Palampur’s Tulip Garden blossoms into a tourist destination
Palampur’s Tulip Garden, now in its third year, has blossomed into a premier tourist destination, attracting visitors from all corners of the country. Established by the CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT), it stands as Himachal Pradesh’s inaugural Tulip Garden. Unveiled to the public on February 2 this year, the garden has already witnessed a notable surge in footfall, with visitor numbers surpassing 66,000. With last year’s count around 70,000 plus, projections indicate that this season might see a staggering influx of up to one lakh visitors. Enthusiasts can revel in the tulip splendor until the first week of March.
A Floral Extravaganza: Cultivating Beauty
Tulips, prized for their tuberous blooms, command significant demand both domestically and internationally, ranking third in the global cut flower trade. Since its inauguration in February 2022, Palampur’s Tulip Garden has captivated audiences, drawing more than 41,000 admirers during its maiden flowering season. This year, the garden boasts an array of six vibrant tulip varieties: Purple Flag, Pink Ardour, Escape, Ile de France, Royal Virgin, and Strong Gold. The garden has seen an increase in bulb quantity, now totaling 50,000 plus compared to last year’s around 45,000. While the previous season showcased bicolor varieties, this year’s display showcases single-color varieties, enhancing the visual allure.
Cultivating Innovation: Localized Production and Beyond
The journey of tulip cultivation in Palampur began with the importation of bulbs from Holland in 2018, followed by extensive trials for localized production. With over 20 varieties of tulips under its care, the institute embarked on experimental ventures in the Lahaul Valley to explore commercial cultivation prospects, with a focus on flower and bulb production. Through strategic collaborations with local farmers and cooperative societies, the institute provided training and support, catalyzing the emergence of tulip farming as a viable venture. The endeavor, aimed at bolstering both bulb and flower yields, has yielded promising results, marking a paradigm shift in agricultural practices.
Nurturing Growth: Research and Development
At the helm of this botanical marvel are senior scientists spearheading pioneering research on tulip developmental biology. The institute’s endeavors extend beyond cultivation, delving into studies aimed at optimizing flower regulation and promoting early flowering. Furthermore, the institute incubates an industry specializing in soil-less cultivation techniques, aiming to capitalize on the lucrative tulip market. Collaborating with fifty farmers in Lahaul, efforts are underway to foster indigenous bulb cultivation, a move poised to curb import dependency while fostering economic resilience.
Towards Floral Ingenuity: Unveiling Potential
In the pursuit of excellence, the institute remains committed to unraveling the intricacies of tulip forcing, a pivotal aspect of bulb development. Through relentless research and innovation, it aspires to unlock the full potential of tulip cultivation, paving the way for sustainable growth and prosperity.
In essence, Palampur’s Tulip Garden stands not only as a testament to botanical beauty but also as a beacon of innovation and collaboration, heralding a new era in agricultural prowess. As each tulip blooms, it symbolizes the fruition of collective endeavor and the boundless possibilities that await on the horizon.
