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Find News Jammu and Kashmir Tourism

Daily Excelsior has grown its way to the top of the journalism heap, which has also been acknowledged by the host of journalistic honours conferred on the organisation. During the past nearly five decades of business history, Excelsior under the leadership of its founder-cum-Editor-in-Chief, S D Rohmetra, has carved a significant niche for itself among its readers by virtue of its in-depth, investigative reporting and its stylish visual format. The well-read editorials are known for their unbiased and informed commentary on events and developments.For more updates on Kashmir Tourism, follow Daily Excelsior, India’s #1 digital news channel for Jammu and Kashmir. 

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What to Know Before You Visit Kashmir’s Dal Lake?

The serene, slightly rippling water, quiet shikaras floating, scent of flowers in the breeze, the occasional laughter of honeymooning couples in the distance coming from the wooden houseboats, and the tranquilizing view of the Himalayan ranges – Dal Lake is gorgeous, romantic, and one of the most sought-after and spell-binding places to visit in Kashmir. In fact, it is an icon of the Jammu and Kashmir tourism industry.  Why Visit Dal Lake?Dal lake, known as the Jewel of Srinagar, spreads across 18 square kilometers and is a part of a 26 square kilometer natural wetland. It has five basins and several streams and channels interlinked to each other. Dal lake is surrounded by snow-peaked mountains on three sides and beautiful flower gardens and apple orchards along its shore, undoubtedly making it the most gorgeous lake in India. Houseboats, floating gardens, and shikaras contribute to the exquisiteness of Dal Lake. They provide the unforgettable experience Srinagar and Dal Lake is known for, always ready to take tourists on peaceful, romantic rides with the most exotic views of Kashmir.  The Mughal gardens, parks, and hotels on its shoreline form the major tourist attractions around Dal Lake. While 500 gardens were laid in the 16th and 17th centuries, only a handful still survived. Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh are the two popular Mughal gardens here. They were built during the reign of Mughal Emperor Jahangir.  What Can You Do Around Dal Lake?Dal lake contains three real islands and a few small islands linked by causeways. Surrounding the Lake are Sri Nagar’s priced jewels and the most interesting sights to see, such as Mughal Gardens, Shankaracharya hills, and floating gardens. The best time to visit Dal Lake is between May to November. The winter freezes the entire lake, and the temperature drops to as low as -11 °.  Houseboats: It is a thumb rule – When in Srinagar, do not miss staying on a houseboat. The majority of the houseboats lie along the western edge of the lake, towards the Dal gate. They are linked together and float around small islands. The houseboat features intricate floral motifs and carvings. You can book luxury suits or single rooms based on your requirements and enjoy ice skating on the frozen lake during winter.  Floating Gardens: The floating gardens, also known as Rad, are a strange site to reckon with. They are made out of matted vegetation, and during the season, the gardens are cut out from the lake’s bottom and shifted to a secure location, where they are secured. Surprisingly, you can grow tomatoes, cucumbers, and melons quite well. The heavy water weeds form an excellent source of compost for the floating gardens.  Shikaras: Don’t like walking? You can book a shikara for an entire day and do a circuit trip around the Mughal gardens.  Dal lake is Jammu and Kashmir’s second-largest lake and is one of the prized possessions of India. If you are anywhere in Kashmir, you mustn’t miss the golden opportunity to visit Dal Lake. Learn more about Kashmir Tourism on Daily Excelsior.  

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J&K Water Resources Regulatory Authority remains headless since Jan, Govt unconcerned

The Jammu and Kashmir Water Resources Regulatory Authority is headless since January this year but the Government has not initiated any step to appoint new Chairperson. Moreover, one of the two Members is too resigning as a result of which the functioning of Authority vested with the responsibility of regulating water resources will suffer immensely. Former Chairman of Central Water Commission G S Jha was appointed Chairperson of Jammu and Kashmir Water Resources Regulatory Authority on October 22, 2020 by the Government in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 139 of the Jammu and Kashmir Water Resources (Regulation and Management) Act, 2020. Similarly, in the month of April 2021, the Government appointed A Paramesham, Chairman Krishna River Management Board and Kishore Chandra Naik, former Chairman, Central Ground Water Board were appointed as Members of the Authority. “Though G S Jha completed his tenure on attaining the age of 65 years in the month of January this year leaving the Authority headless yet the Government has not initiated any step to fill the vacant post till date”, official sources told EXCELSIOR, adding “Jal Shakti Department is required to initiate the steps and take up the matter with the Government for appointment of new Chairperson but it is not showing any seriousness in this regard”. Moreover, A Paramesham, who is still having tenure in the Authority, has decided to resign because of some personal reasons and despite being aware of this aspect no effort has been made by the Government to appoint new Member. “Following resignation of A Paramesham, there will be only one Member in the Authority against the posts of three and due to this, the functioning of the Authority will suffer immensely”, sources said. The intensity of non-seriousness of the Government towards the Authority can be further gauged from the fact that several posts which were sanctioned over one year back have yet not been filled. The Administrative Council headed by Lieutenant Governor on March 30, 2021 approved the proposal of the Jal Shakti Department to create 19 posts in the J&K Water Resources Regulatory Authority to enhance its efficacy. These posts included Ground Water Scientist, an Agriculture Scientist, two Superintendent Engineers, three Executive Engineers, four Assistant Engineers, five Junior Engineers, two Senior Assistants, and a Junior Assistant. Though some Engineers were deputed by the Government in the Authority yet maximum of the sanctioned posts are still vacant and shortage of manpower is creating impediments in the smooth functioning of the Authority which has been vested with the responsibility to regulate water resources within the territorial jurisdiction of the Jammu and Kashmir UT, ensuring judicious, equitable and sustainable management, allocation and utilization of these resources, fixing the rates for use of water, and all other connected matters. How the concerned authorities can be so non-serious towards making the Authority fully functional especially when Lieutenant Governor has laid stress a number of times on conservation of water resources remains a million dollar question, sources said, adding while reviewing the issues of water resources development and management in the Union Territory on April 12, 2021, the Lieutenant Governor had assured all support of the administration to the Authority. “The J&K UT is rich in water resources but due to unplanned development and increase in population, the availability of clean water is very much in danger and hence, the management and regulation of water resources become more important. But it is a matter of serious concern that the Authority which has a crucial role to play in this regard is being ignored by the Government”, sources said. Pointing to the alarming situation of reducing numbers of ponds and depleting water resources, sources said that survey conducted in Jammu and Kashmir in 1998 noted that there were 1248 natural water sources, rivers, ponds etc. However, during the satellite mapping of the same in 2009, this number was reduced to just 565. In view of this, all those agencies and authorities which are involved in the management of water resources are required to be strengthened and provided with all the facilities for smooth functioning, sources stressed. For more updates on Kashmir Tourism, follow Daily Excelsior, India’s #1 digital news channel for Jammu and Kashmir.

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How to Spend Your Trip in Sonamarg? – Kashmir Tourism

There’s more to Kashmir tourism than Leh, Ladakh, and Kargil. Such as Sonamarg, the beautiful tiny town set on the banks of the Sindh River. Also known for its golden meadows, sun-kissed glaciers, and quaint village, Sonamarg is a beautiful spot that couples, families, and adventure junkies can enjoy alike. 

As a tourist, you can explore the valley through trekking and mountaineering, go white-river rafting, enjoy trout fishing, or take in the town’s natural beauty and its significant ancient architecture. 

Why is Sonamarg a Must-Visit?

There are a lot of sights to see and things to do in Sonamarg, and if you plan it right, you can make your trip a perfect combination of leisure and adventure. Sonamarg is a pleasant place throughout the year, with different types of Alpine flower beds blooming across the trekking trails. During Spring, the blooms of yellow crocuses make the entire valley look like molten gold. It is a sight that will forever stay in your mind-rent free. 

There are many beautiful sightseeing and trekking options in Sonamarg, such as Zojila Pass, Baltal Valley, Thajiwas Glacier, sledding and ice-skating on frozen glaciers, and nature-riverside camping. 

The hill station is about 70 Kms from Srinagar and can be reached within 1 – 2 hours by cab or bus. The nearest hill stations are Pahalgam and Gulmarg. However, summers in Sonamarg are much more pleasant and less pricey. 

The best time to visit Sonamarg, according to the Kashmir tourism department, is from April to October. While the winters are also popular among ice-sports lovers, it isn’t as picturesque as the rest of the months. 

What to See and Do in Sonamarg?

Zoji-La Pass: It is a spine-chilling mountain pass about 9 kms from Sonamarg. Zoji La Pass is an important link between Ladakh and Kashmir, once captured by Pakistan and later taken back by the Indian Army.

Gangabal Trek: A very popular and wholesome trek in Sonamarg, encircled by glaciers and natural springs. You can fish rainbow trout here. 

Vishansar and Krishnasar Lakes: The twin lakes are a significant cultural heritage of Kashmir, surrounded by lush green meadows, dense alpine forests, and silvery mountains for a view to reckon. 

Baltal Valley: Situated along the banks of the Sindh River, the Baltal Valley offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges. Tourists interested in Amarnath Yatra can book helicopter services and ponies from here. Trekkers can also camp outside for a cozy bonfire and get-together. 

Waterfall and Thajiwas Glacier Hike: Sonamarg is surrounded by thick alpine forests, meadows, tiny villages, and breathtaking valleys. There are plenty of hiking trails to take you to Thajiwas Glacier and nearby waterfalls. 

Sports and Adventures: Tourists who love adrenaline-rushing activities may have a few options in Sonamarg, including skiing, sledding, and ice-skating on the frozen glaciers during the winter, white river rafting expedition from Baltal to Shutkari bridge, trout fishing, and river-side nature camping. Rental camping gears and equipment are available in Srinagar. 

For more updates on Kashmir Tourism, follow Daily Excelsior, India’s #1 digital news channel for Jammu and Kashmir. 

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Water supply may remain hit on May 28, 29

The water supply in entire Jammu region may remain affected on May 28, 29 as all the employees and other workers of PHE/ Jal Shakti Department have declared two days strike. Addressing a joint press conference here today senior members of PHE Employees United Front including, KC Dubey, Naresh Kumar, Davinder Singh, Balbadar Sharma and Rajesh Jamwal said that PHE daily wagers have declared strike on May 28 and 29, 2022 in support of their long pending demands. Since UT administration is adopting delaying tactics in solving their issues, therefore, United Front has decided to extend full support to the proposed strike of daily wagers, tactically and morally. They appealed to all the permanent employees to join hands and come out for the support of all the daily wagers in this strike. They pointed out that daily wagers are part and parcel of their organization and performing duty since long. Their demands and issue are genuine and justified. The UT Govt is only adopting delaying tactics in solving their issues pertaining to release of pending wages and regularization. They said if the Govt failed to solve their issue within 15 days, they will openly go on indefinite strike along with daily wagers. And the date of decisive strike will be announced shortly, they maintained. They also alleged that many SRO-43 cases are pending with the Government and LG’s Administration has failed to decide the fate of such cases pending for the last 3-4 years. Many cases are even prior to August 2019, and have remained pending since then. They further demanded conduct of DPC of all the cadre in PHE. They also demanded enhancement of Medical Allowance of the employees and pensioners. For more details about Ladakh news,Follow Daily Excelsior.

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J&K registers significant achievement in reducing infant mortality: NHM

The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has registered tremendous decline in the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) during last one year. The IMR has decreased from 20 to 17 in a single year much better than the national average of IMR which stands at 28 as per the Sample Registration System (SRS) 2020 report released by Registrar General of India (RGI-SRS) today. The IMR is an important health indicator which shows number of deaths of children up to one year of age per 1000 live births. The National Health Mission (NHM) with the active support of entire Health and Medical Education Department has put persistent & tireless efforts to provide essential neonatal care at Government health institutions across the Union Territory. One of the comprehensive measures in this regard includes an action plan devised by Health & Medical Education Department with support from Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare & Norway India Partnership Initiative in the form of Road Map for reducing IMR in the J&K UT in line with India Newborn Action Plan (INAP). The action plan is being implemented at all the levels and focuses on the community based and facility based interventions for accelerating rate of decline in Infant Mortality through strengthening of maternal & child health programmes. Key health facility based interventions that have been strengthened include upgradation of Facility Based Newborn Care Units, Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA), Skilled Birth Attendance (SBA), Universalization of essential newborn care & resuscitation, Early and exclusive breast feeding etc. Special New-born Care Units (SNCU) have been established in 27 District / other equivalent Hospitals, 4 Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) in GMCs, New Born Stabilization Units (NBSUs) in 65 Community Health Centers level and New Born Care Corners (NBCCs) in 264 delivery points with financial and technical support from National Health Mission. The community based interventions that are being strengthened include Home Based Newborn Care, Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP), Intensified Diarrhoea Control Fortnight (IDCF), National Deworming Day (NDD), VHNDs and IMNCI; Also, Home Based Care for Young Child (HBYC) has been rolled out in entire J&K UT. In addition, J&K UT is implementing some new measures through Dakshata, LaQshya, Family Participatory Care (FPC) & Kangaroo mother care (KMC), in Special Newborn Care Units (SNCU), Paediatric Emergency triage and treatment (ETAT) Centers, Obstetric ICU and High Dependency Units in Labour rooms. Mission Director NHM, J&K, Yasin M. Choudhary has appreciated the efforts of Govt. Medical Colleges; Directorate of Health Services, Family Welfare, AYUSH all the field functionaries including doctors, paramedical staff, ASHA workers & Programme Management Unit staff for their continued efforts to improve maternal and newborn care in the UT which has resulted in continuous decrease in Infant Mortality Rate. He has further stressed for sustained efforts in future for better health care service delivery so as to further improve the maternal and child health indicators in the coming years. For more exclusive Ladakh news and updates on Jammu and Kashmir tourism, don’t forget to check Daily Excelsior – Kashmir’s largest online daily newspaper.

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Best Treks in Gulmarg – Jammu and Kashmir Tourism

Best Treks in Gulmarg 

Gulmarg in Kashmir is a popular skiing and trekking location in Asia. While Jammu and Kashmir tourism is chosen over and again for its raw beauty, pristine snow-capped mountains, alpine forests, lakes, beautiful villages, and adventure activities like hiking, mountaineering, skiing, and trekking make the subcontinent of even more thrilling and spine-chilling for visitors worldwide. Situated at an altitude of 8694 Sq. With so many Bollywood films shot here, Gulmarg is a favorite amongst all trekking places.

The ideal time to visit Gulmarg is summer when the Indian Institute of Trekking and Mountaineering reopens for new students. The weather is brightest, with colorful beds of flowers blooming everywhere. The place also operates the world’s 2nd highest cable car, the Gulmarg Gondola, which offers breathtaking views of Gulmarg and Khilanmarg valleys. All in all, Gulmarg is a magical experience for trekkers and naturalists alike.

Gulmarg, also known as the Valley of Flowers, has easy trekking trails that you can cover in a day. The place is only 51 Kms from Srinagar, so finding transportation wouldn’t be difficult. Most trails will take you through medium to dense alpine and gigantic fir forests and snow-clad mountains. Nanga Parbat, which is the 5th highest mountain peak in the world, is located on Gulmarg’s northern side, with more than one view-points tailing it. The hill station is also an excellent base camp for trekkers scaling the Pir Panjal Range. 

You can complete three treks during your short stay at Gulmarg: Gulmarg Khilanmarg, Gulmarg Alpathar, and Gulmarg Durung.  

Gulmarg-Khilanmarg Trek

Khilanmarg Valley is 5.5 kms from Gulmarg and is counted as one of the most visited tourist spots in the hill station. The ascend (of 2000 feet) will take just two hours, and once you reach the place, you can enjoy the breathtaking view of the Nun and Kun peaks in the southwest and the enchanting and towering Nanga Parbat on the other side. The valley also offers plenty of adventure sports here, including Gondola ride and skiing in winter. Dal, Wular, and Jhelum lakes and the renowned Shankaracharya Temple can be viewed from Khilanmarg. 

Gulmarg-Alpathar Lake Trek

Reaching Alpathar Lake, an ascend to 14 700 ft., covers a distance of 13 Kms and takes 5 to 6 hours from Gulmarg bus station. The mesmerizing Alpathar lake is located at the foothills of the twin Alpathar mountains between rocky terrain and green meadows. Owing to its completely frozen state for half of the year, from November to June, the lake is also popularly known as the Frozen Lake. Trek to Alpathar Lake is moderately difficult. The trail starts from Gulmarg through Khilanmarg to Alpathar Ridge and then to the lake. You can also visit the place during the winter to get a different ice-age kind of experience. 

Gulmarg to Durung Trek

Gulmarg to Durung is one of the shortest and easiest treks in Gulmarg-Jammu and Kashmir tourism. The trail, covering 3 Kms, takes you through lush green forests, spectacular views of the Himalayan range, and tree-lined meadows. 

For more exclusive Ladakh news and updates on Jammu and Kashmir tourism, don’t forget to check Daily Excelsior – Kashmir’s largest online daily newspaper.

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JKSAC’s plea to Lt Governor

Displaced persons of 1947 from PoK during series of meetings at village Abtal, Phalri, Nanga & Palouta of tehsil Ramgarh in district Samba, under the banner of Jammu Kashmir Sharnarthi Action Committee (JKSAC) made an appeal to Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, to impress upon the MHA to extend the one time settlement scheme of Rs 5.5 lakhs upto March ending 2023 as the same has been close by Union Govt on Feb 22, 2022. President of JKSAC Gurdev Singh expressed serious concern regarding the closure of the scheme and termed it as arbitrary, illogical issued without ascertaining the factual position and without seeking the feedback from the concerned sub-ordinate office of UT Govt of J&K. He said sudden closure of the scheme has deprived thousands of Jammu based bonafide families of 1947, 65 & 71 of the benefits of the relief scheme. Singh said that the orders issued by the MHA is absolutely contrary to the couple of earlier statements made by the Home Minister wherein he assured time and again that benefits of ex-gratia scheme of Rs 5.5 lakhs would be provided to all the bonafide DP families settled in Jammu and even including those who are settled in other parts of country. Singh said that out of Jammu based 26,319 families relief has been provided to nearly 20,000 families and about 1,000 cases are still pending disbursement including disputes cases which could not be processed because of the issuance of the said order. The remaining 5,000 families out of 26,319 are having the supplementary records sufficient for their identification as DP which is well in the custody of the govt, but the govt has not consider the same and these unfortunate DPs have become victim of this order. He appealed to Lt Governor to take up the issue on priority with the Central govt for the extension of the scheme upto March 2023 as well as implementation of Joint Parliamentary Committee report and also defreezing of their share of seats out of 24 as per their population to empower the politically to represent the aspiration of their community which is their constitutional right being denied from the last seven decades. To know more about Jammu and Kashmir Tourism follow Daily Excelsior.

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DC Jammu reviews arrangements for Amarnath Yatra

Deputy Commissioner Jammu Avny Lavasa today convened a meeting to review the arrangements for smooth conduct of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2022. ADC L&O Minga Sherpa; ADC ADM Satish Sharma; ACD Ashok Choudhary, SDMs, SE PHE, SE PDD and other senior officers from concerned departments were present in the meeting. At the outset, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed the arrangements of facilities for pilgrims especially at registration counters. It was informed that five counters would be established for Tatkal registration of the pilgrims at Vaishnavi Dham, Mahajan Sabha, Panchayat Ghar and two at Geeta Bhawan and Ram Mandir for the registration of Sadhus. The meeting was also apprised that a token counter has also been established at Saraswati Dham for the convenience of pilgrims and crowd management. The Deputy Commissioner also discussed the requirement of other facilities like accommodation, barricading, security arrangements, technical equipment and wi-fi, power and water supply at registration counters. The provision of cleanliness, sanitation, hygiene and medical facilities at these counters was also discussed in the meeting. The Deputy Commissioner also assigned the duties to SDMs as nodal officers at different registration counters to ensure that all necessary arrangements are put in place well before the commencement of Yatra. Later, the Deputy Commissioner also chaired two separate meetings to review the status of works being executed by PWD and Jal Shakti Department. She directed the concerned official to float the tender of the works identified in this year’s District Capex Plan with the specifications of time limit for completion.  For more news, updates, information, and guides on Jammu and Kashmir Tourism follow Daily Excelsior – India’s largest daily digital Ladakh News.

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Never Miss These Trekking Places in Jammu and Kashmir

Best Trekking Places in Jammu and Kashmir to Explore

An ocean of lush green forests, beautiful valleys & mountains, snow-clad glaciers, clear lakes, distinguishing animals, and the soaring Himalayan ranges in Jammu and Kashmir offers a natural environment for outdoor activities and wayfarers. Jammu and Kashmir tourism has emerged as a complete package for adventurous activities like hiking, biking, and trekking in the past decade. Kashmir valley’s trekking trails provide a good chance for photographers, mountaineers, trekkers, and naturalists to explore the diverse and untouched landscape of the Indian subcontinent. 

If trekking excites you, you must start your expedition with one of these famous treks in Jammu and Kashmir. 

Sonamarg

Sonamarg, popularly known as the Meadow of Gold, is highly favored by mountaineers and trekkers who wish to discover alpine forests, snow-peaked glaciers, mountain ranges, lush green meadows, and hidden lakes. It comprises high-altitude treks that encircle mountains and valleys and a few of the mysterious alpine lakes. They include Gangabal twin lakes, Satsar, Nichnai Pass, Vishansar and Krishansar lakes, and Gadsar treks. 

Pahalgam

Nestled in the arms of the majestic Himalayan ranges, Pahalgam is a soul-satisfying, serene valley in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. Pahalgham’s Aru Village serves as the ideal base camp for the Amarnath Yatris and a starting point for many amazing trekking routes recorded by the Jammu tourism sector. The treks in Pahalgam are not only for adrenaline junkies but also for families and nature lovers seeking leisure walks. Tasar Masar, Sheshnag Lake, Betaab Valley, and Kolahia Glacier are famous trekking routes in Pahalgam.

Naranag 

A perfect abode for the pilgrims, this tiny village of Naranag is hidden between lush green beds of meadows and towering snowy peaks. Yet, it is a visual wonder of alpine forests and lakes flowing below and tiny, clean shepherd huts strewn across the trails. Due to the heavy snowfall it experiences, Naranag is a popular Skiing destination. It is also an ideal base camp for popular trekking trails, including Harmukh peak and Gangabal Lake. 

Gulmarg 

A true garden of Eden on Earth, Gulmarg is home to beautiful meadows of flowers. The place is set amidst the famous and enchanting PirPanjal Himachal Range in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir. Gulmarg is a popular skiing destination, a couple’s night outing, and a great place for short trek routes, including the not-to-miss Valley of Flowers trek.Best Trekking Places in Jammu and Kashmir to ExploreAn ocean of lush green forests, beautiful valleys & mountains, snow-clad glaciers, clear lakes, distinguishing animals, and the soaring Himalayan ranges in Jammu and Kashmir offers a natural environment for outdoor activities and wayfarers. Jammu and Kashmir tourism has emerged as a complete package for adventurous activities like hiking, biking, and trekking in the past decade. Kashmir valley’s trekking trails provide a good chance for photographers, mountaineers, trekkers, and naturalists to explore the diverse and untouched landscape of the Indian subcontinent. If trekking excites you, you must start your expedition with one of these famous treks in Jammu and Kashmir. SonamargSonamarg, popularly known as the Meadow of Gold, is highly favored by mountaineers and trekkers who wish to discover alpine forests, snow-peaked glaciers, mountain ranges, lush green meadows, and hidden lakes. It comprises high-altitude treks that encircle mountains and valleys and a few of the mysterious alpine lakes. They include Gangabal twin lakes, Satsar, Nichnai Pass, Vishansar and Krishansar lakes, and Gadsar treks. PahalgamNestled in the arms of the majestic Himalayan ranges, Pahalgam is a soul-satisfying, serene valley in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. Pahalgham’s Aru Village serves as the ideal base camp for the Amarnath Yatris and a starting point for many amazing trekking routes recorded by the Jammu tourism sector. The treks in Pahalgam are not only for adrenaline junkies but also for families and nature lovers seeking leisure walks. Tasar Masar, Sheshnag Lake, Betaab Valley, and Kolahia Glacier are famous trekking routes in Pahalgam.Naranag A perfect abode for the pilgrims, this tiny village of Naranag is hidden between lush green beds of meadows and towering snowy peaks. Yet, it is a visual wonder of alpine forests and lakes flowing below and tiny, clean shepherd huts strewn across the trails. Due to the heavy snowfall it experiences, Naranag is a popular Skiing destination. It is also an ideal base camp for popular trekking trails, including Harmukh peak and Gangabal Lake. Gulmarg A true garden of Eden on Earth, Gulmarg is home to beautiful meadows of flowers. The place is set amidst the famous and enchanting PirPanjal Himachal Range in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir. Gulmarg is a popular skiing destination, a couple’s night outing, and a great place for short trek routes, including the not-to-miss Valley of Flowers trek.For more news, updates, information, and guides on Jammu and Kashmir Tourism follow Daily Excelsior – India’s largest daily digital Ladakh News. 

For more news, updates, information, and guides on Jammu and Kashmir Tourism follow Daily Excelsior – India’s largest daily digital Ladakh News. 

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China building new bridge near Pangong Tso lake in Ladakh

China is constructing a second bridge in an area held by it around the strategically key Pangong Tso lake in eastern Ladakh and it could help the Chinese military to quickly mobilise its troops in the region, according to satellite imagery and people familiar with the development said today. The bridge is being built amid the lingering standoff between the Indian and Chinese militaries at several friction points in eastern Ladakh for over two years. There is no official reaction or comment by the Indian defence establishment on the new construction. China has been focusing on strengthening its military infrastructure after Indian troops captured several strategic peaks on the southern bank of the Pangong lake in August 2020 after the Chinese PLA attempted to intimidate them in the area. India too has been constructing bridges, roads and tunnels in the border regions as part of overall efforts to enhance military preparedness. It is learnt that China has recently completed the construction of the first bridge in the area. The people cited above said the new bridge is being built in an area that is over 20 km from the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Damien Symon, a geospatial intelligence researcher, who keeps track of Chinese activities along the LAC, posted satellite images of the new construction on Twitter. Symon, who uses the handle @detresfa_ said a “larger bridge” is being developed parallel to the first one, adding the likely aim of the construction is to “support larger/heavier movement” (of the military) over the lake. The satellite image posted by Symon noted that the bridge is being built from both sides simultaneously. The bridge is likely to cut the distance significantly from the depth area of Rudok to the region around the LAC in Pangong Tso. The eastern Ladakh faceoff began on May 4-5 in 2020. India has been insisting on the restoration of the status quo ante prior to the standoff. India and China have held 15 rounds of military talks so far to resolve the eastern Ladakh row. As a result of the talks, the two sides completed the disengagement process last year on the north and south banks of the Pangong lake and in the Gogra area. India has been consistently maintaining that peace and tranquillity along the LAC were key for the overall development of the bilateral ties. Each side currently has around 50,000 to 60,000 troops along the Line of Actual Control in the sensitive sector. (PTI)

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Rajnath launches two frontline warships

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday launched two indigenously built warships ‘Surat’ and ‘Udaygiri’ at the Mazagon Docks in Mumbai, and said this will “add might” to the Navy’s arsenal and represent India’s strategic strength before the world. This is the first time that two indigenously built warships have been launched concurrently, the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) said. The ‘Surat’ and ‘Udaygiri’ warships have been designed in-house by the Directorate of Naval Design (DND) and built at the Mumbai-based MDL, a premier ship and submarine building defence public sector undertaking. The launch of a ship marks the commencement of the next phase involving extensive outfitting activities by the shipyards readying these vessels for delivery. At the event, Singh said building of these two warships leaves no doubt that in the coming days, India will not only cater to its needs in the arena of shipbuilding, but will also take care of the requirements of others. “The two warships will add might to the Indian Navy’s arsenal and represent to the world India’s strategic strength as well as the power of self-reliance,” he said. The defence minister further said the indigenous aircraft carrier ‘Vikrant’ is a major milestone in the Navy’s path of “Aatmanirbharta” (self-reliance), and expressed hope that this will increase the country’s reach from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific and the Atlantic Ocean. “The commissioning of Vikrant will be a golden moment in India’s defence history,” he said. As per the Navy, ‘Surat’ is the fourth ship of Project 15B Destroyers, which heralds a significant makeover of the P15A (Kolkata Class) destroyers, and is named after the commercial capital of Gujarat and also the second largest commercial hub of western India after Mumbai. The Project 15B class of ships is the Navy’s next generation stealth guided missile destroyers being built at the MDL. ‘Udaygiri’, named after a mountain range in Andhra Pradesh, is the third ship of Project 17A Frigates. P17A Frigates are warships that are a follow-on class of the P17 (Shivalik Class) Frigates with improved stealth features, advanced weapons, sensors and platform management systems, the Navy said. The new warship is the reincarnation of the erstwhile ‘Udaygiri’, the Leander Class ASW Frigate, which saw numerous challenging operations in its illustrious service to the country, spanning over three decades from February 1976 to August 2007, it said. Seven P17A Frigates are under various stages of construction at the MDL and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), the Navy said. “It gives me immense pleasure to be present amongst all of you, at the launching ceremony of INS ‘Surat’ and INS ‘Udaygiri’. In such a historical land, which has been the karmabhoomi of heroes like Veer Shivaji, Sambhaji and Kanhoji, the launch of these warships becomes even more important,” Singh said. Noting that Gujarat’s Surat city is famous for diamonds, Singh said in the coming days, the ‘Surat’ warship will prove to be a ‘diamond’ for the Indian Navy. He said these warships are an embodiment of the government’s unwavering commitment to enhance the country’s maritime capability, with focus on achieving self-reliance, at a time when the world is witnessing disruption in global supply chain due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. For more details about kashmir Tourism, Visit Daily Excelsior.

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Govt mulls extending April GST payment deadline; asks Infosys to fix glitch on portal

As taxpayers face technical glitch on the GST portal, the Government on Tuesday said it is considering extending the April tax payment deadline and has directed Infosys for early resolution of the problem. The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) said a technical glitch has been reported by Infosys in generation of April 2022 GSTR-2B and auto-population of GSTR-3B on portal. “Infosys has been directed by Govt for early resolution. Technical team is working to provide GSTR-2B & correct auto-populated GSTR-3B at the earliest,” the CBIC tweeted. GSTR-2B is an auto-drafted Input Tax credit (ITC) statement which is available to every GST registered entities based on the information furnished by their suppliers in their respective sales return form GSTR-1. GSTR-2B statement is usually made available to businesses on the 12th day of succeeding month, based on which they can claim ITC while paying taxes and filing GSTR-3B. GSTR-3B is filed in staggered manner between 20th, 22nd and 24th of every month for different categories of tax payers. “Considering the difficulties faced by taxpayers in filing their GSTR-3B for the month of April 2022, a proposal to extend the due date of filing GSTR-3B for April 2022 is under active consideration,” the CBIC tweeted. On Sunday, GST Network, which provides the technology backbone for Goods and Services Tax, had issued an advisory saying that in a few cases, certain records are not reflected in the GSTR-2B statement for the period of April 2022 and asked taxpayers to file GSTR-3B return on self-assessment basis. “The technical team is working to resolve this issue for the impacted taxpayers and generate fresh GSTR-2B at the earliest. In the interim, affected taxpayers interested in filing GSTR-3B are requested to file the return on self-assessment basis using GSTR-2A,” the GSTN had said. GSTR-2A is a system generated statement of inward supplies. In 2015, Infosys was awarded a Rs 1,380 crore contract to build and maintain the GST system. AMRG & Associates Senior Partner Rajat Mohan said “technical glitches on the portal would derail the tax filings for millions of taxpayers in the current month. For the benefit of all the businesses, the government must either extend the timelines for tax filings or waive the late fees payable on delayed filings”.

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Why Should You Visit Kargil?

Kargil – This word holds so much significance to Indians. Besides having a paradisical landscape, historical sites, spiritual reflections, and adventure, Kargil will forever remain in the national and international headlines because of the Indo-Pak war 1999 held on its very grounds. Today, Kargil adds a good amount of revenue to Kashmir tourism. The beautiful district near Ladakh offers so many things to do and watch for tourists and adventure junkies. It has lakes, heavenly apple, mulberry, and apricot orchards dotting its landscape, surrounded by rugged mountains from all sides; there are monasteries, valleys, and the War Memorial. Kargil and Its BeautyTourists spending their holiday in Jammu and Kashmir will not regret visiting and staying in Kargil. It is one of the two districts of the Ladakh region, which plays a strategically important role in Indian trade and commerce between India and China and Central Asia for products like Tea, Wool, Carpet, and precious stones. Kargil is also set at the junction of LOC and the silk route, further boosting its importance in the Indian economy.  Kargil has excellent potential for adventure tourism and winter sports like river rafting, trekking, mountaineering, and skiing. The high altitude offers enchanting views of the Himalayan ranges, valleys, and snow-peaked mountains. A photographer can find perfect shots at every corner of Kargil.  Kargil at Different Times of YearSummer in Kargil is sublime. You cannot get over the authenticity of the place during this time of the year. The National Highway NH 1 that connects Srinagar and Leh opens for travelers in summer, making it more favorable for Kashmir tourism and travelers. A lot happens during summer – from festivals to adventure sports to the best of markets. Between March and June, summer in Kargil offers warm days and cool nights.  Monsoon is not a favorable time to visit Kargil. It starts in July and lasts till September. While you may find cheaper accommodation and transportation, there are possibilities of landslides and cloudbursts, making most roads inaccessible or dangerous. If you still wish to visit Kargil during the monsoon, get local expert advice.  Winter is by far the most unsuitable time to visit Kargil – most tourist destinations will be closed due to low temperature, which can go as low as – 50 degrees. Traversing 2 – 5 meters of snow is also not an excellent way to sightsee the place.  Check Daily Excelsior for more Kashmir Tourism and places to visit in Kargil.

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Kashmiri youths travelling to Pak on visas sneak back with militants

Seventeen Kashmiri youths who had travelled to Pakistan on valid travel documents but sneaked back into the Valley have been killed in anti-terror operations, with officials raising concerns that the ISI has adopted a new modus operandi to paint the militancy here as an indigenous movement.

Recently, the University Grants Commission and the All Indian Council for Technical Education, the higher and technical education regulators of the country, had issued a statement, advising students not to travel to Pakistan for pursuing higher education. “Any Indian national/ Overseas Citizen of India who intends to take admission in any degree college/educational institution of Pakistan shall not be eligible for seeking employment or higher studies in India on the basis of such educational qualifications (in any subject) acquired in Pakistan,” the UGC and the AICTE had said in a joint statement. The reason, the officials said, was that these youths were brainwashed across the border and some of them were imparted with arms training or used for money laundering. The State Investigation Agency (SIA) of Jammu and Kashmir Police has filed a charge sheet against a Hurriyat leader and others for selling MBBS seats in Pakistani colleges and using the proceeds for terror activities. Hundreds of students from Jammu and Kashmir have travelled to Pakistan in recent years for higher studies and a few of them were brainwashed, provided arms training or recruited in sleeper cells with a motive to gather information to be shared with the handlers sitting across the border, the officials said. They said a well-oiled separatist lobby would arrange recommendation letters from Hurriyat leaders and other valid travel documents from the Pakistan Embassy to facilitate their visit to Pakistan for admission. All the arrangements of parents as well as students in Pakistan were usually done by the separatists under a well-planned conspiracy with their co-conspirators based in Pakistan. The students were made to appear in the National Talent Search (NTS) test at Hurriyat office in Pakistan as a stealth tactic to make them believe that they were writing a pre-qualifying test which would lead to their admission in professional colleges in Pakistan. Such tests were mostly facilitated by Kashmiri separatists and their relatives who had gone to Pakistan in the 1990s to get illegal arms training and had settled in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and other areas there. After the test, some of the students were brainwashed and taken for arms training and later pushed into Jammu and Kashmir along with infiltrating terrorists. The officials said that as many as 17 youths who had gone on valid travel documents to Pakistan and were believed to be in that country receiving education were killed either at the Line of Control or during encounters, leaving their parents in disbelief. Security officials have been tracking the youths who travelled to Pakistan on valid visas for short durations and disappeared after their return as they believe that they could be possible sleeper cells of terror groups operating from across the border. Security agencies believe that there was a six weeks’ training course for new terror recruits and intelligence inputs suggest that some of the youths were provided a quick module of fabrication of Improvised Explosive Devices using easily available explosive material within a week’s time. The recruitment of youths for various terror organisations is also being carried out discreetly and it is quite possible these youths could also be doubling as “recruiters” for brain-washing vulnerable men in the militancy-affected Union Territory. The missing youths are mainly from middle-class families and have been described as the new faces of terrorism in Kashmir. They could be waiting for delivery of arms and ammunition, though the security forces have substantially choked the supply line through heightened surveillance at the Line of Control, the officials said. (PTI)For more details about kashmir news,Follow Daily Excelsior.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Chief Justice of India Justice N V Ramana at a joint conference of CMs of States and Chief Justices of High Courts at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on Saturday. (UNI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Chief Justice of India Justice N V Ramana at a joint conference of CMs of States and Chief Justices of High Courts at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on Saturday. (UNI)For more details about kashmir news,follow daily excelsior.

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Places to Visit in Kargil

Kargil is one of the most popular destinations in Jammu and Kashmir tourism that is not only politically significant but also culturally, historically, and economically. It has a beautiful landscape, high altitude, the best views of Himalayan ranges, and a wide array of tourist activities. The city, resting in the bosom of enchanting Ladakh, has been a topic of conversation since the 1999 Indo-Pak War.

Kargil is called the land of adventure as it hosts several adventurous sports, including skiing, trekking, river rafting, and mountaineering. Kargil makes an ideal base camp for Himalayan range-based trekking, nature trails, and other adventure activities.

We have jotted down a list of places you can visit in Kargil when planning a trip to Ladakh.

More About Kargil and Its Beauty

The best time to visit Kargil is, of course, Summer, between March and July when the weather is not extremely cold, and the roads are open for tourists. The place exists at the banks of River Indus and is very close to the Line of Control (LOC) between India and Pakistan.

Mulbekh Monastery

Mulbekh Monastery is 45 kms away from Kargil and 3504 meters above sea level. It consists of two major sects of Buddhism, Drukpa, and Gelugpa. A structure of Buddha is carved in the limestone rock face. The monastery hosts stunning relics and paintings from the ancient period.

Pashkum

Pashkum is a beautiful village and a historic site that can take you to the medieval era. You can see ruins of forts and castles sitting quite dauntingly on the hillocks, making you ponder India’s raw ancient culture and heritage. If you want to unwind from the monotony, Pashkum is your haven.

War Memorial at Drass

Drass War Memorial was built to honor the officers of the Indian army who were martyred in the Kargil War 1999. The memorial contains an epitaph bearing the names of each soldier who lost their life. It is right here in Grass Valley, where the Pakistani army first started bombing in 1999, which eventually broke into the Kargil war. The Kargil War Memorial houses all the documents recorded during the War. It also has a sandstone wall inscribed with the fallen soldiers’ names.

Suru Valley

Suru Valley originated from the River Suru is one of the must-visit places in Ladakh’s Kargil. It offers one of the best landscapes in all of Kashmir- wherever you see it, you will find Turkish and Tibetan Style architectural extravagance. The valley is home to the descendants of Dared and Tibetan communities. If you wish to get a little closer to nature, visit Rangdum, Sankoo, Kartse Khar, and Panikhar.

For the latest news on Jammu & Kashmir tourism, visit Daily Excelsior.