Himalayan cherry blossom in November

Unlike Japanese cherries, which bloom in spring, the Himalayan cherry flowers in autumn and early winter. At Temi, the trees that line the approach to the estate come into flower from November, and the resort inside the garden takes its name from them. The pink blossom against dark green tea is the picture most people come for, and it is worth getting up early to see it in soft light.

November is also one of the best months for weather here. The monsoon has gone, the air is dry and the morning views of the snow peaks are often clear. The autumn flush is finishing in the garden, so you may still see pluckers at work. Days are mild in the sun and cool in the shade; evenings are cold enough for a jacket. Rooms in the area fill early for the October holidays and November weekends, so plan ahead.

Exact flowering time shifts by a week or two each year with the weather, so check current status before you travel. Book Cherry Resort or a room in Ravangla or Namchi early for November weekends. Walking under the trees is free. Please do not break branches or pull blossoms for photos, and park only where the road is wide enough for tea lorries to pass. If the trees near the road are crowded, walk a little further along the estate road, where you often have the blossom to yourself.