Cherry blossoms are known for their breathtaking beauty and symbolize the arrival of spring. While Japan is famous for its cherry blossom season, many people don’t know that India also has several places where these pink and white flowers bloom. The cherry blossom in India is short, usually lasting from late October to early December in some regions and from February to April in others.
If you love nature and want to experience the magic of cherry blossoms, here are some of the best places in India where you can see them. Each location offers a unique experience, from vibrant festivals to quiet landscapes where you can soak in the beauty of these delicate flowers.
Shillong, Meghalaya
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is one of the best places in India to see cherry blossoms. The city hosts the India International Cherry Blossom Festival annually, usually in November. During this time, the streets, parks, and hills of Shillong are covered with beautiful pink and white cherry blossoms. The festival attracts tourists from all over India and even from other countries.
Best time to visit: Late October to mid-November
Where to see cherry blossoms in Shillong:
- Ward’s Lake: A beautiful lake surrounded by cherry blossom trees, making it a perfect spot for photography.
- Shillong Golf Course: One of the oldest golf courses in India, it turns into a dreamy landscape when cherry blossoms bloom.
- Polo Ground: A popular location where visitors can enjoy nature walks under cherry blossom trees.
During the festival, you can also enjoy cultural programs, live music, food stalls, and even wine tasting. If you love nature and celebrations, Shillong is the perfect place to experience cherry blossoms in India.
Kohima, Nagaland
Nagaland is another state where you can see cherry blossoms, especially in its capital, Kohima. The cool climate of Kohima is perfect for these flowers to bloom, creating a picturesque landscape.
Best time to visit: November
Where to see cherry blossoms in Kohima:
- Kohima War Cemetery: A serene place where cherry blossom trees add to the peaceful environment.
- Kisama Heritage Village: If you visit during the Hornbill Festival, you can see cherry blossoms blooming while enjoying the cultural celebrations of the Naga tribes.
Nagaland’s cherry blossoms offer a wonderful combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination during the blooming season.
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla, the popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh, also has a few places where cherry blossoms bloom. The cool weather and scenic mountains make it a perfect destination to enjoy these beautiful flowers. Unlike Shillong, where cherry blossoms bloom in November, Shimla experiences this floral beauty in early spring.
Best time to visit: February to April
Where to see cherry blossoms in Shimla:
- Kufri: A small hill station near Shimla, famous for its cherry blossom trees.
- Mashobra: A quiet and peaceful place where cherry blossoms bloom beautifully.
- Naldehra: This region is known for its stunning landscapes and makes for a perfect getaway during the blooming season.
If you want to enjoy cherry blossoms along with the cool mountain breeze, Shimla is an ideal destination.
Lachen and Lachung, Sikkim
Lachen and Lachung are two beautiful villages in North Sikkim where you can witness cherry blossoms. These villages are already famous for their stunning landscapes, and during cherry blossom season, they look even more magical.
Best time to visit: Late February to April
Where to see cherry blossoms in Lachen and Lachung:
- Along the roads and valleys of both villages: These areas offer breathtaking views with cherry blossoms covering the hillsides.
Both villages also offer a glimpse of traditional Sikkimese culture, making your visit even more special.
Yumthang Valley, Sikkim
Yumthang Valley is often called the Valley of Flowers of Sikkim because of its vibrant floral blooms. In spring, cherry blossoms add to the valley’s beauty, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Best time to visit: March to April
Where to see cherry blossoms in Yumthang Valley:
- Alongside the Teesta River
- In and around the valley
This valley is home to many other beautiful flowers as well, so you can enjoy a variety of colors along with cherry blossoms.
Jammu & Kashmir
Jammu & Kashmir is known for its mesmerizing landscapes, and in some parts, cherry blossoms bloom during spring. The gardens in Srinagar look even more stunning when cherry blossoms appear.
Best time to visit: March to April
Where to see cherry blossoms in Jammu & Kashmir:
- Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden: This garden is already famous for its tulip festival, but during cherry blossom season, it becomes even more beautiful.
- Mughal Gardens: The classic charm of the Mughal gardens combined with cherry blossoms is an unforgettable sight.
- Badamwari Garden: This garden is known for its almond blossoms as well as cherry blossoms, creating a delightful visual treat.
Mawphlang, Meghalaya
Mawphlang, located close to Shillong, is another great place in Meghalaya to see cherry blossoms. The region is known for its sacred groves and natural beauty, and during the cherry blossom season, the scenery becomes even more enchanting.
Best time to visit: October to November
Where to see cherry blossoms in Mawphlang:
- Mawphlang Sacred Grove
- Surrounding hills and trails
Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
Ziro Valley is famous for its lush green landscapes and unique Apatani tribal culture. During cherry blossom season, the valley transforms into a pink paradise.
Best time to visit: November
Where to see cherry blossoms in Ziro Valley:
- Throughout the valley
- Near villages and farms
Mechuka Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
Mechuka Valley is a hidden gem in Arunachal Pradesh, known for its pristine beauty and peaceful environment. During cherry blossom season, the valley turns into a fairy-tale setting with pink and white flowers covering the hills.
Best time to visit: November
Where to see cherry blossoms in Mechuka Valley:
- Along the valley slopes
- Near the small villages surrounding Mechuka
Darjeeling, West Bengal
Darjeeling, famous for its tea gardens and beautiful mountains, also has cherry blossom trees. The pink and white flowers against the backdrop of the Himalayas create a magical sight.
Best time to visit: February to March
Where to see cherry blossoms in Darjeeling:
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway route
- Tiger Hill
- Batasia Loop
Munsiyari, Uttarakhand
Munsiyari, a beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand, is known for its stunning landscapes and is one of the lesser-known spots for cherry blossoms.
Best time to visit: March to April
Where to see cherry blossoms in Munsiyari:
- Forest trails and village paths
- Alongside scenic viewpoints
Nilgiri Hills, Western Ghats
The Nilgiri Hills in the Western Ghats are home to some cherry blossom trees. The pleasant climate and scenic beauty of this region make it a wonderful place to see these flowers.
Best time to visit: March to April
Where to see cherry blossoms in Nilgiri Hills:
- Ooty Botanical Gardens
- Around Coonoor and Kotagiri
Final Thoughts
Cherry blossoms in India are a beautiful sight and can be seen in different states during different seasons. Whether you visit Shillong in November or Shimla in April, you can experience the beauty of these magical flowers. If you love nature and photography, plan your visit to one of these destinations and enjoy the mesmerizing view of cherry blossoms in India.
Each of these destinations offers a unique way to experience cherry blossoms, whether through a lively festival, a quiet nature walk, or a stunning view from a mountain valley. Plan your trip accordingly and immerse yourself in the beauty of cherry blossoms in India!
