Ganderbal, Mar 30: A seasonal splash of yellow has transformed stretches of the Srinagar–Sonamarg highway into a visual delight, as mustard fields in full bloom draw the attention of travellers heading towards Sonamarg. What was once an unnoticed part of the journey has now become a frequent stop for visitors, with many pulling over to admire the vivid fields spread across the countryside. The blooming crop, swaying under the spring breeze, has added an unexpected charm to the route, turning it into a photo-friendly halt for tourists. Visitors from different parts of the country can be seen stepping out of their vehicles to capture moments amid the yellow backdrop. “We
couldn’t resist stopping here. The view is stunning and very peaceful,” said a tourist from Punjab, describing the experience as one of the highlights of their trip. Another group of travellers said the fields offered a refreshing break from long hours of travel. “It feels like nature has painted the landscape. We didn’t plan to stop, but this just pulled us in,” one of them remarked. While the bloom has enhanced the travel experience, it has also raised concerns among locals. Farmers and residents say that an increasing number of visitors are entering the fields to shoot reels and photographs, often trampling the crops in the process. “These are not just
fields for photos; they are our livelihood,” said a local farmer, expressing disappointment over the damage being caused. He added that even a small number of people walking through the fields can ruin a significant portion of the crop. Residents have appealed to visitors to enjoy the beauty responsibly and avoid stepping into cultivated land. They stress that protecting these fields is essential, not only for farmers but also to preserve the natural charm that is attracting tourists. Despite the concerns, the mustard bloom continues to bring a lively atmosphere to Ganderbal, offering travellers a brief yet memorable glimpse of Kashmir’s springtime beauty on their way to Sonamarg.
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