Mughal Gardens Home > Jammu And Kashmir > Attractions > Parks And Gardens > Mughal Gardens

Mughal Gardens

Speaking volumes about the magnificence of Mughal Period and their reign over the northern most regions of India, Mughal Gardens in Srinagar are preferred sightseeing locations for domestic and international tourists alike. They are located in scenic terrains of Srinagar, capital city of Jammu and Kashmir.

These gardens mesmerize tourists with their opulent form and design and provide a peep into Quaranic concepts of paradise. The inspiration for these gardens is drawn from the architectural layout of Charbaug, which believes that a heavenly abode of Gods is distinguished by four rivers of wine, honey, water and milk. A trip to Kashmir is definitely incomplete without a casual stroll in these well landscaped and placid gardens.

Mughal gardens in Srinagar are a conglomeration of three prominent and well landscaped gardens by the names of Chasm-e-Shahi, Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh. These gardens were developed during Mughal Period and are located at a distance of 13 km from Srinagar. Showcasing grandeur and style of Mughal architecture and design, these gardens are well known for their manicured green stretches, vibrant flower beds, nicely arranged ornamental plants, terraced lawns and long stretches of water channels and cascading fountains.

These beautiful gardens overlook the sparkling waters of Dal Lake and snow capped peaks beyond. The unique conceptualization and layout of these gardens have attracted many film makers, historians, poets and artists from across the world. Mughal Gardens in Srinagar are now the idyllic location for excursions, picnics and leisurely strolls in the lap of nature.

Layout of the Mughal Gardens of Kashmir

The three important Mughal Gardens of Kashmir were a brainchild of Jahangir, the 4th Mughal ruler in India. Srinagar is home to Shalimar Gardens, Chasm-e-Shahi Bagh and Nishat Bagh, which are spectacular sightseeing locations for all tourists and the local Kashmiri population alike. .

Cheshm-e- Shahi (Royal Spring)

Located in the lap of great Himalayan Range, Cheshm-e- Shahi is the smallest of these Mughal Gardens. It was built under the orders of governor Ali Mardan Khan, who received patronage of Emperor Shah Jahen during the period 1632 – 33 AD. Cheshm-e- Shahi possesses medicinal and curative properties and is visited for its positive effects on skin diseases and stomach ailments.

This beautiful garden is unique because of its three storied structure and the spectacular views of the Dal Lake and the Jhelum Valley beyond.

Shalimar Bagh (Abode of Love)

Located in picturesque vales of Srinagar, Shalimar Bagh was founded by Emperor Jahangir for his lady love Noor Jehan. The architectural layout of Shalimar Bagh is based on a three terraced concept made popular by Chaur Bagh. It sprawls across an area of 587m by 251m and is distinguished by its long canals of sparkling waters, frothy fountains and endless rows of brightly colored flowers.

While the first terrace houses a public garden and pavilion, the second terrace is known as Emperor’s Garden. A third layer called Zenana Garden, which was limited to ladies of the royal families during Mughal Period. Shalimar Bagh had also served as the summer capital and royal court of Mughal Emperors. The grand black marbled throne at Diwaan-e-Aam speaks a lot about the eras gone by and is a must visit for tourists walking through this pristine garden. Shalimar Bagh also has a Diwaan-e-Khas or a private area demarcated for the Emperor, closest aides and family members.

Shalimar Bagh finds a place of prominence on the flat lands of Srinagar and has four arms (water channels) radiating from a central water source. These canals are fringed with fountains and lamps and provide the perfect ambience for tourists visiting Kashmir-The Paradise on Earth.

Shalimar Bagh is the largest of the Mughal Gardens in Kashmir.

Nishat Bagh (Garden of Bliss)

Nishat Bagh was founded by Asaf Khan, who was brother of Nur Jehan. This garden was not designated as a royal garden, therefore its hierarchical structure and layout is different from other Mughal Gardens of Kashmir. Established way back in the year 1633, Nishat Bagh has twelve different tiers which represent the twelve signs of the zodiac.

The 12th terrace accommodates Zenana Gardens, while the 1st is connected to public streets and channels the garden’s water into Dal Lake. A polished water stream, which is 20 centimeters deep and 4 meters wide, flows right through the garden and is decorated with ornate fountains and pools. Visitor enjoy walking through the well maintained landscapes as they take leisurely pauses under shade trees and marbled benches erected alongside.

With the towering Zabarwan Hills behind and the spectacular Dal Lake in front, Nishat Bagh is one of the most frequented gardens in the world.

About the Place

Srinagar is best known for its snow covered peaks of the Karakoram, Zanskar and Pir Panjal. Mughal Gardens are tucked amidst beautiful natural bounties, medicinal springs, scenic valleys and long winding roads. Srinagar lures travelers of all ages and from all walks of life with its myriad range of sightseeing options and activities.

Located in the midst of scenic Valley of Kashmir, Srinagar is a much favored tourist destination. Its invigorating climate, mind boggling tourist attractions, houseboats, flower laden shikaras and temples make it the much loved summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir.

Mughal gardens occupy a pride of place in Srinagar-a beautiful mountain city boasting of Dal Lake, beautiful Mughal gardens, snow capped peaks, historic wooden mosques and never ending rows of quaint shops selling artifacts, saffron, Pashmina shawls and other handicrafts.

Point to Remember

These well-preserved Mughal gardens are a reminder of the opulence of Mughal Dynasty. They boast of thousand of species of plants, flowers and flora which can be best appreciated and understood with the help of a guide. These flowers bloom in various seasons and have a short life cycle.

To make their trip more memorable and worthwhile, tourists should remember to time their visit with the varying flowering seasons.

How to Reach


By Air

Domestic tourists can avail of multiple carriers to reach Srinagar from various important cities of India. Srinagar airport is well connected to Mumbai, Chandigarh, Delhi and Shimla. Tourists flying in from other countries may reach Srinagar via Delhi. After arriving in Srinagar, they can avail easy transport facilities to visit the Mughal Gardens.

By Rail

The nearest railhead to Srinagar is at Udhampur which is located at a distance of 60km to the north of Jammu. Jammu Tavi railway station is well connected to most important towns and cities of India and is situated at a distance of 293 km from Srinagar. After arriving in Jammu, they can hire a taxi or avail regular bus services to complete the 12 hours journey to Srinagar.

By Bus

Jammu Tavi is well connected to Srinagr by private coaches, regular bus services and a host of taxis. The National Highway 1A links Srinagar to the rest of the country and passes through beautiful mountain terrains, long tunnels and scenic valleys. Srinagar can be accessed from Leh and Kargil in summers.

Entry Fees

Mughal Gardens have paid entries which are nominal in nature.

Best Time to Visit

Tourists should book themselves a trip to Kashmir in the spring and autumn months, which lasts from February to April and September to October respectively. The garden is in full bloom during this period, with chinar trees changing their colors from green to orange and then to brown. These periods are also the best time for outdoor activities like trekking, hiking, boating and biting. The weather is congenial with the snowy peaks shining in all their glory throughout the day.

Trivia

Timurid – the Persian layout of a walled – in – garden was first introduced in India by Babar, who was the first of the great Mughals ruling the Sub Continent. The design of these gardens is distinguished by raised walkways meandering through rows of flowers, fountains and canals. The entire garden is typically divided into four sections. Mughal gardens are located all across the country, with Srinagar boasting of the most beautiful of the lot.

Timing

Mughal gardens are usually open from 9.00 am to 7 pm during the peak tourist seasons. However, the right timings should be checked from local sources during the off-season and winter months.

Photo Gallery

Related Image

Related Topics

Palaces

Apart from its heavenly climate and topography, the state of Jammu Kashmir offers the tourist much - much more. With its....

Museums

For an extremely long period of epoch till today, The state of Jand K has remained as a centre of cultural and social....

Monasteries

The Cultures and Topography of the st...

Srinagar Hill Station

Srinagar is also known as the city of...