Autumn in Kashmir: Land of Fire & Ice
Leaves whispering tales of change
In autumn, every corner of Kashmir narrates a story, with each chinar leaf whispering tales of love, loss and longing (Photo: Firdous Parray)
As the summer bids farewell, Kashmir gracefully dons its autumn attire, a season locally known as Harud. This time of year, spanning from mid-September to November, transforms the entire valley into a canvas painted in hues of gold, crimson and amber. Set against the majestic snow-clad peaks, the valley resembles a land of fire and ice.

In autumn, every corner of Kashmir narrates a story, with each chinar leaf whispering tales of love, loss and longing (Photo: Firdous Parray)
Describing Kashmir as a large canvas where Mother Nature displays her artistic skills would not be far off the mark. After all, the entire valley transforms dramatically with the passing of each season. While the winter makes it pure, milky white, summer covers the whole region in a display of hundreds of shades of green. HOne of the most magical seasons in Kashmir is autumn when the entire land is draped in a crimson and flaming red attire, which contrasts sharply with the gleaming white peaks of the Himalayas.

One of the most magical seasons in Kashmir is autumn when the entire land is draped in a crimson and flaming red attire (Photo: Firdous Parray)
During the autumn, the air, crisp and invigorating, carries the scent of fallen leaves and the promise of seasonal change. Morning temperatures often hover around 10°C, while evenings bring a delightful chill, inviting cozy gatherings around warm kehwa, the traditional Kashmiri tea spiced with cardamom and saffron. Indeed, autumn in Kashmir is a unique experience, not just in India, for the entire world.

As the sun rises, the water mirrors the fiery colours of the chinar trees lining its banks (Photo: Firdous Parray)
Central to this autumn beauty are the majestic chinar trees, or Platanus orientalis, which hold a special place in Kashmiri culture and history. These trees, with their hand-shaped leaves, undergo a metamorphosis, turning vibrant shades of red and orange, casting a warm glow over the landscape. Each leaf that flutters to the ground tells a story of time, making chinars an enduring symbol of the region. Shikaras, or the small, colourful boats, glide silently across the lake, their oars slicing through the glassy surface.
Dal Lake, the jewel of Kashmir, takes on an ethereal quality during autumn. As the sun rises, the water mirrors the fiery colours of the chinar trees lining its banks, creating a stunning visual symphony. Shikaras, or the small, colourful boats, glide silently across the lake, their oars slicing through the glassy surface, while houseboats adorned with intricate woodwork offer a front-row seat to nature’s display. Visitors often find themselves captivated by the scene, where the reflection of the chinar leaves dances on the water, a perfect encapsulation of autumn’s fleeting beauty.

Nishat garden bursts with vibrant flowers that complement the crimson chinar leaves, creating a mesmerising tapestry that beckons visitors (Photo: Firdous Parray)
Nishat Bagh, known as the ‘Garden of Joy’, also comes alive in this season. The garden bursts with vibrant flowers that complement the crimson chinar leaves, creating a mesmerising tapestry that beckons visitors to explore its pathways. As you stroll through this historic garden, the air is filled with the sweet scent of blossoms, while the sound of rustling leaves forms a serene backdrop to quiet contemplation.
Not far from Nishat Bagh lies Char Chinar, a small island on Dal Lake, home to four iconic chinar trees. This spot becomes a sanctuary for those seeking calmness amidst nature’s spectacle. Surrounded by the shimmering waters, the trees stand in a row, their colours reflecting on the lake’s surface. A shikara ride to this island is a must for any visitor, providing a peaceful retreat where one can fully immerse in the beauty of autumn.
Within the grounds of Kashmir University, Naseem Bagh, a historical haven, reveals its secrets during autumn. Adorned with some of the oldest chinar trees, this garden also attracted the attention of the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who used to visit Naseem Bagh in this season.

One of the most magical seasons in Kashmir is autumn when the entire land is draped in a crimson and flaming red attire (Photo: Firdous Parray)
The chinars here, grand and timeless, create a stunning canopy of colours, inviting students and visitors alike to pause and reflect beneath their outstretched branches. The gentle rustling of leaves overhead and the fragrant air infused with nostalgia provide an evocative setting for contemplation.
In autumn, every corner of Kashmir narrates a story, with each chinar leaf whispering tales of love, loss and longing. As the valley transitions from the vibrant colours of autumn to the quiet embrace of winter, this season captivates the hearts of all who witness it, leaving behind lasting memories that beckon one to return.

The chinars in Naseem Bagh are grand and timeless, create a stunning canopy of colours (Photo: Firdous Parray)
Autumn in Kashmir is more than just a visual feast, it is an experience that awakens the soul, inviting you to savour the richness of nature’s beauty and the warmth of Kashmiri culture.