Officially known as Jammu-Kashmir, it is located 6,000 feet above sea level in the heart of Central South Asia. It borders with India, Pakistan, China and Afghanistan and comprises of an area over 84,400 Sq miles.

The estimated population of Jammu-Kashmir is over 13 million out of which 78% are Muslims and the rest non-Muslims (Hindus: Pandits and Dogras 19.5 %, Sikhs: 1.3 %, Buddhists: 0.7 % and Others 0.4 %). Almost two million Kashmiris have either left the state and live as refugees (in Pakistan and India) or have gone abroad.

Kashmiris are an admixture of different races which descended from Aryan, Mongol, Afghan and probably the Turkish empires.

Known to the rest of the world as the Valley of Kashmir (justifiably termed as "heaven on earth") is 'Kashir'. It is essentially a land of crystal-clear streams, large lakes, green turf, magnificent trees and sky high mountains. It is fabled for its serene beauty and is blessed by nature with breath-taking scenery and outstandingly pleasant climate. The inhabitants of this region commonly referred to as 'Kashmiris' form a distinct cultural and ethnic mix. Historically, the Valley played a useful resting place for adventurous traders from distant markets as far as Yarkand and furnished a base for futile military operations against the wild and turbulent tribes of Shinaki.

In the North is the Ladakh territory where Budhist population has centuries old roots. More to the east lie the peaceful valleys of Hunza and Baltistan where Baltis lead their quiet lives in a high, dry climate. Inhabitants of the Jammu region are spread in Doda, Rajouri, Poonch, Mirpur, and Kathua district where Paharhi dialect takes its roots.