As spring approaches, Kashmir is gearing up to unveil its breathtaking Tulip Garden, renowned as Asia’s largest, with an impressive 1.75 million flowers set to bloom in a stunning display of color. The garden is expected to open its gates to the public in the final week of March, promising a vibrant spectacle for nature lovers and tourists from across the country and globe.
Located at the picturesque foothills of the Zabarwan mountain range and overlooking the tranquil Dal Lake Srinagar, the 4,500-kanal terraced garden has been meticulously prepared by a dedicated team of over 100 workers and gardeners. Their tireless efforts ensure that a significant portion of the tulip bulbs will be in full bloom for approximately four weeks, captivating visitors with a stunning array of 74 different tulip varieties.
“The preparations are nearing completion, and we will announce the official opening date on March 22,” said Asif Yatoo, the in-charge of the floriculture department overseeing the garden’s operations. Established in 2006, the garden has become a symbol of Kashmir’s rich floral heritage.
The tulip planting process begins each year in mid-November, with gardeners sowing bulbs just before winter sets in. As the snow melts by late February, they meticulously prepare the soil, ensuring optimal conditions for the flowers to thrive. With an annual budget of approximately ₹3 crore—three-quarters of which is allocated for sourcing fresh tulip bulbs from the Netherlands—the garden continues to be a significant attraction for both locals and tourists.
Historically, Kashmir’s connection with tulips dates back centuries, when these vibrant flowers were cultivated on rooftops and in kitchen gardens. The transformation of Siraj Bagh into a regal Tulip Garden was initiated by the state government in 2005-06 to honor this longstanding tradition.
Last year, the garden witnessed an unprecedented footfall of over 465,000 visitors, marking a significant increase from previous years. “We anticipate even higher numbers this season, as more tourists are drawn to experience the beauty of our tulip blooms,” Yatoo added.
The average lifespan of a tulip flower is around 20 days, but with careful planning and the introduction of mid and late-blooming varieties, the floral display can extend up to 25 days. The delicate flowers thrive in temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, making spring the ideal season for their spectacular bloom.
