Kashmir's Tulip Festival Will Save Your Plane Fares to Amsterdam!

The Kashmir Tulip Festival started as a way to flaunt the region's incredible flora, especially those tulips. But as time went by, it grew into something much bigger—a celebration of nature and culture.

Taking cues from the iconic Tulip festivals of places like the Netherlands, this festival aimed to draw tourists and shine a spotlight on Kashmir's charm. With the backdrop of Dal Lake and snow-capped mountains, it's no wonder it captured hearts worldwide. And it's not just about the flowers; it's a stage for local artists, musicians, and chefs to show their art, adding layers to its cultural significance.

If you are planning a spring getaway save those euros and head to the Kashmir Tulip Festival.

How is the Kashmir Tulip Festival celebrated?

The festival kicks off with the grand opening of the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, where millions of colourful tulips are showcased in full bloom. Throughout the festival, traditional Kashmiri music and dance performances fill the air, while food stalls offer delicious Kashmiri delicacies. Here’s everything you can expect at the Kashmir Tulip festival:

1. Floral Displays: The main attraction of the festival is the breathtaking display of thousands of colourful tulips in full bloom at the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden. The flower therapy at its peak!

2. Cultural Performances: The festival is a great way to celebrates Kashmiri Traditional folk music, including the soulful sounds of the santoor and rabab, fills the air, while local artists showcase Kashmiri dance forms such as Rouf and Hafiza.

3. Local Treats: With stalls and food vendors offering a variety of delicious Kashmiri dishes. I dare you to not go overboard with Rogan Josh, Wazwan, Kashmiri Pulao, and Kahwa.

5. Art and Craft Exhibitions: What's even a festival without local a display of handicrafts, artwork, and handloom? While you can't take the flowers, get your hands on some souvenirs, including Kashmiri carpets, Pashmina shawls, papier-mâché artifacts, and more.

6. Photography and Sightseeing: Tulip gardens against the backdrop of the Himalayas- what gets better than that? Perfect place to get some super shots!

When is Kashmir Tulip Festival happening in 2024?

📅 Dates: March 19 to April 30, 2024.

📍 Venue: Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir.

⏰ Timings: 10 AM onwards.

🎟️ Tickets: Adult: Rs. 75 and Children (Below 12 years): Rs. 30

What are other things to do if you are attending the Kashmir Tulip Festival?

If you have some time and would like to explore beyond the beauty of the Kashmir Tulip Festival, there are plenty of other activities and attractions to explore in and around Srinagar. Here are some suggestions:

1. Shikara Ride on Dal Lake: A Shikara ride on Dal Lake is synonymous with Srinagar, so while you are around get on the Shikara and enjoy some Khawa for the perfect downtime.

2. Visit Mughal Gardens: The Mughal Gardens in Shrinagar are a piece of art, plan a visit to Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashme Shahi.

3. Explore Pari Mahal and Shankaracharya Temple: Get a quick lesson in history with a visit to Pari Mahal, a seven-terraced garden overlooking Dal Lake, and Shankaracharya Temple, perched atop a hill offering panoramic views of Srinagar.

4. Shop in Local Markets: A little holiday indulgence is a must visit the buzzing markets of Lal Chowk and Residency Road, to shop for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts.

5. Enjoy Nature at Zabarwan Park: Unwind at Zabarwan Park, enjoy picnic and catch live performances of Kashmiri folk music in the evenings.

6. Explore Botanical Garden: Visit the Jawahar Lal Memorial Botanical Garden, adjacent to the Tulip Garden, to discover flora of Kashmir beyond Tulips.

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