Autumn has once again transformed Kashmir’s iconic Mughal gardens into a breathtaking canvas of colours, attracting tourists, photographers, and nature lovers from across the country.
With Chinar trees glowing in deep reds, fiery oranges, and burnished gold, gardens like Nishat, Shalimar, and Naseem Bagh have turned into vibrant autumn hotspots, drawing heavy footfall over the past week.
Visitors say witnessing the golden Chinars has become an essential part of the Kashmir itinerary. The sprawling lawns and tree-lined pathways of the Mughal gardens are currently buzzing with tourists capturing the season’s magic on cameras and smartphones.
“These colours feel unreal. I had only seen Kashmir’s autumn in films and photos, but being here feels like walking inside a painting,” said Ritika Sharma, a tourist from Mumbai visiting Nishat Garden with her family. “The Chinar leaves falling around you make everything look straight out of a Bollywood scene.”
Srishti Singh, a visitor from Delhi, added, “I have travelled to many countries to see the fall season, but the Chinar trees here are extraordinary. The colours are richer, and the atmosphere feels very peaceful.”
Another tourist, Daljeet Kaur from Chandigarh, said she was struck by the warmth of the people and the vibrancy of the landscape. “I didn’t expect autumn to be so colourful here. Walking through Shalimar Bagh feels like stepping into a historical painting.”
Content creators and vloggers are especially drawn to Nishat Bagh, famous for its scores of majestic Chinars. The garden’s thick carpet of rust-coloured leaves has made it one of the most photographed spots this season.
Local residents say the season brings a unique charm that even they never tire of. Many visit these gardens every year to relive the nostalgic beauty of the valley’s most romantic season.
“Autumn is our favourite time. The gardens look magical, and the Chinar trees feel like they’re telling old stories,” said Faisal Chaku, a local from Srinagar strolling in Shalimar Bagh. “Tourists are amazed, but for us too, this season is emotional and special.”
Tourists also note the influence of Bollywood. Many recreate iconic film moments as they walk through the golden foliage. “We took so many photos recalling scenes from Haider, Fitoor, Junooniyat and others. The ambience just makes you feel like a part of those movies,” said Neha Gupta from Delhi.
Though Kashmir remains a year-round destination, officials from the Floriculture Department say autumn sees a unique surge in visitors because of its surreal beauty.
With the gardens at peak bloom and the Chinars shimmering in full splendour, Kashmir’s autumn continues to enchant travellers , turning every step into a memory and every fallen leaf into poetry on the ground.
