Srinagar, Apr 08: The picturesque Karewas of Pampore—widely celebrated as Kashmir’s saffron hub—are once again in the spotlight, this time for a breathtaking display of wild tulips that has captivated tourists and locals alike.
Following the bloom of mustard fields that blanketed the landscape in shades of yellow, the elevated plateaus of Pampore have now transformed into a stunning mosaic of colours. Delicate wild tulips in hues of pink and white have sprung up across the Karewas, creating a striking visual contrast against the golden mustard backdrop.
The natural spectacle has sparked a fresh wave of tourist activity in the area, with visitors frequently stopping along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway to soak in the scenery.
The blooming fields have become a magnet for photography enthusiasts, nature lovers, and casual travellers, many of whom are seen capturing the fleeting beauty of spring in the saffron town.
According to locals, the wild tulip bloom has emerged as an unexpected seasonal attraction, adding to Pampore’s already rich tourism appeal.
Visitors are increasingly drawn to the serene charm of the Karewas, where the gentle sway of tulips in the spring breeze offers a tranquil escape from urban life. The area has also become popular for informal photo shoots and leisurely nature walks.
Local youth, traditionally engaged in selling the region’s famed saffron, say the influx of visitors has increased significantly in recent days. “People used to come mainly during the saffron harvest in autumn, but now we are seeing large crowds even in spring because of these tulips,” a local vendor said.
The blooming fields have also turned into an educational outing spot, with several local schools organising excursions for students. Teachers say such visits provide children with an opportunity to experience Kashmir’s natural beauty firsthand while learning about its ecological diversity.
Tourists from different parts of the country expressed awe at the scenic transformation. Pinku Das, a visitor from Kerala, said the valley offers a unique charm in every season. “Kashmir truly deserves to be called paradise. While the saffron fields in autumn are mesmerising, the spring bloom of tulips adds a completely different kind of beauty,” he said.
Rajesh, a traveller from Uttar Pradesh, shared a similar experience. “I couldn’t resist stopping my car when I saw the fields. The sight of tulips spread across the Karewas is simply stunning,” he said.
Many visitors also described Kashmir as a safe and welcoming destination, encouraging others to explore not only Pampore but also other scenic locations across the valley. They praised the hospitality of locals, saying the region offers unforgettable experiences for nature enthusiasts.
Officials said the tulips growing naturally in Pampore belong to the species Tulipa stellata, a perennial herb of the lily family. Known for its symmetrical structure, the flower features six petal-like segments that enhance its delicate and elegant appearance.
Experts believe that the presence of these wild tulips enriches the rich biodiversity of the Karewas and enhances Pampore’s ecological significance. Their seasonal bloom has not only added to the region’s natural charm but also strengthened its identity as a year-round tourist destination—(KNO)
