Kashmir’s Autumn Charm: Golden Leaves and Chinar Beauty : Kashmir’s ‘Harud’ Season Casts a Magical Glow Over Nishat, Shalimar, and Dal Lake
By:-/ Aijaz Rather
Srinagar, Nov 10: (JKNN) As the crisp air of November sweeps across the valley, Kashmir has once again transformed into a golden paradise.
The arrival of autumn locally known as Harud has draped Srinagar in vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, turning every corner into a natural masterpiece. From the University of Kashmir’s lush campus to the historic gardens of Nishat and Shalimar, the season has brought an enchanting beauty that continues to captivate both locals and tourists.
The majestic Chinar trees, symbolic of Kashmir’s rich heritage, are now at their most splendid. Their giant leaves, scattered across the lawns and pathways of Chinar Bagh, Dalgate, and the scenic Dachigam National Park, create a mesmerizing carpet of colours that has become a dream backdrop for photographers and nature lovers. Every leaf tells the story of Kashmir’s enduring connection with nature — a reminder of the valley’s poetic beauty that changes with each passing season.
Tourists from across India and abroad have been thronging these iconic spots, capturing the timeless charm of autumn before the valley transitions into its snow-clad winter glory. The reflection of golden Chinars in the Dal Lake, coupled with the gentle rustle of falling leaves, has made Srinagar a living painting during this season.
Adding to the splendour, senior journalist and renowned photo storyteller Zia Shakeel has beautifully documented the autumnal grandeur of Srinagar through his lens. His recent photo series highlights the soul of Kashmir in fall — from quiet university lanes layered with Chinar leaves to the glowing canopies of Nishat and Shalimar.
His visuals, shared widely on social media, have drawn admiration from across the region and beyond.
Locals call Harud not just a season but an emotion — a time of calm reflection before the onset of winter. It marks the end of the harvest, a pause in the rhythm of life, and a moment when nature paints the valley in its most romantic colours.
As the sun sets earlier each day and the air turns colder, the beauty of Kashmir’s autumn continues to enchant every visitor. For many, this is the perfect time to witness the valley’s magic — where every falling leaf seems to whisper the timeless poetry of Kashmir.
(JKNEWS NATION)
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