Walnut wood is an aesthetic and exquisite craft process that is distinctive to Kashmir due to the concentration of walnut trees in Kashmir. History: In the 15th century, Sultan Zain ul Abidin, was a great benefactor of the arts and crafts and is considered as the pioneer of this art. During his Elysian reign, he went to Samarkand the capital of the central Asian culture and brought with him many astute craftsmen to Kashmir. These craftsmen trained the local Kashmiris with such skills that became one of the most renowned handicrafts industry in the world.