Srinagar City is home to some of India’s most beautiful Mughal Gardens in Srinagar. Mughal gardens are a group of beautiful gardens that owe their grandeur to Mughal Emperor Jahangir and his son Shah Jahan.
These gardens in Srinagar perfectly represent Persian-influenced Mughal architecture and are known for their magnificent beauty and spectacular mountainous settings.
Srinagar’s most popular Mughal Gardens are Nishat Garden, Shalimar Bagh, Pari Mahal, and Chashme Shahi Garden. These are located on the eastern side of Dal Lake in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir.
These gardens are characterized by running water reflecting the beauty of both the sky and the garden.
Besides also Mughal gardens in Srinagar have meadows of fresh colorful flowers, different varieties of trees that provide shade, wild grass, and birds chirping all over the garden offering visitors a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
These gardens have various pools which give them an aesthetic look enhancing their overall beauty.
Numbers eight and nine are considered sacred pools and are incorporated into several octagonal pools and garden terraces.
Famous Mughal Gardens in Srinagar
The famous Mughal Gardens in Srinagar offer a glimpse into the rich history and exquisite beauty of Kashmir. Nestled amidst the stunning Himalayan landscapes, these gardens are a testament to the Mughal era’s architectural brilliance. Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi are among the most renowned gardens, e
ach with its unique charm and allure. Visitors are enchanted by the meticulously manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, cascading fountains, and ancient chinar trees that adorn these gardens. A stroll through these timeless marvels evokes a sense of tranquility and admiration for the artistic legacy of the Mughals, making them a must-visit attraction in Srinagar.
1. Nishat Bagh
Nishat Bagh is one of the most enchanting Mughal Garden in Srinagar popular for its complex terraced layout and the play of water cascades. The garden is located on the eastern side of Dal Lake around the Zabarwan mountain range.
this garden was designed by Asaf Khan, brother of Nur Jahan during the Mughal rule in 1633 A.D.
Nishat Bagh which originally meant ‘Garden of Joy’, Garden of Gladness’, or ‘Garden of Delight’ offers tourists a delightful and memorable site to travel to. Nishat Bagh has well-maintained flower beds which are abloom during the summer season giving visitors an enchanting visual treat.
2. Shalimar Bagh
Shalimar Bagh is one of the most celebrated royal gardens of Srinagar. The origins of Shalimar which means ‘abode of love’ can be traced back to the structure built by Praverssena II in the 6th century CE.
The Farah Baksh, the Joy Imparting Garden or lower garden of Shalimar Bagh was designed by emperor Jahangir around 1620. The whole Mughal garden was divided into two major portions based upon royalty.
The first portion or lower portion consists of three terraces called ‘Diwan-i-Aam’ where the emperor used to hold public audiences and the other portion consists of upper terraces exclusively for the emperor and his courtiers famously called ‘Diwan-i-Khas.
3.Chashme Shahi Bagh
The Chashma Shahi (Royal Spring) was built in 1632 by Ali Mardan Khan, governor of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Chashma shahi is located 8 kilometres (5miles) to the east of Srinagar. The garden is divided into three ascending terraces with the water flowing from the uppermost level to the lowermost via a series of pools or canals called ‘chadars’.This spring is sheltered by a traditional Mughal Pavilion known as ‘Red walled bardari’.
Chashma Shahi is unique from other Mughal gardens in a way that it has high terraces and offers a breathtaking view of Dal Lake from its terraces.
4. Pari Mahal
Pari Mahal which translates to abode of fairies is a terraced garden situated on the slopes of Zabarwan mountains. The garden was created by Prince Dara Shukoh, the eldest son of Shah Jahan in 1650.
This mahal is just five minutes away from the Chashma Shahi spring. Being a great example of art and architecture, this monument also consists of a house and a library.
Dara Shukoh has named this place after the name of his wife Nadira Begum, supposedly known as ‘Pari Begum’, daughter of Prince Parvaiz, son of Jahangir. Pari Mahal has six terraces with domed ceilings all around the monument.
There are water tanks on the terraces but unlike most Mughal gardens in Srinagar, the garden has no water cascade or channels instead the water is supplied by underground pipes.
best time to visit the Mughal Gardens in Srinagar
Mughal Gardens of Srinagar are a year-round tourist destination giving a unique and fascinating experience to the tourists.
However, the best time to visit these gardens is the summer season primarily from April to June. During these times, the gardens are in full bloom with pleasant weather.
After the arrival of summer, these Mughal gardens burst into life and turn into an abode of colorful flowers which gives an eye-catching view to the visitors.
Shikara rides around these gardens are tempting and the flowing water canals add to the gardens charm.
How to reach Mughal Gardens in Srinagar?
By air:- You can reach Mughal gardens directly through Sheikh ul alam international airport by booking a cab or taxi to the garden. These gardens are just 25 km away from Srinagar airport.
By road:- There are taxis and cabs available from Lal Chowk which is about 14 km away from these gardens. You can also reach these gardens via buses or private tempos.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mughal Gardens in Srinagar
1. Where are the Mughal gardens situated in Srinagar?
Mughal gardens are the main attraction around the eastern banks of world world-famous Dal Lake.
2. Are Mughal gardens open to the general public?
Yes, these gardens are open to tourists and the general public throughout the year. Moreover, an entry fee or ticket is mandatory before visiting the garden. The tickets are available at the ticket counters which are located at the gate of every garden.
3. Are there any nearby attractions around the Mughal gardens?
Yes, there are many other attractions around the gardens like historic places, recreational activities, restaurants, and showrooms selling dry fruits and Kashmiri handicraft items.
4. How many Mughal gardens are there in Srinagar?
There are three main Mughal gardens in Srinagar which are Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashma Shahi.
