Shalimar Bagh Travel Guide: A tranquil paradise in Srinagar

Shalimar Bagh: A must-see in Srinagar

October 16th, 2023
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As you wander through the scenic city of Srinagar, you will come across the breathtaking Shalimar Bagh, a stunning Mughal Garden situated alongside the serene Dal Lake. 


 

Sprawling over 31 acres, this garden is not only the largest in Kashmir Valley but also one of the most sought-after tourist spots in the city. 

The garden was once a favorite summer retreat for Emperor Jahangir and his court, and it's not hard to see why. This enchanting masterpiece, lovingly referred to as the "House of Love," was originally called "Farah Baksh," which means "delightful." Every corner of the garden is adorned with vibrant flowers, fountains, and chinar trees that add to the garden's natural beauty.


 

Shalimar Bagh is a beautiful garden that draws inspiration from the ancient Persian "Char Bagh" design. The garden is divided into three terraces, each with a unique purpose that is carefully crafted to create a serene and peaceful atmosphere and is surrounded by a canopy of tall Chinar trees that provide natural shade and add to its natural beauty. The vibrant flowers that bloom throughout the garden's terraces add to its charm and beauty. 

The central area of the garden is known as the "Diwan-i-Khas" and was exclusively reserved for the king and his court. This area is beautifully designed and boasts intricate details, including water fountains, marble columns, and a throne platform. The outer area of the garden, known as the "Diwan-i-Aam," was open to the general public and is equally impressive. It boasts beautiful flower beds, well-manicured lawns, and walking paths that offer a delightful experience for visitors. The garden also features a charming canal that runs through the middle of it, adding to its tranquil ambiance. The canal is surrounded by lush greenery, and the gentle sound of flowing water creates a peaceful and calming environment that is perfect for relaxation. 


 

There may also be a royal bath at the northwest end of the terrace. The Zenana garden on the third terrace of Shalimar is covered with Chinar trees and is watered through an axial canal. Only the Royal Palace was allowed access to the Zenana gardens. Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built the Black Pavilion in the Zenana Gardens using pure black stone, flanked by fountains. Two small waterfalls flow behind the black pavilion. Two octagonal pavilions complete the courtyard. Hence makes it one of the must-visit places for Tourists.

Overall, Shalimar Bagh is a must-see destination for tourists looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is a place where visitors can relax, unwind, and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.


 

History of Shalimar Bagh:

Emperor Jahangir built Shalimar Bagh garden to please his queen, Nur Jahan. He transformed it into a royal garden in 1619 and named it 'Farah Baksh' ('the pleasant'). It was later expanded and renamed 'Faiz Baksh' ('the plentiful') by the governor of Kashmir, Zafar Khan, under Emperor Shah Jahan's orders in 1630. 
 

Through the years, the garden was improved by various rulers, but the name Shalimar Bagh remains popular. During the Mughal era, Jahangir and Nur Jahan visited Kashmir often. They were enchanted with the area and would travel there with their entire court entourage at least 13 times every summer. They stayed in Shalimar Bagh, where their imperial summer home and Royal Court were located. To reach Srinagar, they rode elephants through the snowy Pir Panjal mountain range. Over time, the garden became popular with Pathan and Sikh rulers who succeeded Zafar Khan. During Maharajah Ranjit Singh's reign, the marble pavilion was used as a guest house for European visitors. Later, during Maharajah Hari Singh's reign, electricity was installed on the premises.


 

Why should Tourists visit Shalimar Bagh?
 

Tourists should visit Shalimar Bagh in Srinagar for a variety of reasons, including:

Stunning beauty: Shalimar Bagh is one of the most beautiful gardens in the world, with its perfectly manicured lawns, fountains, canals, and flowers. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered to be the pinnacle of Mughal garden design.

Historical significance: Shalimar Bagh was built in 1619 by the Mughal emperor Jahangir for his beloved wife Nur Jahan. It was once a favorite summer retreat for the Mughal court and was known for its opulence and luxury.

Peaceful atmosphere: Shalimar Bagh is a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It is a serene and peaceful place where visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature and take in the fresh air.

Cultural importance: Shalimar Bagh is an important part of Kashmiri culture and heritage. It is a popular tourist destination for both locals and foreigners alike.

 

Best Time to Visit Shalimar Garden:

If you plan to visit Shalimar Bagh, it's best to go during the peak season from May to October when the weather is pleasant. During this time, you can also enjoy a refreshing light and sound show that takes place there.

 

Shalimar Garden Visiting Timings
The park is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for visitors every day.


How to reach Shalimar Bagh:

By Air: 25 Kms from Sheikh ul Alam International Airport Srinagar

By Road: 14 Kms from Lalchowk Srinagar

By Train: 22 Kms from Srinagar Railway Station

 

We always recommend our guests to try and stay at a homestay in Srinagar if possible as it can be a unique experience, culturally and also in terms of the variety of local foods available. It also helps the local economy of Srinagar. Hope you a good Kashmir holiday.

 

Written by Muzaffar:
Muzaffar isn't your ordinary travel blogger. Hailing from Kashmir, "The Land of Lakes and Gardens," he's a travel industry expert with an M.Com and MAH from Kashmir University and 6 years of experience. Currently a Kashmir Tour Manager at OurGuest, Muzaffar's passion translates into captivating stories and stunning visuals. A camping, trekking, and photography enthusiast, Muzaffar unlocks Kashmir's hidden gems, sharing insightful tips and local knowledge. Join him as he unveils the magic of Kashmir, one adventure at a time. With Muzaffar's expertise and our commitment to personalized travel experiences, we guarantee to craft an unforgettable Kashmir holiday tailored just for you. Feel free to contact us without hesitation, and let us assist you in designing your dream 
 


For a customized Kashmir itinerary, you can contact us at +91-7669503993 or email to contact@ourguest.in
 

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