Kashmir, often referred to as "Paradise on Earth," is a stunning region in the northernmost part of India, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and deep historical significance. It lies between the majestic Himalayas and the Pir Panjal mountain range, offering an unparalleled combination of lush valleys, serene lakes, snow-capped peaks, and vibrant gardens.
In the first half of the first millennium, the Kashmir region became an important centre of Hinduism and later of Buddhism. During the 7th-14th centuries, the region was ruled by a series of Hindu dynasties, and Kashmir Shaivism arose. In 1320, Rinchan Shah became the first Muslim ruler of Kashmir, inaugurating the Kashmir Sultanate. The region was part of the Mughal Empire from 1586 to 1751, and thereafter, until 1820, of the Afghan Durrani Empire.