Harud: A time of breathtaking beauty

I was born in the heart of downtown Srinagar, where the essence of Kashmir flows through every season like a gentle stream. Each time the season shifts from one hue to another, I find myself entranced, but nothing captivates me quite like Harud—autumn in Kashmir. This season is my favourite, with its cool temperatures and the vibrant spectacle of falling leaves, and October tells a story that resonates deeply within me.

Harud—a word so beautiful it almost sings—captures the very essence of this season: a time of harvest and breathtaking beauty. From mid-October to mid-November, autumn wraps Kashmir in a brief yet unforgettable embrace. I can’t help but remember the joy of playing with the leaves as they drift to the ground, tossing them into the air and watching them rain down like confetti from the sky.

The sound of crunching leaves beneath my feet is music to my ears, especially when I stroll through the tree-lined paths of Naseem Bagh, where giant Chinar trees stretch their branches high above. After the sweltering heat of summer, I yearn for the day when temperatures gracefully drop from a sweltering 27°C to a refreshing 9°C, bringing with it a sweet, crisp breeze that invigorates the spirit.

Stepping into October feels like entering a living painting. The Chinars transform into a stunning array of golds and reds, creating a backdrop that feels almost surreal. The rivers shimmer in the autumn sunlight, and the snow-capped mountains stand proud, their majesty accentuated by the season’s colors. Nature’s spectacle draws countless visitors—nature lovers and filmmakers alike—eager to capture the fleeting beauty.

While summer invites travelers to lounge beneath leafy canopies, October weaves a different kind of magic. The colorful foliage becomes a magnet for couples in love, who wander hand in hand through the vibrant landscape, reveling in the enchantment of the season. Photographers line the paths, their cameras poised to immortalise moments of beauty that seem to float on the breeze.

For me, Kashmir’s autumn is a celebration of nature’s finest moments. It offers a comforting escape from the remnants of summer, gracefully transitioning from the lingering humidity of monsoon into the crisp embrace of winter. Every corner of the Valley bursts with colour, an irresistible invitation to explore the great outdoors.

The excitement of the domestic cricket was a great spotlight on our stunning valley, people from different parts of the world are seen sitting on the parapet of Dal lake enjoying the night’s view of the placid water. It’s thrilling to see Kashmir reclaiming its status as a must-visit destination, and the excitement is palpable.

In the saffron fields of Pampore, villagers harvest delicate flowers, symbols of Kashmir’s rich culture and culinary heritage. The vibrant saffron, with its unique flavour, is harvested only once a year, adding to the season’s allure. Walking through these fields, witnessing the labor of love unfold, feels like stepping into a timeless tradition.

As the days grow shorter and the nights cooler, the Valley transforms into a sanctuary of warmth and connection. Crisp mornings invite me to wrap a shawl around my shoulders and sip on a hot cup of kehwa while the world stirs to life. Afternoons beckon for long walks or leisurely drives along tree-lined roads, where children laugh and play cricket beneath the Chinar trees, their leaves a riot of blood-red and gold.

Evenings are best spent gathered around a crackling bonfire with friends or family, sharing stories and laughter as the sun dips below the horizon. The Mughal Gardens near Dal Lake become a favorite haunt during this time, their vibrant Chinars attracting both locals and tourists eager to soak in the autumn splendor.

Kashmir in October is more than just a season; it’s a feeling—a moment of pure joy and gratitude for the beauty that surrounds us. The concerted efforts of the tourism department to promote our beloved Valley make it easier for the world to discover the unique experiences and rich cultural heritage that Kashmir offers. Each visit to this magical land fills my heart with warmth and wonder, reminding me of why I cherish October so deeply. It truly is a golden season, etched in memory long after the leaves have fallen.

 Muskaan Mudasir is a consultant working with Government Contracting Inc, based in Virginia, USA