The
metrical chronicle of the kings of Kashmir, called Rajatarangini, has
(erroneously) been pronounced by Professor H.I. Wilson to be the only
Sanskrit composition yet discovered to which the appellation "history"
can with any propriety be applied. It first became known to the Muslims
when, on Akbar's invasion of Kashmir in 1588, an amalgamated version was
presented to the emperor. A translation into Persian was made at his
order. A summary of its contents, taken from this Persian translation,
is given by Abul Fazl in the Ain-i-Akbari. The Rajatarangini was written
by Kalhana in the middle of the 12th century. His work, in eight books,
makes use of earlier writings that are now lost.
The
Rajatarangini is the first of a series of four histories that record
the annals of Kashmir. Commencing with a rendition of traditional
'history' of very early times (3102 BC), the Rajataranginicomes down to
the reign of Sangrama Deva, (c.1006 AD) and Kalhana. The second work, by
Jonaraja, continues the history from where Kalhana left off, and,
entering the Muslim period, gives an account of the reigns down to that
of Zain-ul-ab-ad-din, 1412. P. Srivara carried on the record to the
accession of Fah Shah in 1486. The fourth work, called Rajavalipataka,
by Prajnia Bhatta, completes the history to the time of the
incorporation of Kashmir in the dominions of the Mogulemperor Akbar,
1588.
Kashmir
is truly regarded as the paradise in India and you can expect much more
here since its diverse topography has endowed it a completely unique
appeal. Its snow clad peaks, verdant jungles, gushing rivers and serene
lakes have made it reach on the top of the priority list of an ardent
traveler. The tourist attractions in Kashmir are worthy of a visit by
the tourists on their tour to Kashmir.
Jammu
is the southernmost region of this state and is blessed by various
rivers such as Ravi, Tawi and Chenab that make it perennial all the year
round. These rivers making their way through the spectacular gorges add
to the beauty of this state. Among the Kashmir tourist attractions, you
will come across several religious places that are located in Jammu
that are peaceful and scenic as well. Several important ones are
Ranbireshwar Temple, Raghunath Temple, Bahu Fort & Gardens, Peer
Baba, Mahamaya Temple, Lakshmi Narayan temple, Amar Mahal Palace, Sudh
Mahadev temple, Gauri Kund, Mansar Lake and Purmandal.
Your
trip to Kashmir will be deemed to be an incomplete one without a visit
to the shrine of the Goddess Vaishnodevi which is one of the most
important tourist attractions in Kashmir. The state of Jammu and Kashmir
is also famous for many gardens that are well-manicured and look simply
amazing against the backdrop of green valleys. The architectural
wonders of this place are equally attention grabbing and you would
simply keep staring at them for hours. Don’t miss out to catch a glimpse
of the Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Chashma Shahi, Pari Mahal, Hazratbal
Mosque, Jama Masjid, Shankaracharya Temple, Makhdoom Sahib, Martand and
Awantipur as part of the Kashmir tourist attractions. 