In Pics: First Signs of Spring in Kashmir

The almond bloom across Kashmir valley marks the end of a long spell of winter.

An almond field in Pulwama.

(Photo Courtesy: Muneeb Ul Islam/The Quint) 

The almond bloom across Kashmir Valley officially marks the end of harsh winters and the advent of spring season.

A man walks near blossoming almond trees in an orchard in Badamwari as spring arrives after a long winter in the valley.

A man walks through an almond field.

A butterfly rests on an almond flower in Badamwari (almond garden) in Srinagar.

Kashmir witnesses extreme winters for over four months, when the mercury plunges to sub-zero levels and snow covers the mountains and plains of the Valley. Spring brings in not just respite but also colour to the Valley, with the grey gloom of winter lifting to reveal vibrant blossoms and greenery.

A Badamwari (almond garden) in Srinagar area.

Tourism in the Valley has taken a major blow ever since the killing of militant commander Burhan Wani in July 2016. However, with situation comparatively calmer and timely advent of spring, the tourism industry expects a revival of sorts this year.

An almond field in Pulwama.

A man rests under blooming almond blossoms at Badamwari.

Of late, the tourism department of the government has conducted festivals aimed at attracting tourists and reviving the industry.

(The Quint has given up the use of plastic plates and spoons. This Earth Hour, what will you #GiveUp to save the planet? Use the hashtag #GiveUp and tag @TheQuint to tell us.)