Kashmir is known as the Paradise on Earth because of its natural widespread beauty. Srinagar is located in the heart of the Kashmir valley at an altitude of 1,730 m (1530 feet) above sea level, spread on both sides of the river Jhelum. The Dal and Nagin lakes enhance its picturesque setting, while the changing play of the seasons and the salubrious climate ensures that the city is equally attractive to visitors around the year.
The valley is distinctively marked by breath-taking lakes, fresh water streams, luscious fruits, magnificent forests, mighty mountains and lush meadows which make it a paradise on Earth. The mountain-downs or "margs" are numerous on the tops of the hill ranges prominent being Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Yousmarg etc. Be it the snowcapped roads in winter or golf course in winter, 'Gulmarg' remains one of the favorite destinations in Kashmir. Shalimar garden in Kashmir is the most famous and beautiful garden in Kashmir. The romantic effect of numerous fountains in large tanks and central water channel, cascades, and monumental pavilions, mighty chinars, lush lawns laden with color and fragrance speak volumes for the beautifying effect of the garden
Situated at the western edge of the Tibetan plateau, Ladakh is bound by the mighty Karokaram mountain range in the north and the Great Himalayas in the South. Landscape of Ladakh has been modified and sculpted into the spectacular shape by the wind and the erosion over the centuries. Its altitude ranges from 9000 to 25000 feet. And is traversed by other mountain chains, the Ladakh range and Zanaskar range. It is rightly called "the broken moonland" and "land of endless discovery". Ladakh was once covered by an extensive lake system, the vestiges of which still exist on its south-east plateau of Rupshu and Chushul, in the drainage basins or lakes of Tso-moriri, Tso-kar and Pangong-tso.