In a vibrant celebration of colour and resilience, Kashmir has unveiled its first and Asia’s largest chrysanthemum garden — Bagh-e-Gul-e-Dawood — inside Srinagar’s Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden. The garden was inaugurated by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, marking a major step in extending the Valley’s floral tourism beyond spring.
Spread across 100 kanals (approximately 5 hectares), Bagh-e-Gul-e-Dawood is home to over one lakh chrysanthemum plants representing more than 50 varieties. The launch coincided with the third edition of the Autumn Flower Festival, transforming Srinagar into a late-season paradise for nature lovers.
Extending the Flower Season Beyond Spring
The new garden is designed to mirror the global success of Srinagar’s Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, which drew over 8.55 lakh visitors in spring 2025. With this initiative, the government aims to turn the autumn months—traditionally quieter for tourism—into another high point for visitors.
Speaking at the inauguration, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said:
“People had a misconception that flowers don’t bloom after the summer season in Kashmir. After meeting with officials of the Floriculture Department, we concluded that if we can begin the tourist season early by opening the Tulip Garden, we can extend the season with the Gul-e-Dawood garden. I extend my congratulations to all the gardeners and officials of the Floriculture Department. We will continue to expand this chrysanthemum garden every season.”
He added that, unlike the tulip garden, which initially relied on imported bulbs, all plants in the chrysanthemum garden have been cultivated locally.
A Floral Marvel Beneath the Zabarwans
From above, Bagh-e-Gul-e-Dawood resembles a living tapestry of colour, with sweeping views framed by the Zabarwan hills and Dal Lake. Visitors can stroll along pathways lined with indigenous and exotic varieties such as Mount Aubisque Salmon, Aristic Dark Pink, Nova Yellow, Flavio, Manga Red, and Ibra White.
The blooms are expected to last well into November, giving travellers a generous window to explore Kashmir’s changing hues. To enhance the visitor experience, QR codes have been installed across the garden, providing information about the plants, their origins, and the region’s botanical heritage.
Economic Bloom Amid Tourism Recovery
Beyond its beauty, Bagh-e-Gul-e-Dawood is expected to play a crucial role in reviving Kashmir’s tourism economy, which faced a setback after the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people and led to a 70% drop in bookings.
According to official estimates, the chrysanthemum garden could attract 2–3 million visitors this autumn season and generate ₹500–700 crore in tourism revenue. Reports suggest the number could reach as high as 30 lakh visitors, offering a major boost to local livelihoods, including hotels, transporters, artisans, and small businesses.
Why it matters for travellers
1. Unique timing – Most flower gardens peak in spring or summer; here you’ll catch a late-season floral spectacle when many destinations have started winding down.
2. Less crowded window – Autumn in Kashmir often means fewer massive tourist crowds (compared to high summer or initial tulip season). A fresh attraction like this gives a reason to visit now.
3. Scenic combination – The garden lies at the base of the Zabarwan hills, close to famous spots like the tulip garden, offering a lush backdrop of nature + colour.
4. Economic benefit & local uplift – The government projects that the garden could attract 2-3 million visitors in this season (some reports say up to 30 lakh) and generate revenue of around ₹500-700 crore, boosting lodging, food, local crafts and floriculture.
5. Tourism resilience – Coming on the back of the valley’s tourism being impacted by earlier setbacks (notably the April 2025 terror attack at Pahalgam), this garden sends a message of revival and a new beginning.
Travel strategy: Make it work for you
- Timing: Visit from late October to mid-November for peak blooms. Early visits may lack full flowers, while late visits can be hindered by colder weather.
- Where to stay: Book accommodations in advance
- Clothing & comfort: Expect cooler autumn temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings. Wear layers, and bring a light jacket and comfortable walking shoes.
- Photography tip: Shoot in the morning light for the best flower photos, using a wide-angle lens. Avoid harsh midday sunlight.
- Mind the seasonality: Services may still be transitioning from peak summer, so confirm all bookings.
- Respect the environment: Stay on paths, do not pick blooms, and adhere to signage, as the garden features locally grown plants.
Best Places to Visit in Kashmir
While Bagh-e-Gul-e-Dawood takes the spotlight this autumn, Kashmir offers plenty more for travellers to explore:
- Srinagar: Visit the world-famous Tulip Garden in spring, enjoy a serene shikara ride on Dal Lake, and wander through the historic Mughal Gardens.
- Gulmarg: Take the Gondola ride to Kongdoori Peak, soak in snow-clad views. Explore Pampore’s saffron fields, Awantipura temples. Visit the picturesque Drung Waterfall.
- Pahalgam: Explore Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, and Chandanwadi, all perfect for photography and leisure walks.
- Sonmarg: Known as the “Meadow of Gold,” this alpine haven offers stunning mountain vistas and glacier treks.
Kashmiri Cuisine: Another Reason to Visit
Beyond the blooms and landscapes, Kashmir’s cuisine is a sensory delight — aromatic, hearty, and deeply traditional. Don’t miss:
- Signature dishes: Rogan Josh, Yakhni, Dum Olav (Dum Aloo), Wazwan (multi-course feast), Modur Pulav, Haak Saag
- Local flavours: Harisa, Noon Chai, Girda & Kulcha, Halwa Paratha, Chana Chat
- Regional favourites: Nadur Yakhni, Walnut Chutney, Hokk Syun — each adding warmth to Kashmir’s autumn air.
Kashmir’s Bagh-e-Gul-e-Dawood isn’t just any garden; it’s a symbol of hope, strength, and fresh starts. With a splash of colours across the Zabarwan foothills and the crisp mountain air filled with the smell of chrysanthemums, autumn is the perfect time to check out the Valley again.
Plan your visit now — Check out Kashmir when it’s in full bloom, enjoy its unique cuisine, and see the valley’s exciting new vibes after tulip season wraps up.
FAQs
1. Where is Bagh-e-Gul-e-Dawood located?
Bagh-e-Gul-e-Dawood is situated inside the Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden in Srinagar, Kashmir. Nestled at the foothills of the Zabarwan Range and overlooking Dal Lake, it’s easily accessible from the city centre and close to the famous Tulip Garden.
2. When is the best time to visit the Chrysanthemum Garden?
The ideal time to visit is from late October to mid-November, when the chrysanthemums are in full bloom and the weather remains pleasantly cool. Early visits may miss peak colours, while late ones can be affected by frost or winter chill.
3. How many varieties of chrysanthemums are there?
The garden features over 50 vibrant varieties and more than one lakh plants, including Mount Aubisque Salmon, Nova Yellow, Flavio, Manga Red, and Ibra White. These are all locally cultivated, unlike the imported tulip bulbs of earlier gardens.
4. What makes Bagh-e-Gul-e-Dawood special?
It’s Asia’s largest chrysanthemum garden, extending Kashmir’s floral tourism beyond spring. It promotes eco-tourism, boosts local livelihoods, and symbolises resilience and revival after a challenging tourism phase in the Valley.
5. What other attractions can visitors explore nearby?
Travellers can combine their visit with Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens, Tulip Garden, or Naseem Bagh for autumn foliage. Day trips to Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg add adventure and scenic diversity to the itinerary.
6. Are there any entry fees or facilities for visitors?
Yes, a nominal entry fee applies, similar to the Tulip Garden. The site includes QR-coded plant info, clean walkways, seating areas, and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable and educational visitor experience.