Badamwari Garden – Almond Blossoms in Early Spring
badamwari garden Photos
INTRODUCTION
When spring approaches the Kashmir Valley, new life arises from the long winter slumber, in all the colors of a palette. One of the earliest indicators of spring in Srinagar is the exquisite blooming of almond flowers at Badamwari Garden, a heritage garden located at the base of Hari Parbat Fort.
Badamwari, also known as Garden of Almond Blossoms, is a place where locals and travelers come to see the spectacle every March and it is like something out of a fairy tale. The thousands of almond trees bloom into a delicate pink and white and transform the entire garden into a wonderland of colors. Badamwari Garden Srinagar is quickly gaining a reputation for its heritage, beauty, and remarkable feature of blooming almond trees, and it has become one of the must-see springtime attractions while visiting Kashmir.
This blog will describe its history, features and visitation tips, for why it should be on your bucket list when Travelling in Srinagar.
History of Badamwari Garden
Badamwari is not a recent addition to Srinagar’s attractions – it is a garden that has existed for centuries. Historians indicate that Badamwari may date back to the 14th century.
The Jammu & Kashmir Bank restored and reopened the garden in 2008 to help revive its cultural heritage. The name “Badamwari” comes from the Kashmiri word for almonds, “Badam.”
Local people used to celebrate the blossom season at Badamwari with music, picnics, and festivals, as it heralded the arrival of spring.
Today, the restored Badamwari Garden draws thousands of visitors each year to experience the almond orchards in bloom.
Attractions in Badamwari Garden
1. Almond Trees in Bloom
The main feature of Badamwari is the stunning almond trees in bloom. Each March, thousands of trees blossom, presenting a beautiful façade of white and pink, making it the most beautiful month in Srinagar.
2. View of Hari Parbat
The garden provides a fantastic view of Hari Parbat Fort, creating a stunning backdrop as it contrasts the ancients’s fortifications with the beautiful fresh saplings of spring.
3. Picnic Sites
Families spread their mats on the grass and enjoy the fresh spring breeze while eating food cooked by family or friends.
4. Cultural Events
The garden comes to life with cultural events consisting of folk music, and dances in native Kashmiri folk traditions, originating back to its completion in 1890.
5. Photographic Opportunities
There are endless photographic opportunities for photographers and creators whether it is portrait, landscape, or close-up photo opportunities with flowers all around.
Best Time to Visit Badamwari Garden
The allure of Badamwari is its blossoms which would be seasonal.
March – Early April: Best time to experience almond tree blossoms, when the trees are fully bloomed.
Spring Mornings: The coolness in the air and the softer light make this the best time to shoot.
Weekdays: Less busy than the weekend and when people do visit the garden on the weekend it is usually busy due to local festivals.
👉 Tip: Blossoms are short-lived and only last 2 – 3 weeks, so time that well.
Entry Fee and Timings
Entry Fee: Nominal (₹10–₹20 approx.).
Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (open daily in bloom season).
Best Duration to Spend: 2–3 hours.
How to Reach Badamwari Garden
Badamwari is situated within the Rainawari neighborhoods in Srinagar, at the base of Hari Parbat.
By air: The nearest airport is Srinagar International Airport, which is approximately 17 km away.
By road: Taxis, cabs, and auto-rickshaws are readily available.
By local transport: Buses also connect this area with the city center.It’s also a good stop-off point while visiting the cultural heritage of old Srinagar due to its proximity to this part of the city.
Why Visit Badamwari Garden?
- To experience the first flowers of spring in Kashmir.
- To take postcards’ worth of pictures under blossoming almond trees.
- To partake in the cultural celebrations that signal spring’s arrival.
- To unwind with family in a peaceful garden surrounding.
- To combine a visit with visiting Hari Parbat Fort.
- Badamwari Garden is not just a lens vision, it is a sense of seasonal splendor that connects the traveler with Kashmir’s cultural heritage.
Things to Do in Badamwari Garden
- Stroll through the blossoms of the almond orchards.
- Plan a picnic with family or friends.
- Snap some Instagram-worthy pictures in the gardens.
- Enjoy performances embodying regional culture during bloom festivals.
- Head to Hari Parbat Fort after visiting the garden.
Nearby Attractions
- Hari Parbat Fort: Old fort with panoramic views of the city.
- Dal Lake: Experience Shikara rides and houseboat accommodations (5 kilometers away).
- Nigeen Lake: A calmer alternative to Dal Lake.
- Jamia Masjid Srinagar: A marvel of architecture and spirituality.
- Hazratbal Shrine: A sacred place overlooking the lake.
- Shalimar Bagh & Nishat Bagh: Famous Mughal Gardens of Srinagar.
Travel Tips for Visiting Badamwari Garden
- Look at the bloom updates prior to your visit. The flowers only bloom for 2–3 weeks.
- It’s better to visit in the morning, as the weekends get crowded in the afternoon.
- Bring a camera and storage for photos—you will certainly need it!
- Be mindful of the flowers—don’t pluck them or climb the trees.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, since there is a lot of area to walk through in the garden.
Badamwari Garden in Kashmir Tour Packages
The majority of travel tours centered around the spring season in Kashmir generally include Badamwari Garden. Travel operators are able to customize packages that showcase the almond blossom season, often paired with Tulip Garden, Mughal Gardens, and Dal Lake.
- Couple Packages: Romantic walks under the almond blossoms.
- Family Packages: Picnics and culture immersion.
- Photography Tours: Dedicated to album blossoms, views, and heritage sites.
Travelers will also find that booking with travel companies like Kashmir Traveler will have spring blossom tours in which Badamwari is a top destination.
Conclusion
The Badamwari garden in Srinagar signifies spring, heritage, and natural splendor. With blossoming almond trees, this centuries-old garden serves as a symbolic mark for a new beginning and cultural identity. Badamwari is a must-visit for any traveler who wishes to know the experience of Kashmir in early spring.
If you are a couple seeking romantic walks, or family having a spring picnic, or someone traveling for genuine cultural experiences, the Almond Blossom Festival at the Badamwari Garden will leave an impression on you and will always be reminiscences in your memory.
When planning your visit, consult with reputable tour operators like Kashmir Traveler to get the most out of this seasonal opportunity.
FAQs – Badamwari Garden Srinagar
1. Where is Badamwari Garden located in Srinagar?
It is situated in the Rainawari area, at the foothills of Hari Parbat Fort.
2. What is Badamwari Garden famous for?
It is famous for almond blossoms that bloom in early spring.
3. When do almond blossoms bloom in Badamwari Garden?
Usually in March, lasting for 2–3 weeks.
4. What is the entry fee for Badamwari Garden?
The entry fee is nominal, around ₹10–₹20 per person.
5. What are the timings of Badamwari Garden?
The garden remains open from 9 AM to 6 PM.
6. How much time is required to explore the garden?
Around 2–3 hours are enough to enjoy the blossoms and picnic.
7. Is photography allowed inside Badamwari Garden?
Yes, photography is permitted and highly recommended during blossom season.
8. What attractions are near Badamwari Garden?
Hari Parbat Fort, Dal Lake, Hazratbal Shrine, and Mughal Gardens.
9. How to reach Badamwari Garden from Srinagar city center?
It is easily accessible by taxi, cab, or auto-rickshaw within 15–20 minutes.
10. Is Badamwari Garden included in Kashmir tour packages?
Yes, most spring tour packages by operators like Kashmir Traveler include it.