Luxury Hotels & Houseboats in Kashmir

Finding the perfect accommodation is one of the most crucial aspects of going on a vacation. And we, at Kaspeiria Holidays make sure that you get the best in class accommodation within your budget. We at Kaspeiria Holidays do have best Rates and relation with number of Hotels and Houseboats in Kashmir that range from luxurious to comfortable, so that you can enjoy your vacations without even one thing to worry about.

1. The Lalit Grand Palace Srinagar

If you want to experience royalty, the Lalit will offer you the feeling of royalty along with its heritage and amenities. Also rated as one of the top ten restaurant in Kashmir, It covers everything from the warm-welcoming service, aura, room, cleanliness, food service & space.This palace now caters luxurious rooms with breath-taking location overlooking the dal lake and the amazing lawn. This is one of the best five star hotels in Kashmir.

Category: 5 Star

No. of rooms:113

Location: Gupkar Road Srinagar

Price Range: ( Rs.17000- 20000 Per Night )

Nearby Attractions: Mughal Gardens,Tulip Garden, Shikara Ride,Tulip Garden,Cheshma Shahi Garden,Shankara charya Temple,Jamia Masjid Srinagar,Hari Parbat,Hazratbal Mosque

2.Vivanta By Taj Dal View

This is one of the most luxurious 5 star resorts in Srinagar and the rooms offer breathtaking views of the Tulip Gardens, the Zabarwan Range and the golden glow of the Chinars. The resort is beautifully decorated in warm earthy colors with copper and timber carving and the rooms are perfect for a luxury stay. The famous Kashmiri Kehwa tea is a must try at the tea lounge. This is the best honeymoon resorts in Srinagar for a scintillating Kashmiri experience.

Category: 5 Star

No. of rooms:84

Location: Kralsangri, Brein, Srinagar

Price Range: ( Rs.17000 – 21000 Per Night )

Nearby Attractions: Mughal Gardens,Tulip Garden, Shikara Ride in Dal Lake,Tulip Garden,Cheshma Shahi Garcden,Shankara charya Temple

3.The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa

Located within short distance from Gulmarg Gandola Ski Lift, The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa is a luxury retreat for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Featuring an impressive architecture.It is one of the most stunningly located luxury hotels in India. Known for its excellent location and warm hospitality, the resort is Gulmarg’s first luxury Resort. The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa is also considered as one of the Top Ski Resorts in India.The award winning resort is on everyone’s wish list whenever there is a mention of Gulmarg in Kashmir. The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa is not just another luxury resort; it is an experience in itself.The resort has the most stunning views of the snow-clad mountains and thick pine forest. The uninterrupted views of jaw-dropping mountains make all the difference.

Category: 5 Star

No. of rooms:85

Location: Hotel Khyber Rd, Forest Block, Gulmarg Kashmir 193403

Price Range: ( Rs.17000 – 35000 Per Night )

Nearby Attractions:Gulmarg Gondola,Apharwat Peak,Alpather Lake,Ningle Nallah,Baba Reshi Shrine,Rani Temple,Drang,Kongdori,Golf Courses in Gulmarg,St Mary's Church

4.Sukoon Houseboat

Sukoon Houseboat takes houseboat experience in Srinagar to another level by offering luxuries, comfort and styling that are above from any other houseboat.It is perhaps the finest houseboat you can stay on, and indeed one of the best places to stay in or around Srinagar..It has a roof-deck that provides some additional space to relax in, whilst providing stunning 360-degree views of the lake and surrounding.The Sukoon Houseboat is a convenient base from which to explore the vicinity of Srinagar where you might enjoy visits to the early-morning floating market, discovering Mughal gardens, leisurely strolls along through the narrow bustling lanes of the Old City.

Category: 5 Star

No. of rooms:05

Location: Kabootar Khana Near Rani Mahal, Dal Lake, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001

Price Range: ( Rs.7000 – 18000 Per Night )

Nearby Attractions:Jama Masjid Srinagar, Shankaracharya Temple, Chashma Shahi, Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Gardens,Hazratbal Mosque

5.Radisson Srinagar 

Radisson Srinagar Hotel caters the needs of the luxury seeker by offering them a comfortable accommodation with well-equipped facilities. It is the best choice for honeymoon couples, family and business travelers. The secured location and close proximity to the Srinagar International Airport adds one more advantage for the tourists. If you are nature admirer then you will definitely fall in love with this inn which is situated amidst the majestic Zabarwan Mountain range near Mughal Garden. The property amenities include breakfast, free parking, dry cleaning, meeting rooms, laundry service, conference facilities, spa, banquet room, etc.

Category: 4 Star

No of Rooms:88

Location: Moulana Azad Road, Srinagar 190001

Price Range: ( Rs.7000 – 14000 Per Night )

Tourist Attractions: Kashmir Golf Club, Chashme Shahi, Nishat Garden, Dal Lake, Jamia Masjid, Kheer Bhawani Temple, etc.

6.The Mughal Sheraton Houseboat 

Located in the Golden Part of Dal Lake, The Mughal Sheraton Houseboat will make you feel completely at home. The guest rooms are beautifully appointed and very well-decorated and feature all the essential amenities that one would require during their stay. You can also enjoy a serene boat ride around the Dal Lake and witness the mesmerising views and the surroundings 

Category: 5 Star

No of Rooms: 12

Price Range: ( Rs.5000 – 8000 Per Night )

Location: Ghat, No 9, Boulevard Rd, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001

Nearby Attractions:Jama Masjid Srinagar, Shankaracharya Temple, Chashma Shahi, Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Gardens,Hazratbal Mosque

7.The Chinar Resort & Spa-Pahalgam

The Chinar Resort and Spa - Pahalgam, Kashmir, offers a location like no other and is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in Pahalgam. Located in the beautiful valley, The Chinar Resort is another top rated luxurious property and an impeccable place to experience the modern architecture, impressive interior and excellent view of panoramic beauty in tranquil surroundings.

Category: 4 Star

No of Rooms: 30

Price Range: ( Rs.7000 – 12000 Per Night )

Location: 11, Laddi- Veersiran, Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir 192126

Nearby Attractions:Mamaleshwar Temple, Chandanwari, Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, Pahalgam Golf Course,Lidder Amusement Park,Poshwan Park

8.Butterfly Group Of Houseboats

The Butterfly Houseboats offer excellent stay and a wide range of recreational facilities thus bringing the recognition of one of the best houseboats in Kashmir.The adjoining garden area, well-appointed staff, and parking facilities for guests make Butterfly Houseboat an ideal stay in Nigeen Lake.This 5-star property is well-equipped to make your stay a memorable one. It is indeed one of the best houseboats in Kashmir.

Category: 3 Star

No of Rooms: 04

Price Range: ( Rs.6500 – 8000 Per Night )

Location:Nagin Lake, Lake Rd, Mirza Bagh, Sadribal, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190006

Nearby Attractions:Hazratbal Mosque, Dal Lake, Shankaracharya Temple, and Shalimar Bagh

9.The Orchard Retreat & Spa- Srinagar

Located just 40 minutes away from Srinagar International Airport,The Orchard Retreat & Spa is one of the best accommodations for all the travellers who want to have extreme comfort and lavish stay. This hotel offers outstanding view of mountains and green meadows that you would just love this place. The hotel also provides world-class dining, free parking space, Swimming pool, fitness centre, glorious landscape lawns and multiple places for visit nearby. You can taste the best food in this hotel that will suit your taste buds. This five star property in Kashmir offers a paid airport shuttle service that provides a huge comfort to the travellers.

Category: 5 Star

Price Range: ( Rs.8000 – 16000 Per Night )

Location:Pathan Colony, zakura, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190006

Nearby Attractions:Hari Parbat, Hazratbal Mosque, Nehru Park, Cheshma Shahi Garden, etc.

10.Country Inn and Suites by Radisson Sonamarg 

Country Inn and Suites by Radisson Sonamarg Plan an unforgettable adventure to the Meadow of Gold when you visit Sonamarg, which offers visitors a stunning landscape filled with lush meadows, flowing rivers and snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Nestled in a picturesque valley, the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Sonmarg lies close to adventures like heart-pounding drives through the Himalayan Mountains at ZojiLa and Zero Point.

Category: 4 Star

Price Range: ( Rs.8000 – 12000 Per Night )

Location:Kargil Road, Ganderbal, Dist, Sonamarg, Jammu and Kashmir 191203

Nearby Attractions: Thajwas Glacier,zero point,Fish pond,River sind.

11.Hotel Pine-n-Peak Pahalgam by ITC

Enclosed within lush greenery and breathtaking views of elegant snow capped mountains and river Lidder, Pine N Peak offers you a new experience of staying in a hotel. This will be the best accommodation during your vacation where you will have pleasure of right ambience. Choose from Deluxe, Superior, Premier or Deluxe Suites as per your convenience and get all the basic facility at your doorstep. Other than basic amenities, the property also offers convenience of children activities, spa, restaurant, conference room, laundry service, dry cleaning and banquet room.It is a beautiful 5-star hotel in Kashmir.

Category: 5 Star

Price Range: ( Rs.13000 – 21000 Per Night )

Location:Opposite Amusement Park, Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir 192126

Nearby Attractions:Mamaleshwar Temple, Chandanwari, Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, Pahalgam Golf Course,Lidder Amusement Park,Poshwan Park

12.Hotel Downtown Srinagar

Hotel Downtown Srinagar is located in the heart of the city and walkable distance from Dal lake.It is one of the top rated boutique hotels in Srinagar.From hotel entrance to reception and from there to rooms all area of hotel is looked like you are in Istanbul.Little persia Restaurant by hotel downtown is undoubtedly the best place in Srinagar where you can savour Iranian, Indo-Pak, Chinese, Arab, Italian, Continental cuisines, Amazing mocktails,service in an elegantly designed persian ambience!They also have terrace seating which gives a unique feel.

Category: 4 Star

Price Range: ( Rs.5000 – 8000 Per Night )

Location:Behind Azad Filling Station, Munawara Abad, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001

Nearby Attractions:Jamia Masjid Srinagar, Shankaracharya Temple, Chashma Shahi, Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Gardens,Hazratbal Mosque

13.The Kabo Luxury Boutique Hotel

Situated at the centre of Srinagar and overlooking the historic city park with a panaromic view of the summer capital city of Jammu and Kashmir as far as the eye can reach The Kabo offers a location like no other hotel.The hotel offers exclusive meeting and banquet venues making it the ideal choice for the selective traveller and promises total commitment to service, quiet luxury When it comes to 4-star hotels in Srinagar Kashmir, The Kabo is one of a kind. Stunning interiors by A-list designers,The restaurant ababeel which is in the hotel is just fabulous

Category: 4 Star

Price Range: ( Rs.7000 – 14000 Per Night )

Location: near bakshi stadium, opp. Tagore Hall, Iqbal Park, Wazir Bagh, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190008

Nearby Attractions:Jama Masjid Srinagar, Shankaracharya Temple, Chashma Shahi, Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Gardens,Hazratbal Mosque

Best Spices in Kashmir

 1.Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder(koshur marchwagan)

Every Indian kitchen includes it, Kashmiri red chili powder (koshur marchwagan)which is an Indian variation of cayenne pepper. Not only are every household of India but China, Korea, Thailand and Mexico also fans of this magic spice. The specialty of Kashmiri red chilli is it is mild to taste but offers rich flavor when added to any cuisine. Also, it is not too hot for your taste buds but its enriched red colour proudly adds a hint of red colour to the cooking dish. Kashmiri red chilli powder is the grounded version of dried chillies that is hugely used in Indian cooking and is available in the market with the names of Kashmiri mirch and Degi mirch.

Health Benefits:

1.It is rich in this vitamin or antioxidant that helps to build immunity.

2.It makes a good source of myriad antioxidants which actively controls free radicals in the blood.

3.Helps in improving RBC count and also advances the capacity of carrying oxygen into the cells.

4.It is a good vitamin A supplement and flavonoids benefit skin, hair and nail health.

2.Masala Tikki ('Kashir Werr')

"Locally known as 'Kashir Werr' in Kashmir, this Masala Tikki or mix is an authentic Kashmiri Recipe.The wholesome Masalas (spices) are grounded individually, and then are mixed together in appropriate proportions to make it a proper proportion of complementing flavor.It is a complete masala mix for vegetarian and non vegetarian dishes as well. Its main ingredient are red chilly powder, wild onion paste, fresh garlic paste, culinary spices, salt and edible oil.

Usage

For a recipe of 1 kg veg or non veg dish, mix two spoons of Masala tikki to 20 ml cooking oil/water and make a thin paste. Add the same paste mixture to your preparation during boiling or at half frying. Masala tikki is effectively used to provide "tadka" in authentic spicy dishes.

3.Kashmiri Garlic (lehsun )

Kashmiri garlic has a tall, solid, flowering stalk and broad, flat leaves which form a bulb. The Kashmiri garlic has a strong flavour and a strong aroma.

Kashmiri garlic has a hard, golden-brown husk and looks like an individual clove of garlic. It has a rounded, bulbous shape with a stiff, flattened portion on one side coming to a point at the tail end of the clove. Kashmiri garlic can be used both raw and cooked. To maximise the beneficial properties in the garlic, crush or mince before using.It is available year-round with a peak season in the spring months is said to be one of the purest varieties due to the region where it is grown and the lack of industrial pollutants in the soil.

Health Benefits:

1.help maintain blood circulation, increase oxygen capacity.

2.It is prescribed to people suffering from diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure.

VEGETARIAN RESTAURANTS IN KASHMIR

 1.Krishna Vaishno Dhaba Restaurant

Krishna Dhaba is a well-known vegetarian restaurant in Srinagar kashmir. They have been providing high-quality services to their clients for many years. Their team specialises in South-Indian, North-Indian and Chinese dishes. They always use vegetable oils for making delicious vegetarian dishes. One of the must-try dishes are Kadai paneer,Dal makhani, noodles and Rajma butter fry. Finish up your meals with delicious desserts or beverages such as kheer and gulab jamun. If you are a vegan lover, then Krishna Dhaba is the perfect place for you. Enjoy the meals with your family or friends. Krishna Dhaba also affords dine-in, takeout facilities to its clients. Located very close to the Dal Lake, Krishna Dhaba is accessible from all parts of the city.

Must Try: Kadai paneer,Rajma butter fry,kheer 

Cuisines: Indian

Timing:8 AM TO 10 PMLocation: Durganag Mandir Sonwar Road, Near Burnhall School, Srinagar,

2.NIRAMISH By Batra Hotels & Residences

A Pure Vegetarian Multi Cusine Restaurant where you can savour delicious Indian, Chinese and Continental cuisines in an elegantly designed contemporary ambience.Making way for a hearty meal is Niramish- Best Vegetarian Restaurant in Srinagar. This place is synonymous with delicious food that can satiate all food cravings.They are having young and enthusiastic chefs who are always at their best to deliver the most innovative vegetarian recipes. It is home to some of the most appreciated cuisines. So as to be able to cater to a large number of diners, it occupies a favourable location at Durganagh Dalgate Srinagar Kashmir

Must Try: kashmiri Pulao , Rajma

Cuisine: Indian, Chinese and Continental 

Timings: 11 AM TO 11 PM

Location: Batra Hotel & Residences,Durganag Mandir, Near Batra petrol pump Dalgate Srinagar

3.Dana Pani, Pahalgam

If you are looking for vegetarian restaurants in Kashmir that serves typical North Indian food, then you can dine in at Dana Pani in Pahalgam. What makes this a great option is its decent prices. You will find nearby restaurants and eateries selling their food at unreasonably high prices. At Dana Pani, you will find value for money. Even taste-wise, the food is not at all disappointing. From South Indian, North Indian to Kashmir cuisine, you will get everything here.

If you are planning a lavish lunch at Dana Pani, we recommend you to head here a little before 1 pm as this place gets crowded during lunch time. There is no better way to satiate your sweet cravings with hot Gulab jamun and yummy kulfi! Don't forget to have paan outside the restaurant!

Must Try:Paneer Pasanda ,Malai Kofta,Dal Makhni

Cuisine: Indian, Asian

Timings:8 AM to 10 PM

Address: Main Market Pahalgam Kashmir

4.Bakshi Restaurant Gulmarg

Operational since 1987, Bakshi Restaurant located in Gulmarg rests in the lap of snow-covered mountains. It has a small chalet-like setting and comfortable seating that provides a homely atmosphere. Frequented by tourists and natives alike, the restaurant serves authentic vegetarian and Jain food. Savour buttery naans, papadums and pumpkins while enjoying scenic views of the surroundings. The friendly hotel staff ensures that guests have a pleasurable time dining here.

Must Try: Masala Tea,Maggi

Timing: 11 AM to 8 PM

Location:Main Market Area, Gulmarg Kashmir

5.Nathu's Sweets Srinagar

A popular food chain spread across the country, Nathus Sweets luckily has a joint in Kashmir too. So, if you want to savor fast food on your Kashmir holiday, then you can come directly to Nathus. It is located at a convenient location, right opposite to Dal Lake, so you wouldn’t have to waste time finding it. It is one of the best places to grab breakfast in Kashmir. Whether you are craving Chhola bhaturas or parathas, delectable chat or sweet desserts, you have got it all at Nathus. The food is served fresh and the staff is nice and humble too.All Indian dishes, including South Indian, are served here. The Chinese available at this restaurant is quite decent too. One can enjoy food here with a view of the Dal Lake

Must Try:Chhola bhaturas,Ras Malai

Cuisine:North Indian, South Indian, Chinese, Street Food, Fast Food, Mithai, Desserts

Timings: 9 AM to 9:30 PM

Address: The Boulevard Road, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001

DRY FRUITS IN KASHMIR

Kashmir is known for its spices and quality dry fruit.. A wide variety of fruits are grown in Kashmir like Walnut, Apple, Cherry, Pears, Apricot, Almond etc. These fruits when Dried are available throughout season and can be commonly found in the markets of Kashmir

Dry fruits are such items which are generally liked by everyone. The crisp and crunchy taste of dry fruits is surely one of the most loved titbits. Kashmir offers an extensive range of dry fruits out of which Almond, Walnut, Cashews, Hazelnuts and Figs are most popular ones. 

1.Almonds in Kashmir

Almonds are the first to be bloomed in Kashmir on the arrival of spring. With the colour of flowers ranging from white to pale Pink all around gives the feeling of a princess whose wedding is on and she has to pass through the lanes now. Almonds are named as the king of the dried fruits. Almonds are highly beneficial with high nutrition levels, efficient for health building. Almonds serve as a remedy for many common ailments. 

Almonds in Kashmir are either Hard-shelled or Kagzi Badam(soft-shelled). Hard-shelled Badam is termed as Mamra,soft-shelled as Kagzi Badam.

A.Kagzi Badam (soft-shelled):Kagzi Is The Urdu Word Meaning Paper. This type of Badam have Paper Shell Which can Easily Be Breakable and Kagzi badam are Usually available in Kashmir and Iran.Size Of Kashmiri Kagzi Badam is usually Small in Size and the size Of Almond varies From Tree to tree. Kashmiri Kagzi Almonds are also area Dependent. Some Areas Give Long Size Kashmiri Kagzi almonds and Provide small Size.

Kashmir Mamra:Kashmiri mamra is special in its own way. Kashmiri mamra is much better than their Irani counterparts. Unlike Irani mamra, Kashmiri mamra has no specific size and shape. Every tree has its own unique colour and shape. Even the taste varies from tree to tree. They are an excellent source of vitamin E, magnesium and riboflavin, as well as have a rich fibre content.

Afghani Mamra Badam:Mamra has a rich content of oil and they are grown organically. Afghanistan is one of the major producers of mamra followed by Iran. Since mamra is grown for about 3%-4% of the world supply which is why they are expensive in terms of cost but super healthy. Mamra Almonds Are Rich Source Of Proteins, Minerals & Vitamins. It Prevents Coronary Artery Disease & Strokes By Favouring Healthy Blood Lipid Profile.

Natural Almond Kernels:Almond kernels are collected by extracting the fruit’s envelopes inside the shell, light-brown, thin skin around the kernel. Adding Almond nuts to your diet is a great way to build on brain health.These kernels are similar in shape and size which makes them delicious in taste. Kashmiri almonds has been a folk remedy for sharpening and upgrading brain power for centuries. They have been used in Ayurvedic preparations as a tonic and memory foster. 

Almonds available as Shelled, Unshelled or Blanched have their outer hull removed, Not removed and the seed coats removed respectively.The first to bloom tree at the arrival of Spring bears white-purplishish flowers and is ready to give its fruit by early August. The inner shell is exposed as the hulls split and dry.For every Almond, nearly 1-gallon water is taken.

If you are to sow this tree, do it in the month of November so that they can have a balanced temperature of not developing a frost. And later the Blooming begins in March

Hard Shelled Almonds: Well,  Hard almonds have Hard Covered, outer coat that is coloured Yellow and termed as the hull. Inside this hull resides a woody hard shell, when You broke these Shell You will Almond which Is Known as Almonds Kernels which are very High Quality and tasty as well.Out in the market and stores where dried fruits are available, you will mostly come to hear about three terms; Shelled, Unshelled and Blanched Almonds.

Size and Taste Is like medium From 1 Cm to 3 Cm.These almonds Comes With A Special and only One Type Of Almonds. These Almond kernels are sweet In nature.You Can Use Hammer For to break and which Is Often To make Kernels.

2.Walnut In Kashmir

Walnuts – known as Akhrout locally in India and Kashmir being the major producer of the nut calls it “DOEN” (singular-DOON). About 2.98 tons of walnuts are cultivated per hectare in Kashmir. The export rate is so high (98%) making it the supreme exporter state.

The walnuts of Kashmir are widely known for their superior taste and quality, and are demanded worldwide. The plantation of walnut is done by seedling and with a very little effort bestows plentiful nuts. The advantage of the nut of walnut is that it has long self life.

In Kashmir, walnut trees are abundantly grown in Kupwara and Shopian region. Previously Shopian was the largest walnut growing region in Kashmir and but now Kupwara has overtaken Shopian and acclaimed as the largest Walnut producing area. Walnut in the form of fruit and wood are highly in demand and Kashmir is the prime exporter of walnuts in India.

Types Of Walnut In Kashmir

The removal of walnut shells and extracting the kernel inside it is called as the UnShelled walnut Or Walnut kernels. These Walnut Kernels are Stored under the temperature of 25-degree Celsius and checked for if any microbes are developed.Shelled Walnuts Or Walnuts With Shell take more space for packaging and makes it expensive then shelled.

A.Snow white walnut Kernel(Walnut Without Shell):Snow white walnut Kernel are top Most and Highly Hygienic Type Of Walnut Kernel which Has Good Taste, Colour and Zero added  Impurity. They are Clean Like snow Having Yellow in Colour while as Normal Walnuts Are Mixed in Colour Yellow and Brown.These Walnuts require Very Hard work and more Labour Work Than Any other walnut Kernel which Is Present in The market. This Type Of Walnut kernel Is rarely Available In the Markets Of India.

Walnuts contain 4% water, 15% protein, 65% fat and 14% of carbohydrates among which 7% is the dietary fibre. A 100 gm serving of walnuts contains 654 kcal and more than 19% of the daily dietary minerals value.

B.Walnuts With Shell:these nuts are grown organically without the use of any harsh chemicals or synthetic fertilizers.These Walnuts are widely known for their superior taste and quality. The advantage of the nut of walnut is that it has a long shelf life. Being organic in nature as no fertilizers or sprays are used on walnut plants and its yield, are high in nutrients with immense health benefits. The delicate taste, flavor and aroma are indeed unique and delicious. This is why this fruit fetches high demand within the country as well as from rest of the world.

Some of the health benefits of Kashmiri Walnuts:

Rich in Antioxidants,Super Plant source of Omega-3s,decrease inflammation, reduce risk of some Cancers,Supports weight control,help lower blood pressure,Supports healthy aging,Supports good brain function.

3.Hazelnuts

Hazelnut, also called filbert or cobnut, is one of the oldest agricultural crops. Believed to have originated in Asia,it is today primarily grown in Spain, US, Italy, and Turkey. It grows within a fuzzy outer husk, which opens as the fruit ripens to reveal a shell with the edible kernel covered by a thin, dark brown skin.These nuts are found in various districts of kashmir in large quantities.

Generally, this dry fruit is used to prepare several delicacies such as chocolate truffles and nutella.Rich in dietary fibre, vitamin E, magnesium, heart-healthy B vitamins, unsaturated fats (mostly oleic acid) & calcium,Good for the heart, reduces risk of cancer, and aids muscle, skin, bone, & digestive health.

4.Figs (Angeer)

If there was a monarchy in dried fruits, Dried Figs would have ruled forever. Loaded with nutrients, figs come in different colours of green, yellow, and purple. Kashmiri Figs are majorly green and purple with excellent taste and health value. Drying out gives figs the elegant copper-brown colour which is in it, an attraction for the eyes. The benefits of figs being limited due to their seasonal nature are now cherished throughout the year in the dried form. The figs are exotic in taste, but dried figs are, simply Divine

Health Benefits:

1. Dried figs help in maintaining a healthy rate of blood pressure level.

2. If you are trying to lose some weight, then dried figs are your natural fibre, beneficial for your weight management program.

3. For women, dried figs are magic spells which may help prevent breast cancer, menopause and other health issues they tend to face.

4. Consuming dried figs on a regular diet basis helps in maintaining healthy and smooth skin; curing all the acne, blackheads, whiteheads, aging affects and even scars.

4.Cashews (Kaju)

Cashew nuts known to Indian region as “Kaju” have a pleasant nutty taste that makes it a perfect ingredient in a selection of meals including stir-fries, pastas, granolas, fruit salads, curries, and chicken recipes.Many people eat cashes on regular basis without understanding its origin.Akbari kaju is believed to be from Kashmir.5-6 piece of cashews must be included in the diet daily. Cashews can be eaten simply raw and natural and can also be roasted or added into delicacies. Cashews are multipurpose, versatile nut used in sweets, bakeries, pulao and thousands of other recipes, giving their own nutty, creamy taste.

Health Benefits:

1.Cashews have many cancer fighting properties.

2.Cashews lower the blood pressure with the help of magnesium present in them.

3.lowers the risk of developing gallstones.

4.Helps bone formation and also helps to prevent osteoporosis.

5.Apricot (Khumani)

Kashmiri apricots are small, golden orange fruits, with velvety skin and flesh: not too juicy but definitely smooth and sweet. Their flavor is almost musky, with a faint tartness that is more pronounced when the fruit is dried.The dried apricot is obtained by dehydrating the fruit by natural means to enrich the flavour without reducing any of its nutritive content. Dried apricots contain Calcium, Potassium, Phosphorus, Vitamin A, Iron, and Vitamin C.The drupe apricot is similar to the fruit of peach. Its surface has short velvety hair, with its tincture ranging from yellow to orange & Red.This is worth mentioning here that Ladakh is one of the major producer of apricot in India,

Health Benefits

1.Good source of fibre and minerals

2.Boosts vision and haemoglobin levels

3.Dietary fibre improves digestion, helping to increase metabolism.

4. It breaks down fatty acids fast

5.Apricot reduces the bad cholesterol

A.Red Apricot (Khumani)

Red apricots are a new variety of apricots developed from scientific methods. The colour of the fruit is purplish-red with yellowish flesh present also. Juicy and fleshy fruit to eat is a source of many benefits. Deliciously cotton ish, sweet and sour in taste, they are apricots pollinated by plums. These red apricots are used with every type of cuisine. Salads, sandwiches, chicken, meat, mushrooms, etc. 

B.Yellow Apricot

The drupe apricot is similar to the fruit of peach. Its surface has short velvety hair, with its tincture ranging from yellow to orange. For the maturation of Apricots, dry climate is required.At the centre is a seed, that has a woody endocarp surrounded around it, lying inside a less juicy flesh. Although people in Kashmir consume its seed, yet one must not. It is because it is not counted as an edible part by knowledgeable people. In fact, some of its types may be poisonous to be eaten as it contains amygdalin from which cynic acid may be extracted.

C.White Apricots

White apricots are the smaller stone fruits a little elongated in length but round in shape. Flesh is extremely juicy when eaten fresh. Creamy in appearance. Color varies from being pale to yellowish. Flavour Wise it is sweet. Taking a bite from one you will feel a sudden sugar rush and the after taste feels  somewhat tangy. They have a minutely red blush in  their texture. 

However, the fruit is mostly consumed in dried form mostly. This gives it a somewhat faded and dehydrated look. The drying leaves the fruit nutrient dense and extremely beneficial for consumption.  Available in late spring and earlier summer, these are known to be one of the original varieties of apricots. These are available in many forms other than fresh and dried. We can have white apricots pureed, jammed, baked, sugared, roasted and grilled as well. 

6.Raisins (Kishmish)

A raisin is a dried grape. Raisins are produced in many regions of the world and may be eaten or used in cooking, baking and brewing.Raisin means “grape”, while a dried grape is referred to as a raisin..Raisins are produced commercially by drying harvested grape berries. In order for a grape berry to dry, water inside the grape must be removed completely from the interior of the cell onto the surface of the grape where the water droplets can evaporate.

Health Benefits

1.Half a cup of the Kishmish daily serves you an amount of 1.3 mg of iron

2.The amount of fructose and glucose present in raisins make it an excellent source of energy. 

3.They also help in weight gain without accumulating cholesterol.

4.Enriched with antioxidants, Raisins help in fighting aging issues, heart diseases, strokes, and even cancers

7.Prunes

Prunes are actually the dried version of plums and are also known as dried plums.In India the prunes is known as Alu bukhara in hindi. Sweet with a deep taste and a sticky chewy texture.Prunes are not only fun to eat but they are also highly nutritious. As with other dried fruits,they are available year round.Prunes are used in cooking both sweet and savory dishes.Stewed prunes,a compote,are a desert.

Health Benefits

1.Prunes can help soften stool and increase stool frequency. Many parents give prune juice or prunes to their kids who are generally constipated.

2.Prunes are good source of vitamin A,dietary fibre,potassium and copper.

3.Prunes help in good digestion.

8.Cranberries

Cranberries are obtained from the evergreen shrubs that are dwarf in nature. Found in the cooler regions of the northern hemisphere this berry is sweet in taste.these round red berries are processed for making Jams, Juices, Sauces. In Fact, in Places’ like Kashmir, Cranberries are dried- maybe sweetened and used just as raisins are. It is served to the Grooms’ procession along with nuts, figs, apricots, and juices too.

Health Benefits

1.Cranberries help in the detoxification process that promises you a glowing skin.

2.Helps to decrease Body temperature

3.Treats urinary tract infections

4.Helps kidney and bladder problems