Pashmina is a term that can refer to a fine wool similar to cashmere, a shawl made from this wool, or a synonym for cashmere wool. It is derived from the undercoat of domestic Himalayan goats, especially the Changthangi goat. Pashmina is known for its warmth, softness, and delicacy. The word pashm means “wool” in Persian and “soft gold” in Farsi. It is also an art of handcrafting exquisite accessories with fine cashmere from Ladakh, Kashmir and Swat.

Swati Pashmina comes from the Swat Valley in Pakistan. The valley is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich textile heritage. Swati Pashmina is crafted from the undercoat of the Changthangi goat, which thrives in the Swat region. These goats endure harsh Himalayan winters, resulting in exceptionally fine and soft wool. Swati Pashmina boasts finer fibers, typically ranging from 10 to 15 microns in diameter. Craftsmanship: Skilled artisans in Swat hand-spin and weave this luxurious material into exquisite shawls and scarves. Swati Pashmina is prized for its lightweight feel, warmth, and intricate designs. Kashmiri Pashmina hails from the Kashmir Valley in India. This region has a rich history of producing fine woolen textiles. Like Swati Pashmina, Kashmiri Pashmina is also derived from the undercoat of the Changthangi goat. These goats graze in the high-altitude meadows of Kashmir. The fibers of Kashmiri Pashmina are similarly fine, falling within the 10 to 15 microns range. Craftsmanship: Kashmiri artisans have perfected the art of weaving and embroidering Pashmina shawls for centuries. Their intricate patterns and delicate craftsmanship are legendary. Kashmiri Pashmina is renowned for its unparalleled softness, warmth, and timeless elegance. In summary, both Swati and Kashmiri Pashmina share a common heritage rooted in the Himalayas, but they each have their own regional nuances. Whether you choose Swati or Kashmiri Pashmina, you’ll be embracing a piece of history and luxury.

The Islampur Swat Shawl holds a special place in the world of textiles, and its uniqueness lies in several remarkable aspects: The Islampur Swat Shawl is one of the most ancient shawls in Islampur, Swat. Its gracefulness and unique plaid texture set it apart from other shawls. Crafted with care, it embodies the rich cultural heritage of the region. These shawls are hand-spun from fine cashmere fiber sourced from the undercoat of the Changthangi or Kashmir Pashmina goat. The wool weaving industry of Islampur produces some of the best winter gear, making these shawls ideal for cold seasons. The artisans in Islampur meticulously weave and create these shawls, ensuring their softness and quality. Softness and Uniqueness: Made from 100% soft and fine wool, the Islampur Swat Shawl is a testament to the delicate craftsmanship. Its softness adds to its uniqueness, making it a cherished accessory for both men and women. Islampur is famous for its woolen products and shawls. These handmade shawls are not only available locally but have also found their way to Afghanistan and some cities in Central Asia. Many of these shawls, adorned with different designs, have been displayed in cultural festivals and exhibitions across Pakistan. The Islampur Swat Shawl combines tradition, quality, and artistry, making it a symbol of warmth and elegance.

Mountain Loom has a vision to bring sustainable, ethically sourced and shawls from Islampur to the western market. By showcasing this limited selection of shawls and scarves on our website, we are ensuring that the economy of Islampur is sustained and supports the growth and education of women and children in the community. By purchasing a product from Mountain Loom, you are contributing into the economy of Islampur, Swat.

Ideally, Pashmina should always be dry cleaned using organic solvents. It not only removes soil and stains from the fabric; but also maintains the shape, color, look of the garment. If that isn’t an option, use cold water to hand-wash your Pashmina in a separate container/bucket/sink. You may add a mild detergent such as baby shampoo, and make sure that it fully dissolves in water before you soak your garment in it. Gently hand wash your pashmina, lay flat to dry and iron on low heat. If you take care of your pashmina, it will last a lifetime and get softer over time.