Jammu & Kashmir: A Serene Place to Visit in January's Winter

Tourism in India during the winter is like an amazing expedition. Because, no one can't say that a short trip in India is not at all entertaining or blissful. After all, when it is a trip to the 'Swarg', (Kashmir is also known as 'Bhuswarga') (heaven) of India. Every (traveller) 'Musafir' is welcomed here because, Indian tradition and culture teaches 'Vasudhaiva Kudumbkam'. It means the whole world is one family. Winter is the best time to visit this incredible India's Jammu and Kashmir because, one can enjoy the true beauty of this place only if the person plans to visit Jammu in January. Apart from apricots, green apple and the other regional fruits of this place, it is the Thajiwas glacier amongst other tourist attractions that drag tourists over here. Major 'key' factors for tourist attraction Nectar for sacred belief Vaishno Devi Temple is one of the major 'turn-key' factor for driving the religious tourists from all over India. Earlier, before 1989's insurgency, tourism contributed a major portion of Kashmir's economy. But, after that tourism was a worst hit for all. Whether you are a profane or a sacred believer of God, this place is a hotspot for everyone. But, before you go you must believe the sacred presence of mother 'Vaishno Devi' from the innate core of your soul and then start your journey to the temple. Climbing the steep steps is not that easy when you are climbing the stairs. Every year thousands of tourists come here to touch the holy feet of Vaishno devi to fulfil their unsatisfied desire. It is a belief that whoever comes here never goes back without getting their wish fulfilled. "Mata'' (Mother) Vashno devi fulfils their every desire. That's what drag even foreign devotees to this place to visit Amarnath in January, where the famous Vaishno Devi Temple is located. Speciality of this attraction The speciality of it is, you can see people from all community, irrespective to their age is walking and climbing the huge 13.5 km path. While going through this long journey for long more than 3 to 4 hours journey by foot, you might hear devotees yelling 'Jai Mata Di'. That's the spirit of those who come here to visit Vaishno Devi for once in their lifetime. Shikara ride Did you ever enjoy a boat ride? Well, I am not talking about any ordinary boat ride on Thames or on Hudson Bay. I am talking about a semi frozen lake with budding lotus flower everywhere and you are taking a peaceful tranquil ride with a cup of coffee on your hand. The smoke evoking from the cup is creating a smoggy atmosphere in the 'Shikara' and you can see people slowly riding near you with green apples, fruits and apricots, ripened enough to gulp it inside. That's what people usually do whenever they come to Kashmir. It is a common phenomenon on Dal Lake. Most of the shikaras available here are meant for tourist purpose. How to hire them All you have to do is, find a boatman and hire it for one night or two nights. That include of course two meals a day as well as the breakfast. The charges won't be much. It might cost around 2500/- to 3500/- INR. The charges vary when it is a peak tourist season. If you are choosing this place to visit in the month of January, the price varies for sure. Sonmarg Known for its exotic beauty and amazing greenery, Sonmarg is a prime location for every international tourists. Whether it is the green apple or the snow-clad mountains that is driving you here, visiting Sonmarg during the winter season is a priceless memory. Recently an initiative has been taken by the Govt. Of India to promote tourism in this place. An ample of winter sports like skiing and various other entertainment has been organised to promote tourism in Sonmarg. Low per head cost Per head cost of any place that you plan to visit in Sonmarg during the month of January is never going to be a burden for your budget. So, stop wrinkling your eyebrows. Per head Meal: 500/- INR {lunch & dinner excluding breakfast}. Per head Lodging: 1500/- to 2500/-, for basic accommodation, i.e. one room with attached bathroom. However, the prices may vary depending upon the accommodation and facility you are taking. The prices might go a bit high if you need any luxury accommodation. Other attractions Jammu is famous for other attractions as well. They include Bhau Fort and Baghee Bahu. Though prior to insurgency now the tourist visit has decreased in Jammu and Kashmir, but still people come here in search of peace. If you are coming here with your kids or your dating partner don't forget to visit Gulmarg. There are ample of winter sports available in this place to attract the tourists. If you are thinking for skiing, do drop in. Nothing can be more romantic than Gulmarg if you are planning to visit in the month of January. We all lead a life where everyone rushes for materialistic expansion. Nobody has got time to sit and think for a while how melodious and mystique nature is in Jammu and Kashmir. Here, a rambling 'musafir' (traveller) can spend the whole life, basking in this enthralling beauty of Kashmir. Myth says that when Rama verged war against Ravana he got stuck to see the beauty of 'Pampa' river. A lone wanderer is definitely going to get his or her knees completely numb the moment the person witnesses flamboyant Lidar River passing through the Kashmir valley. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9871201