Visitors spellbound by Kashmir’s tulip spectacle

Srinagar, Mar 16: A riot of colours, crisp spring air and the majestic Zabarwan hills in the backdrop — the opening day of the famed Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden left tourists awestruck, with many calling the experience nothing short of magical.

As Asia’s largest tulip garden opened its gates to visitors on Monday, tourists from across the country poured in to witness the first bloom of the season along the banks of the iconic Dal Lake.

For many visitors, being present on the opening day felt like a stroke of luck.

“We are very lucky that we got to see this tulip garden, which opens only once in 12 months,” said Anita Sharma, a tourist from Hyderabad, while strolling through rows of vibrant red and yellow tulips. “It was the best option in India to see such a garden. We feel so fortunate to be here today.”

The excitement was evident among families who had travelled long distances just to witness the spectacle of spring in Kashmir.

“This tulip garden is very beautiful. We have come here from Hyderabad and we are lucky it opened today,” said Rakesh Verma, who was visiting the garden with his family. “Getting to see it on the very first day made the trip even more special.”

For many first-time visitors, the experience exceeded expectations.

“I had earlier seen a rose garden in May somewhere else, but after seeing this tulip garden I feel it is even more beautiful,” said Pooja Mehta, who was visiting with her husband and son. “I was very excited to come here after seeing pictures of Kashmir, but the reality is even more stunning.”

She said that the weather and the natural beauty of Kashmir made the visit unforgettable.

“The weather is amazing and the view here is breathtaking. It truly feels like heaven in Kashmir. Everyone should come and see this place,” she said.

Visitors from metropolitan cities were equally mesmerised by the vibrant colours spread across the sprawling garden. “We are from Mumbai and this garden is incredibly colourful,” said Rahul Desai, another tourist admiring the tulip beds. “Standing here, surrounded by flowers and mountains, it honestly feels like we are in heaven.”

Many tourists also had a message for fellow Indians who have never visited Kashmir during spring.

“Every Indian should come here and experience this beauty,” Desai said. “If someone has not seen the tulip garden, they have definitely missed something special.”

Spread across the foothills of the Zabarwan range, the tulip garden marks the beginning of Kashmir’s spring tourism season.

With millions of tulips expected to bloom in the coming weeks, officials anticipate a surge in visitors eager to witness one of the valley’s most celebrated seasonal spectacles.