Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday inaugurated the Almond Bloom Festival-2025 at the famous Badamwari Garden in Srinagar’s old city, marking the beginning of spring in Kashmir.
With almond trees full of white and pink flowers and their sweet smell in the air, the festival brought joy to locals and visitors. “With blossoms in full glory, their fragrance fills every corner, marking the arrival of spring in Kashmir. This festival is not just a celebration of nature’s beauty but also an effort to boost tourism and promote our cultural heritage,” said CM Omar Abdullah.
The event was held by the Tourism Department along with the Floriculture Department and saw a large number of officials, artists, students, and tourists joining in. Among those present were Transport Minister Satish Sharma, Advisor to CM Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, and the heads of Floriculture and Tourism.
The main attraction was a big cultural and music show. Famous Kashmiri singers and musicians gave soulful performances that touched the hearts of the audience. The festival also had folk dances, craft stalls, and local food counters that gave people a taste of Kashmir’s rich culture.
Badamwari Garden, also called the “Almond Alcove,” is an old Mughal garden at the foot of Hari Parbat. It becomes a favorite place for visitors every spring when the almond trees bloom.
People from the area were happy to see the garden full of life. “Badamwari is very close to our hearts. Seeing it like this brings back memories,” said Feroz Ahmad from Rainawari. Another local, Shameema Bano, said, “We wait all year for this time. It’s so beautiful, it touches the heart.”
Tourists also enjoyed the colourful setting. “This is my first time in Kashmir and I feel lucky to witness this beautiful festival,” said Riya Sen, a visitor from Delhi. Ajay Mehta, another tourist from Mumbai, added, “The flowers, the music, and the local art make this experience unforgettable.”
