Visit Kashmir to See Traditional Arts and Crafts
You have probably heard a lot about Kashmir’s natural beauty. Yet there is so much more to this paradise! The people here are exceptionally talented, creating some of the finest arts and crafts you will ever see.
Every piece of handicraft is a blessing from our ancestors. It brings to mind our traditions and the generations that came before us.
Being a visitor, you must choose the best tour and travel agencies, as they are the ones who will guide you to the famous markets of Kashmir. There, you can find handmade art pieces crafted by skilled artisans.
People who love culture and adventure are always prepared with their luggage packed. With just one click, they book the best package with a top tour guide and explore a side of Kashmir that few people have seen.
Prior to discussing the various crafts of Kashmir, it is worth mentioning that in 2024, Srinagar became the fourth Indian city to be recognized as a ‘World Craft City’ by the World Craft Council (WCC). This recognition came three years after it was included in the UNESCO Creative City Network (UCCN) for crafts and folk arts.
Kashmir’s art is not just created; it is lived, celebrated, and passed down through generations.
We will introduce you to the exceptional handicrafts that are exclusive to Kashmir. This way, when you come to Kashmir, you will be able to guide your travel guide more effectively on which markets to walk through. Let’s get started.
- Kashmiri Carpets
The origin of hand-knotted carpets, locally known as “Kal Baffi,” originated in the 15th century. It is believed that Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin brought carpet weavers from Persia and Central Asia to Kashmir to teach the locals.
The beauty of these carpets lies in the skill and time that artisans invest in making each one. As a result, they are regarded among the finest in the world. Carpet weaving mainly takes place in the Baramulla district and in Srinagar’s areas near Dal and Achar lakes.
Make sure your travel guide includes Kralpora village, near Tangmarg in Baramulla district, in your travel itinerary. This village is home to some of the most skilled Kashmiri carpet weavers.
- Kashmiri Shawls
When you think of Kashmiri shawls, Pashmina might be the first thing that comes to mind, and rightfully so, given its soft, luxurious Changthangi goat wool. But there is another beauty: the Kani shawl.
The Kani shawls originate from the Kanihama area of Kashmir. They are considered some of the region’s oldest handicrafts, with a history that dates back to the Mughal era. These shawls are woven with cane needles, using a painstaking technique that requires both time and skill.
These two shawls are light, luxurious, and incredibly soft, with a history of being symbols of royalty for centuries.
Plan your trip to Kashmir and be sure to visit the shawl-making workshops. You will get a real sense of the craftsmanship that goes into each shawl. These shawls can be found in well-known tourist marketplaces such as Dalgate and Lal Chowk.
- Wood Carving
Kashmir is known for its carved walnut woodcraft. The sturdy wood is perfect for intricate carvings, and even plain, polished surfaces have a distinctive texture and appearance. The carving process is intricate and requires skilled craftsmanship.
Kashmir manufactures a wide range of walnut wood products, from little ornamental pieces like trays and boxes to larger furniture such as beds and screens. This craft is centered in Srinagar, particularly in areas like Nawakadal and Safakadal.
There is so much more to Kashmiri crafts. Each one has a unique charm, be it a Chain Stitch rug, beautifully molded Papier Mache, the textured grace of Crewel stitching, or the soft, durable Namda.
Each craft piece features Kashmir’s heritage and the amazing craftsmanship handed down through generations. It offers a glimpse into the region’s artistic traditions.
Book Your Kashmir Trip with the Best Tour and Travel Guide
Now that you have an idea of the best art of Kashmir, trust us to craft the perfect travel plan for you. We will introduce you to the artisans behind these arts and crafts. With Kashmir Trails, you will uncover the unseen side of Kashmir, from its nature to its culture and craftsmanship.
Kashmir isn’t just a place you visit — it’s a feeling that lingers long after you leave. The snow-draped peaks, shimmering lakes, and lush meadows are mesmerising, but the real beauty of Kashmir lies in its people — their warmth, traditions, and way of life. To truly experience the Valley, you must live like a local — in their homes, share their meals, and listen to their stories under a star-lit sky.
This is where My Home in Kashmir, in partnership with Kashmir Trails, transforms travel into something personal, soulful, and unforgettable.
Step Inside a Kashmiri Home
Imagine waking up to the smell of freshly baked girda bread and the soft murmur of the Jhelum flowing nearby. At a My Home in Kashmir homestay, every stay feels like family. Hosts welcome you with open arms, eager to share their culture — from making kahwa the traditional way to teaching you how to wrap a pheran for the chilly evenings.
Unlike hotels, these stays let you belong — offering not just comfort, but connection. You’re not a tourist; you’re part of the home. Explore their Homestays page to see curated locations.
The People Behind the Paradise
Kashmir’s charm lies in its simplicity. Whether it’s an artisan weaving a Pashmina shawl in Srinagar, a farmer in Pahalgam tending saffron fields, or children playing by the Lidder River — every encounter adds depth to your journey.
Kashmir Trails curates experiences that go beyond sightseeing — guided village walks, visits to traditional bakeries (kandurwans), and storytelling sessions with local elders who keep centuries of history alive. Check out their home page to start your custom itinerary.
Together with My Home in Kashmir, you get to live amid these stories — not as an observer, but as a participant.
A Taste of True Kashmiri Life
Food is at the heart of Kashmiri culture. During your stay, you might share a wazwan meal served on a single platter, learn to make haak saag with a host family, or sip noon chai by a crackling fire.
Each dish isn’t just about flavour — it’s about legacy. These meals tell stories of celebration, faith, and family — the essence of the Kashmiri heart.
Adventures That Feel Personal
From trekking through Gurez Valley to exploring the meadows of Yousmarg or paddling across Dal Lake at dawn, Kashmir Trails ensures every adventure is rooted in authenticity. Their blog and adventures section give you plenty of inspiration.
And with My Home in Kashmir, your journey doesn’t end when the day does — it continues in homes that echo the sounds and smiles of the places you’ve explored. Each stay becomes a reflection of your day’s story.
Why Live Like a Local?
Because travel should change you. When you share a laugh with your host, help a farmer gather apples, or watch a craftsman weave your name into a shawl — you carry back memories that no photograph can capture.
Kashmir becomes not just a postcard view, but a chapter of your own story.
The My Home in Kashmir Promise
My Home in Kashmir isn’t just about accommodation — it’s about immersion. Every homestay is hand-picked for authenticity, safety, and comfort. Whether it’s a riverside cottage or a hillside home in a remote valley, each space offers the perfect blend of warmth and wonder. See the full list of homestays here.
And when paired with Kashmir Trails, your trip is seamless — travel, stay, and experience all curated with care.
