Jammu and Kashmir is the northern-most district of India. Surrounded by snowy mountain tops, ancient temples, forgotten palaces and unmistakable food, it is the perfect stop for adventurers, skiers and all-round culture vultures. Here are our suggestions for where to go and what to eat when you’re there:
Srinagar
Srinagar is the beautiful mountain-locked summer capital. Home to Dal Lake, the Mughal Gardens and the wooden spired mosque of Khanqah Shah-i-Hamadan.
Dal Lake is known for its colourful houseboats or ‘shikharas’, mirror-like lake and rugged mountain trails. It was here in the 17thcentury that Mughal emperor Jahangir remarked:“Gar firdaus, ruhezaminast, haminasto, haminasto, haminast” meaning:“If there is ever a heaven on earth, it is here, it is here, it is here.”
While you are here try Matschegand, the Kashmiri mountain delicacy made of minced meatballs cooked in a red, spicy gravy. Srinagar is known for its delicious dried fruits, saffron and traditional handicrafts such as handwoven shawls and carpets.
Jammu
Known as the land of temples, Jammu is the region’s winter capital. From shrines hidden in caves to colourful temples and giant stone structures, it truly deserves the title. Explore Jammu’s ancient forts or use it as a base for adrenaline-fuelled adventures such as helicopter rides and paragliding.
Another must stop is the Temple of Mata Vaishno Devi, a famed cave situated 13km inland from the foothills of the Himalayas. It is remote, but remains one of the oldest, most visited and revered temples in India.
Goshtaba is a traditional mutton dish – and you cannot leave Jammu and Kashmir without sampling their mutton –cooked in yoghurt and spices. It is popularly known as the “dish of kings” and once you have tried it you will understand why.
Ladakh
Ladakh has earned the name ‘Little Tibet’ thanks to its remote and alpine location, Buddhist ethos and beautiful surroundings. It is an unforgiving landscape – one marked by cold, bare winters. But with its hauntingly mystical valleysit is also very beautiful – why else would people risk minus 20 degree temperatures?
Explore the area by foot, car or bike. A motorbike through this region is worthy of a Top Gear episode. Meet bi-humped camels, red-robed Buddhist monks and experience camping as you have never done before.
While you are here, try the Kashmiri MujiGaad. This dish uses fresh fish, radish or nadur and lotus stems. This unique dish is often served during the festival of Gaada Bata in the month of December, but its hot and flavoursome spices will make you wish you could have it all year round.
Thukpa is another famous dish from Leh, a thick, noodle-based soup made with vegetables, mouth-watering spices and a meat of your choice. It is sure to keep you warm during the long winter nights.
Jammu and Kashmir is a region like no other. But if you want to get the best of Indian cuisine without braving the dazzling slopes of the Himalayas, why not visit one of London’s best fine-dining Indian restaurants?
