Vale of Kashmir is considered the most beautiful regions of India, often referred to as Switzerland of east, Venice of India and so on, for the simple reason that it has Towering snow covered mountains, hill resorts, gushing streams, waterways and canals.

The Mughal rulers were always happy to retreat from the heat of plains to cool green heights of Kashmir; indeed they called it Paradise on earth, here they laid numerous gardens. As Mughals, the British were equally fond of the cool climate of Kashmir, during Raj period, Kashmiri rulers would not permit them to own land here, so they adapted the solution of building houseboats.

The happy valley, changes its hues with the seasons - always extravagantly beautiful. Two major Himalayan ranges, the Great Himalaya and the Pir Panjal, surround the valley from the north and south respectively. They are the source of great rivers, which flow down into the valleys, forested with orchards and decorated by lily-laden lakes.

Vacation options here are unlimited irrespective of a season. In spring, summer and Autumn , the honey-dewed orchards, rippling lakes and blue skies beckon every soul to sample the many delights the mountains and valleys have to offer. Golfing at 2,700 m above the sea, water-skiing in the lakes and angling for prized rainbow trout, or simply drifting down the willow fringed alleys of lakes in shikaras and living in gorgeous houseboats are some of the most favoured ones. In winter, when snow carpets the mountains, there is skiing, tobogganing, sledge-riding, etc. along the gentle slopes.