"If there is paradise
on Earth, it is here, it is here, it is here".
A famous Urdu poet once summed up the eternal
beauty of Kashmir in these lines. This enchanting land has been eulogized time and again
by famous poets from all over the world, who have described its beauty and charm quite
emphatically.
The beautiful valley of Kashmir is nestled in between the inner Himalayan
range to the east comprising of the Nanga Parbat, and the outer Himalayan range to the
west and south called the Pir Panjal. This valley is bound on the north by the Karakoram
Range, on the north-east by Ladakh and in the south by Jammu. Srinagar, the capital of the
state of Jammu and Kashmir stands by the river Jhelum that forms the lifeline of the
Kashmir valley.
According to ancient myths, it was saint
Kashyap who defeated the Demons ruling this valley, and conquered it. Hence, it was after
him that the valley was named as Kashmir.
The vale of Kashmir is unique in its surroundings, offering
breathtaking views of
its varying
topography. Nature has endowed Kashmir with exotic beauty, one which is reflected in its
picturesque landscapes, lush green forests of Chinar, Deodar and Pine trees, beautiful
rivers and waterfalls, snow covered mountains, barren cold deserts and a range of
exquisite flora and fauna. Infact, it abounds in many varieties of wildlife, which
includes Bears, Leopards, Himalayan Chamois, Hangul etc. The countless species of
luxuriant vegetation attracts a lot of enthusiastic botanists. Kashmir also has a lot to
offer to the artists, archeologists, rock and mountain climbers, and big game hunters, who
throng this place in large numbers. Besides this, it is an ideal place for holiday makers,
as well as for the people who seek tranquility and peace amidst natural surroundings. No
wonder that Kashmir is referred to as the “Switzerland of India.”
The unique feature about Kashmir is that it
can provide you with different
location within the state. Jammu region is mostly plain and has the Dogra people living
there. This robust city throbs with a liveliness, which is rare to find. Jammu is the hub
of transport as it serves as the gateway to Kashmir and Ladakh. It is also a major railway centre connected with
the rest of India.
The northern most part is that of Ladakh, a cold desert, which can only be described as the “The Last Shangri-La” or “Little Tibet”. Ladakh is home to a number of Monasteries and various sects of Buddhism. The barren landscape is dotted with Gompas, which have preserved the glorious traditions of the Buddhist religion. Inspite of extreme climates and difficult terrain, the people here are jovial and outgoing. They are generally of the Mongol stalk and have roots in Central Asia.
The Kashmir valley is home to people belonging to a number of
religions and beliefs. The majority is of Muslims but Hindus, Sikhs, Christians etc. have
also made this valley their home. Kashmir is also renowned all over the world for its
delicious, juicy fruits such as Apples, Cherries, Plums, Peaches, Strawberries and other
seasonal fruits. Dry fruits of Kashmir like Walnuts, Almonds, Pine Nuts or Chilgoza and
Apricot are also well known for their excellent quality.
The people of Kashmir are very hard working
and produce world famous works of art. The miniature Pahari Paintings of Jammu, the
‘Thangkas’ and frescos, colorful masks of Ladakh and the intricately embroidered
shawls and carpets etc. of Kashmir valley are not to be found anywhere else. Some of the
finest silk and best intricate woodcarvings are found here.
Due to outbreak of militancy in 1989 this region has suffered and
the tourists have stopped coming in. However, things are looking brighter and this season
Kashmir is the place to be. So if you are looking for abundant beauty, peace of mind or
spiritual upliftment, head for Kashmir.
