Shalimar Bagh – Mughal Garden Srinagar

Shalimar Bagh, also known as "Crown of Srinagar’s Gardens," is one of Kashmir's most celebrated royal gardens, just 13 km from Srinagar Jammu and Kashmir. The garden is a jewel nestled in the lap of Himalayan mountains and adorned with enchanting views of Dal Lake.

This beautiful garden got its name from Sanskrit words, 'Shali' and 'Mar,’ which means "Abode of Love".” Shalimar Bagh In Srinagar was built in 1619 by Mughal Emperor Jahangir to symbolize love for his wife, Empress Nur Jahan.

This masterpiece, commissioned by Emperor Jahangir, was an example of his deep affection for his wife and represented Mughal artistry and horticulture.

Spread across a wide area of 31 acres, Shalimar garden is the most extensive Mughal garden in Srinagar, the other two being Nishat Bagh and Chashma Shahi.

Surrounded by the high Zabarwan mountain range in Jammu and Kashmir, Shalimar Garden in Srinagar attracts visitors yearly. With its cascading fountains, lush terraced lawns, and fragrant flower beds. Also, it's famous for the "Crown of Srinagar,". As one of Kashmir's most visited Mughal gardens, Shalimar Bagh is a must-see attraction in any Srinagar tour package. we are going to talk about, Best time to visit, History, and more

About Shalimar Bagh Srinagar

This garden is divided into three terraced sections, with each terrace serving its distinct purpose. The outer portion of the garden is called Diwan-e-Aam, or public audience hall.  The emperor used to hold a public audience on this terrace, which was adorned with a majestic black marbled throne and a cascading water stream.
The second terrace was reserved for private gatherings, noblemen, family, and guests. Royal bathrooms are located on the northwest portion of this enclosure. Its uppermost portion, the Zenana garden, was designed with two pavilions in Kashmiri style, and it was reserved for the women belonging to the royal family.
The third terrace, Bagh-e Farah Baksh, features a Sheesh Mahal (palace of mirrors) and a hammam (bathhouse). This portion was designed for relaxation and entertainment and is called the "Garden of Delight.”
Shalimar Bagh is well known for its Chini Khanas, or niches behind waterfalls. Earlier, these arched niches were used to hold oil lamps. However, now these niches hold pots of flowers that reflect their colors behind cascading waterfalls.

History of Shalimar Bagh Srinagar

Shalimar bagh Srinagar was constructed by Mughal emperor Jahangir as Farah Baksh- the Delightful in 1619. In 1630, on the orders of Shah Jahan, his governor Zafar Khan extended the garden under the name of Faiz Baksh- The Bountiful.

Shalimar was designed in ancient Persian Chahar Bagh style, traditionally uniform in shape with a water fountain at the center and four cascading streams that divide the garden into three sections, namely Diwan-e-Aam, Diwan-e-Khas, and Bagh -e Farah Baksh.

The Persian style of gardening, harmonizing water, plants, and structures, has made Shalimar Bagh listed in UNESCO's tentative list of world heritage sites.

Architecture and Layout of Shalimar Garden

Like other Mughal garden buildings, Shalimar Garden Srinagar has an extensive architectural design, layout, and embellishment. Stretching over 31 acres, the garden is subdivided into three tiers, each with flair and direction, demonstrating the magnificence of Persian-style garden architecture.

Terraced Design: The Shalimar Bagh layout is the conventional layout of the Mughal garden and represents paradise on earth.

Water Features: The concept of soil is present in the garden, and water is a core element of its management or design. A central watercourse called the Shah Nahar runs through it, and the Khas Spring supplies the Harwan territory.

Architectural Highlights: The garden has beautiful carved pavilions and arched corridors.

Major Attractions Inside Shalimar Bagh

• Diwan-e-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) – Where the emperor met with the public.
• Diwan-e-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) – Reserved for royal meetings and special guests.
• Central Water Channel with Fountains – Mughal-style waterworks flowing through all terraces.
• Chinar Trees and Colorful Flowerbeds – Signature natural beauty, especially vibrant in autumn.
• Stone Pavilions and Arched Gateways – Showcasing classic Mughal architecture.

Shalimar Bagh Srinagar Timings

You should know the timings if you want to visit Shalimar Bagh Srinagar. Here is the list

Shalimar Bagh Timings

• April to October: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM​
• November to March: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Best time for Tourists

1. Morning (9 AM – 11 AM A peaceful stroll and soft sun is ideal light.
2. Late Afternoon (4 PM – 6 PM): Best for capturing golden hour photos with glowing fountains and Chinar trees.

Shalimar Bagh Ticket price

Entry Fee

• Indian Tourists: ₹24 per person
• Foreign Tourists: ₹300 per person
• Children under a certain age may enter free (subject to local guidelines).

Tips for Visitors 

• Visit during spring or autumn for the most vibrant garden views.
• ⏰ Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture serene photos.
• 👟 Wear comfortable footwear for walking around the spacious garden.
• 📷 Carry a camera or phone – photography is allowed and highly recommended.
• 🧴 Carry sunscreen and water, especially in summer months.
• 🚫 Avoid littering – help keep the historic site clean.

How to reach Shalimar Garden Srinagar

there are diverse options available to reach Shalimar garden from Srinagar
by Car- You can hire a cab or taxi or your private car and drive along the routes of Lal Chowk, Dargah Road, or Fore Shore Road to reach Shalimar Bagh.
By bus- You can also take a public bus from the Srinagar bus stand which is 600 meters away from Shalimar .
By Shikara- You can visit through a Shikara ride which costs Rs. 300 per person for one hour.

Know more about: How to Reach Kashmir

The best time to visit Shalimar Garden Srinagar

The ideal time to visit this Mughal garden is either summer or autumn. During these times, the flowers are in full bloom, and the Chinar trees change their colours from green to orange and yellow, giving a golden hue to the garden.

Summer: Summer from April to August is the perfect time to explore the beauty of this garden. In summers you can explore the Flowers, Waterfronts and other things with family

Autumn: This is also the best time to visit and explore the Chinar trees in this garden. When the Chinar trees getting the Gold Color

Nearest Travel Attractions

• 🌺 Nishat Bagh – Another Mughal Garden with stunning views of Dal Lake (approx. 3 km away).
• 🏞️ Dal Lake – Enjoy a peaceful Shikara ride on this iconic lake.
• 🕌 Hazratbal Shrine – A sacred Muslim site located on the banks of Dal Lake.
• 🌄 Pari Mahal – A historical monument offering panoramic views of Srinagar.
• 🌳 Chashme Shahi Garden – Known for its natural spring and Mughal design.

Frequently asked questions

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