Kashmir, the "Paradise on Earth", is
known for its captivating beauty. It is encircled by three mountain
ranges of the Himalayas- Karakoram, Zanaskar and Pir Panjal, running
from northwest to northeast. Forming the backdrop of Kashmir, these
snow-capped ranges make Kashmir look like a picture straight out of
a fairytale. Dazzling rivers, serene lakes, splendid gardens,
flowering meadows, etc are some other features of the landscape of
the Kashmir valley. The breathtaking beauty of Kashmir has earned it
the name of the "Switzerland of the East". Nothing
describes the beauty of Kashmir better than the following words of a
Mughal emperor:
"Gar Bar-ru-e-Zamin Ast; Hamin Ast,
Hamin Ast Hamin Ast."
It means that if there is paradise on this earth, this is it, this
is it, and this is it. It is impossible to overstate the beauty of
Kashmir. Infact, the beauty of the Kashmir valley of India is beyond
the scope of words. The gushing rivers, sparkling waterfalls, scenic
surrounding and the lush green forests of Kashmir add to its
splendor. Kashmir tourism is also famous for the exotic flora and
fauna found in the region. The sanctuaries and parks in Kashmir
abound in some of the rare and endangered species of birds and
animals. Then, there are countless species of luxuriant vegetation
too, attracting a number of botanists.
The legends have it that where the valley now stands used to be a
huge lake. The lake served as the home of a very are cruel and
terrible demon. Kashyap, the grandson of Lord Brahma, drained this
lake with the help of Goddess Parvati. After the lake was drained,
the goddess finally crushed the demon to death by dropping a
mountain on him. This mountain is now known as the Hari Parbat. The
most magnificent district of Kashmir is Srinagar. It is a
combination of business center, holiday resort and the summer
capital of the state. Adorned with lush green rice fields, blooming
gardens, serene lakes and the unique houseboats, Srinagar gives
Kashmir an added appeal.
Kashmir valley of India is also popular for various adventure
sports that it offers. Skiing, golf, trekking, river rafting,
paragliding, camping and a number of other sports draw large number
of tourists to the Kashmir valley. Kashmir also boasts of a number
of pilgrim places. Infact, it is the starting point of the most
revered pilgrimages of Amarnath and Vaishno Devi. The handicrafts of
Kashmir are almost as popular as its scenic beauty. The popular
handicrafts of the valley are Pashmina shawls, silk carpets,
papier-mâché products, exquisite woodwork, copperware,
silverware, and a number of other crafts. All said and done, the
beauty of Kashmir is unparalleled and it is truly known as the "Paradise
on Earth". Once you visit Kashmir, its beauty and charm will
remain etched in your memory forever.
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