Pashmina
पश्मीना
Pashmina is the world's finest natural fibre, derived from the undercoat of the Changthangi goat (Capra hircus) raised at altitudes above 14,000 feet in Ladakh and Kashmir.
What is Pashmina?
Pashmina is the world's finest natural fibre, derived from the undercoat of the Changthangi goat (Capra hircus) raised at altitudes above 14,000 feet in Ladakh and Kashmir. GI-tagged and internationally recognised, genuine Pashmina measures 12-16 microns in diameter — finer than the finest cashmere — and produces shawls of extraordinary warmth, lightness, and softness. Srinagar's master weavers transform raw Pashmina into shawls that take months of hand-spinning and hand-weaving to complete, and which become softer with each generation of wearing.
Best for
WinterGiftingWeddingsBridalFestiveDaily WearTECHNIQUE
How Pashmina is Made
- 1
Raw Pashmina fibre is combed from the goat's undercoat in spring
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It is hand-spun by women artisans on a wooden spindle (yinder) into yarn of extraordinary fineness
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The yarn is woven on traditional wooden frame looms in Srinagar by male weavers
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Plain Pashmina is woven in twill or plain weave
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Embroidered Pashmina is sent to needleworkers for Sozni or Kashida embellishment after weaving
Where Pashmina is Made
Explore Pashmina by city — curated products and local context
How to Identify Authentic Pashmina
Key markers that distinguish genuine handcrafted pieces from machine-made imitations
- 01
Genuine Pashmina is so fine it can be passed through a ring (the ring test) — acrylic and wool blends cannot
- 02
Burn test: Pashmina burns like hair with a slight protein smell and crushable ash — synthetic fibres melt and bead
- 03
Pure Pashmina feels warmer than its weight suggests — wool-blend shawls of the same weight are noticeably heavier
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GI certification from the Craft Development Institute, Srinagar, or the Pashmina Testing and Quality Certification Centre
Related Craft Traditions
Kashida
कशीदा
Kashida is Kashmir's richest embroidery tradition, worked on shawls, fabric, and furnishings using the aari (hook needle) technique.
Read guide →
Sozni
सोज़नी
Sozni is Kashmir's most refined needlework tradition, involving extraordinarily fine embroidery worked with a single needle on Pashmina shawls and fine wool fabric.
Read guide →
Jamawar
जामावार
Jamawar is a brocade shawl weaving tradition from Kashmir in which intricate tapestry-woven motifs — traditionally large paisleys and floral compositions — are created using fine silk or Pashmina weft threads on a Pashmina or twill ground.
Read guide →
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pashmina?
Pashmina is the world's finest natural fibre, derived from the undercoat of the Changthangi goat (Capra hircus) raised at altitudes above 14,000 feet in Ladakh and Kashmir. GI-tagged and internationally recognised, genuine Pashmina measures 12-16 microns in diameter — finer than the finest cashmere — and produces shawls of extraordinary warmth, lightness, and softness. Srinagar's master weavers transform raw Pashmina into shawls that take months of hand-spinning and hand-weaving to complete, and which become softer with each generation of wearing.
How do I check if Pashmina is authentic?
There are 4 key markers of authenticity: Genuine Pashmina is so fine it can be passed through a ring (the ring test) — acrylic and wool blends cannot — Burn test: Pashmina burns like hair with a slight protein smell and crushable ash — synthetic fibres melt and bead — Pure Pashmina feels warmer than its weight suggests — wool-blend shawls of the same weight are noticeably heavier — GI certification from the Craft Development Institute, Srinagar, or the Pashmina Testing and Quality Certification Centre
Where does Pashmina originate from?
Pashmina originates from jammu-and-kashmir, specifically the cities of Srinagar. It carries a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, protecting the authentic craft tradition.
What is the price range for Pashmina?
Pashmina products range from ₹2,500 for simple everyday pieces to ₹2,00,000 for elaborate handcrafted garments. Bridal and heavily embellished pieces command premium prices, while casual kurtis and dupattas are available at accessible price points.
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