Best Time
Late Mar–Apr
Flowers
1.5 Million
Area
30 Hectares
Varieties
68+
About Tulip Garden
The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, spread over 30 hectares on the foothills of the Zabarwan mountains, is Asia's largest tulip garden. Opened in 2007 to boost floriculture and tourism, the garden showcases over 1.5 million tulips across 68+ varieties in a spectacular terraced display that transforms the slopes into rivers of color every spring.
Located adjacent to the iconic Mughal Nishat Bagh, the garden overlooks the shimmering Dal Lake. The annual Tulip Festival in late March or early April marks the opening of Kashmir's tourist season and draws visitors from around the world. Beyond tulips, the garden features hyacinths, daffodils, ranunculus, and muscari in a choreographed symphony of spring color.
Things to Do
Tulip Festival
The grand opening festival features cultural performances, local food stalls, and the breathtaking sight of millions of blooms.
Photography Paradise
Terraced rows of vibrant tulips against the backdrop of Dal Lake and snow peaks create world-class photo opportunities.
Garden Walks
Winding pathways through seven terraces, each planted with different tulip varieties and complementary flowers.
Night Tulip Show
Special evening illumination events during the festival showcase the flowers under dramatic lighting.
Zabarwan Viewpoint
Short walks to viewpoints above the garden offer panoramic vistas of the entire tulip display and Dal Lake.
Botanical Learning
Information boards throughout the garden educate visitors about tulip varieties, cultivation, and Kashmir's floriculture.
How to Reach Tulip Garden
By Air: Srinagar Airport is 18 km (35 minutes). Taxis and autos readily available during tulip season.
By Road: Located on the Cheshmashahi road near Nishat, 12 km from Srinagar city center along the Dal Lake shore road.
By Shikara: Arrive via Dal Lake shikara to the nearby Nishat ghat, then a short walk uphill to the garden entrance.
Travel Tips
- The garden opens only for 3-4 weeks — check exact dates on Kashmir Tourism's website before planning your trip.
- Visit on weekdays to avoid massive weekend crowds. Early morning offers the best light and emptiest paths.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes — the terraced garden involves moderate uphill walking.
- Peak bloom varies each year depending on weather — mid-April is typically the safest bet for maximum color.
- Combine your visit with Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Garden, both within 5 km distance.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Tulip Garden open?
Typically late March to late April, depending on weather. The exact dates are announced by J&K Tourism a few weeks before opening. The festival usually opens around March 20-25.
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, a nominal entry fee applies (₹50-100 for Indian nationals). Fees may increase during the Tulip Festival. Check the latest rates before visiting.
Can I visit the Tulip Garden outside the season?
No, the garden is only open during the tulip blooming season (about 3-4 weeks). Outside this window, the garden is closed for preparation and maintenance.
How much time do I need?
2-3 hours is ideal to walk through all terraces, enjoy the views, and take photographs. The festival days offer additional cultural activities.
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