Handwāra, India

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Handwāra, India

Region: Jammu and Kashmir

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Geographic Coordinates: 34.400000, 74.280000

Climate: Seasonal.

Population: 269311

Language: Urdu

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Handwāra is a beautiful town situated in the northern Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It sits at an altitude of 1, 520 meters above sea level and is surrounded by stunning mountains and lush green forests. The town is known for its scenic beauty, Rich cultural heritage, And historical significance. The name Handwāra comes from two Sanskrit words – Hara meaning Shiva and Handu meaning river. The town is located on the banks of the River Kishanganga which flows through the valley between the mountains. Visitors can enjoy picturesque views of crystal clear water reflecting the surrounding landscape.

One of Handwāra’s main attractions is its ancient temples that date back several centuries ago. The most famous temple in Handwāra is Shree Kshir Bhawani Temple dedicated to Goddess Kshir Bhawani who symbolizes peace and prosperity. Another significant temple in Handwāra is Baba Reshi Shrine built-in honor of Baba Payamuddin Reshi, A Sufi saint who lived during medieval times.

Apart from religious sites, There are several other tourist attractions in Handwāra including trekking trails such as Lolab Valley Trek which offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks; wildlife sanctuaries like Limber Wildlife Sanctuary where visitors can spot rare species like Himalayan Black Bear; waterfalls such as Naranag Waterfall which cascades down from a height of 100 feet into a natural pool below. Visitors to Handwara can also enjoy traditional Kashmiri dishes like Rogan Josh (a spicy lamb dish), Gushtaba (meatballs cooked in yogurt gravy), Dum Aloo (potatoes cooked with spices), Sheer Chai (a pink tea made with milk) among others.

They can also shop for traditional handicrafts such as Pashmina shawls, Kashmiri carpets, And wooden carvings at local markets. Handwāra has a rich cultural heritage and is home to several festivals that are celebrated with great enthusiasm. The most significant festival in Handwara is Navroz, Which marks the beginning of the Persian New Year. Other festivals include Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha, And Muharram. Handwāra is a must-visit destination for those looking for a peaceful retreat away from bustling cities. With its ancient temples, Trekking trails, Wildlife sanctuaries, Waterfalls, And local cuisine – Handwara has something for everyone.

It offers visitors an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Himalayas along with its rich cultural heritage.

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1. Jamia Masjid
2. Kheer Bhawani Temple
3. Shalimar Park
4. Manasbal Lake
5. Wular Lake
6. Lolab Valley
7. Bangus Valley
8. Trehgam Fort
9. Nandimarg Village
10. Wagbhat Waterfall

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1. Handwāra, situated in the Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir, India, is a town with a diverse range of industries and businesses.
2. The major industries in Handwāra are:
1. Agriculture
2. Handicrafts
3. Tourism
4. Small scale industries
5. Education
6. Healthcare
7. Retail trade
3. The town is known for its fertile land and primarily an agricultural region where crops such as rice, wheat, maize pulses and vegetables are grown.
4. Handwāra also has a rich tradition of handicrafts including carpet weaving, woodcarving and embroidery work on shawls and dresses.
5. Tourism is another significant industry in the area with several tourist attractions like the famous Mughal Gardens at Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh attracting visitors from all over the world.
6. There are also several small scale industries that manufacture products such as textiles food products handicrafts etc.
7. Education is also a major industry in Handwara with numerous schools and colleges providing education to students from across the region.
8. Healthcare facilities have developed significantly in recent years with several hospitals and clinics providing medical services to people living in the area.
9. Retail trade is an important business activity catering to local needs of people living here with many shops selling clothes groceries etc.

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1. The Battle of Handwara occurred in 1947 during the Indo-Pakistani War, which was one of the bloodiest battles between Indian and Pakistani forces that lasted for three days, resulting in heavy casualties on both sides.
2. Maqbool Bhat was a prominent Kashmiri separatist leader who founded Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) to fight for an independent Kashmir. He was born in Handwāra in 1938.
3. Sheikh Abdullah was a prominent politician from Jammu and Kashmir who played a significant role in India’s struggle for independence from British rule; he served as Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir from 1975 to 1982.
4. The Kishanganga Hydroelectric Plant, located near Handwāra on the Kishanganga River, has been a source of dispute between India and Pakistan since its inception due to concerns over water sharing.
5. Hanifa Jan was a renowned poetess from Handwāra who wrote extensively about social issues such as women’s empowerment, education, and poverty.
6. Shah Faesal is an Indian bureaucrat-turned-politician who hails from Handwāra; he became famous after topping the civil services examination conducted by UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) in 2009.
7. Haji Pir Pass is located near Handwāra on the Line of Control (LoC) between India and Pakistan-administered territories of Jammu & Kashmir region; it has been a site of conflict between the two countries.
8. Khalid Jehangir is a prominent social activist and entrepreneur from Handwāra who has worked extensively for the welfare of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

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1. Kheer Bhawani Temple: This is a popular Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Ragnya Devi.
2. Manasbal Lake: This serene lake is surrounded by lush greenery and is a perfect spot for boating.
3. Lolab Valley: This picturesque valley is known for its scenic beauty and trekking trails.
4. Jamia Masjid Handwara: This beautiful mosque has intricate architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
5. Shalimar Garden: This well-maintained garden has beautiful flowers and fountains.
6. Nandpora Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to various species of animals like deer, leopard, wild boar, etc., this sanctuary is a must-visit for nature lovers.
7. Chinar Park Handwara: An ideal picnic spot with lush green lawns and a children’s play area.
8. Waghama Waterfall: Located near the town of Langate, this waterfall is worth visiting for its natural beauty and soothing sound of water falling from heights.
9. Mughal Road Tunnel: This tunnel connects Kashmir Valley with Jammu region through Pir Panjal Mountains and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountainscape.
10. Ruins of Martand Sun Temple: The ruins of this ancient temple built in 8th century AD are still visible today which attracts tourists from all over India.

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1. Baisakhi: A harvest festival celebrated by the Sikh community.
2. Lohri: A winter festival celebrated by lighting bonfires and singing traditional songs.
3. Eid-ul-Fitr: A Muslim festival that marks the end of Ramadan and involves feasting, prayers, and charity.
4. Navratri: A Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil through dance performances and fasting.
5. Diwali: Also known as the Festival of Lights, it is one of India’s most significant celebrations that involves lighting diyas (oil lamps), fireworks, exchanging sweets, and decorating homes with rangolis (colorful designs made from rice or powder).
6. Urs Sharief Baba Payam-ud-din Reshi Sahib (RA): A famous Islamic pilgrimage site located near Handwara where people from all over India gather to pay their respects to Baba Payam-ud-din Reshi Sahib (RA) during his death anniversary every year.

Note that these events may vary based on current circumstances or changes in local customs/traditions; therefore it’s best to check for updates before making any plans or attending any event/festival mentioned above.

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• Wazwan: A traditional Kashmiri cuisine that consists of several courses of meat dishes served on a large plate.
• Rogan Josh: A spicy lamb curry dish that is popular in the region.
• Ahdoos: A restaurant known for its Kashmiri Wazwan and other local delicacies.
• Mughal Darbar: Another popular restaurant serving traditional Kashmiri cuisine such as Rogan Josh and Dum Aloo.
• Al-Madina Restaurant: Known for its delicious biryani and kebabs.
• Cafe De Chinar: Offers a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes along with coffee, tea, and desserts.
• Shahi Durbar Restaurant: Famous for its Mutton Yakhni (a yogurt-based gravy dish) and other Kashmiri specialties.
• Tariq Hotel & Restaurant: Serves authentic Kashmiri food like Gushtaba (meatballs cooked in yogurt gravy) among others at affordable prices.

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1. Wular Lake
2. Handwara Golf Course
3. Kupwara Forest Reserve
4. Bangus Valley
5. Shalimar Park
6. Manasbal Lake
7. Sogam Park
8. Zanglipora Park

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