Srinagar, Oct 5: Kashmir has begun embracing the arrival of autumn, with harvested paddy fields, bustling orchards, seasonal produce in markets and the return of migratory birds signalling a change in the Valley’s landscape and way of life.
Farmers have largely gathered their paddy crop, while apple growers are busy with harvesting in orchards. Markets across the region are also witnessing an abundance of seasonal produce, including grapes, nadru (lotus stems), sweet chestnuts and fresh vegetables.
The change in season is visible in the weather as well. Clear blue skies have replaced the threat of frequent thunderstorms, hail and cloudbursts, while mornings and evenings are becoming cooler even as daytime temperatures remain relatively high.
Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 31.2 degrees Celsius on Sunday, making it the city’s second-highest October temperature on record. The reading exceeded the previous October record of 31.1 degrees Celsius, recorded on October 2, 2008.
The unusual warmth during the day has not prevented the Valley from experiencing a noticeable chill after sunset, prompting residents to start wearing warmer clothes during the morning and evening hours.
Migratory Birds Return to Kashmir
The seasonal transition is also being reflected in Kashmir’s birdlife. Turtle doves have moved down from the higher reaches and can be seen feeding on grain left behind in harvested paddy fields.
The birds are expected to build up sufficient energy before continuing their movement towards warmer regions ahead of winter.
At the same time, the calls of migratory birds are increasingly being heard across the Valley. Thousands of birds are expected to spend the winter in Kashmir’s wetlands and water bodies, escaping the harsher conditions of their summer habitats.
Among the visitors are bar-headed geese, mallards, pochards, shovelers, pintails, wigeons, shelducks and teals. These birds travel from different parts of Russia and Siberia, as well as China, Japan, Eastern Europe and other regions.
Their annual arrival adds to the ecological importance of Kashmir’s wetlands, which provide crucial winter habitats for migratory species.
Bakarwals Move Towards Warmer Regions
Autumn also marks the beginning of the seasonal return of the Bakarwal pastoral community from the high-altitude meadows.
After spending the summer grazing their livestock in the mountain pastures, Bakarwal families are now moving towards the warmer areas of Jammu, including Poonch, Rajouri, Kathua and Reasi.
The migration involves entire families travelling with sheep, goats, horses and guard dogs. Household belongings such as clothes, bedding and cooking utensils are carried on horses as the families begin their long journey to the plains.
The seasonal movement is an integral part of the Bakarwal way of life, allowing them to make use of highland pastures during the warmer months and move to relatively warmer areas before the onset of winter.
Autumn Brings a Season of Transition
From harvested paddy fields and busy orchards to returning migratory birds and the movement of pastoral communities, autumn brings several changes to Kashmir at once.
It is a period when agriculture, wildlife and traditional livelihoods intersect, giving the Valley a distinctive seasonal character.
With winter approaching, Kashmir is now moving through a short but important period of transition—one marked by harvest, migration and preparations for the colder months ahead.
