LEEPA VALLEY (Kashmir English): For decades the walnut sector of Leepa Valley has operated as an essential economic foundation through furniture production, walnut kernel exports and the traditional walnut craft. The local walnuts from the valley have thin shells which together with their high-quality white kernels earn millions of rupees annually in the market. The local population participates deeply in this trade which exports several walnut products outside of the country.
We are talking about the trade, but most are not aware of the picturesque Leepa Valley. Known for its verdant meadows, thick woods, wildlife, shimmering streams, waterfalls, and rich culture and legacy, Leepa Valley is tucked away within the breathtakingly beautiful colossal Himalayan mountains.
This means that a trip to this hidden gem of Kashmir offers you stunning scenery, tranquil villages, an insight into the rich culture of the area, and authentic Kashmiri food and tradition. Only a few people are aware of this tiny village in Kashmir that is near the Line of Control (LoC), where one can witness the Indian and Pakistani Army taking positions for their respective motherlands.
The Hattian Bala District is the home to this valley, an agricultural area primarily used for rice and walnuts. Dao Khan, Leepa, Nokot, Kasirkot, Channian, and a few other hamlets make up the five sectors that make up the valley.
According to the AJK government’s official website, about 60km from Naili, at an elevation of 1921m above sea level, is the little settlement of Leepa. Tourists are treated to a stunning vista of its distinctive wooden Kashmiri dwellings and verdant river fields in the summer. Leepa’s honey, apples, walnuts, and cherries are highly prized and in high demand.
Talking about wood-crafting, even before Pakistan was established, wood carving was a long-standing craft in this area. One of Pakistan’s most popular handicrafts is woodworking. From the North to the South, this craft of carving wood into various sizes and forms with elaborate motifs is widely practised. That makes a piece of AJK’s handicrafts one of the best souvenirs to take home for your loved ones, or as a reminder of a beautiful trip.
The importance of wooden architecture occupies a significant place in Pakistani culture, wood has been used to construct several historical buildings, crafts, utensils and even toys. Wood carving is a popular and profitable art form in Pakistan’s Azad Kashmir, Swat, portions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit Baltistan, and Chiniot.
The walnut craft industry of the Leepa Valley
The valley stands famous for its walnut wood furniture since producers have created exceptional walnut wood furniture pieces representing local craftsmanship. The furniture production sector is experiencing a critical decline because of the wood limitations enforced by the government of AJK. The newly mandated rules have forced the furniture business toward destruction because they eliminated many craftsmen from their jobs and led to substantial monetary losses. The unused walnut wood stocks face deterioration because of market inactivity which enlarges the industry-wide crisis. This restriction, even if understandable under some circumstances, is another disadvantage for the already struggling, declining art.
The local inhabitants have depended on these industries to support themselves through their livelihoods for multiple years. Families have depended on walnut kernel exports alongside wooden furniture design sales through numerous generations. The government restrictions that limit timber use disrupted the supply chain and created difficulties for businesses operated by artisans and traders to continue their operations. This leaves us with a saddening question: Will the traditional centuries-old walnut wood craft go moribund in the region?
The true dedication of the government toward sustaining Leepa Valley’s walnut sector can be proven by the immediate elimination of current barriers. The revival of this challenged sector would likely occur if authorities simplified market entry or modified their regulations on processed walnut wood items. These challenges need proper solutions because they enable both the recovery of the industry and the return of employment to skilled workers who now lack sources of revenue.
If immediate steps are not taken Leepa Valley will face the critical loss of its essential identity while its people who live through the walnut trade will be left without employment.
