Srinagar, March 26, 2025 – Asia’s largest Tulip Garden, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar, opened its gates to the public today, ushering in the spring tourism season in Kashmir. This year, the garden promises a breathtaking display with a record-breaking 1.7 million tulip bulbs, including two new varieties imported from the Netherlands, enhancing its status as a global floral destination.
Nestled between the serene Dal Lake and the majestic Zabarwan Hills, the garden has been a symbol of natural beauty since its establishment in 2007 under then-Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad. Spanning 55 hectares, this year’s showcase features 74 distinct tulip varieties, with the addition of two exclusive types sourced from the renowned tulip fields of the Netherlands. “We’ve introduced a fresh colour scheme with these new varieties to enhance the visitor experience,” said Asif Ahmad, Assistant Floriculture Officer at the garden, during final preparations yesterday.
The Srinagar garden, formerly known as Siraj Bagh, has been meticulously cultivated by the Floriculture Department, planting bulbs in phases to ensure blooms last over a month. Alongside the tulips, visitors can expect to see other spring flowers like hyacinths, daffodils, muscari, and cyclamens, adding vibrant diversity to the landscape.
The opening, graced by J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, follows last year’s record-breaking 4.65 lakh visitors, a figure officials hope to surpass in 2025. “This garden is not just a floral marvel but a symbol of Kashmir’s tourism potential,” said Javaid Masood, Floriculture Officer and In-charge of the Tulip Garden. The site’s growing popularity—evidenced by its recognition in the World Book of Records (London) as Asia’s largest tulip garden—has made it a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and travellers alike.
Today’s event kicks off with heightened expectations, as the new varieties promise an enchanting twist to the already stunning vistas. The garden’s terraced slopes, framed by snow-capped peaks, are set to draw record crowds, with officials anticipating over 5.5 lakh visitors this season. “It’s going to be a great flower show this year,” said gardener Mohammad Abbass, reflecting the optimism buzzing through the staff.
For those planning a visit, the garden is easily accessible—22 km from Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, 18 km from Srinagar Railway Station, and just 8 km from Lal Chowk. As Asia’s largest Tulip Garden blooms in full splendour starting today, Srinagar solidifies its place as a springtime paradise, blending nature’s brilliance with Kashmiri hospitality.