Kashmir’s stunning landscapes are famous for their tulips and apricot flowers, but do you know about its exquisite almond blossoms? When spring sets in between March to April, almond trees erupt into tender pink and white flowers and cover the area in a mind-boggling paradise. The annual flowering gives a view that is comparable to Japan’s renowned cherry blossoms and the tulip garden of Holland. One of the best places to witness this floral wonder is the Badamwari Garden in Srinagar, which hosts the Almond Blossom Festival, attracting tourists, photographers, and nature lovers alike.
Kashmir Almond Blossom: A Serene Escape In Nature
The best location to experience this natural wonder is at the Badamwari Garden, which hosts the Almond Blossom Festival with cultural shows, regional delicacies, and music.
The garden has a rich history since the 15th century, when it was a sultan’s retreat during Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin’s reign. Having been neglected for decades, it has now been restored to a public garden, a reflection of Kashmir’s rich past.
Badamwari Garden and other almond-filled regions like Pulwama are still largely unexplored, providing a peaceful retreat from overcrowded, touristy areas. The garden also has significant cultural sites, such as the shrine of Hazrat Makhdoom Sahib and Gurdwara Chatti Padshahi, which further make it attractive.
To further improve the experience, the floriculture department has introduced thousands of lavender trees, which will eventually help to turn the place into a themed garden. Along with all of this, Badamwari continues to show itself to be a point of interest for nature lovers.
How To Reach Badamwari Garden
- By Air: The nearest airport is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (Srinagar Airport), 15 km away from the garden.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi Railway Station, 300 km from Srinagar. It is possible for tourists to get there by taxi or bus.
- By Road: Srinagar is well-linked by road with the important cities of Jammu and Kashmir, and it is convenient to travel there.
Things To Do At Badamwari Garden
Even as tourist interest grows, Badamwari Garden and other almond-dense regions, such as Pulwama, remain peaceful and unspoiled. Here’s what you can do in the beautiful almond garden:
- Witness the Almond Blossoms: It’s worth a trip during springtime to view the white and pink flowers in all their beauty.
- Photography: Enjoy the stunning scenery of almond blossoms and snow-clad Himalayas.
- Leisurely Walks: Walk along well-maintained trails lined with lush greens.
- Cultural Events: Witness Kashmiri folk shows and local celebrations.
- Picnics: Have a serene outing in nature.
- Discover Local Attractions: Go to Hari Parbat Fort or take a Shikara ride on Dal Lake to make your Srinagar experience complete.
As spring comes, Kashmir becomes a colourful tapestry of sights and scents, captivating locals and visitors alike. Almond bloom is a special, off-the-beaten-path offering from the mainstream flower spots, attracting nature and culture seekers alike to the region.
Wouldn’t it be wonderful to witness such a breathtaking moment at least once in a lifetime?
Cover Image Courtesy:@RajaWaheed01/X
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