10 Unique Facts about Kashmir
Kashmir is locally called Kasheer
1. Himalayan Ranges
The state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), lying between latitude 32.28–37.06° and longitude 72.53–80.32°, is located in the northwestern part of the Himalayan mountain arc at an altitudinal range of 220 to 8611 m above mean sea level. The state shares its borders with the neighboring Indian states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab on the south and with Pakistan and China in the west and east, respectively. It comprises mountain ranges starting from the Siwaliks in the south, followed by the Pir Panjal, the Greater Himalaya, the Zanaskar range, and finally the Karakoram in the north. The Zabarwan Hill range is right in backdrop of Dal Lake. Each of these ranges has its own unique landscapes, flora and fauna, and culture.
2. Chillai Kalaan
Chillai Kalan is a 40-day period of harsh winter weather in the Kashmir region. It typically starts around the end of December and lasts until the end of January. During this time, the region experiences some of the coldest temperatures of the year and heavy snowfall, making it the most severe part of the winter season. During Chillai Kalan, the temperature can drop as low as -20 degrees Celsius (-4 degrees Fahrenheit) in higher reaches, however in Srinagar, the lowest temperature on average fluctuates between -4 to -10 degrees Celsius, and the region is covered in a blanket of snow which makes it more beautiful.
3. Apple gardens and Saffron
Kashmir is known for its apple gardens, which are a major source of income for many farmers in the region. The region's cool and temperate climate, along with its well-drained soil, provides ideal growing conditions for apples. The apple orchards in Kashmir are known for producing high-quality apples that are exported to many countries. Kashmiri apples are the tastiest and of different varieties, some are crisp and juicy, while others are soft and sweet. The most popular varieties of apples grown in the region are Royal Delicious, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Fuji, and Granny Smith.
Saffron is a spice that is produced from the flowers of the saffron crocus, Saffron is grown in Kashmir, where it is known for its high quality and is considered one of the most expensive spices in the world. It is mainly grown in the Pampore region of Jammu & Kashmir.
4. Chinar tree (Platanus orientalis)
The Chinar tree is a species of the maple tree that is native to the Kashmir region of South Asia. It is known for its large, deciduous leaves that turn brilliant red or orange in the fall. The Chinar tree is the national tree of Kashmiran, an important cultural and ecological symbol, and is often referred to as the "King of Trees" in the region. The tree is known for its large size and wide canopy, which provides shade and shelter for many other species of plants and animals.
5. Wazwan (Kashmiri Cuisine)
Wazwan is a traditional multi-course meal of Kashmiri cuisine that is usually served on special occasions and is prepared by a group of skilled chefs known as "wazas."
Wazwan typically includes more than 30 dishes, with meat being the main ingredient. Some popular dishes include Rogan Josh (meat cooked in a spicy gravy), Rista (meatballs in red gravy), kebab, tabakh maaz (made from rib cage and prepared in ghee), and Yakhni (meat cooked in yogurt-based sauce). The meal is traditionally served on a large platter called a "trami," and is accompanied by rice and yogurt-based side dishes.
6. Pheran (Cloak):
A "pheran" is a traditional cloak worn by people in the Kashmir region. Pheran is a long and loose-fitting garment made of wool and is typically worn during the colder months by all the people in Kashmir to keep themselves warm. Pherans are usually knee-length long and come in different colors, designs, and styles. Pherans are a distinctive feature of the Kashmiri culture and are an important part of the region's traditional attire. They are worn by both men and women, but men's pherans tend to be simpler in design, while women's pherans are more ornate and decorated with intricate embroidery called tilla work.
7. Pashmina Shawls
Pashmina shawls are a type of luxury woolen shawl that is made from the fine, soft undercoat of the Changthangi or Pashmina goat, which is native to the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas. Pashmina shawls are known for their warmth, softness, and durability that is made with traditional hand-weaving technique and are often decorated with intricate designs and patterns. They are worn as fashion accessories and are often used as a wrap or scarf. It is one of the traditional and popular gifts for brides from the groom's family.
8. Nun Chai (Salt tea)
Nun chai, also known as "salt tea," is a type of tea that is made with tea leaves and salt brewed in a traditional metal or earthenware teapot called "Samavar" and is often served with milk and enjoyed by people of all ages in the Kashmir region.
9. Chenab Bridge:
The Chenab Bridge is a railway bridge that is being built across the Chenab River, which flows in the Kashmiri region The Chenab Bridge will be the highest railway bridge in the world, at a height of 359 meters (1,178 feet) above the river. It will be a single arch-shaped steel structure that is designed to withstand the strong winds and seismic activity in the region. It will connect the cities of Jammu and Srinagar and improve access to the region for tourists and visitors. The Construction began in 2002 and it is expected to be completed by 2025.
10. Highest Militarised Zone
Kashmir is the highest militarised zone in the world with more than 1 million Indian forces including Rashtriya Rifles (RR), Border Security Forces (BSF), Central Reserve Police (CRP), ITBP, JKP, etc. The region has seen a lot of violence and human rights violations.
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