Since I’m going to relocate to Europe, I take this chance to revisit old memories of Asia countries I have been to reflect in this blog series. They are all beautiful experiences, with lots of learnings about cultures, phenomenal nature, socioeconomics, and politics.
In this blog, I will start with Kashmir, a complicated area where nature speaks their true language.
Kashmir is the Indian subcontinent's northernmost geographical region. Until the mid-nineteenth century, the term "Kashmir" only referred to the Kashmir Valley situated between the Great Himalayas and the Pir Panjal Range. Today's definition includes the Indian-administered territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, the Pakistani-administered territories of Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, and the Chinese-administered territories of Aksai Chin and the Trans-Karakoram Tract.
Kashmir is a stunning Himalayan valley area with impressive woodland beauty, clean lakes, rich greenery, and majestic mountain views. It is known as the "Land of Heaven." The nature there provides more peace of mind and positive energy in oneself, making one feel refreshed. Kashmir is a beautiful place, a nature lover's paradise and an inspiration for art, music, and poetry.
Srinagar, the capital of Kashmir, is one of Kashmir's most beautiful cities. It is situated in the heart of the Kashmir valley, on both sides of the Jhelum River. Its waterways reflect their way of life, and the flash of flowing water, the one-of-a-kind Houseboat, the flourishing and vibrant gardens, water sports activities, and shopping for lovingly handmade artisans make it a rich and awesome spot for those searching for a wonderful moment.
The western portion of the Great Himalayas, whose peaks rise to elevations of 20,000 feet or higher, rises northeast of the valley. The high, hilly plateau region of Ladakh, farther to the northeast, is divided by the rocky valley of the Indus River, which flows in a northwesterly direction. The steep peaks of the Karakoram Range, which at 28,251 feet is the second highest mountain in the world after Mount Everest, extend roughly northwestward from the Himalayas.
Kashmir has diverse cuisines, with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Its cuisine is influenced by Central Asian, Persian, and Afghan cuisine. Spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, fennel, and cloves are commonly used. Wazwan, a collection of 32 vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, is one of Kashmir's most well-known specialties.
Tabakhmaaz, Aab Gosh, Lyader Tschaman, Shab Deg, Herath, Yakhni, Dum Olav, and the widely acclaimed Rogan Josh are among the most popular dishes.
The locals love bread, and there are many different varieties available, including Tsot & Tsochvor, Sheermal, and Kulcha. Kehwa is a form of tea that is presented to guests and is quite popular among the general populace. It is made with Kashmiri green tea leaves, almonds, saffron, and whole spices.
The violence in Kashmir peaked in the early 2000s, when President Bill Clinton declared it the "most dangerous place on the planet." A lengthy struggle that claimed the lives of tens of thousands of Kashmiris and put more than 500,000 Indian troops here on high alert forced the closure of a tourism industry that had been the envy of all of Asia.
After decades of conflict, peace is settling in Kashmir, opening up new opportunities to explore its traditional cultures and scenic beauty. I hope to return to Kashmir one day to experience its way of life and vibrant local cultures.
Thank you for reading.
From rainy Saigon with love,
Leo