As the chilly grip of winter loosens its hold, Pulwama like other parts of Kashmir is coming alive with the vibrant hues of spring. Sonth, the herald of this rejuvenating season, is adorning the landscape with its varied charms, marking the beginning of a period of renewal and growth.
From mid-March to mid-May, nature in Kashmir undergoes a remarkable transformation, as plants, trees, and water bodies awaken from their winter slumber.
However, the true essence of this season lies in the breath-taking spectacle of Sonth e Phuli, or spring blossoms.
Across Pulwama, particularly in the vast Karewa lands, almond gardens burst into a mesmerizing display of white and pink flowers, casting a binding spell on onlookers.
From Parigam to Rahmoo, the rolling hills of Karewa are adorned with these delicate blossoms, creating an enchanting panorama that beckons visitors from far and wide.
Along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, the scene is equally captivating, with stretches of Karewa land adorned with blooming almond trees.
The apricot and plum paint nature’s canvas with their hues.
For the locals, the almond blossom holds a special significance, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the beginning of farming activities.
Parvaiz Ahmad, a resident of Wahibugh village, reminisces about a time when almonds were the primary fruit of the area, and their blossoms served as an auspicious sign for the farming community.
However, he notes with a hint of sadness that the area under almond cultivation is dwindling due to diversification, with many farmers opting to convert their Karewa lands into apple orchards.
Amidst the sea of blossoms, the golden fields of mustard crops add another layer of charm to the landscape, attracting tourists with their vibrant yellow blooms.
This season, the Karewa along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, stretching from Awantipora to Galander, seems even more eager to welcome visitors, with farmers reporting an earlier-than-usual blooming of mustard crops, a phenomenon that speaks to the unpredictable rhythms of nature.
