When you hear about Kashmir, most of us think only of its beautiful lakes, high mountains, and attractive valleys, but beyond its natural beauty, it has regional divisions and political tensions. Understanding the different parts of Kashmir and their names helps us gain an understanding of the region’s geography, history, and the current tension between the countries that claim it.
Different Parts of Kashmir and Their Names
History of Kashmir
The British controlled Kashmir before India’s and Pakistan’s Independence. This led to the first Indo-Pak war, and later, the region has been a source of war.
Different Parts of Kashmir
Jammu Region
India has Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu is famous for its Vaishno Devi tomb.
Major Cities in Jammu
- Jammu
- Kathua
- Udhampur
- Samba
Kashmir Valley
It’s famous for its wonderful attractiveness, luxurious green valleys, Dal Lake, and houseboats.
Popular Places in the Valley
- Srinagar
- Gulmarg
- Pahalgam
- Anantnag
- Sonmarg
Leh and Kargil Areas
- Leh is famous for convents, hiking, and its mountains.
- Kargil gained international attention during the Kargil War between India and Pakistan in 1999.
Ladakh Region
In August 2019, the Indian Government divided the state into Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, both now union lands.
Pakistan Kashmir
Azad Kashmir
This area borders touch Indian Kashmir and is ruled by Pakistan but has limited independence.
Capital and Districts
- Muzaffarabad is the capital of Azad Kashmir
- Other regions include Mirpur, Kotli, and Bagh
Gilgit-Baltistan
This area has some of the highest mountains in the world, including K2.
Cultural Diversity
Gilgit-Baltistan has multiple cultural groups, including Shina, Balti, and Wakhi.
China-Controlled Parts
Aksai Chin
Aksai Chin was controlled by India before 1962, but after this year, China captured Aksai Chin.
Border Differences with India
India contains it as part of Ladakh, while China includes it in its Xinjiang and Tibet areas.
Agreement with Pakistan of the Shaksgam Valley
The agreement of the Shaksgam Valley was controversial since India was not referred to and still claims the region.
Cultural and Ethnic Variety
Languages
- Kashmiris in the valley
- Dogri and Punjabi in Jammu and Kashmir
- Ladakhi and Balti are spoken in Ladakh and Gilgit-Baltistan
- Urdu and Shina are spoken in Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan
Wars and Arguments
India-Pakistan Wars over Kashmir
Three major wars (1947, 1965, 1999, and 2025) have been fought between India and Pakistan over Kashmir.
Current Situation and International Attitude
The region remains nervous with common battles, global diplomatic interest, and ongoing demands for peace.
Tourism and Natural Beauty
Major Tourist Places in Different Regions
- Kashmir Valley: Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens
- Jammu: Vaishno Devi Temple
- Ladakh: Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley
- Gilgit-Baltistan: Hunza Valley, Skardu
Conclusion
Jammu, Kashmir Valley, Ladakh, Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Aksai Chin, and Shaksgam—each has a unique story. From wonderful lands to cultural beauty and strategic importance, every angle of Kashmir holds importance. Understanding the region better is the first step toward resolving wars and raising its beauty.
