Srinagar is home to some of India’s most beautiful Mughal Gardens, known for their stunning architecture and picture-perfect locales. There are six Mughal Gardens in Srinagar that are the perfect depiction of Persian-influenced Mughal architecture. Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Pari Mahal, Achabal Bagh, Chashme Shahi, and Verinag are the famous gardens of Srinagar.
As the name suggests, these gardens were built by Mughals, and the grandeur is primarily dedicated to Jahangir and his son Shah Jahan. Their undaunted love for Kashmir compelled them to create such stunning marvels in the city. Shah Jahan selected the sites of these gardens very carefully and played a significant role in their construction. With unparalleled perfection, Mughal Gardens are among the best tourist places in Srinagar.
Structure of Mughal Garden
The famous Mughal Gardens in Srinagar are built in the same pattern as the central water channel sourced at the natural spring. These gardens are nestled in the mighty Himalayas’ foothills and on the lake’s shore. The terraced garden layouts of these gardens are renowned for their Mughal engineering skills and aesthetics. The avenues of these gardens are graced by Chinar trees, cascades, water channels, and fountains. These well-maintained and lush green gardens with gorgeous flowers and trees look stunning. The spectacular pavilions and terraces of these gardens enhance the beauty of these marvelous places.
Here are details about the most beautiful Mughal Garden in Srinagar
- Location: Srinagar, Jammu, and Kashmir
- Type of Destination:Nature Walk & Sightseeing
- Opening Hours of Shalimar Bagh:9:30 AM to 6:30 PM (everyday)
- Entry Fees of Shalimar Bagh:INR 10 per person
- Duration: 2 – 3 hours
How to reach Mughal Gardens
Located amidst mountains and hills in Srinagar, Mughal Gardens are situated near the city center. The nearest airport to Mughal Gardens is Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport, which is well-connected with the major cities and states of the rest of the country. One can quickly get a taxi from the airport and bus stand to Mughal Gardens. Srinagar is also well-connected by the national and state highways by road from Jammu, Ladakh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and other central states.
Best time to visit Mughal Gardens
The autumn and spring seasons are the best time to visit Mughal Gardens. The gardens are in full glory from February to April and September to October. Flowers and trees bloom in these months and offer the opportunity to admire the vistas. The salubrious weather makes the sightseeing tour comfortable and pleasant.
Major Highlights of Mughal Gardens
The most magnificent feature of the Mughal Gardens in Srinagar is the central water channel, with running water and a pool. The stunning reflection of the sky and the garden in the water enhance the charm of these gardens. These terraced-style gardens comprise of Chinar trees and flowers, glorifying the beauty of Mughal Gardens.
Nishat Bagh is the largest Mughal Garden in Srinagar and one of the most beautiful gardens. The stunning architecture of these gardens can leave anyone in awe. Also, the Gardens in Srinagar are all set to be enlisted in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list. These are the treasures of the Mughal era, which depict the glory of the bygone era.
Places to visit near Mughal Gardens
Apart from Mughal Gardens, there are other prominent attractions in Srinagar that one can add to their itinerary. Some of the famous spots in Srinagar near Mughal Gardens are:
- Dal Lake
- Tulip Garden
- Pari Mahal
- Hari Parbat
- Lal Bazar
- Anchar Lake
- Hazratbal Shrine
- Shankaracharya Temple
Hotels to Stay near Mughal Gardens
Srinagar is home to numerous resorts, hotels, guest houses, and lodges where tourists can stay during their Kashmir trip. The houseboats are another major accommodation option in Srinagar, offering a unique tour experience. Some of the best places to stay near Mughal Gardens are:
- Hotel Royal Savoy
- The Orchard Retreat & Spa
- Rah Bagh by Orchards
- Impex Hill Resort
- Hotel Grand Mahal
- The Lalit Grand Palace
- Hotel Zaryab
- Lake Isle Resort
- WelcomHeritage Gurkha Houseboats
- Wangnoo Group of Sheraton Houseboats