50 Interesting Facts About Kashmir That Will Blow Your Mind

Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, the magical land of Kashmir is a treasure waiting to be discovered by unsuspecting travelers. From the highest motorized highway in the world to the floating post office on enchanting Dal Lake, Kashmir is a place where extraordinary marvels become a part of everyday life. Prepare to be amazed by the delightful quirks and incredible achievements that make Kashmir truly unique. So buckle up and join us as we dive into a world of interesting facts about Kashmir that will blow your mind.

Basic Facts About Kashmir

Starting this article, we’ll share a few basic facts about Kashmir anyone should know before visiting, starting with…

Name Origin

The name “Kashmir” is believed to have originated from the ancient Sanskrit term “Kaashyapa Mira,” which means “Land of Kaashyapa.” Kaashyapa refers to the sage Kaashyapa, who is mentioned in Hindu mythology and is associated with the region.

According to legend, Kashmir was originally a vast lake called “Satisar,” and it was the sage Kaashyapa who drained the lake to make the land habitable. The land that emerged from the drained lake came to be known as Kaashyapa’s Mira, which eventually evolved into the name “Kashmir.” Over time, the name Kashmir has been spelled and pronounced differently in various languages and historical records. In Sanskrit, it was known as Kashmira, while in Persian and Arabic, it became Kasheer or Kashmeer.

It Has A Diverse Population

Kashmir is a region of great diversity, both in terms of its population and its cultural heritage. Situated in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent, Kashmir is administratively divided between India, Pakistan, and China.

The population of Kashmir is a vibrant mix of various ethnic, linguistic, and religious groups. In the Indian-administered part of Kashmir, the majority of the population practices Islam, with Kashmiri Muslims being the largest religious group but there are also significant communities of Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists in the region. In the Pakistani-administered part, the majority of the population is also Muslim.

Its Area Is Divided Between 3 Countries

The total geographical area of Kashmir is approximately 222,236 square kilometers (85,806 square miles). It is bordered by the Himalayan mountain range in the north, making it a part of the larger Himalayan region. The region’s geography is defined by its mountainous terrain, with peaks reaching heights of over 8,000 meters (26,000 feet).

Kashmir is administratively divided between three countries:

• Indian-administered Kashmir, known as Jammu and Kashmir; This part of Kashmir is under the jurisdiction of India and is the largest portion of the region (around 58.3%). It consists of three regions: Jammu, Kashmir Valley, and Ladakh.
• Pakistan-administered Kashmir, known as Azad Jammu and Kashmir (covering around 26% of the region), meaning “Free Jammu and Kashmir,” is a self-governing administrative division within Pakistan.
• China-administered Kashmir, known as Aksai Chin and Trans-Karakoram Tract that consists of two regions- Aksai Chin and Trans-Karakoram Tract and covers roughly 15% of the total area of the region.

It Has 8 Languages

Kashmir is a region characterized by linguistic diversity, with multiple languages spoken by its inhabitants. The prominent languages of Kashmir include Kashmiri (spoken in the Kashmir Valley), Urdu (the most widely spoken language of Kashmir), Dogri (spoken in the Jammu region of India), Punjabi (spoken in areas near the state border with Punjab), Ladakhi (spoken in the mountainous region of Ladakh), Balti and Dardi (spoken in the Baltistan region of Pakistan), and Pahari (a group of languages spoken in the hilly border regions of India and Pakistan).

Religions

Kashmir is a region with diverse religious beliefs. The majority of the population follows Islam, with a significant presence of Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists. Islam is the predominant religion, introduced in the 14th century, and holds a significant place in Kashmiri society. Hinduism has a historical connection to the region, especially in Jammu. Sikhism has followers in areas closer to Punjab, while Buddhism has a significant presence in Ladakh. Christianity also has a minority presence.

State Animals Of Kashmir

Speaking of fun facts about Kashmir, we can’t forget about the state animals. The state animal of Jammu and Kashmir, which is the Indian-administered part of Kashmir, is the Hangul or Kashmir stag (Cervus hanglu). Hangul is a critically endangered species and is native to the region. It is a beautiful species of deer with distinctive antlers and is known for its majestic presence.

In Pakistani-administered Azad Jammu and Kashmir, the state animal is the Markhor (Capra falconeri). Markhor is a large species of wild goats and is known for its impressive twisted horns. It is also found in other regions of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan.

Facts About The Dispute In Kashmir

In this part of our article, we’ll share a few facts about the conflict in Kashmir that will hopefully help you understand a bit of the region’s…

Complicated History

The division of Kashmir has a complex and contentious history, stemming from the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947. The princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, with a predominantly Muslim population but a Hindu ruler, faced a dilemma regarding its accession to either India or Pakistan. In October 1947, armed conflict broke out between India and Pakistan over Kashmir’s control.

The United Nations intervened, and a ceasefire was established in 1949, demarcating a Line of Control (LoC) that divided the region between India-administered Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan-administered Azad Jammu and Kashmir. This division resulted in the displacement of people and a long-standing dispute between India and Pakistan over the status of Kashmir.

Over the years, the region has experienced intermittent conflicts and tensions, including wars in 1965 and 1999. Both India and Pakistan claim the entirety of Kashmir, and the issue remains a significant point of contention between the two countries.

Surrounded By Nuclear Powers

Kashmir is a region that’s surrounded by 3 nuclear powers- China, India, and Pakistan, and all three control a part of the region.

Separatist Violence

The conflict dates back to the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947 when the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir faced a dilemma over its accession to either India or Pakistan. This led to armed conflicts and the division of the region into Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan-administered Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Since then, various separatist movements have emerged in the Indian-administered part of Kashmir, seeking independence or a merger with Pakistan. These movements have involved militant groups, protests, acts of violence, and clashes with security forces. The aim of the separatist violence is to challenge Indian control and advocate for self-determination for the people of Kashmir.

The violence has resulted in loss of lives, displacement of people, human rights abuses, and ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. Both countries have accused each other of supporting and fueling the separatist violence in the region. The conflict has had a profound impact on the lives of the people in Kashmir, leading to political unrest, poverty and economic difficulties, social polarization, and a challenging security situation.

The Only Indian State With Its Own Flag

Before October 31, 2019, Jammu and Kashmir was the only Indian state with its own constitution and flag. The flag of Jammu and Kashmir was red in color with three equidistant white vertical stripes in the middle, and a plow was placed at the hoist side. The flag held special symbolic significance for the state. However…

From State To Union Territory

In a significant political development, the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir was reorganized into a union territory on October 31, 2019. The reorganization involved the revocation of the special status granted to the state under Article 370 of the Indian Constitution. The state was bifurcated into two separate union territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. This move aimed to bring greater administrative control, development, and integration of the region with the rest of India.

Geographic Facts About Kashmir

In this part of our article, we’ll share some interesting geographic facts about Kashmir that will show you the geographic diversity and natural beauties of the region.

It’s Home To The 2nd Coldest Inhabited Place In The World

Kashmir is known for its extreme weather conditions, and it is home to some of the coldest inhabited places in the world. One such place is Dras, located in the Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir. Dras is famously known as the “Gateway to Ladakh” and holds the distinction of being the second coldest inhabited place globally, falling behind only Oymakon in Russia (which is also one of the most isolated cities in the world). It experiences extremely cold winters, with temperatures dropping as low as minus 45 degrees Celsius (-49 degrees Fahrenheit).

It Has A Winter And Summer Capital

Kashmir experiences distinct seasons with contrasting weather conditions, which influence the choice of capital during different times of the year.

Srinagar, the largest city in the Kashmir Valley, is designated as the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. It is located at a lower elevation and enjoys milder temperatures during the summer months, making it a preferred location for administrative and official activities.

On the other hand, Jammu, located in the Jammu region, serves as the winter capital. The Jammu region experiences more moderate temperatures during the winter season compared to the harsh cold of the Kashmir Valley. This makes Jammu a more comfortable and accessible location for administrative functions during the colder months.

The Highest Density Of Snow Leopards In The World

Hemis National Park, located in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, India, is known for its population of snow leopards. According to estimates, the park is home to more than 200 snow leopards, making it the most densely populated area in the world in terms of snow leopards.

Home To India’s Longest Road Tunnel

India’s longest road tunnel is the Chenani-Nashri Tunnel, also known as the Patnitop Tunnel. It is situated in the state of Jammu and Kashmir and is a part of the National Highway 44 (NH44) that connects the cities of Jammu and Srinagar. The Chenani-Nashri Tunnel is an engineering marvel and was inaugurated in April 2017. It stretches over a distance of approximately 9.2 kilometers (5.7 miles) through the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas.

Home To The Longest Himalayan Glacier

Siachen Glacier, located in the eastern Karakoram range of the Himalayas, is the longest glacier in the Himalayas and one of the longest ones in the world (outside of the polar regions). It’s situated in the disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir, and extends over approximately 76 kilometers (47 miles) in length. The glacier has strategic importance due to its location, and the conflict between India and Pakistan over the region has led to the presence of military forces in the area.

Home To The Highest Saline Lake In The World

Situated at an elevation of approximately 4,350 meters (14,270 feet) above sea level, Pangong Tso is the highest-elevated saline lake in the world. It’s also one of the rare lakes in the world that freezes in the winter despite its saline waters. In addition to this, the lake is also one of the prettiest jewels of Kashmir’s already impressive crown of natural beauty.

It Has A Gravity Hill

The Kashmir Gravity Hill, also known as Magnetic Hill or Mystery Hill, is a popular tourist attraction located near Leh in Ladakh, a region in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is known for its unique optical illusion where vehicles and other objects appear to defy gravity and roll uphill.

When you reach the designated spot on the road, you can put your vehicle in neutral, and it will seemingly start moving uphill on its own, against the force of gravity. This phenomenon creates an illusion of defying the laws of physics.

Home To The World’s Highest Motorized Highway

The world’s highest motorized highway is the Karakoram Highway (KKH). Also known as the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway, it connects the cities of Kashgar in China’s Xinjiang region to Abbottabad in Pakistan.

The Karakoram Highway stretches over a distance of approximately 1,300 kilometers (800 miles) and traverses through some of the world’s most challenging and spectacular mountainous terrain, including the Karakoram Range and the Pamir Mountains. It reaches elevations of over 4,600 meters (15,000 feet) at certain points, making it the highest motorized highway in the world.

Speaking of the highest things in the world, also make sure to check out our guide to La Rinconada, the highest settlement in the world.

Highest Cultivated Fields In The World

Korzok is a small village located in the Changthang region of Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India. Situated at an elevation of around 4,600 meters (15,100 feet) above sea level, it’s known for having the highest cultivated fields in the world. The people of Korzok primarily practice agriculture and animal husbandry as their main livelihood. Despite the harsh and challenging conditions of the high-altitude environment, they have adapted their farming techniques to cultivate crops such as barley, wheat, peas, and potatoes.

It Has A Valley Whose Landscape Resemble The Moon

Nubra Valley, located in Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India, is renowned for its striking lunar-like landscape. The rugged terrain, barren mountains, and vast stretches of sand dunes create an otherworldly atmosphere that resembles the surface of the moon. The unique geological features of Nubra Valley, including the dramatic rock formations and the absence of vegetation in certain areas, contribute to its moon-like appearance. The valley is situated at high altitudes, ranging from approximately 3,000 to 5,000 meters (9,800 to 16,400 feet) above sea level, adding to its surreal ambiance.

 It Used To Be A Lake/Large Water Mass

There is a popular theory in geological studies that suggests the Kashmir Valley, located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, was once a large water body or lake. This theory is based on the presence of sedimentary deposits and geological features found in the region. According to this theory, during the Tertiary Period (around 65 to 2.6 million years ago), the Kashmir Valley was submerged under a vast lake known as the “Kashmir Lake.” Over time, the lake gradually filled with sediment and transformed into the fertile valley we see today.

It’s Home To The Longest Railway Tunnel in India

The longest railway tunnel in India is the Pir Panjal Railway Tunnel, also known as the Banihal-Qazigund Tunnel. It is a vital part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link project in Jammu and Kashmir. The Pir Panjal Railway Tunnel stretches approximately 11.2 kilometers (6.96 miles) in length, making it the longest railway tunnel in India. It was constructed to provide an all-weather rail link between the Jammu region and the Kashmir Valley, traversing through the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas.

Historic Fun Facts About Kashmir

I know we covered some history in some of the previous facts about Kashmir but there are a few more interesting facts you should know to better understand the culture of the region.

It’s Home To An Ancient Cave With  Shiv Lingam Made Of Ice

There is a popular pilgrimage site in the Amarnath Cave, located in the Himalayan region of Jammu and Kashmir, India, where it is believed that an ice formation in the shape of a Shiva Lingam (a representation of Lord Shiva) appears naturally inside the cave during the summer months.

Every year, thousands of devotees undertake a challenging trek to reach the Amarnath Cave, which is situated at an altitude of around 3,880 meters (12,700 feet). The cave is said to have been discovered centuries ago and holds immense religious significance for Hindus.

The formation of the ice Shiva Lingam inside the cave is attributed to a natural phenomenon, where water seeping through the rocks freezes and takes the form of a stalagmite resembling the sacred symbol of Lord Shiva. The ice Lingam gradually grows in size during the summer months and then melts away over time.

It Was The Mughals’ Favorite Vacation Spot

Kashmir was a favorite vacation spot for the Mughal emperors of India. The Mughal dynasty, which ruled over a significant part of the Indian subcontinent from the 16th to the 18th century, had a particular fondness for the picturesque landscapes and pleasant climate of Kashmir. The Mughal emperors, including Emperor Akbar, Emperor Jahangir, and Emperor Shah Jahan, were known to visit Kashmir frequently, especially during the summer months, to escape the scorching heat of the Indian plains.

They were attracted to the region’s lush gardens, serene lakes, and majestic mountains, which provided a tranquil and rejuvenating retreat. The Mughal emperors often constructed luxurious gardens, such as the famous Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, in the Kashmir Valley. These gardens served as splendid royal retreats and reflected the Mughals’ appreciation for nature and beauty.

It Has A Mosque That Houses A Strand Of The Prophet’s Hair

The Hazratbal Mosque, located in Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir, India, is believed to house a sacred relic known as the Moi-e-Muqaddas. It is believed by some to be a strand of hair from the Prophet Muhammad, the central figure of Islam. The Moi-e-Muqaddas is displayed to the public on special occasions, such as the Eid festivals and the Prophet’s birthday, attracting a large number of devotees and visitors. The mosque itself is an important religious site for Muslims in Kashmir and holds significant historical and cultural value.

It Was Sold By The British

The British East India Company gained control over parts of the region in the 19th century. Through various treaties and agreements, the British expanded their influence and gradually assumed administrative control over the region. In 1846, the Treaty of Amritsar was signed between the British and the Sikh Empire, which included the transfer of the territories of Jammu and Kashmir to the Dogra ruler Gulab Singh. Gulab Singh, who became the first Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir, paid 7.5 million Nanakshahee rupees to the British as part of the agreement.

The Land Of Kinnar And Gandharva

In ancient texts and legends, Kashmir has been described as the land of Kinnars (celestial beings often depicted as half-human and half-bird) and Gandharvas (celestial musicians and singers known for their melodious voices), emphasizing the region’s rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions. The mention of these mythical beings suggests the association of Kashmir with music, art, and creativity.

Kashmir has a long history of cultural richness and has been a melting pot of different influences, including Persian, Central Asian, and Indian traditions. The region is renowned for its vibrant music, dance, and poetry, which have flourished over centuries.

It Has An Ancient Capital

The beautiful city of Srinagar traces its origin back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence suggesting human settlements in the area as early as the 3rd century BCE, making it one of the oldest cities in the world.

It Was Home To The Last Maharaja

Kashmir was home to the last Maharaja, Maharaja Hari Singh, who ruled the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir from 1925 until it acceded to India in 1947. Maharaja Hari Singh played a significant role in the political history of the region during the tumultuous times of partition and independence.

Home To India’s First Floating Post Office

India’s first floating post office is located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, specifically on Dal Lake in Srinagar. It is a unique and innovative initiative by the Indian Postal Department to provide postal services to the local population and tourists visiting the area. The floating post office operates from a traditional Kashmiri wooden houseboat, which has been converted into a fully functional post office. It offers various postal services, including sending and receiving letters, postcards, and parcels.

Culinary Facts About Kashmir

You didn’t think this list of facts about Kashmir would be complete without a few culinary facts, did you?

The World’s Most Flavorful Tea?

Kahwa is a traditional Kashmiri tea known for its unique flavors and aromatic blend of spices. While it is subjective to determine the “most flavorful” tea in the world as taste preferences vary, kahwa is undoubtedly renowned for its distinct taste profile. Kahwa is typically made by combining green tea leaves with various spices such as saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. It is often sweetened with honey or sugar and garnished with almonds or other dry fruits.

If you like articles about fun facts, also make sure to check out our interesting facts about Mumbai.

They Also Have A Pink, Salty Tea

Noon Chai is a traditional Kashmiri tea that gets its unique pink color from a combination of ingredients, primarily the addition of a special type of salt called “Gulkand” or “Kashmiri salt,” which has a natural pink hue. Other ingredients used in the preparation of Noon Chai include green tea leaves, milk, baking soda, and sometimes various spices such as cardamom or cinnamon. What sets Noon Chai apart is its distinctive taste, which is a combination of the slightly salty flavor of the Kashmiri salt and the creamy richness of the milk. The tea has a unique savory-sweet taste profile that may be an acquired taste for some.

They Make Their Own Alcohol Drink

Chhang is a traditional fermented alcoholic beverage commonly consumed in the Kashmir region. It is made from barley, which is soaked, partially sprouted, and then ground into a coarse powder. The powder is mixed with water and left to ferment for several days.

The fermentation process converts the starches in barley into alcohol, resulting in a mildly alcoholic beverage. Chhang has a unique taste and is often described as slightly sour or tangy. It is usually served in a special wooden or metal container called a “chhang gappa” or “tongba,” which has a narrow spout and a long wooden straw for sipping.

They Have A 36-Course Meal

The Kashmiri 36-course meal, also known as the “Wazwan,” is a grand and elaborate feast that is synonymous with the culinary traditions of Kashmir. It is an integral part of Kashmiri culture and is typically served during weddings, important celebrations, and festive occasions.

The Wazwan is a multi-course meal that showcases the richness and diversity of Kashmiri cuisine. It is meticulously prepared by skilled chefs known as “wazas” who follow traditional cooking methods and recipes passed down through generations.

The meal consists of a variety of dishes, each with its own distinct flavors and preparations. Some of the notable dishes in the Wazwan include Rogan Josh (a flavorful lamb curry), Gushtaba (meatballs in yogurt gravy), Rista (meatballs in a spicy red gravy), Yakhni (meat cooked in a yogurt-based sauce), Dum Aloo (potatoes cooked in a rich gravy), and many more. Rice, particularly the fragrant long-grain Basmati rice, is a staple accompaniment to the meal.

 It’s India’s Largest Saffron Cultivator

Saffron cultivation in Kashmir dates back centuries, and the region’s unique climate and soil conditions make it ideal for saffron cultivation. The town of Pampore, located in the Pulwama district of Kashmir, is particularly renowned for its saffron production. Kashmiri saffron is known for its exceptional quality, strong aroma, and intense flavor. It is widely used in Indian and Kashmiri cuisine, adding a distinct flavor and color to dishes such as biryanis, pulaos, desserts, and traditional Kashmiri saffron tea, known as “Kahwa.”

It’s Home To India’s First Floating Market

The Dal Lake Floating Market in Srinagar has been an integral part of the local community for centuries. The concept of floating markets on Dal Lake has been in existence for a long time, with vendors using traditional boats to sell their goods. The market has evolved throughout the years, adapting to the changing needs and preferences of the locals and tourists.

Archaic Cooking Methods

Kashmiri people still use many ancient cooking techniquesand they’re an integral part of local cuisine. Slow cooking techniques like “Dum Pukht” were employed to infuse flavors and tenderize meats. Preservation techniques such as sun-drying and pickling were used to preserve fruits, vegetables, and meats for extended use. The use of aromatic spices, including saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon, added depth and complexity to dishes. These archaic cooking techniques continue to influence Kashmiri cuisine today.

A Few Interesting Facts About Kashmir

Last but not least, we’ll complete this article with a few more interesting facts about Kashmir.

Unique Transportation Method

Shikara is a unique transportation method for locals and a quintessential part of the culture and heritage of Kashmir. It refers to the traditional wooden boats found on the serene lakes and waterways of Kashmir, particularly on Dal Lake in Srinagar.

Shikaras are beautifully crafted, decorated, and painted boats, often adorned with vibrant colors and intricate designs. They are primarily used for transportation purposes, offering locals and tourists a delightful way to navigate the waterways and explore the scenic beauty of the region.

Shikaras are propelled by skilled boatmen using oars, allowing for smooth and leisurely rides. These boats are not only a means of transportation but also serve as floating homes for some locals, who live in houseboats moored on the lakes.

The Highest White Water Rafting Spot In India

Sitting at 6,000 meters above sea level, the Zanskar River in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is the highest and one of the most challenging white water rafting destinations in India. The river flows through the Zanskar Valley, a remote and picturesque region in the Himalayas.

The most thrilling section for white water rafting on the Zanskar River is known as the Zanskar Gorge or Zanskar Canyon. The gorge is located between Padum and Nimo, and offers adrenaline-pumping rapids and stunning natural scenery. The rapids on the Zanskar River can range from Grade III to Grade V, making it a popular choice for experienced rafters seeking an adventurous and exhilarating experience.

Enjoying this post? Then you’ll probably also like our list of hidden gems in Delhi.

Home To One Of The World’s Most Dangerous Roads

Zoji La Pass is a high mountain pass located in the western Himalayas, connecting the Kashmir Valley with the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir in India. Known as the “Indian Highway of Death” this is one of the most dangerous roads in the world. With its sharp bends, precarious cliffs, and unpredictable weather, every twist and turn while driving on Zoji La is an adrenaline-fueled adventure.

Urdu Written In Persian Script

The adoption of the Persian script for writing Urdu in Kashmir can be attributed to the historical and cultural interactions between Persian-speaking rulers, scholars, and poets from the Mughal and other dynasties, and the local linguistic traditions. Urdu is a language that developed in the Indian subcontinent during the Mughal era, primarily influenced by Persian and Arabic, with elements of local languages like Hindi and Sanskrit.

During the Mughal period, Persian was the court language and was widely used for administration, literature, and communication among the elites. As Persian script was well-suited for writing Persian, it was also adapted for writing Urdu, which was gaining popularity as a language of poetry and literature.

 They Have A Scenic Valley Named After A Movie

Betaab Valley is a scenic valley in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, specifically in the district of Anantnag. The valley is named after the Bollywood movie “Betaab,” which was released in 1983 and was partly filmed in this picturesque location.

The Pashmina Shawl

Pashmina wool, which is used to make Pashmina shawls, comes from the underbelly hair of a particular breed of goats called Changthangi or Capra hircus. These goats are native to the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas, including Kashmir in India and Nepal. The harsh climatic conditions and extreme cold temperatures in these areas cause the goats to grow a fine inner coat to protect themselves from the cold.

The inner coat, known as pashm or pashmina, is incredibly soft and warm, making it ideal for weaving luxurious shawls. The hair is hand-spun and hand-woven by skilled artisans to create the delicate and intricate Pashmina shawls. What makes Pashmina shawls even more fascinating is that they are extremely lightweight, despite providing exceptional warmth. The natural insulation properties of the Pashmina fibers make these shawls ideal for wearing in cold weather while still feeling comfortable and cozy.

They Have Boathouses

Floating Homes: Boathouses in Kashmir are essentially floating homes. These houseboats are made of wood and are designed to float on the serene waters of Dal Lake and other lakes in the region. They are usually anchored to the lake bed to keep them in place. Houseboats in Kashmir have a rich history. They were initially introduced by the British during the colonial era when they were not allowed to own land in Kashmir. To enjoy the scenic beauty of the region, they built these houseboats as their homes.

Worldwide-Famous Kashmiri Handicrafts

In addition to the famous pashmina shawls, Kashmir also has a few more famous traditional handicrafts, including Kashmiri carpets made of fine wool or silk, paper mache, a traditional art form in which intricate designs are hand-painted on objects made of paper-mâché, such as boxes, trays, and vases, namdas- traditional Kashmiri floor coverings made of felted wool, and kangri- traditional portable earthen firepots.

Literacy Rate

One of my favorite fun facts about Kashmir is that the literacy rate in the region, which includes both Indian-administered Kashmir and Pakistani-administered Azad Kashmir, is higher than the overall literacy rates of India and Pakistan, the two countries that have contributed to the region’s gradual deterioration thanks to their armed conflict.

Water Resources That Can Generate More Power Than Any Other Place In Asia

Kashmir is blessed with abundant water resources, including rivers, lakes, and glaciers, which have the potential to generate significant hydroelectric power. The region’s geographical location in the Himalayas provides it with a large volume of water from the snowmelt and glacial sources, making it highly suitable for hydroelectric power generation.

The potential for hydroelectric power generation in Kashmir is considered significant and has been estimated to surpass the combined hydroelectric potential of any other region in Asia. The hilly terrain, water availability, and river systems make it an ideal location for harnessing hydropower.

India’s Most Popular Ski Destination

Gulmarg is widely regarded as India’s most popular ski destination. Located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, Gulmarg is a picturesque hill station situated in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas. Its breathtaking landscapes and abundance of snow make it a sought-after destination for skiing enthusiasts.

Home To Asia’s Largest Tulip Garden

Lastly, we round up this list of interesting facts about Kashmir with Asia’s largest tulip garden, located in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Known as the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, it is spread over an area of approximately 30 hectares. The garden is situated at the foothills of the Zabarwan Range, overlooking the famous Dal Lake.