History of Shalimar Bagh – The Mughal Garden of Love, Srinagar
Shalimar Bagh, meaning “Abode of Love”, is one of the most celebrated Mughal gardens in India, located along the banks of the Dal Lake in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir. It stands as a timeless symbol of love, beauty, and Mughal craftsmanship.
The garden was built in 1619 AD by Emperor Jahangir for his beloved wife, Empress Nur Jahan, during the golden age of the Mughal Empire. Jahangir, deeply inspired by Kashmir’s natural beauty, wanted to create a royal retreat that combined Persian-style garden design with the scenic charm of the valley. The Mughals were known for their love of gardens, which they viewed as earthly representations of paradise, and Shalimar Bagh became one of their finest creations.
The design of Shalimar Bagh follows the Persian Charbagh (four-fold garden) layout, symbolizing the four rivers of paradise. It is laid out on a gentle slope and divided into three main terraces, each with distinct purposes:
- The outer terrace (Diwan-e-Aam) – The public area where the emperor would meet visitors and nobles.
- The central terrace (Diwan-e-Khas) – Reserved for private audiences and royal guests.
- The upper terrace (Zenana Garden) – The private section for the royal ladies, offering maximum privacy and tranquility.
A beautiful water channel known as Shah Nahar, sourced from the Harwan Lake, runs through the center of the garden, feeding a series of sparkling fountains and reflecting pools. The gentle flow of water, combined with the rows of majestic chinar trees, blooming flowers, and intricately carved black marble pavilions, creates a serene and harmonious atmosphere.
Shalimar Bagh was not only a royal pleasure garden but also a place of reflection and poetry. Jahangir often described it in his memoirs, praising its unmatched charm and calling Kashmir “Paradise on Earth.” During later years, the garden was enhanced by Emperor Shah Jahan, who added ornamental fountains and marble structures, further enriching its grandeur.
Under Afghan, Sikh, and Dogra rulers, Shalimar Bagh continued to serve as a place of leisure and royal receptions. Although the garden has undergone restorations over the centuries, it still retains much of its original design and remains a masterpiece of Mughal landscape architecture.
Today, Shalimar Bagh is a major attraction in Srinagar, drawing visitors from around the world. Its blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and architectural excellence offers an unforgettable experience — a living reminder of the romance and refinement of the Mughal era.
