Jammu and Kashmir, known as the “Crown Jewel of India,” became a Union Territory on October 31, 2019, following the enactment of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 map of Jammu and kashmir changed. This historical transformation marked the end of its existence as a state, a legacy tracing back to the Treaty of Amritsar signed on March 16, 1846. This treaty established Jammu and Kashmir as a single political and geographical entity under Maharaja Gulab Singh, uniting the regions of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh. Here, we present a detailed exploration of the Jammu and Kashmir map, its divisions, geographical features, and much more.
Jammu And Kashmir Map
The map of Jammu and Kashmir is not just about geography; it is deeply intertwined with its cultural and economic identity. Post October 31, 2019, Jammu and Kashmir became a union territory, leading to administrative changes. Ladakh was separated, forming a distinct union territory. These developments are critical for understanding the region’s map today. Following Jammu & Kashmir map is after the enactment of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019:
Read also: Legend of Surinsar and Mansar Lakes: A Journey Through Time
Geographical Overview of Jammu and Kashmir
Situated in the northernmost part of India, Jammu and Kashmir boast diverse geographical features and climatic zones:
- Boundaries and Neighboring Areas
- Bordered by Ladakh in the east and north.
- Shares its western boundary with Pakistan.
- Southern neighbors include Himachal Pradesh and Punjab’s Gurdaspur district.
- Geographical Zones
- Sub-Mountain Plain (Kandi Belt): Known for its dry terrain.
- Shivalik Range: A prominent hilly region.
- High Mountain Zone: Includes the Kashmir Valley, Pir Panjal Range, and districts like Doda, Poonch, Rajouri, Kathua, and Udhampur.
- Climatic Diversity
The climate in Jammu and Kashmir varies significantly due to its diverse topography:- The plains of Jammu experience a tropical climate.
- The mountainous regions of Jammu and Kashmir exhibit temperate to semi-arctic conditions.
- Rainfall varies significantly, with Jammu receiving 1115.9 mm annually, compared to Srinagar’s 650.5 mm.
- Subtropical Zone: Found in the Jammu plains with hot summers and mild winters.
- Temperate Zone: Dominates the Kashmir Valley with cool summers and snowy winters.
- Arctic Zone: Characteristic of Ladakh with extreme cold and scant rainfal
Historical and Political Evolution
Jammu and Kashmir’s historical significance is unparalleled, reflecting rich art, culture, and governance milestones.
Read also: Things to know About Maharaja Gulab Singh
Formation and Accession to India
- On August 15, 1947, British paramountcy ended, and princely states, including Jammu and Kashmir, gained independence.
- Maharaja Hari Singh, the then ruler, signed the Instrument of Accession on October 26, 1947, integrating the region into the Union of India.
- Following his departure in 1949 due to health issues, Yuvraj Karan Singh assumed the role of Regent.
Key Constitutional Developments
- 1950: Article 370 granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir under India’s Constitution.
- 1952: Yuvraj Karan Singh was elected as the Sadar-i-Riyasat.
- 1954: The Indian Constitution extended to Jammu and Kashmir with specific modifications.
- 1965: The 6th amendment to the State Constitution re-designated the Sadar-i-Riyasat as the Governor and the Prime Minister as the Chief Minister.
Jammu and Kashmir Map : Post-Reorganisation Profile
The 2019 reorganisation split Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. Here’s a snapshot of the current profile:
- Area: 42,241 sq. km (excluding PoK).
- Population (Census 2011): 12,267,013 (6,483,906 males and 5,783,107 females).
- Administrative Divisions: 20 districts, 49 sub-divisions, 207 tehsils, and 6,860 revenue villages.
- Capitals: Srinagar (summer) and Jammu (winter).
Key Divisions and Administrative Boundaries
Jammu Region
The Jammu region lies in the southern part of the territory and is renowned for its Hindu pilgrimage sites such as the Vaishno Devi Shrine and Raghunath Temple. The main cities include:
- Jammu City (the winter capital)
- Kathua
- Udhampur
Jammu’s landscape transitions from the Shivalik Hills to fertile plains, making it distinct from the Kashmir Valley.
Kashmir Valley
The Kashmir Valley is a bowl-shaped region, bounded by the Pir Panjal Range to the southwest and the Greater Himalayas to the northeast. Major cities and towns include:
- Srinagar (the summer capital)
- Anantnag
- Baramulla
The valley is famous for its Dal Lake, Mughal gardens, and houseboats.
Name and websites of two divisions in Jammu & Kashmir:
- Kashmir Division : https://kashmirdivision.nic.in/
- Jammu Division: https://divcomjammu.gov.in/
Districts of Jammu & Kashmir
Jammu and Kashmir is divided into 20 administrative geographical units called districts. These 20 districts have been placed under two Divisions to streamline their governance. Each District is divided into Tehsils, The Tehsils are headed by Tehsildars. UT of J&K has 02 Divisions (Kashmir Division and Jammu Division), 20 Districts and 207 Tehsils. Following are name and websites of districts:
| Sr.No | Name Of Districts | Url’s |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anantnag | https://anantnag.nic.in/ |
| 2 | Bandipore | https://bandipore.nic.in/ |
| 3 | Baramulla | https://baramulla.nic.in/ |
| 4 | Budgam | https://budgam.nic.in/ |
| 5 | Doda | http://doda.gov.in/ |
| 6 | Ganderbal | https://ganderbal.nic.in/ |
| 7 | Jammu | https://jammu.gov.in/ |
| 8 | Kathua | https://kathua.nic.in/ |
| 9 | Kishtwar | https://kishtwar.nic.in/ |
| 10 | Kulgam | http://kulgam.gov.in/ |
| Sr.No | Name Of Districts | Url’s |
|---|---|---|
| 11 | Kupwara | https://kupwara.nic.in/ |
| 12 | Poonch | https://poonch.nic.in/ |
| 13 | Pulwama | https://pulwama.gov.in/ |
| 14 | Rajouri | https://rajouri.nic.in/ |
| 15 | Ramban | https://ramban.gov.in/ |
| 16 | Reasi | https://reasi.nic.in/ |
| 17 | Samba | https://samba.gov.in/ |
| 18 | Shopian | https://shopian.nic.in/ |
| 19 | Srinagar | https://srinagar.nic.in/ |
| 20 | Udhampur | http://udhampur.gov.in/ |
Natural and Cultural Heritage of Jammu & Kashmir
Jammu and Kashmir is a treasure trove of biodiversity and cultural richness.
MOUNTAINS: Himalayas, Pir Panjal, Sivalik, Karakoram, Zanskar, Trikuta hills
Tourism and Travel Guide
The map of Jammu and Kashmir is a gateway to some of the most visited destinations in India. Popular spots include:
Srinagar: Known for houseboats and gardens.Gulmarg: A skiing paradise.Pahalgam: Ideal for trekking and scenic beauty.Vaishno Devi Temple: A major pilgrimage destination.
Mubarak Mandi Palace, Nishat Garden, Shalimaar Garden, Pari Mahal, Dal Lake, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Wular, Tulip Garden, Sonamarg, Patnitop, Takht-e-Sulaimaan, Shankaraachaary, Amarnath Cave, Baagh-e-Bahu, Vaishno devi, Amar Mahal Palace, Akhnoor Fort and Hari Parbat Fort.
NATIONAL PARKS: Dachigam National park Kishtawar National park Kazinag National parkCity Forest (Salim Ali) National park
Wildlife Sanctuaries:
Ramnagar wildlife Sanctuary,Nandini wildlife sanctuary,Surinsar-Mansar wildlife sanctuary, Trikuta wildlife sanctuary, Overa Aru Biosphere reserve, Gulmarg Biosphere reserve, Limber wildlife sanctuary and Lachipora Wildlife Sanctuary
Read also: Exploring the Vital Wetlands in Jammu and Kashmir
UNIVERSITIES in Jammu & Kashmir
- Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (Rajouri)
- National Institute of Technology (NIT Srinagar)
- Sher e Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (Srinagar)
- Sher e Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (Srinagar)
- Mata Vaishnodevi University (Kathua)
- University of Jammu (Jammu)
- University of Kashmir (Srinagar)
- Islamic University of Science and Technology (Pulwama)
State Symbols
- Flower: Lotus (Nelumbo Nucifera), also India’s national flower.
- Animal: Kashmir Stag (Cervus hanglu hanglu).
- Bird: Kalij Pheasant (Lophura leucomelanos).
- Butterfly: Blue Pansy (Junonia orithya).
Read also: 11 interesting things about the Blue Pansy, the “Butterfly” of Jammu & Kashmir
Main rivers in Jammu and Kashmir
The main rivers in Jammu and Kashmir are the Jhelum, Chenab, Indus, Ravi, and Tawi:
- Jhelum: The only major Himalayan river in the Kashmir valley, the Jhelum originates from a spring near Verinag and supplies water to most parts of the valley.
- Indus: Starts in Tibet, enters India through Ladakh, and flows through Jammu and Kashmir, Baltistan, and Gilgit.
- Chenab: A major river in Jammu and Kashmir.
- Ravi: A major river in Jammu and Kashmir.
- Tawi: A major river in Jammu and Kashmir, and the river on which Jammu is situated.
Languages and Literacy
The Union Territory’s official languages include Kashmiri, Dogri, Urdu, Hindi, and English, with a literacy rate of 67.16%.
Strategic Importance and Unique Identity
Geographically, Jammu and Kashmir occupy a strategic position with borders adjoining Pakistan, Ladakh, and northern Indian states. The region’s diverse terrain and unique cultural blend make it a significant part of India’s heritage and defense strategy.
AIRPORTS in Jammu & Kashmir:
- Sheikh ul Alam International Airport Srinagar
- Jammu Airport
Read also: Exploring Jammu: Best Jammu Tourist Places To Visit
Jammu and Kashmir’s rich history, cultural heritage, and geographical diversity make it a fascinating Union Territory. From the majestic mountains of the Pir Panjal Range to the serene beauty of the Kashmir Valley, this region continues to captivate visitors and hold strategic importance for India.
Understanding the map of Jammu and Kashmir provides insights into its rich history, geography, and culture. This region is a jewel in India’s crown, offering breathtaking landscapes, a diverse population, and strategic importance. Exploring its map is the first step in appreciating its multifaceted beauty.
