Kashmir is known for its unique wood carving on walnut wood. The sturdy quality of the wood and its uniform, smooth texture allows craftsmen to carve intricate designs on it. Some of the popular motifs are chinar leaves, flowers, and fruits. The walnut tree cut for to convert into these crafts is locally called Doon Kul. According to historical research and local tales, a tree is only cut after it reaches the age of 300 years. Srinagar is considered the hub for wood carving art. 

In the 15th century, Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom introduced walnut wood carving in Kashmir. Stories say walnut wood art was reserved for castles and homes before that. There are accounts of Zain-ul-Abadin’s (the then-ruler) palace being wood-carved from within. Even today, this exemplary artwork can be seen in the shrines of Nund Rishi, Noor-ud-din-Wali and the Naqshaband mosque of Kashmir.

The artist needs to be a trained carpenter, understanding joinery, carving and polishing. The master artisan is called the naqqash, like for other crafts of the region. They etch simple designs on the wood before refining them with fine chisels and a wooden mallet. The famous craft is exported to several design stores in many parts of the world.

Walnut wood carving has been certified with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag since 2009.

Earlier this year, several crafts of Jammu & Kashmir such as Kashmir Pashmina, Kani Shawl, Papier-mâché, and Walnut Wood Carving, got a high-tech upgrade. Certified pieces now come with QR labels for security of the customers' purchase.

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