India may not be the first country that comes to mind when one thinks of cherry blossoms, but this colourful spectacle is steadily gaining recognition across the country. Each year, between late October and early December, Northeast and North India regions experience their breathtaking cherry blossom season. The hillsides and valleys are painted in shades of pink and white, drawing travellers and photographers eager to capture the charm of these fleeting blooms. These cherry blossom trees, often called "Indian Sakura," transform the landscape and offer a unique fusion of natural beauty and cultural vibrancy.

　　Cities like Shillong and Kohima now host cherry blossom festivals that celebrate the bloom alongside music, dance, food, and local traditions, making it an experience that rivals Japan and Korea's famous cherry blossom seasons. Beyond these urban celebrations, remote locations in Sikkim and Manipur offer more tranquil settings for cherry blossom viewing, ideal for those seeking solace in nature's beauty. Whether you’re a first-time traveller or a seasoned visitor to these regions, exploring India’s cherry blossom destinations promises an unforgettable experience, blending floral beauty with cultural richness. Here are the top five places in India where you can witness this floral phenomenon.

　　Shillong, Meghalaya

　　Shillong has become one of India’s premier destinations to witness cherry blossoms. The city celebrates its blossoms with the India International Cherry Blossom Festival, held each November, bringing visitors worldwide to witness this natural beauty. The festival, typically held around Ward’s Lake and Polo Grounds, includes cultural performances, music, food stalls, and even a cherry blossom-themed run. For those who prefer a quieter experience, you can stroll around the outskirts of Shillong, such as the Umiam Lake area and Shillong Golf Course, to see cherry trees blooming amid lush greenery and gently rolling hills. The combination of misty landscapes, pink blossoms, and local Khasi culture makes Shillong a must-visit.

　　Best Time to Visit: Late October to November

　　Kohima, Nagaland

　　Nagaland’s hilly capital, Kohima, is another enchanting spot to see cherry blossoms, with the blooms often appearing around November. Kohima’s unique landscape and culture make it a distinctive place to enjoy cherry blossoms. Head to Kisama Heritage Village, where the Naga Heritage Complex often serves as a hub for local festivals, to see cherry trees blooming against traditional Naga architecture. Japfu Peak and Pulie Badze Wildlife Sanctuary also offer spectacular views of the blossoms amidst dense, untouched forests. Visiting Kohima during the blossom season allows you to witness the beauty of the flowers and the rich Naga culture, as the state’s famous Hornbill Festival follows shortly after in December.

　　Best Time to Visit: November

　　Thenzawl, Mizoram

　　Tucked away in the scenic hills of Mizoram, Thenzawl offers an idyllic setting to witness cherry blossoms without crowds in more well-known destinations. Known for its rich tribal culture landscapes, Thenzawl comes alive in late November and early December as cherry blossom trees bloom across lush green valleys. The town is especially appealing for those exploring cherry blossoms in a less commercialised environment, where traditional Mizo village life unfolds against a beautiful pink backdrop. You can wander along the peaceful paths around Thenzawl Deer Park and Vantawng Falls, Mizoram’s tallest waterfall.

　　Best Time To Visit: November to December

　　North Sikkim

　　With its mountain landscapes and villages, Sikkim offers cherry blossom viewing opportunities in Lachung and Lachen in North Sikkim. The cold climate of this region fosters a bloom season that begins in November, creating a scenic backdrop as the pink blossoms contrast with the towering snow-capped Himalayas. Sikkim’s cherry blossom season isn’t widely publicised, making it a more secluded experience than other destinations. Aside from cherry blossoms, North Sikkim offers many scenic views, including the Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley, where wildflowers bloom in spring.

　　Best Time to Visit: November

　　Baramulla And Srinagar, Kashmir

　　Although the cherry blossom season in Kashmir arrives in spring rather than autumn, it’s one of India's most breathtaking displays of cherry blossoms. Badamwari Garden in Srinagar is particularly famous for its almond blossoms that appear alongside cherry blossoms, creating a captivating blend of white and pink blooms. For a picturesque experience, head to the Mughal Gardens in Srinagar, including Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, which have cherry trees set against the backdrop of Dal Lake.

　　Best Time To Visit: Late March to April