Shalimar Bagh is one of the most celebrated royal gardens of Kashmir, located just 13 km away from Srinagar city. The garden is a jewel nestled in the lap of Himalayan moutains and adorned with enchanting views of Dal Lake.
This beautiful garden got its name from two Sanskrit words ‘Shali’ and ‘Mar’, which means “Abode of Love”. Shalimar Bagh was built in the year 1619 by Mughal Emperor Jahangir as a symbol of love for his wife, Empress Nur Jahan.
This masterpiece commissioned by Emperor Jahangir was not only an example of his deep affection for his wife but also a representation of Mughal artistry and horticulture.
Spread across a wide area of 31 acres, Shalimar Bagh is the largest Mughal garden in Srinagar, the other two being Nishat Bagh and Chashma Shahi.
About Shalimar Bagh Srinagar
this garden is divided into three terraced sections with each terrace serving its own 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 and it 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 called 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 rightly called as “Garden of Delight”.
Shalimar Bagh is well known for its Chini Khanas, or niches behind waterfalls. Earlier these arched niches 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 was constructed by Mughal emperor Jahangir as Farah Baksh- the Delightful in the year 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.
The best time to visit Shalimar Garden Srinagar
The ideal time to visit this Mughal garden is either in the summer or autumn season. During these times, the flowers are in full bloom and the Chinar trees change their colors from green to orange and yellow giving a golden hue to the garden.
How to reach Shalimar Garden Mughal Garden
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.
Frequently asked questions
1. Are there entry fees to visit Shalimar Bagh?
Yes, there is an entry fee of Rs. 20 for visitors to enter Shalimar Bagh. The fees may vary for domestic and international tourists, and there might be additional charges for photography or videography.
2. What is the time to visit Shalimar Bagh?
the garden opens from 9 AM to 7 pm in the summer season. In autumn, the garden opens at 10 Am in the morning and closes at 5 PM.
3. Are there other attractions near?
Yes, there are several other attractions near Shalimar Bagh including Nishat Bagh (another Mughal garden), Dal Lake, Hazratbal Shrine, Pari Mahal, and the local markets in Srinagar offering traditional crafts and cuisine.
4.What is unique about Shalimar Bagh?
Shalimar Bagh is known for its unique Mughal garden design featuring terraced levels, cascading fountains, pavilions (diwans), lush greenery, and beautiful flower arrangements. The garden’s alignment with the Zabarwan Range adds to its scenic beauty.