Kishtwar.
Kishtwar is a hilly district to the east of Kashmir, situated on a plateaux where the rivers of ChandraBhaga and Wardwan meet. The hills are almost rocky and steep. There are forests of pine and deodar trees below 9,000 ft. Oak is also found at lower levels. The routes are troublesome but according to the remarks of Dr. Neve, "some of the grandest scenery in Kashmir is met with on this route (route to Kishtwar by Sinthan Pass) as there are very lofty peaks of 21,000 feet, seen rising sheer from the deep gorges of the Wardwan and Chenab."
The habitation is scattered. The people are allied to those found in Chamba districts. Mohem. adons make up the major portion of the population; while Kashmiris have also settled in big villages and intermarried with Kishtwaris. Formerly, here lived independent Rajas of Rajput descent.
The plain of Kishtwar affords a pleasing contrast to the surrounding wildness of the mountains. The chief town is Kishtwar with a small fort, bazar, dis. pensary etc. From Kishtwar, several routes go to dif. ferent direction. Kishtwar to Ramban is six stages and joins the Banihal cart road at Ramban whence motor journey can be taken up. Also a new road has been constructed from Batote to Kishtwar. Kishtwar also comes in the way on the route from Chamba to Kashmir.
Kashmir to Kishtwar.
There are two main routes for Kishtwar from Kashmir, one by Marbal Pass 11,550 ft. and the other by Sinthan Pass, 12,300 ft. Of the two, the latter is recommended as this is a bridle road and the scenery round about is magnificent. It is covered with snow from the last week of November upto May, but traffic can go through the track leading along the nala bottom but laden ponies are difficult to pass. All arrangements for ponies, coolies and necessary provisions should be made at Anantnag
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Kishtwar