Mughal Gardens in Srinagar

Traditional Mughal Gardens

One of the main elements of these gardens is running water and a pool that would reflect the magnificence of the sky and the garden. Different varieties of trees providing shade, fruit and flowers, a plethora of colorful wild grass, a mild zephyr and birds chirping all around made the gardens a very relaxing spot. Running water in the canals and a reflecting pool to show the beauty of the sky and garden itself are the key features of Mughal gardens. The numbers eight and nine, considered sacred by the Mughals, can be found in the octagonal pools of garden architecture.  

The Mughal Gardens in Srinagar owe their magnificence and unparalleled heights of perfection to the Mughal Emperors Jahangir and Shah Jahan, both of whom had an unwavering affection for the region. Srinagar houses several picturesque Mughal Gardens that not only demonstrate the excellent engineering skills of the Mughals but also provide splendid views of the Dal Lake and other key landmarks.

Shalimar Bagh Srinagar

This is the largest Mughal Garden in India, located on the banks of the Dal Lake in Srinagar. It is best visited during the autumn and spring seasons. Covering an area of 31 acres, this public garden was built by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir in 1619 for his wife Nur Jahan. It is connected with Dal Lake via a 1.6-km-long canal lined by a walkway.

Nishat Bagh

Also on the banks of the Dal Lake, Nishat Garden Srinagar is one of the most beautiful terraced Mughal Gardens in Srinagar. It is often fondly referred to as The Garden of Gladness and offers magnificent views of the Zabarwan and Pir Panjal mountain ranges.

Pari Mahal Srinagar

Overlooking the Srinagar city from the top of the Zabarwan mountain range, this is a beautiful seven terraced garden that does not contain any water channels and cascades like the other gardens. Instead, a system of underground pipes feeds the water tanks.

Chashme Shahi Garden Srinagar

Built in 1632 by a governor of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, it is 108 meters long and 38 meters wide and is spread over an area of one acre. This beautiful garden is built around a freshwater spring in the Zabarwan mountain range. Located along the banks of the Dal Lake, this charming garden also boasts of terraces, a water pool and a large fountain.

Verinag Srinagar

Recognized by the ASI as a Monument of National Importance, this garden lies adjacent to the famous Verinag Spring, a major source of the Jhelum River. Constructed in the 15th year of the Jahangir's reign, the garden features an octagonal tank and design elements of traditional Persian Charbagh.               

Achabal Srinagar

Located in a small town of Anantnag District in the southeastern Kashmir Valley, this garden was also built by Jahangir for his begum Nur Jahan. A waterfall or a fresh spring in the garden is one of the main attractions here. It is about 142 meters long and 14 meters wide.