Srinagar, March 27 – Asia’s largest tulip garden, nestled against the breathtaking backdrop of the Zabarwan Mountains and overlooking the shimmering Dal Lake, officially opened its gates today, unveiling a spectacular display of 1.7 million tulips in full bloom. The grand opening signals the start of Kashmir’s peak tourist season, drawing nature lovers and visitors from across the globe.
Spread over 30 hectares, the garden boasts 72 varieties of tulips, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of colors that transform the landscape into a floral paradise.
A Grand Inauguration & Promising Tourism Season
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurated the garden, accompanied by Agriculture Minister Javeed Dar and Chief Minister’s Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani. Addressing the visitors, the Chief Minister described the Tulip Show as a celebration of Kashmir’s natural beauty, reinforcing the region’s status as the “Paradise on Earth.”
“Kashmir’s scenic landscapes and timeless charm continue to captivate visitors. The Tulip Garden stands as a symbol of our commitment to promoting tourism and showcasing the Valley’s unmatched splendor,” Abdullah said.
Interacting with tourists, he encouraged them to share their experiences, further amplifying Kashmir’s global appeal.
The event was attended by ACS to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, DC Srinagar Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, Director Floriculture Kashmir Shakeel-ur-Rehman, and other key officials.
New Festivals & Expanding Attractions
Nasir Aslam Wani emphasized the garden’s importance in kickstarting Kashmir’s tourism calendar, adding that special festivals like the Almond Blossom Festival and Cherry Blossom Festival are also in the pipeline to enhance the visitor experience.
Since its establishment in 2007 under then-Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, the garden has continued to evolve, incorporating new terraces, water channels, and fountains. Beyond tulips, it also features daffodils, hyacinths, and other vibrant spring flowers, making it a must-visit attraction.
Agriculture Minister Javeed Dar expressed optimism about record-breaking footfall, as the tulip bloom coincides with increasing tourist arrivals. “The response has been overwhelming, with many visitors even walking from Boulevard Road just to witness this breathtaking view,” he remarked.
Tourists in Awe of Kashmir’s Floral Wonderland
Visitors were left spellbound by the vivid floral spectacle. Raman, a tourist from Dubai, called it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. “I always heard Kashmir is heaven on earth, but standing here among these tulips, I finally understand why,” he said, admiring the colorful expanse alongside his daughter, Snehal.
For many, the garden felt like a dream come true. Sumaira, another tourist, expressed her delight: “I have never seen so many tulips in my life. It’s absolutely magical, and I would love to come again.”
Meanwhile, Sanvi Dikshit from Maharashtra captured the beauty on her phone, calling it “a photographer’s paradise.” Her travel companion, Abhishek from Mumbai, was thrilled to witness the grand opening. “We never planned our trip around this, but now I feel incredibly lucky to be here,” he said.
A Thriving Season Ahead
Officials remain hopeful for a successful tourism season, citing favorable conditions and renewed enthusiasm among visitors. “We are blessed with unparalleled natural beauty, and it is our responsibility to make the most of it. The Chief Minister himself is overseeing efforts to ensure a seamless and enriching experience for all tourists,” an official stated.
With its breathtaking floral splendor and carefully curated visitor experiences, the Srinagar Tulip Garden stands as a beacon of Kashmir’s tourism resurgence, inviting travelers to witness nature’s grandeur at its finest.
