Rishi Kashyap Jayanti was recently celebrated in India on 10 May 2023. And the G20 Summit was recently held in Srinagar in Kashmir from 22-24 May 2023. These two seemingly different threads – Rishi Kashyap and G20 Summit – are linked by one common foundation – Kashmir. Kashmir’s connection with India and Hinduism can be gauged from the word Kashmir itself – derived from the ancient Sanskrit language. Rishi Kashyap was one of the famed sapt rishis (literally meaning the seven sages) mentioned in the oldest book of the world, Rig Veda, numerous other scriptures and religious treatises written thousands of years ago.
Tag: Kashmir Tourism
KASHMIR WELCOMES G-20 SUMMIT
The G-20 is a strategic multilateral forum connecting the world’s major developed and emerging economics. India has worked to maintain the dynamism and credibility of G-20 deliberations for establishing a framework for strong, sustainable and balanced growth. India assuming the presidency of the G-20 grouping is a milestone in itself.
PREYING ON NATURE: A RIVER IN CRISIS
In the beautiful region of Rafiabad, part of the greater district of Baramulla, a beautiful and vast river meanders like a dragon tail. This river is Jhelum. Jhelum streams from North East to South West providing its bountiful life source to the people of Vijibal, Ladura and Chaklu directly and the entire Rafiabad region indirectly.
VALLEYS OF KASHMIR
Spring (March to early May) and Summer (early May to late August). The blossoms of spring and the cool weather of summer creates the perfect season to visit Kashmir during this time.
THE MARKHOR: PRIDE OF KASHMIR
The markhor is the national animal of Pakistan, where it is also known as the screw horn or screw-horned goat, mārkhor (مارخور) in Urdu from Classical Persian.
NATURAL WONDERS AND THE BOOMING TOURISM INDUSTRY IN KASHMIR
True to the word, Kashmir is “the heaven on earth”. While, tourism has seen a new high in the valley, attracting tourists from across the globe and at the same time providing job opportunities and skills to the locals of Kashmir
KUNAN AND POSHPORA : A SMART VILLAGE REVOLUTION
Heroes of Kashmir
MONUMENTS OF KASHMIR
The ancient structures are a treasure of rich history which need care that they stand as testament of the glorious past for generation to come.
KHELO KASHMIR, KHELO INDIA
Jammu and Kashmir has produced numerous international and national level players, who made entire Nation proud by winning gold.
TREKKING DELIGHTS
The word Kashmir conjure up enigmatic imagery in one’s mind. The beauty of this land has attracted millions from across the globe.
GRADUAL TRANSFORMATION OF HANDWARA TO MODERNITY
Youth from in and around the area have formed up Independent Youth parties like Youth Civil Society with fond association with one or the other political groups of the region, making these as stepping stones in the future of regional politics.
BAKERIES IN KASHMIR: THE CENTRAL ASIAN CONNECT
A bakery is an establishment that produces and sells flour-based food baked in an oven such as bread, cookies, cakes, donuts, pastries, and pies.
WINTER OPPORTUNITIES FOR FOODIES IN KASHMIR
Experience a symphony of flavours, aromas from the valley at Waves and enjoy traditional delicacies like Gustaba, Rista, Tabakmaaz, Haak, Dhanival Korma and Phirni. So come and enjoy the flavors of paradise….
NEW HOTSPOT OF WINTER TOURISM : TULAIL
The road to Tulail from Gurez passes through scenic landscapes of Kishanganga River. Approx 250 kms from srinagar,one has to cross the wular lake and razdan pass to reach it.
PRESERVING HISTORICAL MONUMENTS
A concerted effort to preserve our heritage is a vital link to our cultural, educational, aesthetic, inspirational, and economic legacies – all of the things that quite literally make us who we are.
CHANNELISING THE ENERGY OF YOUTH THROUGH SPORTS
The three regions that made up the former state of Jammu and Kashmir were distinguished from one another by their values in terms of religion, culture and tradition. Only sports could bring them together. The administration has traditionally used sports as a tool for reaching out to and reengaging Kashmiri youth. In Jammu and Kashmir,…
SATBARAN CAVE – KALAROOS
Satbaran cave is situated some eight kilometers from the main city Kupwara and 130 kilometers from the capital mega city Srinagar. It is believed that this cave has secret coverts that ahead to Russia. The etymology of the name suggests that these grottoes have some relation to Russia which in Kashmiri language is famous with…
THE REVIVAL OF SERICULTURE IN KASHMIR
One of the important allied sectors that the government has been focusing on in J&K is sericulture, one of the oldest industries in India.
KASHMIR- A TRAVELER’S DELIGHT
Cascading mountains, dancing rivers and oozing beauty, the Saffron Valley is indeed an euphoria for travellers. The enchanting aroma of traditional bakeries and peeping wood art, the city of Wazwan has much to offer. The intoxicating beauty of Kashmir has attracted plethora of travellers and explorers since ages. The city of sage Kashyap has unanimously…
IMPROVING INVESTMENT CLIMATE IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR
Since Article 370 was abrogated in August 2019, Jammu and Kashmir has seen several improvements in political and economic landscapes. Due to the country’s strong leadership and increased stability in the region, foreign business houses are considering investment opportunities here like never before. Jammu and Kashmir has now become a subject to 890 central laws,…
CHINAR AND THE AUTUMN BLISS
In Kashmir, autumn season is often referred to as “Harud”. This harvesting season occurs every year in the fall. As the leaves in the valley turn yellow and golden, farmers return to their fields to harvest paddy and saffron as well as select numerous varieties of apples for export. The valley is bathed in a…
KASHMIRI CARPET
Kashmir, the “Heaven on Earth” is not just about the stunning scenic views, but also known for its handicrafts. Kashmiri artwork is known worldwide for its unique artistic work and Kashmiri Carpets, also known as Kashmiri Rugs are undoubtedly the best example of the artwork. The Kashmiri carpets are India’s pride. The carpets are always…
SPIRITUAL SHRINES IN KASHMIR
Kashmir has been a home to varied religions. The valley boasts of having shrines of all religions. Here is a glimpse of such shrines across Kashmir dating back to several centuries.
AMARNATH YATRA : SYMBOL OF INTEGRATION
The Amarnath cave of Baba Barfani is the most sought-after pilgrimage for the Hindus. The Amarnath Yatra denotes the Hindu Muslim unity and serves as one of the best examples of secularism in India. It shows how Muslim and Hindu communities live in perfect communal harmony. It is a paradigm to falsify all the wrong perceptions about the situation of peace and harmony in Indian subcontinent. This article brings out such instances which prove how different communities are involved in making “THE AMARNATH YATRA” go smoothly for all the devotees.
WORSHIPPING TOGETHER: UNITY IN DIVERSITY IN THE VALLEY
The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is a land of unity in diversity and reflects the true plural ethos of a secular India wherein people from various communities strive for peace, love & harmony. The festivals of one religion are celebrated with great fervor by different religious communities.
UBAID NAZIR: THE CYCLE ENTREPRENEUR OF KASHMIR
New ideas & positive thoughts bring innovative changes in the society for its betterment. 25 year old Ubaid Nazir , a resident of Bemna locality of Srinagar recently started a Bike Rental Startup named CIECLO in order to improve the facilities of micro mobility in the city and help in reducing the level of pollution…
GENTLEMAN TO A MISSILE MAN: A P J ABDUL KALAM AS WE KNOW HIM
There are a few people in this world who lead their lives in such a manner that they become Role Model & source of inspiration for everyone. These words fit perfectly well when we talk about the life of India’s very important personality & 11th President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam whose full name is Avul…
AMARNATH YATRA: BOOSTING TOURISM & BUSINESS
Kashmir is blessed with a pleasant weather, lakhs & lakh of people travel to the holy cave of Amarnath in South Kashmir to pay their prayers to the ice stalagmite, believed to be an embodiment of the Hindu Deity “Lord Shiva”, situated almost at an elevation of 12,756ft.
BADALTA SOPORE
It has been almost three decade since the militancy had been taken away normalcy in Sopore but now due to changes this place is changing with the positiveness in environment and its amply visible among the people.
ANANTNAG: A TOURIST ATTRACTION
A land blessed by nature with diverse environmental & religious importance to both Muslims & Hindus. With Shri Amarnathji Cave, Hazrat Zain-ud-Din wali, Goswami Gund Ashram, Shilagram Temple and Nila Nag and Shrine of Sheikh Zain-ud-din in this district of Kashmir.
BEING A GUREZI IS A PROUD FEELING
Being a Gurezi is the secret to the elixir of life.
JOURNEY TO HOLY CAVE
Amarnath Yatra, A journey of faith.
PIOUS JOURNEY OF SHRI AMARNATHJI YATRA
“The Himalayan pilgrimages are the oldest organised travel system, evolved over time by Hindu sages and embodying the spirit of wander, adventure and spirituality”.
TRYST WITH HEAVEN
“ Gar firdaus bar rue zameen ast/hameen asto, hameen asto, hameen ast” (If ever there is Paradise on Earth/It is here!)
CALL FROM GOD’S ABODE
How beautiful and peaceful more would have been this place if there had been no social unrest and militancy in this “Heaven on Earth” Kashmir.
REQUIREMENT TO IMPROVE RURAL TOURISM IN JAMMU & KASHMIR
There are many destinations which are much better than the existing tourist spots but due to underdeveloped or non-existing infrastructure for tourists; there is hardly any flow of tourists to these places.
SOPORE: TURNING THE TIDE
Over the years there has been a transformational shift in North Kashmir which can now be seen as a progressive region of UT of Jammu and Kashmir. Even the few ‘disturbed’ pockets, are now at the cusp of leaving the baggage of terrorism behind.
LAL CHOWK: SYMBOL OF KASHMIRIYAT
Lal Chowk is equivalent in its name and well known as an old business centre since decades in Srinagar like famous Delhi’s Connaught Place. Its an attraction centre for local and outside tourists.
LANDSCAPE OF JAMMU & KASHMIR
For most the word Kashmir springs an image of mountains in their mind, but the state offers a lot more. From the plains of Jammu to the glaciers of Siachen, a lot is hidden in 40000 Sq. kilometers of area of the state.
TOURISM AND PEACE- A HAND IN GLOVE RELATION
Tourism industry is one of the largest industry in the world and a nation’s economy to a large extent is driven by the tourist trade.
HISTORICAL PRECINCTS OF BARAMULLA
Baramulla was a major urban city and a prominent trade center before suffering extensive damage during the 1947-48 India &Pakistan war.
EXISTENCE OF GUJJARS AND BAKARWALS IN THE VALLEY
Gujjar and Bakarwals constitute 12% of the state‘s population and are the third largest ethnic group after Kashmiris and Dogras.They are known as the preservers and caretakers of the environment and forests.
DARD-SHINS OF GUREZ
Dard-Shins are an ancient community that is believed to be descendent of ancient Aryan settlers, who came to India during 2000-1500 BC.
THE PLUMMETING GLORY OF CHINAR
A recent ban has been enforced to curb cutting of Chinar trees as they are now being registered and are considered as heritage of state
TOURISM IN J & K, SETBACKS AND WAY AHEAD
J&K has tremendous tourism potential and being an employment intensive industry, it provides a very immense scope for employment for the locals as compared to other enterprises.
HOSPITALITY BUSINESS IN KASHMIR VALLEY
Tourism is regarded as a multi- segmented industry, therefore provides different types of jobs like hotel managers, guides, receptionists, travel agents, tour operators, photographers, artists of different kind & many other which are required to strengthen the tourism.
As the hospitality business grows it will help in providing different types of jobs like hotel managers, tour operators, guides, Artists and chefs etc. which will further strengthen the Kashmir economy by increasing income and standard of living of the people.
KASHMIR THE PRIDE OF INDIA
Kashmir as it signifies has a wide spectrum of domain to develop and grow in itself in terms of secondary and tertiary sectors like industries, education, civil services and of course in politics. However, the sanctity of this holy land dwells home to bit negativities but as hope and optimism eliminates these out, undoubtedly Kashmir remains the Pride of India.
COMMUNITY RADIO STATION : RADIO RAABTA
serves a definite community and is a form of public-service broadcasting. It reflects the culture, ideology and thoughts, norms and values of a particular community. Community radio as the media of citizens of a particular community has become popular and new opportunity for both the media practitioner and grassroots people.
BEGINNING OF A JOURNEY
I was so mesmerized watching the beauty which resides in these valleys that I totally forgot that I was riding a bike and also needed to focus on the road. All I was thinking and imagining that what it would be like to live in a place as beautiful as this and made a mental note that I have to visit this place once in a while. With these thoughts we reached Srinagar. The very evening we visited Dal Lake. Although the sun had set and it was dark, the view was enchantingly beautiful. That just justified the lake’s given title of being the “Jewel in the Crown of Srinagar”.
LOLAB : THE LAND OF LOVE AND BEAUTY
Lolab Valley is located approximately 120 Km from Srinagar near Kupwara town in Northern part of Kashmir. Lolab is blessed with picturesque landscape with mesmerising valley floor surrounded by majestic snow-clad mountains. It is bounded by Kashmir valley to the south, Kishanganga valley to the north and is separated by Nagmarg meadows from Bandipura. Paddy is widely cultivated in the valley floor along with apple, cherry, peach, apricot and walnut.
The ancient caves of Kalaroos, lush green meadows of Nagmarg overlooking Wular Lake, Chandigam, Varnow and Dhoban are few of the preferred tourist destinations in the valley. People of Lolab have unique culture and traditions due to its geographical isolation. They are friendly and warm-hearted people with intrinsic hospitality. In spite having so much to offer, tourism in Lolab is next to nil due to decades of negligence and mismanagement. Lolab used to be hot bed of terrorism during the 90’s, however, with combined effort of Army, Police and the Govt, the situation in Lolab has increased tremendously and it is moving towards normalcy. The locals including the surrendered terrorists have joined the mainstream and are slowly but steadily working for the prosperity of Lolab.
WINTER SPORTS AND GAMES
Govt agencies have been on the job to give impetus to the various winter sports and games by organizing events in Gulmarg and other places of Kashmir. Every year a Mega cultural and sports events are being organized, world famous ski destination Gulmarg will play host to five day ‘National Winter Games’ under ‘Khelo India program’.
Sports teaches you character, it teaches you to play by rules, to know what it feels like to win and lose, it teaches you about life.
FOLK MUSIC OF GUREZ
Folk music of a place is the representation of culture, traditions, clothing and most importantly the tales of a particular place. This music travels from generation to generation and becomes immortal within the people of that place. Gurez is a beautifully placed valley located in the northern Jammu & Kashmir. This valley is also blessed…
Make Hay While It’s Snowing
Kashmir is geographically blessed with snow-covered slopes ideal for sports like snowboarding. Without a doubt, it is one of the most popular winter games in Kashmir. People from all over India including the locals enjoy snowboarding here as a recreational activity as well as a sporting activity
A TRIP TO WADI-E-LOLAB
What a magical feeling it is, when you have a dream, you march in its pursuit and you see it becoming a reality. I doubt, if there is any man who would not have ever dreamt to see heaven and in next thought he would not have imagined of Kashmir. Every Indian would at sometime…
Things We Don’t Know About Kashmir- The Heaven on Earth
Picturesque and enchanting, Kashmir is cradled high in the lofty of green Himalayas and hailed all over the world for its incredible natural beauty. Surrounded by mountain peaks, lush green valleys, glistening lakes, temples and spectacular Mughal-era gardens, it has inspired poets through centuries. Kashmir is crisscrossed by chinar tree-lined roads and quaint wooden bridges; and is home to busting bazaars, sufi shrines and forts. Add to this, the charms of flavourful Kashmiri cuisine and apples and walnuts from the lush orchards surrounding it. Mainstream population of India has a very different and disturbing image of Kashmir as a place due to insurgency and terrorism in valley. People of all classes and races think twice before visiting this place which leads to the valley staying sidelined in all aspects. Kashmir valley is a treasure which we possess and which needs to be experienced by each and every individual of this country.
THE GENESIS OF TREKKING CULTURE IN KASHMIR
Kashmir’s astounding beauty is capable of rendering anyone awestruck, justifying its identity of “Paradise on Earth“. It is blessed by nature in the form of gigantic snow-clad mountains, beautiful green meadows in summers, mesmerising alpine lakes and a twinkling night sky. Along with the enchanting beauty of nature, Kashmir also offers breath-taking experiences at places…
Kashmiri “Kahwah”
“Kashmir is the delicate reminder of the fact that poetry does not always need pages and words.” If you are in Kashmir and its cold climate is making you shiver even after cladding yourself in multiple layers of clothing and looking for beverages, go grab a cup of Kashmiri kahwah. I assure you that you…
THE PROMISED LAND
Love for beauty is an inborn trait within every human being. Prettiness has served as a source of joy and thrill for the people of all times and clans all around the world since times immoral. This is so because the human being by birth is essentially beautiful and graceful and is moved by an…
KASHMIR: ABODE OF SPORTS
Kashmir is the Indian state where people possess a myriad talent. Like in any other field Kashmiri people also excel in sports. Sports mostly used to be a recreational & leisure activity for the Kashmiris, however with the changing times sports has become a lucrative career opportunity. The youth has also started to pursue sports…
WINDS OF CHANGE: Srinagar on UNESCO creative city list
Srinagar is now part of elite 295 UNESCO Creative Cities. It recognizes innovation, sustainability and creativity as primary drivers for inclusive urbanization. The Kashmir Valley has been embroiled in controversies and turmoil mostly sponsored by neighbouring countries since the last 30 years. The disturbance in the valley led to decline in tourism, especially amongst the…
SUFI & SYNCRETIC HERITAGE OF KASHMIR
Kashmir, also famously known as ‘The crown of India’ or ‘Paradise on Earth’ is a mesmerising valley surrounded by Pir Panjal & Himalayan ranges. It is marked with a history that has seen various faiths & religions grow & prosper within it’s womb. The uniqueness about the place is it’s Sufi culture & Kashmiriyat, which…
GLIMPSE OF THE HERITAGE
The richness of Kashmir’s culture is reflected through its diverse handicrafts like papier mache, willow wicker, wool and pashmina traditional yinder, and, embroidery work like sozni, tilla and chain stitch.
GHULAM SEENO: THE PICKLE OF KASHMIR
“Pickles if consumed in the right amount, are good for digestion. Some are beneficial in curing stress and depression, which is common these days among people.” Ghulam Qadir Seeno, a man in his late seventies, is a living illustration of idealism, confidence and progress — setting benchmarks for others to follow. He had lost three…
REVIVAL OF KASHMIR AS BOLLYWOOD’S FILMING SPOT
Kashmir will now be on the international tourism map again and film shoots will not only generate employment for the people of the Valley but also invite thousands of tourists from worldwide to bask in the glory of this blessed land. Bollywood’s love story with the picturesque Kashmir dates back to the 1960s and 70s….
The Kashmiri Papier-Mâché
Papier-mache is undoubtedly a craft of significance for Kashmir. Today it is a handicraft protected under the Geographic Indication Act 1999 by the Government of India. Papier Mache is one of the handicrafts that are an integral part of the Kashmiri tradition. The art has been handed over by generations of expert artisans. The art…
GUND GUSHI – THE HIDDEN GEM
Gund Gushi is a peaceful village away from the bustling life of the city with an indescribable tranquillity and serene atmosphere. Deep within the off shoots of the beautiful valley of Kashmir sits the village of Gund Gushi. The breath taking beauty of the valley encapsulates the very unconquered spirit of the men, women &…
इस्लिये नाम तेरा कश्मीर रख दिया
इस्लिये नाम तेरा कश्मीर रख दिया है।
KASHMIR RAILWAY
CORNERSTONE OF INTEGRATION AND DEVELOPEMENT The Kashmir Railway Project (KRP) is being developed to provide an alternative and reliable all-weather transportation system to the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian railways is one of the biggest assets of the country and has been serving its citizens for decades. It is the 4th largest railway…
MUSIC & ISLAM : A DEEPER LOOK
“Whoever says that all music is forbidden, Let him also claim that the sweet chirping sound of bird are prohibited as well”. Waking up every morning to the recital of Quran from the nearby masjid has always been so soothing to the eras that it feels like the morning has become more brighter and…