Until sometime ago, the most hyped phrase in the sub-continent was “cross-border terrorism”. However, things appear to have moved in a positive direction with the focus now having shifted to “cross-border tourism”. The state of Jammu and Kashmir with its varied topography, climate, landscape, and rich cultural mosaic is indubitably the most ideal tourist destination in the world, with the valley of Kashmir often described as the “Eden of the East” and “Paradise on Earth.” Ladakh, on both sides, represents the stark beauty of the challenging mountain destinations – the Himalayas and the Karakoram. Jammu, in the foothills of the Himalayas, is a repository of the composite culture of the state and houses the world-famous school of miniature paintings. In addition to some of the highest
mountain peaks in world, the area is also home to the multiple cultures of the hardy mountain people. Unfortunately, uncertain conditions in the past have prevented a full exploration of the tourism potential of the different regions of the state. Gilgit-Baltistan (formerly the Northern Areas) and Ladakh are perhaps the most promising regions for the promotion of tourism. The main Kashmir Valley with dozens of side valleys, are perfect resorts for leisure tourism. The shrines in Kashmir, temples in Jammu, and monasteries in Ladakh are major attractions in the area of pilgrimage tourism. In brief, J&K holds tremendous, albeit unexplored potential for the development of tourism.

Understanding the Transformation: Issues, Threats and Early Warnings in Ladakh
Tashi Morup
Issue Brief 151

Understanding Religious Radicalization: Issues, Threats and Early Warnings in Kashmir Valley
Arjimand Hussain Talib
Issue Brief 149

Rajouri and Poonch: Identifying Early Warning Signals and Addressing New Challenges
KD Maini
Issue Brief 148

Pir Panjal Regional Festival: Integrating the Isolated Border Districts in J&K & Building Peace from Below
D Suba Chandran
Issue Brief 142