Set against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayan peaks, Shalimar Garden, the “Crown of Srinagar” stands as a testament to the opulent grandeur and exquisite design of the Mughal era.
Built by the visionary Emperor Jahangir in 1619, this enchanting garden, also known as ‘Farah Baksh’ and ‘Faiz Baksh’ in its earlier years, unfolds like a living tapestry of history, romance, and horticultural brilliance.
Here is a complete guide to the entry fee, visiting time, history, and features of Shalimar Bagh in Srinagar.
Why Visit Shalimar Bagh in Srinagar
Steeped in history and architectural brilliance, Shalimar Bagh in Srinagar is an enchanting garden that beckons you with its serene beauty and meticulously landscaped design.
As you enter Shalimar Bagh, a sense of tranquility envelops the surroundings. The garden unfolds in a series of terraced levels, each meticulously planned to offer a harmonious blend of nature and man-made splendor. The Persian Charbagh style, with its geometric precision, creates a mesmerizing layout that captivates the eye and soothes the soul.
The garden’s historical significance adds depth to its allure. Commissioned in 1619 by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir for his beloved wife Noor Jahan, Shalimar Bagh has witnessed the ebb and flow of centuries. The echoes of royal romance and the regal ambiance linger in the air, inviting visitors to step into the past and immerse themselves in the grandeur of Mughal heritage.
Shalimar Bagh is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Srinagar and also the second largest Mughal Garden in the city. Without much ado, let’s explore the history and features of this marvelous garden.
Entry Fee and Visiting Time
Shalimar Garden is open from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm on all days of the week. The entry charge for an adult is Rs. 24, while for a child older than 5 years, it is Rs. 12. You can get yourself photographed in Kashmiri attire here.
The best time to visit Shalimar Garden in Srinagar is in the autumn months of October and November or during the spring months of late March to May. If you are planning a family trip, here is the perfect Kashmir itinerary for 6 days.
Useful Information for Visiting Shalimar Bagh
Here are some tips for visiting Shalimar Garden in Srinagar.
- Carry an umbrella or wear a hat and sunglasses. Apply sunscreen. There will be a lot of sun exposure.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as there will be a lot of walking involved.
- You can carry water, but food is not allowed inside the garden.
- The garden has clean pay and use toilets.
- Plan a visit in the evening to capture sunset photographs at Shalimar Garden.
History of Shalimar Bagh
Shalimar Bagh, a jewel of Mughal garden architecture, traces its roots back to the year 1619 when it was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir. Initially conceived as a royal garden, Emperor Jahangir enlarged an existing garden and bestowed upon it the name ‘Farah Baksh,’ meaning ‘the delightful.’
However, it was in 1630, under the orders of Emperor Shah Jahan and the stewardship of Zafar Khan, the governor of Kashmir, that Shalimar Bagh underwent significant expansion and transformation. Zafar Khan aptly named the extended garden ‘Faiz Baksh,’ signifying ‘the bountiful.’ This marked the evolution of Shalimar Bagh from a charming garden into a more expansive and opulent retreat.
Throughout its history, Shalimar Bagh served various purposes, evolving with the changing times and rulers. It became a favored leisure spot for the Sikh governors of the province, with the marble pavilion serving as a guest house for European visitors during the rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The garden witnessed further enhancements and modernizations during the reign of Maharaja Hari Singh, including the electrification of its premises.
The garden’s significance during the Mughal period is particularly noteworthy. Emperor Jahangir and his wife Nur Jahan were enamored with the beauty of Kashmir, prompting them to make the arduous journey from Delhi to Srinagar at least 13 times during the summer months. Shalimar Bagh, with its meticulously planned terraces, water channels, and fountains, became their imperial summer residence and the venue for the Royal Court.
Over the years, Shalimar Bagh underwent various modifications and came to be known by different names under different rulers. Despite these changes, the most enduring and popular name, ‘Shalimar Bagh,’ has persisted through the centuries.
Landscape of Shalimar Bagh
The layout of Shalimar Bagh is an elegant adaptation of the Persian gardens, characterized by a square plan with four radiating arms originating from a central water source. However, due to the hilly terrain and the presence of a well, modifications were made, leading to a rectangular shape instead of the original square plan.
The central channel, known as the Shah Nahar, became the garden’s main axis, running through three terraces and giving the garden its distinctive layout.
Covering an expansive area of 12.4 hectares (31 acres), the garden spans 587 meters in length along the main axis channel and 251 meters in total width. Three terraces, adorned with fountains and chinar trees, contribute to the garden’s scenic beauty. The Shah Nahar serves as the primary feeder channel for all three terraces, each playing a specific role in the overall design.
Shalimar Bagh is intricately connected to Dal Lake through a 1.6-kilometer canal, bordered by willow groves and rice terraces. Broad green paths, lined with rows of chinar trees, run along the lake’s edge, enhancing the garden’s picturesque setting. Trellised walkways and avenues of aspen trees, planted at regular intervals, create a serene environment within the garden.
Specialties in the Architecture of Shalimar Bagh
The architectural details within Shalimar Bagh’s three terraces are elaborate and reflective of Mughal craftsmanship. The first terrace, known as the outer garden, culminates in the Diwan-e-Aam, or the public audience hall. Here, a small black marble throne is positioned over a waterfall, adding a touch of regality to the public space.
The second terrace, situated along the axial canal, features the Diwan-e-Khas at its center. Accessible only to noblemen or guests of the court, this area contains carved stone bases and a fine platform surrounded by fountains. The royal bathrooms are positioned on the northwest boundary, and the terrace boasts a total of 410 fountains.
In the third terrace, the axial water channel flows through the Zenana Garden, flanked by the Diwan-e-Khas and chinar trees. Guard rooms mark the entrance, controlling access to the royal harem. A black marble baradari, known as the Black Pavilion, stands in the Zenana Garden, encircled by a fountain pool.
A double cascade falls against a low wall, adorned with small niches (chini khanas), creating a mesmerizing sight. Two octagonal pavilions define the end wall of the garden, providing a stunning backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
Shalimar Bagh is renowned for its chini khanas, arched niches behind garden waterfalls, which were historically illuminated at night with oil lamps, casting a fairy tale ambiance. The garden also features doors of the Baradari, crafted from stones supported by pillars, believed to be remnants from old temples. Large water troughs throughout the garden accommodate a variety of fountains, contributing to the overall grandeur of this Mughal masterpiece.
Shalimar Garden Vs Nishat Garden: Which is Better?
Shalimar Garden vs Nishat Garden is something every tourist considers on their trip to Kashmir. So let me share some differences between the two and also my take on the Shalimar Bagh Vs. Nishat Garden debate.
Shalimar Garden is the second largest Mughal Garden in Srinagar, while Nishat Garden is the largest. Shalimar Garden has three terraces, on the other hand, Nishat has twelve terraces.
Shalimar Garde has a lot of trees. During the spring season, the almond and peach trees in full bloom give you a visual treat of flowering trees. During the autumn months the leaves of the chinar trees turn yellowish orange and turn the garden into a photographer’s paradise.
When we visited Kashmir in April 2023, I felt Shalimar Garden looked uncared for. I read a lot of older reviews that talked about how it has been long neglected. However, during my visit I found that there was a lot of renovations being done to the garden and from the more recent reviews I can say it looks spectacular.
Nishat Garden has a lot of flowering plants so it looks stunning in the spring season, between late March to early May. But outside of the spring season, it may not be that appealing.
Being centrally located on Boulevard Road, it offers spectacular views of the Dal Lake. In fact, one of the starting points of Shikara boat ride is right opposite to Nishat Garden. It also has a larger water body which gives it a serene environment.
My Opinion: Despite its flaws, I liked Shalimar Bagh more than Nishat Garden although it was the spring season. There is an old-world charm to the place that cannot fail to amuse you.
Conclusion
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking the tranquil embrace of an imperial retreat, Shalimar Bagh beckons with open arms. Discover the hidden corners, architectural nuances, and timeless charm that make Shalimar Bagh not just a garden but a living testament to the cultural and historical legacy of the Mughals in the heart of Srinagar.
