Exploring the Geoheritage, Cultural Geomorphology, and Geotourism Potential of the Kashmir Region, Northwest Himalaya, India

Abstract

The Kashmir region, nestled in the heart of the northwest Himalaya, represents a significant geological and cultural repository that has remained relatively unexplored by the global tourism industry. This study systematically investigates the geoheritage and cultural geomorphology of Kashmir, aiming to identify and evaluate key geosites with potential for sustainable geotourism development. Located between the Greater Himalayan Range and the Pir Panjal Range, Kashmir exhibits a complex assemblage of lithological units, tectonic structures, and geomorphological features, interwoven with a deep-rooted cultural landscape. Through integrated field-based geological surveys and cultural analyses, the study delineates critical sites of geoheritage importance and quantitatively assesses their geotourism potential based on scientific, educational, and cultural value. By focusing on the connections between natural landscapes and cultural heritage, the findings advocate for geotourism initiatives that promote community engagement, environmental stewardship, and economic sustainability. Kashmir has continually drawn attention from both Earth scientists and visitors due to its unique geographical location. Though its landscapes can be challenging to access, it remains a prime destination where rivers, lakes, historical sites, and glaciers are accessible by road, making it an ideal location for studying geosciences. Structurally, the Kashmir Basin is bounded by the Main Central Thrust to the southwest and the Zanskar Thrust to the northeast, offering a tectonically active setting that facilitates the study of Himalayan deformation. The Balapur Fault exposure provides a rare opportunity for in-situ structural and geomorphological training, while the jointed Panjal Volcanics and associated uplift driven by Himalayan orogeny have developed prominent geomorphic features such as the Panzkoot and Aharbal waterfalls-both of which are ideal for combined geoscientific education and public outreach. These findings underscore the importance of the region as a natural laboratory for understanding orogenic processes, paleoenvironments, and landscape dynamics. Of particular scientific significance is the Permo-Triassic boundary section at Guryul Ravine, which offers an uninterrupted 3-meter stratigraphic record of the end-Permian mass extinction-substantially exceeding the thickness of the globally recognized Meishan section in China. This site holds outstanding potential for nomination as an international geopark due to its stratigraphic completeness and relevance to global biotic and climatic transitions. Collectively, the proposed geosites underscore the Kashmir region's capacity to serve as a strategic geoscientific and geotourism hub. The study provides a novel, interdisciplinary foundation for advancing geoheritage conservation and promoting scientifically-informed, sustainable tourism in tectonically and culturally dynamic mountain environments.