Also known as the Vale of Kashmir, Kashmir Valley is located in the Indian State of Jammu and Kashmir and straddles between Karakoram and the Pir Panjal Range. The valley was created by the Jhelum River. Below are some few interesting facts about the beautiful Valley.
1. Chagatai Turkic Mughal emperor Jahangir called the valley 'Paradise of the Earth' due to its beauty.
2. The valley measures 135 kilometers wide and 32 kilometers wide.
3. The valley's first capital, Shrinagari was founded by the Buddhist Emperor Ashoka but later in the 9th century, Hinduism was introduced. The two religions thrived side by side.
4. Dulucha, the Mongol leader invaded the valley in the 14th century and ended the Buddhism rule in 1339. Shah Mir Swati became the first Islamic Ruler of the valley.
5. The Kashmir Valley has been a point of constant rivalry among the neighboring nations of China, India and Pakistan. Each of them controls a significant portion of the valley.
6. Many people have found ways to describe the valley, but the two descriptions that have stuck are “Switzerland of Asia” and “Nature’s Show-Window”. This is because the valley is so rich and beautiful.
7. The literacy levels in Kashmir are higher than those of neighboring India and Pakistan.
8. Kashmir is home to tourist attractions such as Dal Lake, Nagin Lake, Houseboats, Mughal Gardens, Dachigam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, Patnitop, Charar-I-Sharif, Shankracharya, and Hazratbal.
9. As if to authenticate its diversity in religion, it has annual festivals for each of its 3 major religions that include; Hindu, Buddhism, and Islam. The festivals include; Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Zoha, Lohri, Baisakhi and Navratri.
10. The Kashmir Valley is the most naturally endowed region in the whole of Asia Continent with water resources that can generate thousands of megawatts of power.
In the past, Kashmir was synonymous with separatists fighting to get independence. Today, it is one of the fastest growing regions in the world and one of the most tourist friendly destinations in Asia. A tourist is well advised to include Kashmir Valley in his Asian tour itinerary. You will be glad you heed to my recommendation.
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