Mahpara Bisati, Mohd Saqib
SRINAGAR, Mar 5: In an effort to sustain visitor footfall beyond the brief almond blossom season, authorities are developing a lavender-themed garden at historic Badamwari to transform the popular spring attraction into a year-round tourist destination.
Located on the foothills of Hari Parbat, overlooking Nigeen Lake, Badamwari attracts large crowds during the annual almond bloom.
However, visitor numbers drop sharply once the blossoms fade, prompting authorities to introduce new elements to keep the site appealing throughout the year.
“We are introducing lavender in Badamwari. Theme gardens are being developed across the world, and we want to bring that concept here as well,” said Tariq Ahmad, an employee associated with the project.
He said the idea for the garden – spread over nearly 90 kanals with plans for further expansion – was conceived after authorities observed that most visitors stop coming once the almond blossom season ends.
“As everyone knows, people mainly visit Badamwari during the blossom season. Once it ends, visitors feel there is nothing special left to see. Keeping that in mind, we decided to introduce lavender,” he said.
According to officials, around 10,000 lavender plants have already been planted across about 90 kanals on the sloping side of the garden overlooking the lake.
Tariq said lavender was chosen for both its visual appeal and suitability to the local climate.
“When almond trees bloom, they turn pink, so we planned a pink-and-purple combination to create a unique visual appeal,” he said, adding that lavender grows three to four feet tall and is well suited to hilly terrain.
The workers said that the plant requires one-time plantation and relatively low maintenance, while also thriving in mountainous regions and responding well to rainfall.
Apart from lavender, authorities have also introduced tulips and other ornamental plants at the garden’s lower entrance to enhance the visitor experience.
Restoration work has also been undertaken at the site, including repairs to bathrooms and viewpoints and the planting of new almond trees to replace those that had deteriorated over time.
“Some people may worry about historical preservation, but as long as almond trees continue to grow, we must also introduce elements that keep the garden attractive throughout the year,” Tariq said.
While Badamwari remains open to visitors, the lavender-themed section is expected to take about two more years to be fully developed. Visitors can, however, see the ongoing work as the site remains accessible throughout the year.
Authorities hope the initiative will help Badamwari remain a vibrant attraction even after the short-lived spring bloom.
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