About Kashmir

Kashmir is a breathtaking region in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent, renowned for its majestic mountains, lush green valleys, crystal-clear lakes, and rich cultural heritage. Often called "Paradise on Earth," Kashmir captivates visitors with its natural beauty throughout the year. In spring, colorful tulip gardens bloom, while summer offers pleasant weather and scenic landscapes. Autumn transforms the valley into shades of golden and crimson, and winter blankets the region in snow, making it a popular destination for skiing and other winter activities.

The region is also known for its warm hospitality, traditional handicrafts such as Pashmina shawls and handwoven carpets, delicious cuisine including Rogan Josh and Kahwa, and iconic attractions like Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens, and picturesque mountain towns. Surrounded by the Himalayas, Kashmir remains one of the most enchanting destinations in the world, attracting travelers who seek nature, adventure, and cultural experiences.

As a result of the hero's actions, the people named the valley as "Kashyap-Mar", meaning abode of Kashyap, and "Kashyap-Pura", meaning city of Kashyap, in Sanskrit. The name "Kashmir," in Sanskrit, implies land desiccated from water: "ka" (the water) and shimeera (to desiccate). The ancient Greeks began referring to the region as "Kasperia" and the Chinese pilgrim Hien-Tsang who visited the valley around 631 AD. called it "KaShi-Mi-Lo" ????. In modern times the people of Kashmir have shortened the full Sanskrit name into "Kasheer," which is the colloquial Koshur name of the valley, as noted in Aurel Stein's introduction to the Rajatarangini metrical chronicle.

The "Rajatarangini," a history of Kashmir written by Kalhana in the 12th century, concurs with Nilmat Puran, stating that the valley of Kashmir was formerly a lake. This lake was drained by the great rishi or sage, Kashyap, son of Marichi, son of Brahma, by cutting the gap in the hills at Baramulla (Varaha-mula). Cashmere is a variant spelling of Kashmir, especially within the English language.