Startup Originals Team
Anupam Mittal, entrepreneur and star of Shark Tank India, recently pushed back against the common comparison of Kashmir to Switzerland. After a family trip to the Valley, he shared through social media that Kashmir’s charm is unique, raw, rustic, and ravishing, and shouldn’t be reduced to imitation or comparison.
Kashmir vs Switzerland: Why the Comparison Falls Short
Mittal noted that while Switzerland is indeed beautiful, it often feels “sterile” in comparison to Kashmir. In contrast, he described Kashmir as having natural, untamed beauty, a strong cultural depth, and a sense of vitality , qualities that he believes set it apart rather than make it similar to Switzerland. (“Switzerland is pretty, but at times sterile. Kashmir is raw, rustic, ravishing.”)
Affordability and Authentic Experience
One of the striking points Mittal emphasized is the cost difference: a trip to Kashmir is far more affordable than a luxury holiday abroad like Switzerland. In his own comparison, he said similar holiday experiences in Switzerland could cost around ₹10 lakh, while in Kashmir they could cost about ₹2 lakh , still offering breathtaking beauty.
Growth, Tourism & Local Spirit
Mittal also highlighted how Kashmir has been transforming in recent years. Some of his observations include:
- Kashmir’s economy is now estimated at around US$35 billion, growing at over 10% annual rate.
- Tourism is rising steadily: from about 20 lakh visitors earlier to over 2.5 crore visitors in 2024.
- Agriculture is thriving (apples, saffron, honey, nuts etc.), with many locals reportedly earning double or triple what they used to.
Resilience After Adversity
Mittal reflected on how Kashmir has faced setbacks, such as the Pahalgam terror attack that severely impacted tourism. But noted how its people responded. Instead of despair, there has been resolve; warmth, optimism, and a determination to rebuild. He appreciated how locals, shopkeepers, and business owners are pushing forward, keeping cultural identity alive.
A Call to Value Kashmir for What It Is
In his post, Mittal encouraged people to not view Kashmir through the lens of comparisons. He said that people often miss the importance of storytelling, branding, and local identity, things that matter in how places are seen and appreciated. He urged people to experience Kashmir themselves, pointing out that it is “80 % cheaper and infinitely more beautiful than Europe.”
Conclusion:
Mittal’s perspective is a reminder that comparisons often oversimplify. Kashmir’s appeal lies not just in its landscapes, but its people, culture, resilience, and authenticity. Rather than being India’s version of another place, Kashmir deserves to be celebrated simply as Kashmir , a place where raw beauty meets strength, and where the experience goes well beyond perfection.
