Srinagar Tulip Festival 2026: everything you need to know about India’s most colourful spring event

Tulips might be synonymous with the Netherlands, but you can spot them right here in Asia too. In Srinagar, Kashmir’s brief bloom season transforms the foothills into a riot of colour. And it’s all centred around one seriously photogenic event: Srinigar Tulip Festival 2026.

What is the Tulip Festival 2026?

The Tulip Festival 2026 is currently in full bloom at Srinagar’s Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, widely regarded as Asia’s largest tulip garden. The gardens are located on the foothills of the Zabarwan mountain range, overlooking Dal Lake.

Spread across a 74-acre hillside, the garden is arranged in seven terraced levels, each planted with more than 1.5 million tulips across over 70 varieties. Beyond the headline blooms, you’ll also spot swathes of hyacinths, daffodils, roses, muscari, irises and ranunculus, all set against the dramatic backdrop of Kashmir’s mountain landscape.

The festival typically runs until mid-April (weather-dependent), with peak bloom expected between April 1 and 8, and daily opening hours from 9am to 7pm. 

What can you do at the Tulip Festival 2026?

Beyond the endless rows of tulips, the festival is designed to be a cultural experience. Wander through the seven terraced levels, where colour-coordinated blooms are punctuated by fountains, scenic viewpoints and dedicated photo spots—all framed by the Zabarwan mountains and sweeping views over Dal Lake. Take your time as you stroll, especially during sunrise or sunset, when the light softens, and the colours really come into their own.

There’s also a strong cultural element woven into the festival. In collaboration with local departments, you’ll find artisan stalls showcasing Kashmiri crafts, from Pashmina shawls to intricate woodwork and papier-mâché pieces, alongside food stalls serving Kashmiri Kahwa and traditional snacks. There'll also be live music performances that run throughout the day, adding a gentle rhythm to the setting. 

Tip: For a more relaxed visit, plan your trip for weekday mornings (Tuesday to Thursday), when crowds are lighter, and the garden feels a little more serene.

How to get to the Tulip Festival 2026?

Fly into Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (SXR), around an hour’s drive from the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar.

How much are tickets to the Tulip Festival 2026?

Entry for Tulip Festival 2026 costs ₹75 for adults, ₹30 for children and ₹200 for foreign visitors.

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