Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir | March 08, 2025
The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar, Asia’s largest of its kind, is poised to welcome a flood of visitors with an unprecedented 1.7 million tulip blooms set to burst into colour after March 15. As preparations intensify, this vibrant spectacle is expected to not only captivate tourists but also significantly boost Kashmir’s tourism and economy, reinforcing the region’s status as a premier spring destination.
A Floral Extravaganza Awaits
Nestled between Dal Lake and the Zabarwan Hills, the Tulip Garden is gearing up for its grand opening, scheduled for anytime after March 15, 2025. With more blossoms and bloom than ever before, the garden will showcase 75 varieties of tulips, including two new types imported from the Netherlands, across its 30-hectare expanse. Javid Masood, the floriculture officer in charge, confirmed that nearly 100 gardeners and casual laborers are working tirelessly to ensure the seven terraced slopes are ready. “We’re enhancing the experience with expanded parking and e-ticketing this year,” Masood noted, anticipating a record-breaking season following last year’s 4.45 lakh visitors in just 30 days.
Boosting Tourism in Kashmir
The Tulip Garden’s annual unveiling has become a cornerstone of Kashmir’s tourism calendar, drawing nature lovers, photographers, and travelers from across India and beyond. Since its inception in 2007 under then-Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, the garden has aimed to elevate floriculture and tourism in the valley. Its entry into the World Book of Records (London) as Asia’s largest in 2023 has only amplified its global appeal. With the addition of new varieties and improved facilities like water channels and fountains, the 2025 season promises to elevate the visitor experience further, solidifying Srinagar’s reputation as a must-visit spring destination.
A Blooming Boost to the Economy
Beyond its aesthetic allure, the Tulip Garden is a vital economic engine for Kashmir. The influx of tourists—expected to surpass last year’s numbers—spurs revenue for local businesses, from handicraft vendors selling Kashmiri shawls to eateries offering traditional cuisine. Last year’s season alone generated ₹58 lakh for the Department of Tourism, a figure likely to grow with this year’s enhancements. The garden also provides seasonal employment for locals, from gardeners to transport operators, injecting vitality into the regional economy. “The tulip season is our golden time,” said Riyaz Ahmad, a handicraft shop owner near the garden, reflecting the optimism of local entrepreneurs.
A Celebration of Spring and Resilience
The Tulip Festival, held annually as part of the Bahaar-e-Kashmir event, goes beyond flowers—it’s a celebration of Kashmir’s natural beauty and resilience. With cultural programs, music, and food festivals planned alongside the blooms, the event underscores the valley’s rich heritage. The garden’s opening after March 15 aligns with ideal spring weather, offering visitors a chance to witness 1.7 million tulips in full splendor against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. For many, it’s a symbol of renewal in a region steadily reclaiming its place on the global tourism map post-Article 370.
Looking Ahead: A Record Season in Sight
As Srinagar braces for the tourist rush, authorities are optimistic about surpassing previous benchmarks. The garden’s brief 20-30 day bloom window, dictated by the tulips’ delicate 15-17 day lifespan, adds urgency to the preparations. With more blossoms and bloom, the Tulip Garden is set to open its gates after March 15, promising a spectacle that will not only enchant visitors but also propel Kashmir’s tourism and economy to new heights. As the countdown begins, all eyes are on this floral paradise to deliver another unforgettable season.