Mughal Gardens (Nishat, Shalimar, Chashme Shahi)
About
Srinagar's three Mughal Gardens built by Mughal emperors who called Kashmir 'paradise on Earth' are terraced masterpieces of Persian-style landscaping. Nishat Bagh (Garden of Joy, 1633) is the largest, with 12 terraces representing the 12 zodiac signs cascading down to Dal Lake. Shalimar Bagh (Abode of Love, 1619) was Emperor Jahangir's gift to Empress Nur Jahan, with black marble pavilions and hundreds of fountains. Chashme Shahi (Royal Spring, 1632) is the smallest and most intimate, built around a natural mountain spring believed to have healing properties. All three offer stunning views of Dal Lake and the snow-capped Zabarwan range.
Highlights
What makes this place special
Nishat Bagh's 12 Terraces
Twelve cascading terraces representing the zodiac signs, each planted differently, descending toward Dal Lake with fountains and water channels connecting every level.
Shalimar Bagh Pavilions
The black marble pavilion where Emperor Jahangir held court, surrounded by 410 fountains and a central water channel — built as a love gift for Empress Nur Jahan.
Chashme Shahi Spring
A natural mountain spring flowing through the smallest Mughal garden, believed to have digestive healing properties — visitors queue to fill bottles with its clear, cold water.
Things to Know
- •Visit all three gardens in one trip — they're along the same road on Dal Lake's eastern shore
- •Nishat Bagh is the largest and most photogenic — allow 1 hour here
- •Shalimar Bagh has the best fountains — visit when they're operational (check timing)
- •Chashme Shahi's natural spring water is considered pure and healing — many visitors bottle it
- •Spring (April-May) brings the gardens alive with tulips, irises, and roses
- •Autumn (October-November) chinar trees turn gold and crimson — equally spectacular
- •The gardens are well-maintained with clean pathways — suitable for all ages
- •Entry fees are nominal (₹24 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners)
