The
Mughal Emperor Jehangeer is said to have once written about Kashmir: Agar
firdaus bar rue zamin ast hamin asto, hamin asto, hamin ast! ("If there be
paradise on earth, it is here, it is here, it is here!"). He was writing
about Kashmir, a land divided between the northern half of the
northern-most state of India, Jammu and Kashmir and the district of
Kashmir in Pakistan. Torn by war, terrorism and violence since 1948, this
beautiful valley has long been considered a dangerous place to go to, but
tourism is slowly coming back to the valley as militancy, which began in
the early 90s (as a means of protest against what some describe as
forceful Indian occupation) has come down. The most famous places to visit
in Kashmir are Srinagar, Pahalgam and Gulmarg. Other places include
Sonamarg and Verinag. There are various trekking routes available across
whole of Kashmir. Adventure sports in the form of water rafting and
paragliding, among others, are available at various tourist locations. The
Royal Springs' Golf course in the heart of Srinagar on the shores of the
world famous Dal Lake is one of the most beautiful golf courses around.
There is a small 18-hole golf course in Gulmarg.
