The Mughals aptly called Kashmir 'Paradise on Earth' where they journeyed across the hot plains of India, to the valleys cool environs in summer. Here they laid, with great love and care, Srinagar's many formal, waterfront gardens, now collectively known as the Mughal Gardens. Anecdotes of four and five centuries ago describe their love for these gardens, and the rivalries that centred around their ownership. They also patronized the development of art & craft among the people of Kashmir, leaving behind a heritage of exquisite artisanship among thes people and making the handicrafts of the land prized gifts all over the world.
Kashmir is a land where myriad holiday ideas are realised. In winter, when snow carpets the mountains, there is skiing, tobogganing, sledge-riding, etc. along the gentle slopes. In spring and summer, the honey-dewed orchards, rippling lakes and blue skies beckon every soul to sample the many delights the mountains and valleys have to offer. Golfing at 2,700 m above the sea, water-skiing in the lakes and angling for prized rainbow trout, or simply drifting down the willow fringed alleys of lakes in shikaras and living in gorgeous houseboats are some of the most favoured ones.
Carved tectonically, the valley of Kashmir is a longitudinal depression in the great north-western Himalayan range, situated at an altitude of 1590 mtrs (5209) feet having latitude between 23-4' and 37-6 'North and longitude between 72-31' and 77-30' East. A typical oval shaped valley, its length has a parallel axis to the general direction of the bordering mountains - The Shivaliks, The Middle Mountains, The Pir Panjal, The Himalayas, The Zanaskar, The Ladakh and The Korakaram.
Taking into account the natural beauty, one will find every corner of Kashmir worth it, as every part of Kashmir has its own natural impression , surrounded by green mountains. While travelling higher and higher , one witnesses better spots to spend time at in holidays or to refresh. Such places are usually left neglected due to the popularity of the listed. However, one can’t usually hang out for so long to get the view of every nook of Kashmir.
One finds many articles & books written over the beauty of Kashmir but none would be considered as the exact compilation of Kashmir’s beauty as there still remains much hidden from the author.
INTRODUCTION TO THE COMMERCE IN KASHMIR:
Kashmir has always been a supplier of many world famous products, whether it is human-made or nature blessed. Kashmir supplies the famous carpets, to which the whole home makers are addicted. Such carpets come in various ranges & designs and are available globally. Other famous products include Saffron, fruits & dry-fruits (like apple, nuts), paper machie products, flowers & many more.
Kashmir is one of the biggest producers of Saffron & the quality of the same is incomparable. Saffron is used as a food colouring and flavouring substance. Moreover, the fruits and dry-fruits supplied are exported to other parts of the world. The paper machie products are used for decoration. Paper machie is one of the oldest industries of Kashmir. These products are famous all-over the world as the designs are usually engraved upon the different layers of wood, paper or stone, leading to an attractive piece for decoration….
Kashmir being a good seasoned state, produces a wide range of flowers, which are mostly exported to other parts of the world.
Many products other than these are available, including many cultural products such as pheran (cultural dress), kangri etc.
INTRODUCTION TO RELIGIONS IN KASHMIR
Kashmir is known as the land of saints, as many muslim and non-muslim saints have set their feet on this land. The majority of people are Muslims, however, a good proportion of Sikhs, Hindus and Buddhists also reside in-here. Moreover, some Christian families also dwell here. Kashmir has a good proportion of Mosques, Hindu Temples, Gurudwaras, Temples of Buddha & Churches, where-in the believers pray as per their respective religions without any disturbance due to others.
MISC. INFORMATION
Overall, Kashmir is one of the best places, to visit, to enjoy & to spend holidays. Nature lovers have a lot to admire and enjoy.
Archeologists also have a lot to explore as many old & buried things are discovered now & then. Old temples made of stone, might be a line of interest for some as many unsaid things lie hidden.
Religious persons, belonging to different religions might be interested to have a look at the graves of their ancient saints & other ancient remains.
The cool breezes & green surroundings bring peace to mind and one is never left without praising the beauty of Kashmir.