Synopsis The State of Jammu and Kashmir is one of the largest states of the Indian Union. Situated in the north-west extremity of India, it captures a strategic position in our sub-continent. Hence it has become an important issue in Indian and Pakistani politics. The present volume seeks to provide a detailed narration of cultural, religious and economic life of these mountainous areas and the magnificent contribution of each of them to the India as a whole. From ancient times, Kashmir has been famous as a seat of learning. Kalhana places learning as one of the five attributes which gave distinction to the State. The development of Sanskrit language was an important object of special attention with the Kashmir Pandits. They made important contribution to the study of Vedic literature, grammar and philosophy. Kashmir had been a great centre of Buddhism. Besides the Sufi saints and seers have also influenced the culture of Kashmir in a big way. The book provides a deep insight into the social, cultural and economic life of the people of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. Besides practising agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, craftsmanship on wool, wood and papier mache, a big population is also employed in pilgrim, tourism, and hospitality industry. This book divided into thirty-seven chapters covers all the socio-economic and cultural aspects of the Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.