Elevation plays a pivotal role in determining the diversity and distribution of biodiversity in mountainous landscapes, and therefore macroecological assessment of forest tree vegetation is crucial for developing scientifically-informed forest policy and management. In this study, we investigated the diversity, distribution pattern and regeneration status of tree species growing in major forest types in Jammu and Kashmir – a region located in Indian Himalaya. We carried out stratified random sampling of tree vegetation in the 12 major forest types selected along an extensive elevational gradient (350–3450 masl) in the study area. We recorded 36 forest tree species taxonomically distributed among 33 genera and 21 families, with Pinaceae as the most dominant family. Along the elevational gradient, tree species richness was greater in the low-altitude forest types dominated by broad-leaved trees and showed a declining trend with few or a single species in the forest types at high-altitudes. Based on the distribution pattern of tree species within the forest types, four distinct forest communities were recognised in the study area. In terms of elevational range size, Pinus roxburghii showed widest distribution occurring from 450 to 1650 masl, almost reaching to the Quercus incana distribution limit in Jammu. The tree regeneration status, based on seedling/tree ratio, revealed higher values for the Shiwalik Chir-Pine (650–1150 masl), Lower Western Himalayan-Banj oak (1200–1850 masl), and Fir forest types (2150–3150 masl). Across the forest types, we recorded an average sapling/tree ratio of 3.5 ± 0.89, tree density of 238 Nha−1, and basal area of 29.11 m2 ha−1. Among all the tree species, Abies pindrow showed highest regeneration performance and co-occurring well with other tree species at higher elevations (2150–3150 masl). We observed a significant positive correlation between adult tree density with those of seedling and sapling density. By making available an empirical assessment of diversity and distribution of forest tree species, and more importantly their current regeneration status, our findings will facilitate better monitoring and management of the forest ecosystems in this Himalayan region. Our study can help in developing sustainable management strategies for the existing ecologically-healthy forest areas in the region. Also, the findings will guide the ecosystem restoration of the degraded forest landscapes in the study area and provide useful insights for forest management in similar mountainous landscapes elsewhere.