The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, on the slopes of the Zabarwan hills above Dal Lake, is one of the largest tulip gardens in Asia. For a few weeks each spring, its terraces fill with lakhs of tulips in dozens of varieties.
- The garden usually opens in late March and peaks in early to mid April.
- Bloom dates shift with the weather each year.
- Weekday mornings are quietest.
- Combine it with Nishat and Shalimar, which are nearby.
When to go
The garden usually opens to visitors in late March and is at its peak in early to mid April. Exact dates depend on the weather, so watch announcements from the tourism department before booking flights.
What to expect
- Terraces of tulips arranged by colour, with hyacinths, daffodils and other spring flowers.
- Views of Dal Lake and the hills.
- Crowds on weekends and during the tulip festival.
Tips for visiting
- Go on a weekday morning for fewer people and softer light.
- Wear comfortable shoes; the terraces involve some walking.
- Don't step into the beds or pick flowers.
- Check timings and fees locally; they change by season.
Combine it with
The Tulip Garden is close to Chashme Shahi and Nishat Bagh, so spend a half day here and the afternoon at the Mughal gardens. Spring is also almond blossom season; read about Kashmir in spring.
Book early
Hotels and houseboats fill quickly in tulip season. Our Srinagar tour packages can be timed around peak bloom. Official dates are announced by the J&K Department of Tourism.
Last updated:
About the author: Written and checked by the Travel Wiki planning team, who arrange Kashmir and Ladakh trips every week from Srinagar and Bijbihara.
