Badamwari

Badamwari is an almond orchard on the slopes of Hari Parbat in the old city. Almonds — badam — have been grown here for centuries, and in early spring the whole hillside turns white and pale pink. Locals have gathered here to welcome the season for generations.

By the 2000s the orchard had fallen into neglect. It was restored and reopened as a public garden in 2008, with lawns, walkways and the fort rising above. For most of the year it is simply a pleasant green space; for two or three weeks in March it is one of the most beautiful places in Srinagar.

Timing the blossom

Almond trees flower before the tulips — usually early to mid-March, depending on the winter. If you are coming for the Tulip Garden at the end of March, the blossom may already be fading. Ask us in February and we will tell you how the season is going.

Badamwari sits right below Hari Parbat, so combine it with the fort, the Makhdoom Sahib shrine and the old city mosques.