Shalimar Bagh in Srinagar is one of the most famous gardens in the entire Kashmir Valley. It is situated on the shores of serene Dal Lake and offers a scenic view. The word ‘Shalimar’ defines the reason for its construction, which indicates ‘abode of love. Therefore, the ‘house of Love’ was built by Mughal Emperor Jehangir for his beloved wife Nur Jahan around 400 years back. The lush green and well-maintained Garden of Srinagar is designed with terrace lawns, fountain pools, and flower beds combined with mighty chinar trees and pavilions. The interior of Shalimar Bagh contains four terraces in which terraces were initially reserved for the royal ladies and is considered to be the most beautiful section.
Popular with different names, including Shalamar Garden, Shalamar Bagh, Farah Baksh, and Faiz Baksh, Shalimar Bagh is spread across 31 acres of land on the bank of Dal Lake. This Mughal Garden was built in 1619 and is known for Mughal horticulture. Also known as the ‘Crown of Srinagar,’ Shalimar Bagh was the favorite summer destination of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Encompassed by Chinar trees, Shalimar Bagh is blessed with serene environs. This garden comprises three terraces, each of which accommodates pools and fountains. The blissful beauty of the garden attracts a large number of tourists every year.
Here is detailed about Shalimar Bagh Garden in Srinagar
- Location: Chinar Chowk, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu, and Kashmir
- Type of Destination: Nature Walk & Sightseeing
- Opening Hours of Shalimar Bagh: 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM (everyday)
- Entry Fees of Shalimar Bagh: INR 10 per person
- Duration:2 – 3 hours
How to reach Shalimar Bagh
Located on Chinar Chowk in Srinagar, Shalimar Bagh is just 600 m away from the city’s main bus stand. The nearest airport is Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport, which is well-connected with the major cities and states of the rest of the country. One can easily get a taxi to Shalimar Bagh from the airport and bus stand. By the national and state highways, Srinagar is also well-connected to Jammu, Ladakh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and other major states.
Best time to visit Shalimar Bagh
February to April and September to October is the best time to visit Shalimar Bagh. The Autumn and spring season is an ideal time to go to Shalimar Bagh to witness the breathtaking beauty of this serene place. The salubrious weather of these seasons makes the sightseeing tour comfortable and pleasant.
Major Highlights of Shalimar Bagh
With the backdrop of the mighty Himalayas, Shalimar Bagh looks mesmerizing when the flowers and trees are in their full bloom. The garden has different species of flowers, enhancing this beautiful place’s charm. Chinar trees change their colors from green to orange and yellow. Sprawling over 31 acres of land, this majestic garden comprises three terraces, each consisting of pools and fountains. Chini Khanas is the major highlight of Shalimar Bagh, situated behind the waterfall in the garden. In the earlier times, these niches were lit at night and looked magical. This is the most extensive garden in Kashmir, and the architecture of Shalimar Bagh draws inspiration from Char Bagh.
Places to visit near Shalimar Bagh
Srinagar is home to numerous tourist attractions, and there are many places to visit near Shalimar where one can visit and make their trip memorable. Some of the famous spots in Srinagar near Shalimar Bagh are:
- Dal Lake
- Tulip Garden
- Pari Mahal
- Hari Parbat
- Nishat Bagh
- Chashm-e-Shahi
- Lal Bazar
Hotels to Stay near Shalimar Bagh Srinagar
Flanked by Dal Lake, Shalimar Bagh is among the most visited tourist attractions during the Kashmir trip. The city houses numerous accommodations where tourists can stay during the Kashmir trip and enjoy the best hospitable environment. Some of the best places to stay near Shalimar Bagh are:
- Hotel Royal Savoy
- TRIPPENS Resort
- Rah Bagh by Orchards
- Hotel Grand Mahal
- Hotel Zaryab
- Shangraff Mountain Abode
- Shalimar Heights
- Chinar Residency
If you want to explore art, architecture, and nature, visit Shalimar Garden in Srinagar. To know more about this garden, you can contact us and plan a tour with Indian Holiday to get a smooth travel experience.
