SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated the much-anticipated Tulip Show-2025 at the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar, heralding the arrival of spring in Kashmir. Nestled at the foothills of the Zabarwan Range, this sprawling garden—the largest of its kind in Asia—was officially opened to visitors, promising a vibrant floral spectacle.
The Tulip Garden, a key driver of Kashmir’s spring tourism, played a crucial role in revitalizing visitor footfall following Covid disruptions in 2020 and 2021. The garden saw 2.3 lakh visitors in 2022, and in 2023, the number surged to 3.70 lakh. Last year, the garden attracted a record-breaking 4.65 lakh tourists, including domestic and international visitors, significantly boosting the local economy.
The 2025 edition of the Tulip Show showcases an awe-inspiring display of 1.5 million spring-blooming bulbs, featuring over 74 tulip varieties. Additionally, daffodils, hyacinths, and muscari add to the garden’s picturesque charm. The Floriculture Department strategically extends the bloom period by incorporating late-blooming tulip varieties, ensuring visitors can experience the floral grandeur for an extended duration. The lifespan of tulip flowers typically spans three weeks but can stretch by an additional five days depending on favorable temperatures, which ideally range between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius.
Speaking at the inauguration, Chief Minister Abdullah emphasized the Tulip Show’s role in highlighting Kashmir’s unmatched natural beauty, inviting global tourists to witness its breathtaking landscapes. “This garden is a celebration of Kashmir’s rich biodiversity and a testament to its tourism potential. I encourage visitors to take back fond memories and share their experiences,” he said.
The Tulip Garden not only enhances the region’s tourism appeal but also contributes significantly to revenue generation. Managed by the Jammu and Kashmir Floriculture Department, the garden earns primarily through ticket sales. In 2023, revenue from ticket sales was estimated at Rs 3 crore, and in 2024, due to increased footfall, earnings were expected to surpass Rs 3.5 crore. The revenue aids state tourism and horticulture development while supporting local businesses, including hotels, shikara rides, and handicraft vendors. Seasonal employment opportunities are also generated for garden maintenance staff, security personnel, and local vendors.
The inaugural event witnessed enthusiastic participation from tourists and locals, who marveled at the mesmerizing floral expanse. Accompanying the Chief Minister were Minister for Agriculture Javid Ahmad Dar, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, and several Members of the Legislative Assembly. Senior officials present included ACS to Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, Director Floriculture Kashmir Shakeel-ur-Rehman, and other senior officers from the Floriculture Department.
The Tulip Show continues to be a symbol of Kashmir’s enchanting allure, reinforcing its status as the “Paradise on Earth” and a must-visit destination for nature lovers worldwide.
The Garden witnessed an unprecedented turnout on its inaugural day, with a record 17,259 visitors marking a historic milestone. The Department of Floriculture expressed gratitude to the public, particularly national and international tourists, for their overwhelming response. It also acknowledged the coordinated efforts of various agencies, including the JK Police and the Srinagar Municipal Corporation, in ensuring a smooth experience. With over 1.70 million tulips in full bloom, the garden stands as a testament to meticulous planning and dedication, promising visitors a breathtaking floral spectacle in the days ahead.
