Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], March 16: The first-ever Lavender Plantation Drive has begun at the Heritage Badamwari Garden in Srinagar, with plans to transform the area into a lavender-themed garden. This initiative aims to enhance the beauty of the iconic Badamwari (Almond garden) while promoting floriculture in the region.
Shakeel-Ul-Rehman, the Director of Floriculture Kashmir, provided details about the project, saying, “This will be a theme garden based on Lavender. There was one area which was unattended in Badamwari (Almond garden) which spans 100 Kanals. We are also covering the area beyond the fencing, which is fifty and sixty kanals. About 12,000 plantations have been made here, and our plan is to complete 30,000.”
The Lavender Plantation Drive will cover a significant portion of the garden, which is expected to transform the space into a visually stunning lavender haven. This project is part of an effort to boost tourism and local floriculture while preserving the natural heritage of Badamwari Garden. The goal is to plant 30,000 lavender plants, further promoting the floral diversity of Jammu and Kashmir.
Meanwhile, tourists visiting Srinagar enjoyed a picturesque morning at Dal Lake. The chilly weather added to the enchanting beauty of the iconic waterbody, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Shikaras (traditional wooden boats) glided peacefully over the serene waters, offering visitors a mesmerizing experience. Many tourists, wrapped in warm clothes, sipped hot Kahwa, a traditional Kashmiri tea, while enjoying boat rides.
A tourist from Gujarat shared, “I am from Gujarat where the temperatures are very high, here I am enjoying the chilly weather. Sonmarg and Gulmarg are beautiful. I took the Shikara ride in Dal Lake this morning and watched the sunset. We receive facilities of hot water and food in the boat, providing a great experience to spend the night.”
Another tourist from Delhi added, “The cold mornings and the breathtaking surroundings make this an unforgettable experience.”