Cherry blossoms or Sakura in Japanese are believed to be a special flower that welcomes the spring season. The soft pink flowers symbolize that life is short and emphasize the fleeting nature of life. After they have fully blossomed in two weeks and their beauty is celebrated, the flowers begin to fall out. Witnessing cherry blossoms is no different than savoring a snowfall, it’s on everyone’s wish list. But you don’t have to travel to Japan to see cherry blossoms. Here are 4 Indian destinations that bathe in pink during cherry blossom season.
Kohima in Nagaland
For a glimpse of the wild Himalayan cherry blossom, visit Nagaland’s capital, Kohima. The magnificent view of the light pink flowers against the background of the blue sky, with the birds singing and the warm sun, is a guaranteed perfect experience. See vibrant cherry blossoms throughout Nagaland’s Longkum village and also colonial bungalow, The Heritage. Cherry blossoms are not just a thing of beauty, they are also known to regenerate and repair the skin, and cherry blossom teas also act as good antioxidants.
Khangchendzonga National Park in Sikkim
Head to Khangchendzonga National Park, a famous biosphere in Sikkim to witness India’s most beautiful cherry blossoms. From the first week of November, flowering begins at 7,000 to 8,000 feet in Sikkim. In April, a different species of cherry blossom, called the Geyzing cherry, blooms in the state. Sikkim, like Japan, also has a history of cherry blossoms. The first ‘Sakura’ was presented during the coronation of the last king of the state, Chogyal Palden Thondup Namgyal. While the flowers in Khangchendzonga National Park vary slightly from those found in Japan, it is nonetheless impressive.
Shimla in Himachal Pradesh
Shimla is home to many small towns and districts that organize a cherry blossom show. Head to Mashobra, a charming Shimla village to see cherry blossoms, apricots, apple, plum, peach and pear trees. Walk to The Nilaya, a peaceful hotel that offers endless views of cherry blossoms. Further afield, in Narkanda, receive Himachali hospitality with the special help of cherry blossom delicacies. A traveler’s dream come true, Shimla is your destination for both sightseeing and cherry blossom viewing.
Shillong in Meghalaya
Meghalaya’s capital Shillong hosts an annual cherry blossom festival during the winters. As winter approaches, the Khasi Hills in northeastern India take on a soft light pink. In October the buds begin to sprout and in November the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival draws tourists from all over India who can’t wait to eat, drink, dance and party in the glistening cherry blossoms.
