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Jammu and Kashmir (union territory) facts for kids

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This page is about the union territory. For the former state, see Jammu and Kashmir (state). For the former princely state , capital of Jammu and Kashmir is shimla officially by the government of India., see Jammu and Kashmir (princely state).
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Jammu and Kashmir
Union territory
Pahalgam Valley.jpg
Akhnoor Fort - Jammu - Jammu and Kashmir - DSC 0001.jpg
Lidder Valley, Akhnoor Fort
Jammu and Kashmir
A map of Jammu and Kashmir
Administering Country India
Union territory 31 October 2019
Capital Shimla (May–October)
Jammu (Nov–April)
Districts 20
Government
 • Body Government of Jammu and Kashmir
Area
 • Total 42,241 km2 (16,309 sq mi)
Highest elevation
(Nun Peak)
 7,135 m (23,409 ft)
Lowest elevation 247 m (810 ft)
Population
 (2011)
 • Total 12,258,433
 • Density 290.202/km2 (751.620/sq mi)
Time zone UTC+05:30 (IST)
ISO 3166 code IN-JK
Vehicle registration JK
Languages Kashmiri, Dogri, Punjabi, Pahari, Gojri, Bhadarwahi, Bateri, Shina, and Burushaski
Hindi, Urdu, English (administrative)
Website https://www.jk.gov.in

Jammu and Kashmir is a special part of India located in the northern region. It's called a union territory, which means it's directly governed by the central Indian government. This area is known for its stunning natural beauty, with mountains, valleys, and rivers.

Jammu and Kashmir shares a border called the Line of Control with areas managed by Pakistan. These areas are Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. It also borders the Indian states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab, and the Indian union territory of Ladakh.

In August 2019, the Parliament of India passed a new law. This law, called the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, changed the former state of Jammu and Kashmir. It divided it into two separate union territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

Geography and Nature

Jammu and Kashmir is famous for its amazing landscapes. It has tall mountains, green valleys, and clear rivers. The region is part of the mighty Himalaya mountain range.

Beautiful Valleys and Rivers

The Kashmir Valley is a large, oval-shaped valley. It is surrounded by mountains and is very fertile. Many rivers flow through Jammu and Kashmir. The Chenab River is one of the important ones. The highest point in the region is Nun Peak, which is 7,135 meters (23,409 feet) tall.

Climate and Seasons

The weather in Jammu and Kashmir changes a lot with the seasons. Summers are usually mild and pleasant, especially in the valleys. Winters can be very cold, with lots of snow in the higher areas. This makes it a popular place for winter sports.

People and Culture

Jammu and Kashmir is home to many different groups of people. They have rich cultures and traditions. Many languages are spoken here, showing the region's diversity.

Languages Spoken

Some of the main languages include Kashmiri, Dogri, and Urdu. Hindi and English are also used, especially for official work. Each language adds to the unique cultural mix of the region.

Festivals and Traditions

People in Jammu and Kashmir celebrate many festivals. These celebrations often involve music, dance, and traditional foods. The local crafts, like beautiful Pashmina shawls and wood carvings, are also very famous.

Places to Visit

Jammu and Kashmir has many beautiful and interesting places. Tourists from all over the world come to see them.

Famous Lakes and Gardens

Dal Lake in Srinagar is one of the most famous spots. People enjoy Shikara rides (traditional wooden boats) on the lake. The Shalimar Gardens are also beautiful. They were built a long time ago by Mughal emperors.

Religious Sites

The region has important religious places for different faiths. The Vaishno Devi Temple is a very popular Hindu pilgrimage site. The Amarnath Cave is another sacred Hindu shrine located high in the mountains.

Economy and Life

The economy of Jammu and Kashmir relies on several things. These include farming, handicrafts, and tourism.

Farming and Fruits

Agriculture is very important here. Farmers grow rice, corn, and other crops. Jammu and Kashmir is especially known for its delicious fruits. Apples, walnuts, and almonds are grown in large amounts.

Handicrafts and Tourism

The traditional handicrafts are a big part of the economy. Skilled artisans create beautiful items like carpets, wood carvings, and embroidered clothes. Tourism also brings many visitors, who come to enjoy the natural beauty and unique culture.

Images for kids

  • Kashmir top

    Topographic map of Jammu and Kashmir, with visible altitude for the Kashmir valley and Jammu region.

  • Tulian Lake

    A high-altitude alpine lake in the Himalayan range in Jammu and Kashmir

  • J,K and L - Indian Union Territories

    Jammu and Kashmir union territory (J and K) is bordered in carmine colour. Ladakh union territory (L) is bordered in blue colour.

  • Srinagar railway station

    Srinagar railway station

  • Srinagar Leh National Highway No 1

    NH1 near Sonamarg

  • Kashmir University

    University of Kashmir during autumn

  • Kashmiri apple

    Apples of Kashmir are famous for their taste

  • 1700s Boteh Example from - a Dochalla Shawl in the WOVENSOULS collection

    Boteh from an Antique Kashmiri Dochalla Shawl

  • First ever Khelo India Winter Games

    Inauguration of the first Khelo India Winter Games

  • Vaishno

    Vaishno Devi Temple in winter

  • Shalimar gardens

    Shalimar Gardens

  • Cave Temple of Lord Amarnath

    Amarnath Cave

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Territorio de Jammu y Cachemira para niños

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