Mustard bloom attracts tourists to Kashmir villages |
Srinagar: Forget Gulmarg, Pahalgam,, Kashmir’s rural areas are witnessing huge tourist footfalls, thanks to the spring mustard bloom.
As spring breathes a new life into the Valley, vast stretches of mustard fields in rural Kashmir have transformed into vibrant yellow landscapes.
Subsequently, it is drawing an increasing number of tourists beyond the traditional urban hubs, who have kept this experience in the bucket list.
From the outskirts of Srinagar to the farmlands of Budgam, Pulwama and Baramulla, visitors are now venturing into villages and suburban pockets, captivated by the sight of mustard flowers in full bloom against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
“Typically, we witness mustard bloom in the rest of India in December or January. In Kashmir, the spring season is altogether a beautiful experience, and mustard bloom is the icing on the cake. We had it in our bucket list to witness this magic in Kashmir,” said Pranav Mehta, a tourist from West Bengal.
Tourist players said the mustard blooms have become the latest attraction for the visitors following which they are promoting rural pockets in their packages.
“We get the requests from the tourists to experience rural Kashmir. As currently mustard bloom is at its peak, we suggest them to tour to villages to experience it,” said Farah Rashid, a travel agent.
Local residents said the surge in footfall is unlike previous years. “People used to pass through our village on the way to bigger destinations. Now, they stop here, take pictures, and even spend hours exploring,” said Abdul Rashid, a farmer from Anantnag.
Tourists, many of them from metropolitan cities, describe the experience as refreshing and authentic. “It feels untouched and peaceful. The yellow fields, the fresh air, and the simplicity of village life—it’s something you don’t find in crowded tourist places,” said Mohsin Pasha, a visitor from Delhi.The trend has brought new opportunities for rural communities. Some families have started offering tea, snacks, and even homestay experiences, giving visitors a glimpse into traditional Kashmiri life.