Loess Deposits of Kashmir, Northwest Himalaya, India

The spatial and temporal variation of Kashmir loess deposits has been explained as the function of palaeotopographical configuration consequent to the Pir Panjal Range uplift datable at 0.4 m.y. At least three palaeosurfaces were available for loess deposition at different time intervals. Three types of loess-palaeosol profiles developed on these palaeosurfaces which show altitudinal differences. Stratigraphical correlation between different profiles was possible with the help of marker beds and soil typological parameters. Seven lithounits constitute the total loess-palaeosol succession in the basin. Soil types were recognised using sedimentological, mineralogical and microfabric parameters in addition to field criteria.