Winter is just around the corner and what better way to welcome it than with the pink hues of the Sakura! When you think of Cherry blossoms, your might think of Japan, as this season is incredibly popular in Japan and the pink-white sakura blossoms veil the country hills and cover the sidewalks.

The beauty of Cherry Blossoms is irresistible. But if you thought Japan was the only place where you could revel in its pink hues, then we’ve got great news for you! India is endowed with nature’s beauty in abundance, and Cherry Blossoms, too, add to it. From November till March, they bloom in full glory across many states.

If you wish to experience this spectacular season, we recommend visiting the Scotland of the east once!

Shillong, Meghalaya is the hub of cherry blossom (a rare autumn bloom) in winter, and thousands of people come to visit this dream-like destination. In North East’s Khasi Hills, cherry blossoms start flowering as soon as the spring season falls. Shillong even hosts a festival dedicated to it, known as the International Cherry Blossom Festival, where you can enjoy local flavors and traditional arts while sitting under the magical blooms.

There is much to enjoy in Meghalaya, but nothing comes close to witnessing the state covered in pink hues as the sight of cherry blossoms takes over the land. The joy is palpable in the air as people walk around towns, enamoured by the stunning flowers and their pastel hues against the clear blue sky. And the best place to enjoy the sakura season in Meghalaya is the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival.

Apart from Meghalaya, one can witness the breathtaking pink hues of Cherry blossoms in a few other parts of India as well.

Sikkim

These beautiful flowers also take over the state of Sikkim in November, especially in Khangchendzonga National Park. Even though the Cherry Blossoms here are not similar to those found in Japan, they are just as beautiful and enchant you the same.

Nagaland

Nagaland is home to the beautiful wild Himalayan Cherry Blossoms that shine brightly from the last week of October to the early half of November. These are considered a ‘gift from the Himalayas’ and can be found in abundance in Kohima.

Karnataka

While most places in India welcome the beautiful Cherry Blossoms in November, the city of Bangalore witnesses its magic in March. The delicate, pink flowers transform the entire aura of the town, and you can’t help but get allured by them.

Himachal Pradesh

Like Bangalore, even Himachal Pradesh welcomes the wonders cast by this flower in March. The best place to see it is in Mashobra village in Shimla.

Witnessing cherry blossoms is no different than experiencing a snowfall; it’s on everyone’s bucket list. But you don’t need to travel all the way to Japan to catch a glimpse of cherry blossoms. Plan a trip this season to these destinations to witness these natural pink hues.