Commissioned in 1619 by Emperor Jahangir for his beloved queen, Nur Jahan, Shalimar Bagh is the grandest of Srinagar’s Mughal gardens. Spanning over 31 acres, this Persian-inspired masterpiece blends art, nature, and water architecture with beautifully landscaped terraces, intricate fountains, and reflective pools.
Perched along the banks of Dal Lake, the garden offers mesmerising views of the snow-draped Himalayan peaks. Once an exclusive retreat for Mughal royalty, Shalimar Bagh remains a symbol of elegance, romance, and horticultural brilliance, making it one of the top attractions in Kashmir for history enthusiasts, honeymooners, and nature lovers alike.
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays (Monday–Friday), ideally early morning or late evening
Recommended Duration: 3–4 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Nearest Landmarks:
Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station – 22 km
Airport: Srinagar International Airport (SXR) – 24 km
Bus Stand: Srinagar Bus Stop – 18 km
Stroll through its three-tiered terraces, each showcasing classic Mughal landscaping.
Admire the cascading fountains, lotus-filled pools, and seasonal flowerbeds that bring the garden to life.
Relax by the reflecting pools surrounded by tall Chinar trees, exceptionally breathtaking in autumn when their leaves turn fiery red.
Discover the unique ‘Chini Khanas’ (alcoves) behind waterfalls, once lit with oil lamps, now decorated with flower pots.
Combine your trip with a Shikara ride on Dal Lake, offering scenic views of the garden and the surrounding Zabarwan mountains.
By Car/Taxi: Located just 14 km from Srinagar city centre, the drive takes about 25–30 minutes via the scenic Boulevard Road.
By Bus: Budget-friendly local buses operate frequently from Srinagar to the garden, taking around 40–45 minutes.
On Foot: If you’re staying nearby, walking is a wonderful way to soak in the beauty of Dal Lake and the hills en route.
Spring & Summer (April – October): The garden is in full bloom, with vibrant flowers and lush greenery, ideal for sightseeing and photography.
Autumn (September – November): A quieter time with cooler weather; enjoy the magical sight of crimson Chinar leaves.
Winter (December – February): Expect snow-covered paths, serene surroundings, and a completely different charm for winter photography.
Built by Jahangir as a gift of love for Nur Jahan.
It was expanded by later Mughal emperors while maintaining its original grandeur.
Once a private retreat for royalty, it is now a heritage site open to the public.
Showcases Mughal artistry in garden design, water features, and landscaping.
This is home to historic Chini Khanas, a rare feature of Mughal garden architecture.
Wear comfortable walking shoes; the garden covers a vast area.
Pack sunscreen, a hat, or light clothing for summer; wear layers in winter.
Carry water bottles to stay hydrated while exploring.
Maintain peace and avoid loud behaviour to preserve the tranquil environment.
Dispose of litter responsibly to help preserve the beauty of the garden.
Don’t forget your camera, every corner here is picture-perfect.
Explore nearby attractions like Dal Lake, Nishat Bagh, and other Mughal gardens for a complete cultural experience.
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