Jammu and Kashmir

The regions of Jammu and Kashmir form a vast state which includes Lakdakh. Srinagar is the summer capital and the winter capital is Jammu which is further south.

The Kashmir Valley is fertile, verdant region and is enclosed by high snow capped mountains of the Pir Panjal range and the Himalaya range to the east. The population is mostly Muslim with a strong Islamic history that can be traced back to the 14th century. South of the Kashmir Valley is Jammu, which is situated on the Indian plains a short distance from the hills of Siwalik. North of this region is the large catchment area of the Chenab river which extends into the Himalays.

Dont's:
When visiting mosques or temples shorts or sleeveless tops are not to be worn. Smoking and the holding of hands, the touching of carvings or statues and the touching of someone's head is not permitted. Removal of shoes prior to entry. These apply to both men and women. In some mosques you will be required to cover your head.

Never point the soles of your feet to another person or statue.

The right hand should be used for all occassions. The left is considered dirty.

When swimming nudity is not allowed, even in remote areas. Women should wear a sarong if they are in public view.

Some animals are considered sacred, please check with local authorities.

Extreme climate, warm inland from April to mid-June falling to almost freezing at night in winter, between November and February. Summers are hot with monsoons between June and September. The climate is pleasant between October and March, blast-furnace hot between April and June, and dripping with humidity between July and September.

Required clothing: Lightweight cottons and linens in summer with warmer clothes in winter and on cooler evenings. Waterproofing is essential during monsoons. Monsoon rains occur in most regions in summer between June and September.