The Sikhs overthrew the last Muslim ruler in the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1819.In 1846 the Dogras secured the sovereignty of Kashmir from the British under the Treaty of Amritsar, and in 1947 the state of Jammu and Kashmir with Srinagar as its capital, became part of the Indian Union.

With its almost medieval charm, the old city of Srinagar has sights, smells and sounds to enchant the most jaded traveller. Its labyrinthine roads and bustling bazaars are a photographer's delight. Traditionally dressed men and women on their way to the city's many mosques and shrines, burnt brick buildings with their rich warm colour, these are some of the old city's moods which linger in the corners of a traveller's mind, long after one leaves Kashmir.

The Amarnath caves are one of the most famous shrines in Hinduism. One of the holy trinity, Shiva is a living god. The most sacred and most ancient book of India, the Rig Veda evokes his presence in its hymns, Vedic Myths, rituals and even testify to his existance from the dawn of time.The annual yatra to Holy Amarnath Cave, situated at 14000 ft. above sea level, is organised by the State Government during the month of July and August. The intending pilgrims are allowed to perform darshan from Ashard Purnimashi to Shravan Purnimashi which course spreads over a month or so. With a view to work out and finalise different arrangements, a series of core meetings are held at Srinagar as well as Pahalgam (the base-camp for Amarnath Yatra).