and scenic as well. Several important ones are Ranbireshwar Temple, Raghunath Temple, Bahu Fort & Gardens, Peer Baba, Mahamaya Temple, Lakshmi Narayan temple, Amar Mahal Palace, Sudh Mahadev temple, Gauri Kund, Mansar Lake and Purmandal.

Your trip to Kashmir will be deemed to be an incomplete one without a visit to the shrine of the Goddess Vaishnodevi which is one of the most important tourist attractions in Kashmir. The state of Jammu and Kashmir is also famous for many gardens that are well-manicured and look simply amazing against the backdrop of green valleys. The architectural wonders of this place are equally attention grabbing and you would simply keep staring at them for hours. Don’t miss out to catch a glimpse of the Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Chashma Shahi, Pari Mahal, Hazratbal Mosque, Jama Masjid, Shankaracharya Temple, Makhdoom Sahib, Martand and Awantipur as part of the Kashmir tourist attractions.

The sport lovers can make their way to Gulmarg which flaunts the highest green golf course in the world and a leading ski resort in the winter. There are many things to watch in Kashmir and you must have ample time in hand for making a tour of this place.