Jammu's Dogra culture and tradition is much similar to that of neighbouring Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. Traditional Punjabi festivals such as Lohri and Vaisakhi are celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm throughout the region. After Dogras, Gujjars form the second-largest ethnic group in Jammu. Known for their semi-nomadic lifestyle, Gujjars are also found in large numbers in the Kashmir valley. Similar to Gujjars, Gaddis are primarily herdsmen who hail from the Chamba region in Himachal Pradesh. Gaddis are generally associated with emotive music played on the flute. The Bakkarwalas found both in Jammu and the Vale of Kashmir are wholly nomadic pastoral people who move along the Himalayan slopes in search for pastures for their huge flocks of goats and sheep

The Dumhal is a famous dance in the Kashmir valley, performed by men of the Wattal region. The women perform the Rouff, another traditional folk dance. Kashmir has been noted for its fine arts for centuries, including poetry and handicrafts. Shikaras, traditional small wooden boats, and houseboats are a common feature in various lakes and rivers across the Valley. The Constitution of India does not allow people from regions other than Jammu and Kashmir to purchase land in the state. As a consequence, houseboats became popular among those who were unable to purchase land in the Valley and has now become an integral part of the Kashmiri lifestyle. Kawa, traditional green tea with spices and almond, is consumed all through the day in the chilled winter climate of Kashmir. Most of the buildings in the Valley and Ladakh are made from softwood and is influenced by Indian, Tibetan, and Islamic architecture.

Ladakh is famous for its unique Indo-Tibetan culture. Chanting in Sanskrit and Tibetan language forms an integral part of Ladakh's Buddhist lifestyle. Annual masked dance festivals, weaving and archery are an important part of traditional life in Ladakh. Ladakhi food has much in common with Tibetan food, the most prominent foods being thukpa, noodle soup; and tsampa, known in Ladakhi as Ngampe, roasted barley flour. Typical garb includes gonchas of velvet, elaborately embroidered waistcoats and boots, and gonads or hats. People, adorned with gold and silver ornaments and turquoise headgears throng the streets during various Ladakhi festivals.

Kashmir has been the highest learning point of Sanskrit and Persian where early Indo-Aryanic civilization has originated and flourished. Ladakh on the other side, has been the highest living centre of Tantrayan Buddhism. Similarly Jammu, has been the axis of Rajas and Maharajas, who have enriched the cultural, historical and social bonds of all these diverse ethnic and linguistic sections of the state. The ancient archeological monuments and remnants of the past are the true picture of the rich cultural traditions of the state.

Kashmir is justly said to be the Nature's grand finale of beauty. In this masterpiece of earth's creation seasons in strong individuality vie with one another in putting up exquisite patterns of charm and loveliness. Nature has left an indelible mark on the folk performances of Kashmir as they are intimately interlined with the moods and movements of the seasons

Past Heritage of People

Culture and Lifestyle of Jammu and Kashmir is best epitomized in the rich heritage of its colonial past. Jammu and Kashmir boasts of a right proportion of each culture that has ever entered into its vicinity. So, Jammu and Kashmir is a melting pot for diverse cultures. Different religions have left an indelible mark on this land.

Consequently, different tribes following different religions, live in harmony in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Ranging from Islam to Hinduism and Jainism, these religious cults have contributed to the rich cultural heritage of Jammu.

The influence of Greek Romanticism and Roman Mysticism is also apparent in Jammu, much as the Persian lifestyle. The rustic existence and vibrant hues of life, as visible in Jammu and Kashmir, gives a conspicuous impression of People and Culture of Jammu and Kashmir. Various Fairs and Festivals bring in more variety into the lives of men. Starting from Durga Puja to Id-ul-Zoha people of Jammu and Kashmir enjoy these Festivals with same gusto. These instances of celebration speak much of the People, Culture and Lifestyle of Jammu and Kashmir.

People

The diverse population in Jammu consists of Kashmiri Pundits, who are amongst the ancient denizens, forced to migrate elsewhere due to terrorism and minority issues. Kashmiri Muslims (Shia and Sunni) who comprise 90% of the state population, are engaged in farming and cottage industries. The Rajasthani Rajputs or Gurjars are basically converts who embraced Islam under pressure and lead lives of herdsmen.

Dress Codes

The women folk in Jammu and Kashmir bedeck themselves with numerous ornaments like earrings, necklaces, bangles, nose rings and colorful dresses. The men folk wear skullcaps, shalwars, churidar pyjamas, and gurgabi (lace less shoes). Phiran is a common woolen wear adorned with floral motifs and lot of embroidery. Lifestyle of Jammu and Kashmir is reflected through the dress that they wear and places where they stay.