Best Time to Visit the Mughal Gardens
April to June for flowers, and October to early November for autumn colour. The Tulip Garden opens only in spring.
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Mughal Gardens of Srinagar
The Mughal Gardens are a group of terraced gardens laid out by the Mughal emperors and their nobles in the 17th century on the slopes above Dal Lake. Water channels, fountains and chinar trees give them their character.
At a Glance
Mughal Gardens Quick Facts
- RegionSrinagar, Kashmir
- Known forTerraced gardens, fountains and chinar trees
- Best timeApril to October; autumn for chinar colours
- Suggested stayHalf a day for all three main gardens
- Good forFamilies, couples and history lovers
Introduction
About Mughal Gardens
They are among the most visited sights in Srinagar and are included on the first day of most Kashmir itineraries.
Shalimar Bagh was built by Emperor Jahangir, and Nishat Bagh by Asif Khan, brother of Empress Nur Jahan. Chashme Shahi, the smallest, was laid out around a natural spring in the reign of Shah Jahan.
Above Chashme Shahi stands Pari Mahal, a terraced garden and ruin with wide views over the lake. All four lie close together along the eastern shore of Dal Lake in Srinagar.
Elsewhere in the valley, Achabal and Verinag are Mughal gardens too and can be seen on the way to Kokernag.
Sightseeing
Best Places to Visit in Mughal Gardens
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Shalimar Bagh
The largest of the gardens, with a central water channel, pavilions and rows of chinar trees.
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Nishat Bagh
The "Garden of Joy", rising in terraces from the lakeshore with the Zabarwan hills behind.
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Chashme Shahi
A small, steep garden built around a spring.
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Pari Mahal
A hillside garden and ruin with one of the best views of Dal Lake.
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Tulip Garden
Next to Chashme Shahi and open for a few weeks each spring.
Experiences
Things to Do in Mughal Gardens
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1
Walk the Terraces
Climb from the lowest terrace to the top for the classic view back over the lake.
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2
See the Chinar Trees
The old chinars turn deep red and gold in autumn.
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3
Watch the Fountains
The water channels and fountains run through the main season.
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4
Combine with a Shikara Ride
The gardens are close to Dal Lake, so a boat ride fits naturally into the same day.
Plan Your Visit
Mughal Gardens Travel Information
How to Reach the Mughal Gardens
All the main gardens are a short drive from central Srinagar along the Dal Lake boulevard.
What to Expect
Each garden has an entry ticket and can be busy in the afternoon. Mornings are quieter.
Good to Know
Mughal Gardens Travel Tips
- Garden entry tickets are separate from your package cost.
- Start at Shalimar or Nishat in the morning before the crowds arrive.
- The Tulip Garden dates change every year. Ask us before planning around it.
- Wear comfortable shoes. There are many steps between terraces.
Road conditions, opening times and local rules change through the year. We confirm the details for your travel dates when we plan your trip.
Tour Packages
Kashmir Tour Packages
Mughal Gardens is not part of our fixed itineraries, but it can be added to any of these on request.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which are the main Mughal Gardens in Srinagar?
Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh and Chashme Shahi, with Pari Mahal close by.
How much time do the gardens need?
About half a day covers the three main gardens comfortably.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring for flowers and autumn for the chinar colours.
Are the gardens included in your packages?
Yes. A visit to the Mughal Gardens is part of the Srinagar sightseeing in our Kashmir packages. Entry tickets are extra.
See the Mughal Gardens with Us
Tell us your dates and we'll plan your Srinagar sightseeing around the gardens and Dal Lake.