Why you should add Kashmir to your travel list

Uncover the unique beauty, art, and culture of Kashmir

Just imagine: a generous mug of Kahwa with a piece of Kashmiri bread in a local house, while you sit on the stones next to the crystal clear Lidder river. The mist gently strokes your body and you enjoy a quiet Shikara ride in the famous Dal and Nigeen Lake, admiring the mountain views. Yes, this could be you. If you can imagine these moments, that means you're ready to pack your bags and visit the great Kashmir.

Since the province is a location for political upheaval and restlessness, there is anxiety and some are skeptical when it comes to visiting Kashmir. This is a normal reaction, but there are some that believe it is after all worth visiting. Some travelers can even say that if you don't visit Kashmir, you're going to be missing out on heaven. Because Kashmir has so much to offer: picturesque landscapes, prosperous art, magical crafts, and friendly and sociable people. Even with all the information of political uneasiness, the magnificence of Kashmir is not getting suppressed. Read this article to find out more about it and prepare to fall in love.

"Paradise On Earth" - that's what Kashmir is called. The northernmost region of the Indian subcontinent, Kashmir, glances differently in all four seasons. Visiting the region is worth it no matter the season. What is more, you can see the bright tulip fields in April, green valleys with everlasting trees in the summer, Chinar trees turning golden and red in autumn, and snow peaks all year round. Plus, you'll love the crystal blue rivers rushing down the mountains. The whole scenery looks like you ended up in heaven, but it's a heaven on earth. Whether you take a route to Thajiwas Glacier in Sonmarg or go towards the Aru Valley in Pahalgam, you will be stunned by this magical world, trust us.

Next, you probably know this. If you don't it's a must to try it: the saffron-infused Kahwa that is celebrated in Kashmir. Besides the coffee, locals also enjoy Noon Chai - which is basically a slow-boiled tea with salt that turns pink.

Additional to the tea in Kashmir, the Kashmiri Wazwaan is the principal appeal in Kashmiri cooking. If you're a non-vegetarian, you will adore this dinner which contains 36 dishes that are mostly prepared from mutton and chicken. If you're a vegetarian, there are options but not as many. Famous Kashmiri meals include the Gushtaba, the Rista curry, Yakhni, Rogan Josh. Villagers appreciate this banquet at festive events, especially at marriages. If you ever intend to try one, don’t worry about using spoons and forks but relish it like a local and feast on it with your bare hands. However, if you’re not sure about how this technique is happening, and you don't want to have a lot of meat or have troubles digesting, get some digestive medication with you to help you after a meal.

While the majority of visitors are aware of Pashmina shawls from Kashmir, do you know anything about the traditional work? This is a sort of hand embroidery that utilizes a hook called “aari” and woolen threads in one color or in kaleidoscopic hues. You will find this type of work in all forms: curtain fabrics, bags, clothes, bedsheets, and so many more beautiful handmade stuff. Get ready to shop in the magical shops of Kashmir. Another renowned embroidery is the complex sozni art that can be found on shawls and kurtas.

Plus, if you're looking for a special souvenir, look no further because hand-knotted carpets are a massive business in Kashmir. Rugs from 200 knots to 900 knots per square inch are made in wool and silk yarn, embellished with fine designs. These are hard to make and their creation can take up to half a year for just one carpet. Kashmir is one of the few sites on the globe where walnut is still available. This leads to walnut woodwork being a giant craft in the province. Don't skip the pleasure of seeing these beautiful carvings all done manually. They are amazing souvenirs.

Speaking about souvenirs, if you're a fan of collecting them, you need to get something from papier mache. They are so popular here that you will see them in trinket boxes, lamps, and colored items - in basically any local market. In conclusion, Kashmir is the perfect place to get a taste of spectacular landscapes, lovely weather, and mouthwatering food. Plus, you'll be surprised by their craftsmanship and the people's hospitality. Don't take our word for it, plan your next trip here and see for yourself.