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” originates from the ancient Sanskrit term “Kaashyapa Mira,” which translates to “Land of Kaashyapa, a sage who according to Hindu mythology supposedly drained the large lake that once occupied these lands and turned it into habitable lands.

It Has A Diverse Population

The region of Kashmir is administratively divided between India, Pakistan, and China and has a diverse population consisting of many different groups and three major religions, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism.

Its Area Is Divided Between 3 Countries

The total geographical area of Kashmir is approximately 222,236 square kilometers (85,806 square miles). It borders the Himalayan range and the Tibetian Plateau and is known for its beautiful mountainous terrain, with peaks reaching heights of over 8,000 meters (26,000 feet). Kashmir is administratively divided between three countries:

• India (Jammu and Kashmir)- covering around 58.3% of Kashmir’s territory.
• Pakistan (Azad Jammu and Kashmir)- covering around 26% of the region.
• and China (Aksai Chin and Trans-Karakoram Tract)- covering roughly 15% of the total area of the region.

It Has 8 Languages

The languages of Kashmir include 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

The majority of the population follows Islam, with a significant presence of Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists. Islam is most widely spread in Pakistan’s Kashmir and the northern and southern parts of Jammu and Kashmir. Hinduism is predominant in areas closer to Punjab, while Buddhism has a significant presence in Ladakh and Aksai Chin.

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 (the Indian part) is the Hangul or Kashmir stag, which is unfortunately a critically endangered species .

In Azad Jammu and Kashmir (Pakistan) the state animal is the Markhor (Capra falconeri), wild goats known for its impressive twisted horns.

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 is a complicated story that dates back to the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947 when an armed conflict broke out between India and Pakistan over Kashmir’s control. Under mediation of the UN a ceasefire was reached in 1949 dividing the region along the Line of Control but that was not the end of it. Over the years, there were numerous other shorter armed conflicts in 1965 and 1999 and the Kashmir issue remains a point of contention between the two countries even today.

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

Muslim-backed armed separatist groups are still active in Kashmir even today, making parts of Kashmir dangerous and not recommended to visit. The conflict has had a profound impact on the lives of the people in Kashmir, leading to political unrest, poverty and economic difficulties.

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 consist of three equidistant white vertical stripes with red in the middle. However things change when Kashmir went…

From State To Union Territory

The Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir was turned into a union territory on October 31, 2019 and divided into two separate union territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

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 no other place in India is colder than Dras. And even though there’s a board in the town that claims this, I know for a fact that Oymakon in Russia and La Rinconada in Peru (which is also one of the most isolated cities in the world). However, Dras is pretty cold too, with temperatures dropping as low as minus 45 degrees Celsius (-49 degrees Fahrenheit).

It Has A Winter And Summer Capital

Srinagar, the largest city in the Kashmir Valley, is designated as the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir while Ladakh is known as the winter capital.

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, counting more than 200.

Home To India’s Longest Road Tunnel

India’s longest road tunnel is the Chenani-Nashri Tunnel on the National Highway 44 (NH44) that connects the cities of Jammu and Srinagar and stretches over a distance of approximately 9.2 kilometers (5.7 miles).

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 extends over approximately 76 kilometers (47 miles).

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. Another thing that makes it a rare phenomenon is that it’s one of the rare lakes in the world that freezes in the winter despite its saline waters.

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 known for its unique optical illusion where vehicles and other objects appear to defy gravity and roll uphill.

Home To The World’s Highest Motorized Highway

The world’s highest motorized highway is the Karakoram Highway (KKH) that connects the cities of Kashgar in China’s Xinjiang region to Abbottabad in Pakistan and stretches over a distance of approximately 1,300 kilometers (800 miles).

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, sitting at 4,600 meters (15,100 feet) above sea level famous for being home to the highest cultivated fields in the world (despite the harsh and challenging conditions of the high-altitude environment).

It Has A Valley Whose Landscape Resemble The Moon

Nubra Valley, located in Ladakh has a striking lunar-like landscape which is a consequence of the unique geological features like the dramatic rock formations and the absence of vegetation (due to the high elevation and hostile climate).

 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 (it’s not just a Hindu myth). 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”.

It’s Home To The Longest Railway Tunnel in India

The longest railway tunnel in India is the Pir Panjal Railway Tunnel, stretching across 11.2 kilometers (6.96 miles) in length.

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, where an ice formation in the shape of a Shiva Lingam (a representation of Lord Shiva) appears naturally inside the cave during the summer months.

It Was The Mughals’ Favorite Vacation Spot

The Mughal dynasty, which ruled over a significant part of the Indian subcontinent from the 16th to the 18th century really liked the pleasant climate of Kashmir and many emperors, (i.e. Akbar, Jahangir, and Shah Jahan), were known to visit Kashmir frequently, especially during the summer months, to escape the scorching heat of the Indian plains (and one couldn’t blame them).

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

The Hazratbal Mosque, located in Srinagar, is home to a sacred relic known as the Moi-e-Muqaddas which according to many pilgrims is a strand of hair from the Prophet Muhammad and is displayed to the public on special occasions, such as the Eid festivals and the Prophet’s birthday.

It Was Sold By The British

The British East India Company gained control over parts of the region in the 19th century and in 1846, via the Treaty of Amritsar sold the territories of Kashmir to the Dogra ruler Gulab Singh, effectively making him the first Maharaja of Kashmir in exchange for 7.5 million Nanakshahee rupees.

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).

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.

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. The floating post office operates from a traditional Kashmiri wooden houseboat, which has been converted into a fully functional post office.

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?

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 that consists of combining green tea leaves with various spices such as saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.

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 with unique pink color due to 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. But if you ask me, it’s not nearly as tasty as it looks.

They Make Their Own Alcohol Drink

Chhang is a traditional fermented alcoholic beverage made from barley, soaked, partially sprouted, and then ground into a coarse powder which is later mixed with water and left to ferment for several days. It has a slightly sour and tangy flavor and is usually consumed with a long wooden straw (warning: it’s not everyone’s cup of tea and requires an acquired taste).

They Have A 36-Course Meal

The Kashmiri 36-course meal, also known as the “Wazwan,” is a grand and elaborate feast and one of the most unique feasts I’ve experienced. 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.

 It’s India’s Largest Saffron Cultivator

Saffron cultivation in Kashmir dates back centuries, and Kashmir’s unique climate and soil make it ideal for saffron cultivation, especially in the area around the town of Pampore. Kashmiri saffron is worldwide famous for producing saffron with exceptional quality, strong aroma, and intense flavor.

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.

Archaic Cooking Methods

Kashmiri people still use many ancient cooking techniques they’re an integral part of local cuisine. Slow cooking techniques like “Dum Pukht” are used to infuse flavors and tenderize meats to perfection. Preservation techniques such as sun-drying and pickling are also popular for preserving fruits, vegetables (of which they don’t have a lot in the winter because of the cold weather), and meats for extended use.

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 but also an important part of the culture and heritage of Kashmir. In case you’re not familiar with the term, shikara is a traditional wooden boat, many of which can found circling the lakes and waterways of Kashmir, especially on Dal Lake in Srinagar.

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 remote Zanskar Valley region in the Himalayas with the most thrilling section for white water rafting being the Zanskar Gorge, also known as Zanskar Canyon. The rapids on the Zanskar River can range from Grade III to Grade V, making it a popular choice among experienced rafters.

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.

Urdu Written In Persian Script

The adoption of the Persian script for writing Urdu in Kashmir can be attributed to a couple of historical reasons. For starters, during the Mughal period, Persian was the court language and was widely used for administration, literature, and communication among the elites. Scholars and poets from the Mughal and other dynasties also used Persian and with time, the Persian script was widely used in poetry and literature and was eventually adapted for writing Urdu.

 They Have A Scenic Valley Named After A Movie

Betaab Valley is a scenic valley in the Kashmir’s Anantnag district. Interestingly, the valley is named after the Bollywood movie “Betaab,” which was released in 1983 and part of it was 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 that 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 known as pasha or pashmina, incredibly soft and warm, and therefore ideal for weaving these luxurious shawls.

What makes these Pashmina shawls even more fascinating is that they are extremely lightweight, but yet provide exceptional warmth, making these shawls ideal for wearing in cold weather.

They Have Boathouses

Boathouses in Kashmir are essentially floating homes. These houseboats are made of wood and are designed to float on the waters of Dal Lake. They are usually anchored to the lake bed to keep them in place and have been used in Kashmir for centuries. They were initially introduced by the British during the colonial era when they were still not allowed to own land in Kashmir (which by the way, people from other states are still not allowed to do).

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, a traditional art form in which intricate designs are hand-painted on objects made of paper-mâché, including 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.

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.

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 at the foothills of the Zabarwan Range, overlooking the famous Dal Lake.

How did you like this list of fun facts about Kashmir? How many of these did you know about? Did you learn any new ones? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.