Spring in Srinagar always reminded me of the Tulips there but this time, the almond flowers got my heart. Right from the moment we set our foot inside the garden, we were captivated by nature’s beauty. Almond blooms are celebrated around the world. They are known to be the forerunners of peace, happiness and joy in many countries. Not to forget they also signal the commencement of change of season and the onset of spring season. In Kashmir, the months of March and April are very special. After the bitter winters and snow, the soil becomes moist and gives birth to several varieties of flowers. Thus, it is also the time to head out of houses and be part of spring celebrations and flower festivals. Both Tulip festival and opening of Badam Vaer garden have become a popular affair in Srinagar. The full bloom lasts only for a month and we were extremely lucky to make our trip happen just at the right time. However, we were told that you will find an air of purity, of cleanness, freshness, and floral beauty throughout the year.

What is the history of Badam Vaer Park?

Situated on the foothills of Hari Parbat (Koh-i-Maaran), the garden is a sprawling beauty of over 300 kanals. Initially, the whole area was part of a bigger fortification around Hari Parbat. Some parts of the fort still exists and is perched on the top. During the rule of the Mughals, the area was beautifully maintained for the kings and nobles and was decked up with trees, flowers and cascades providing a soothing experience to them. After the decline of the Mughal empire, the area lost its sheen. Much later, Dogra Monarch Ranbir Singh got the entire garden planted with almond trees. And hence the name Badam Waer or Badamwari picked up popularity. Negligence loomed over this area for a long until the government revived the infrastructure and started looking into its regular maintenance. In Hindi ‘Badam‘ refers to ‘almond’, while ‘vaer‘ is ‘garden’ in Kashmiri. Colloquially, it also means gorgeous garden. With the picturesque Hari Parvat overlooking the garden from a distance and panoramic settings all around, this almond garden has become one of the major attractions for the tourists visiting Kashmir valley.

Where is it located?

Badam Vaer Park is located in the old part of Srinagar, near Gurudwara Road. Most of the attractions, especially the popular gardens are located on the Dal Lake Boulevard in Srinagar but this one is near Hari Parbat. On the way to the Badam Vaer garden, one can see the other side of the Dal lake, Hazrat Bal Mosque, the Gurudwara on the Gurudwara road and some bits of old city of Srinagar. If you have time, do not miss your trip to Hari Parvat.

For several years, Badamwari used to be a very popular picnic spot for the locals. There came a phase when it has to see neglect and despair. And now, with its revival, it has regained its lost charm. The people are back with their mats, shamovars, picnic baskets etc. I was told that the garden remains a favorite even in the months, when the almond flowers are not there. Roses, Petunias, Pansies, Daffodils, Tulips, Lillies, Forget Me Nots continue to bloom in the garden till autumn knocks again. The painstaking work done to revamp the garden and keep it going is evident in its popularity. I would like to recommend it to everyone. In my last visit to Srinagar, I had missed this one but am glad I could make it this time.

Postcard pictures from Badam Vaer

Make the most of your time at Badam Vaer by taking a stroll with your family or solo. The leisurely walk will introduce you to its different sides and views. Check out the fountain, bridge and an arch like structure inside the garden.