Awesome autumn

The onset of autumn brings a spectacular transformation to the Kashmir landscape as its famed Chinar trees radiate in stunning hues of amber, orange, brown and gold.

The majestic trees, whose botanical name is Platanus orientalis or oriental plane, grow up to 25m high, with some boasting girths of more than 15m.

Revered by Muslims and Hindus alike, the mighty trees figure notably in Kashmir's literature, politics, religion and romance. The breathtaking colour displays have for centuries drawn Kashmiris, such as this man walking through a garden in Srinagar. The people come to bask in the beauty and enjoy the outdoors before the chill of winter hits.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on November 17, 2016, with the headline Awesome autumn. Subscribe