Kashmir Valley’s almond trees lure tourists

Hundreds of tourists, both domestic and foreign, have thronged the Kashmir Valley to enjoy the experience of watching almond trees bloom. Ajay Roath, a tourist, said watching almond trees bloom was a thrill. "During my last visit, I wasn''t able to enjoy the blossoming of almonds that takes place during this season but this year when I am viewing it, it seems that I am in a paradise. We also visited Pahalgam, Sonmarg and Gulmarg. The view of those places was spectacular. We enjoyed a lot. It is said that one should visit Switzerland to view the snow and enjoy the natural beauty but we believe that if paradise exists anywhere in the world then it exists in Kashmir," said Roath. The view in the spring season is very impressive as the purple and crimson mixed flower-laden almond trees hold attention of the visitors. A good number of students visited the almond orchards known as Badam Vaer, in the vicinity of Srinagar. "We have come here to enjoy the picturesque beauty and we all are enjoying a lot," said a student, Mariya Jan. Almonds are known for its nutritious and delicious nuts that grow up to a heightof 15 metres. It blossoms during the spring season, which starts from March and ends in May. Even though the almond trees trace their origin to the Mediterranean region, these have adapted well to the cool climate of Kashmir. Almonds are known for high protein content.