Explore the Rich Kashmiri Culture

Universally known as 'Heaven on Earth,' Kashmir is full of beautiful landscapes and equally beautiful people. Tourists visit Kashmir to learn more about the fascinating Kashmiri culture and traditions.   The best way to learn about the Kashmiri culture is to indulge in it. So, if you are planning a trip to Kashmir, don't forget to interact with the locals to understand Kashmiri culture and traditions. Here is a glimpse of culture of Kashmir for you.

People of Kashmir and their Origin

Kashmiris are an ethnolinguistic group of people. The indigenous people of Kashmir live in groups in Pakistan, Potohar, and Upper Punjab. As you travel across Kashmir, you will notice traces of the Sanskrit dialect in the local's speech. 

Kashmiri culture also has taken some inspiration from Persian and Central Asian beliefs. The people living in Dodab valley, Kashmir valley, and the Chenab regions are the ones following Kashmiri culture.

Kashmiri Attire

The Kashmiri attire is very colourful and pleasing to the eyes. Women wear loose salwar and kameez paired with exquisite jewellery like necklaces, nose rings, earrings, and armlets. The attire is loose during the summers to escape the heat. 

Men wear kurtas, pajamas, and skull caps. The people of Kashmir wear Pherans during the winters to protect themselves from the cold. It is an overcoat decorated with embroidery and colourful patches. 

Women tend to always cover their heads and shoulders out of respect for their elders. The colourful Kashmiri attire truly represents the rich Kashmiri culture and traditions. 

Kashmiri Cuisine

Kashmiri cuisine has some of the most lip-smacking vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The non-vegetarians are in for a treat because there are many options to choose from. Rogan Josh, Kashmiri Kebabs, Methi Keema, Pasanda, Yakhni, and Syun Alu are some of the most popular non-vegetarian dishes in Kashmir.

Rajma, Shree Pulao, Ladyar Tsaman, Nadeir Yakhaein, Zarda, Tursh, and Hak are the popular vegetarian dishes. These dishes are made from fresh vegetables and paneer and have a unique and refreshing flavour. Kashmiri Pulao is a staple that is prepared in every Kashmiri household regularly. Kashmiris also prepare Hak and Karam Sag, especially during the winters, to protect them from the chilly weather. 

If you visit a Kashmiri household, they will always welcome you with a steaming hot cup of Kahwa, a unique tea made in Kashmir. If you have a sweet tooth, you must try Kashmiri desserts. Sevaiyaan, barfi, and phirni are some of the most popular ones.

Kashmiri Dance and Music

Kashmiri culture is big on dance and music. They have their unique style of dance and music performed at every festival they celebrate. The Mask dance is a popular dance form performed during the Hemis festival. Kashmiri people wear face masks, colourful attire, and brocade robes for the celebration. 

Dandaras dance, Chakri, Ruf dance, and Ladishah are some other popular dances in Kashmiri culture. Folk music is a big part of Kashmiri culture and traditions. Gazal, Sufi, Wanawun, and Choral are some forms of music performed and enjoyed by Kashmiris at festival celebrations and weddings. 

Kashmiri Festivals

Kashmiri people celebrate a variety of festivals with great pomp. Eid-ul-Fitr, Hemis festival, Lohri, Baisakhi, Gurez Festival, and Shikara Festival are some of the most popular festivals celebrated in Kashmir. Large groups gather and celebrate these festivals with dance, music, and delicious food. Fairs are organised during some celebrations where Kashmiri culture is highlighted through handicrafts, paintings, traditional dance, music, and more.

Kashmiri Handicrafts

Kashmiri handicrafts are famous across the world. The Pashmina is a symbol of royalty. The softness of the shawl and the warmth it provides are incomparable to anything else. Kashmiri woolen rugs and hand-knotted carpets are also popular. Some other popular items are walnut wood furniture, silverware, papier mache, and baskets. The handicrafts industry in Kashmir is booming due to the massive demand for handicrafts from tourists visiting the place. 

The rich and vibrant Kashmiri culture attracts thousands of tourists every year. If you plan a trip to Kashmir, you must experience living in the famed Kashmir houseboats in Srinagar. Docked on the scenic Dal Lake with a view of the Himalayas, it is an experience one cannot miss when in Kashmir. Plan your stay at Kashmir House Boats–a Club Mahindra affiliate resort in Srinagar and tick off this magical experience from your bucket list.