Kashmir’s renowned Tulip Garden, located against the breathtaking backdrop of the Zabarwan mountains and overlooking the iconic Dal Lake, is preparing for a spectacular season this year.
Scheduled to open after March 20, the garden is expected to witness a significant increase in footfall, thanks to the introduction of a direct rail link from Delhi to Kashmir and the expanded variety of flowers, alongside the usual array of tulip species.
Known as Asia’s largest tulip garden, the venue has long been a major tourist draw, and this season promises to be more captivating than ever.
Javaid Masood, the garden’s in-charge, shared exciting updates about this year’s display. “In addition to the dazzling tulip varieties, the garden will feature a wider range of vibrant flowers, with a special emphasis on colour themes designed to make the blooms even more visually striking,” Masood said. “With the new rail service providing an affordable option for visitors, we anticipate a rise in national tourists, especially given the high airfares.”
Masood further added, “Our gardeners are working diligently to ensure that this year’s display will be the most visually appealing yet, with particular attention to colour coordination.”
Last year, the garden attracted an impressive 500,000 visitors, with 75 percent being non-local tourists and 25 percent locals. The relatively low number of local visitors was attributed to the garden’s opening coinciding with the holy month of Ramadan. However, with Ramadan expected to conclude on March 31 this year, the garden is likely to see a marked increase in local visitors, especially during the Eid celebrations, which will help balance the footfall between tourists and locals.
Masood confirmed that the garden typically remains open for at least a month, with the exact opening date contingent on weather conditions. While there remains some uncertainty, the season is expected to follow its usual schedule, continuing to be one of Kashmir’s top spring attractions.
Beyond the floral displays, the garden is set to benefit from the newly introduced direct rail link from Delhi to Kashmir. This development is expected to provide a major boost to tourism in the region, making it easier and more affordable for visitors from across India to reach the Tulip Garden. The improved connectivity is poised to enhance the garden’s reputation as one of Asia’s premier tourist destinations.
With expanded floral diversity and the added convenience of the rail link, the 2025 season for the Kashmir Tulip Garden is shaping up to be one of its best yet. The garden continues to stand as a symbol of Kashmir’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, attracting visitors from both within the Valley and beyond to experience its vibrant colours, stunning vistas, and the warm hospitality that the region is known for.
