Spring in Japan may be famous for cherry blossoms, but you don’t need to travel that far to enjoy these beautiful pink flowers. Every year, during autumn and early winter, many places in India turn pink too — from Shillong to Sikkim. Here are some of the best spots to see cherry blossoms in full bloom.
1. Shillong, Meghalaya
Shillong turns pink every November during the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival, held this year on 14–15 November at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and Polo Grounds. You can enjoy performances by stars like Tyga, Diplo, Nora Fatehi, Jason Derulo, and The Script.
For a peaceful day, take a walk around Wards Lake, enjoy boating, or relax at the Shillong Golf Course, where cherry trees line the greens.
Best time to visit: November
2. Nagaland
In Nagaland, you can see cherry blossoms at the Kohima Botanical Garden, Khuzama village, and Dzukou Valley. The small town of Pfutsero is another hidden gem.
If you visit Longkhum Village, called the “Vegetable Capital” of Nagaland, you’ll find cherry blossoms blooming in September and October.
Best time to visit: January–April, September–November
3. Sikkim
The Temi Tea Estate in South Sikkim is a dream for cherry blossom lovers, with a backdrop of Mt. Kanchenjunga. You can also see blossoms along the roads of Ravangla or explore Kanchenjunga National Park for a mix of pink blooms and wildlife.
In spring, visit Ridge Park or Deorali Orchid Sanctuary in Gangtok.
Best time to visit: November (Autumn), March–April (Spring)
4. Himachal Pradesh
In Himachal, towns like Mashobra, Kotkhai, Kumarsain, Baghi, and Kotgarh are covered with cherry blossoms in spring.
Tirthan Valley is especially stunning — stay in a cozy homestay surrounded by cherry orchards and enjoy a walk by the Tirthan River.
You can also sip cherry blossom tea while admiring the snowy pink views in Mashobra, near Shimla.
Best time to visit: November (Autumn), February–March (Spring)
5. Jammu and Kashmir
If you visit Kashmir in March or April, you’ll find cherry blossoms all across Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Baramulla, and Shopian.
The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is filled with both tulips and cherry trees, offering a perfect photo spot. The Badamwari Garden in Srinagar is another must-see for its mix of almond and cherry trees.
Best time to visit: March–April
So, why wait for Japan?
India has its own cherry blossom magic waiting to be explored — perfect for road trips, picnics, or peaceful walks surrounded by pink petals.
#CherryBlossomIndia #ShillongFestival #SikkimTravel #HimachalDiaries #NagalandBeauty #KashmirSpring #TravelIndia #PinkSeason #NatureLovers #TravelGoals #ExploreIndia