Pari Mahal or the ‘Palace of Fairies’, is a historical and architectural jewel located on the top of the Zabarwan mountain range and overlooked by Dal Lake in Srinagar. This beautiful monument is just 5 km away from Srinagar city and just a five-minute drive from another famous Mughal garden of Srinagar, Chashma Shahi.
Pari Mahal is one of the most visited Mughal gardens in Srinagar that combines the elements of a garden and a monument, making it a unique tourist attraction.
This garden was built in mid-1600s on the ruins of a Buddhist monastery. It was established by Prince Dara Shikoh, who was the eldest son of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
Pari Mahal is a seven-terraced garden that is beautified with vibrant blooming flowers. The monument is designed in Islamic architectural style making it a perfect representation of the Mughal era’s craftsmanship and art. The monument features arched doorways, intricately carved stone latticework and beautifully designed water channels.
Perched at the edge of Zabarwan mountain, Pari Mahal offers panoramic views of Srinagar city along with cascading waters of picturesque Dal Lake.
History of Pari Mahal Mughal Garden
Pari mahal was built by Dara Shikoh in 1650 A.D, who was a Mughal prince and the eldest son of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Like his grandfather Jehangir and father, Dara Shikoh also had a deep love for Kashmir. Dara Shikoh loved to visit Kashmir and have scholarly discussions with the learned men who accompanied him. During these visits, served as his residence and library.
Initially, the structure was said to be a Buddhist monastery. But, later on, the monument was rebuilt by destroying the remains of the monastery and was used as a venue for teaching prince astronomy and astrology.
Some scholars believe that got its name after Dara Shikoh’s wife Pari Begum while others say that it was originally called Pir Mahal which was later changed to Pari Mahal.
Dara Shikoh lost his life to his brother Aurangzeb during the war of succession and was laid to rest on 30 August 1659.
The architecture of Pari Mahal
located in Srinagar, is a beautiful seven-story octagonal monument that was built in 1640 by Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Shah Jahan. The Mahal was built as a pleasure palace and a place for Dara Shikoh to study astronomy and astrology. The Mahal has a stunning view of the Dal Lake and the city of Srinagar.
The architecture of Pari Mahal is fascinating. The octagonal structure is built with sandstone and marble, and the interior is decorated with delicate carvings and paintings. The Mahal has a central courtyard with a marble fountain, and the walls are lined with arched windows and balconies.
l is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Srinagar.
The best time to visit Pari Mahal Srinagar
The best time to visit is from early spring to late summer, specifically from April to September. During this period, the weather is pleasant and the garden comes alive with colorful blooming flowers adding beauty to the terraced spots.
Also, the summer season is ideal for outdoor activities such as sightseeing, photography, and nature walks which calm your mind and refresh your soul.
The clear skies in this period offer stunning visibility, allowing visitors to explore the garden and enjoy the scenic views of Srinagar city and Dal Lake.
How to reach Pari Mahal
The Mahal is situated on the Zabarwan mountain range just 5 km away from the city centre of Srinagar. You can book a taxi or a private car from Srinagar to reach
If you are staying in a houseboat, then you can also take a Shikara ride which will take you to the route leading to Pari Mahal.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entry fee to visit Pari Mahal?
Yes, there is usually a nominal entry fee for visitors to enter Pari Mahal. The fee helps in the maintenance and preservation of this historical monument.
. What are the main attractions?
The main attractions at Pari Mahal include its well-preserved architecture, terraced gardens with fountains and water channels, breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and Dal Lake, and the historical significance of the site as a center of learning and culture during the Mughal era.
What is the architectural style of Pari Mahal?
showcases a unique blend of Mughal and Persian architectural styles. It features graceful arches, intricate stucco work, beautifully landscaped terraced gardens, and ornamental water features. The use of Persian elements can be seen in its layout, design motifs, and overall structural elegance.
Who built the Pari Mahal and when was it constructed?
was built during the Mughal period in the 17th century, specifically during the reign of Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Emperor Shah Jahan. It was constructed around the mid-1600s and served as a majestic residence and observatory for Dara Shikoh, who was a scholar and patron of the arts.