<p>Understanding the mechanical behaviour of natural materials is crucial for civil engineering applications such as construction, mining, slope stability, and tunnelling. This study investigates the mechanical properties of Permian-Triassic limestones from the Zewan Formation under triaxial compression at varying confining pressures. Core samples extracted from different depths were tested to assess the influence of confining pressure on material properties, with cohesion and friction angle (<i>ϕ</i>) determined through Mohr’s circle analysis. Mineral composition and microstructure were examined using polarised optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. The results show stress hardening followed by softening: axial stress and strain increase steadily until peak deformation, after which axial stress decreases and axial strain increases sharply. A brittle-ductile transition occurs at confining pressures greater than 15 MPa, with peak stress, strain, and elastic modulus rising as confining pressure increases. A comparison with theoretical models at 5 MPa showed a 15% deviation in strength within the predicted range. These findings provide essential data on the cohesion and friction angle of Zewan Formation limestone, which are critical for assessing shear strength and deformation behaviour under <i>in-situ</i> stress conditions. The results offer valuable insights for the design of geotechnical structures such as foundations, tunnels, and slopes, contributing to the understanding of local geological conditions and informing future civil engineering projects in the Kashmir region and similar areas.</p>