Srinagar, Mar 10 ; The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar, recognised as the largest such garden in Asia, will be formally opened to the public for the 2026 season on March 16, officials said on Tuesday.
Director of Floriculture, Kashmir, Mathoora Masoom said that the garden, situated on the foothills of the Zabarwan Range with a view of the Dal Lake, is fully prepared to receive visitors. The annual blooming of the garden traditionally marks the commencement of the tourist season in the Valley.
“With the tulips now in full bloom, the department has decided to commence the visiting schedule for the season from March 16,” Director Masoom said.
Officials said approximately 1.8 million tulip bulbs, comprising between 70 and 75 different varieties, have been planted this season. The density of flower-beds has been enhanced this year to present a more vibrant and striking floral spectacle for visitors.
Originally named Siraj Bagh, the garden was rechristened as the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in 2008. It has since emerged as a major attraction for domestic and international tourists visiting the Kashmir Valley during the spring season.
In a related development heralding the arrival of spring, the almond trees at Srinagar’s historic Badamwari garden have burst into bloom. The garden, located in the old city area on the foothills of Koh-e-Maraan, is now covered in shades of pink and white. For the people of the Valley, the blooming of the almond trees is an annual celebration that signals the end of the prolonged winter chill. (KNS)
