Almond harvest makes crowning glory of spring in Kashmir valley

Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], Apr 24 (ANI): Kashmir's beauty is particularly enhanced during the spring season. The enchanting scenario is attributed to the thousands of almond trees that blossom and present a surreal blanket of white and pink in the majestic mountainous landscape. A season that attracts tourists from all parts of the country and abroad. Almond trees are among the first to bloom in the valley lending an aromatic air to the spring. After three months of bone-chilling cold, when locals swathe themselves with woollens and stay mostly indoors, the arrival of spring is celebrated with music, song and festivity. The white and pink flowers on the almond trees present an enchanting sight for tourists visiting the state. It is equally popular among the locals who throng 'Badamwari' or almond garden to see the beautiful sight and click photographs. "It's like a dream comes true I have never seen so many almond flower together especially almond tress Kashmir is like a heaven on earth said by a tourist," said a tourist. "It is very important that the weather and climate has to be good for tourism in Kashmir. Fortunately, tourists come here and enjoy the weather," said a tour operator, Imtiyaz Ahmad. Tourists from all parts of the country come to Kashmir valley to enjoy the beautiful sight during the spring season. A tourist from Mumbai, Sharmista Patil added, "We are taking back the memories of those white almond flowers. The gardens and flowers here are so pretty that we feel like coming back again." Jammu and Kashmir contributes around three per cent to the national fruit produce. (ANI)