Springtime Bliss in Kashmir: Tulip Festival, Almond Blossoms & Family-Friendly Itinerary
Nothing signals the arrival of spring in Kashmir quite like the burst of colour that carpets the valley every April. Fields of red and yellow tulips sway beneath snow-capped peaks, almond trees dust the air with pale pink petals, and fragrant saffron crocuses peek through lush meadows. It’s a season made for families, romantics and adventure seekers alike – and Travel Execute is here to help you experience the magic.
Why Visit Kashmir in Spring?
Spring is one of the most pleasant times to explore Kashmir. Daytime temperatures hover around 15‑20°C (59‑68°F), skies are clear and the mood is festive. The world‑famous Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden – Asia’s largest – opens its gates for just a few weeks each year, showcasing more than a million tulips in full bloom. Nearby Badamwari Garden is cloaked in almond blossoms, while Mughal gardens like Shalimar and Nishat come alive with chrysanthemums, pansies and hyacinths. Adventure lovers will still find snow in higher reaches like Sonamarg and Gulmarg, and gentle hikes through meadows of wildflowers lead to rushing waterfalls.
Suggested 6-Day Spring Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive in Srinagar & Dal Lake
Settle into a cosy houseboat on Dal Lake and enjoy a shikara ride at sunset. Wander through the floating vegetable market and soak in the panorama of Zabarwan mountains.
Day 2 – Tulip Festival & Mughal Gardens
Spend the morning at the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden. Afterwards stroll through the terraced Mughal gardens – Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh and Pari Mahal – to admire fountains, chinar trees and Persian‑inspired architecture.
Day 3 – Almond Blossoms & Old City Tour
Head to Badamwari Garden to see the almond trees in full bloom. Later, explore Srinagar’s old city: visit the Shah Hamdan Mosque, wander the spice and handicraft markets and sample local breads at a traditional bakery.
Day 4 – Pahalgam & Betaab Valley
Drive to Pahalgam through saffron fields and Pampore’s willow cricket bat factories. Picnic in Betaab Valley (named after the Bollywood film), trek to Aru or Baisaran Valley and enjoy pony rides with the family.
Day 5 – Sonamarg & Thajiwas Glacier
Travel to the ‘Meadow of Gold’ – Sonamarg – for spectacular views of snow‑capped mountains. You can hire a pony or hike to Thajiwas Glacier, try river rafting on the Sindh River or simply relax by an alpine meadow.
Day 6 – Yusmarg or Doodhpathri & Departure
On your last day choose an off‑beat meadow like Yusmarg or Doodhpathri. These rolling pastures are dotted with daisies and pine trees and offer horse rides, short treks and quiet picnic spots before returning to Srinagar.
This itinerary is fully customisable – feel free to add a day of skiing in Gulmarg or a detour to Kokernag Gardens.
Cultural Highlights & Festivals
Spring in Kashmir isn’t just about flowers. Join locals celebrating Navroz (Persian New Year) or Baisakhi. Learn about traditional crafts like papier‑mâché, carpet weaving and wood carving at craft centres and markets. Don’t forget to pick up aromatic spices, saffron and dry fruits from local vendors.
Food & Culinary Delights
No trip to Kashmir is complete without tasting a multi‑course Wazwan feast. Savour tender meat dishes like Rogan Josh, Yakhni, Gushtaba and Dum Aloo, accompanied by fragrant rice and crisp bread. Vegetarians will love Nadru Monje (lotus stem fritters), Daniwal Korma, seasonal greens and Haak. Sip on steaming cups of Kahwah (green tea with saffron and nuts) or Noon Chai (pink salted tea). Sweet cravings are satisfied with Phirni, Shufta and fresh seasonal fruits.
Must-Visit Spots & Activities
- Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden: Asia’s largest tulip garden with over 60 varieties of tulips.
- Badamwari Garden: A heritage park draped in almond blossoms each March–April.
- Mughal Gardens: Shalimar, Nishat, Pari Mahal and Chashmashahi with terraced lawns and water channels.
- Gulmarg: Perfect for late-season skiing, snowboarding and taking the Gulmarg Gondola to panoramic heights.
- Pahalgam & Aru Valley: Ideal for trekking, river rafting and family picnics.
- Sonamarg: Gateway to high-altitude treks, pony rides and glacier walks.
- Yusmarg & Doodhpathri: Off-beat meadows surrounded by pine forests.
- Local Markets: Lal Chowk, Residency Road and floating markets for handicrafts, pashmina and spices.
Travel Tips for Spring in Kashmir
- Plan ahead: Spring is peak season; book flights, hotels and houseboats well in advance.
- Pack smart: Bring layers – mornings and evenings are cool, afternoons warm; don’t forget sunscreen, hats and comfortable walking shoes.
- Respect local culture: Dress modestly at religious sites, ask permission before photographing people and support eco-friendly tourism by avoiding single-use plastics.
- Stay connected: Mobile networks work well in Srinagar and major towns. Carry some cash for rural areas as ATMs may be limited.
- Travel with experts: Hiring a local travel agent like Travel Execute ensures permits, transportation and guides are arranged, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Book Your Spring Tour With Us!
Spring in Kashmir is calling! Our friendly local team at Travel Execute will take care of every detail, from permits and accommodation to guides and transport. Whether you’re travelling with family, seeking adventure or planning a romantic escape, we’ll customise a package that fits your style and budget. Contact us today to secure your dates and experience Kashmir in full bloom.
Contact Us
✉️ Email us: info@travelexecute.com
📍 Location: Srinagar, Kashmir
