Pink, Purple, White, Yellow….it’s riot of colours! Yes, it’s spring time and what better than Srinagar’s Tulip garden. Known as Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip garden, it is the largest tulip garden in Asia spread over an area of about 30 hectares. Situated on the foothills of Zabarwan Range, it is nestled between Dal Lake and historic Mughal gardens like Nishat Bagh and Chashme Shahi, its scenic setting is as iconic as the flowers themselves. The garden was opened in 2007 with the aim to boost floriculture and tourism in Kashmir Valley. The garden features seven terraced sections showcasing over 74 varieties of tulips. New blooms are added each year, making every visit a little different. From traditional reds and yellows to multi-coloured hybrids, this destination offers a sensory feast for flower lovers and photographers alike.
The tulip garden opens annually in spring, typically between late March and early April, depending on weather conditions. In 2025, the garden opened on 26 March, with peak bloom expected in the first two weeks of April. The blooming period lasts about 15 to 30 days. Apart from tulips, many other species of flowers – hyacinths, daffodils and ranunculus have been added as well.
The tulip festival of Jammu and Kashmir is a celebration of spring’s arrival in full colour. Timed to coincide with the peak bloom, the festival transforms the garden into a hub of activity with live music, traditional Kashmiri dance performances, and exhibitions highlighting local art and heritage. Travellers can taste authentic regional dishes, browse handmade crafts, and explore the valley’s natural beauty. There are guided tours, cultural events and floral installations which add even more vibrancy to an already colourful landscape. The festival not only showcases the tulips but also brings together the sights, sounds and flavours that make Kashmir unique. Each year, the event draws visitors from across India and beyond—eager to experience a different side of Srinagar through its seasonal charm and warm hospitality.
Tulip festival is a feast for eyes and a celebration of heritage and culture, with diverse food offerings amid the beautiful backdrop. It immerses you in rich traditions to enjoy folk music, dance performances, musical moments, and delicious local cuisine. It is an annual celebration that aims to showcase the range of flowers in the garden as a part of tourism efforts by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir.
Beyond the tulip beds, the garden offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The manicured golf course to the north and the serene Dal Lake to the west create a serene and picturesque setting. Pari Mahal, an ancient historical monument, overlooks the tulip garden from a higher vantage point. Its presence adds a sense of timeless regality to the garden’s ambiance.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah tweeted on X on the Tulip Garden when he officially opened it for the public
After more than a decade I was back at the Tulip Garden in Srinagar to officially throw it open to visitors. Over the next few weeks thousands of people are expected to visit Asia’s largest tulip garden and enjoy the riot of colour. pic.twitter.com/YPwfUmWmYd
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) March 26, 2025
The Tulip Garden is not only a testament to the natural beauty of the Kashmir Valley but also a symbol of the region’s commitment to promoting tourism, thereby promoting local economy to grow while preserving its rich flora.t The garden offers a feast of colours and fragrances amidst a breath-taking landscape.
