Shalimar Garden - Adobe of Love

Overview

Shalimar Bagh (Urdu pronunciation: [ʃɑːliːmɑːɾ bɑːɣ], Kashmiri pronunciation: [ʃaːlɨməːr baːɣ]) is a Mughal garden in Srinagar of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, linked through a channel to the northeast of Dal Lake. It is also known as Shalimar Gardens, Farah Baksh, and Faiz Baksh.The other famous shoreline garden in the vicinity is Nishat Bagh, 'The Garden of Delight'. The Bagh was built by Mughal Emperor Jahangir in 1619. The Bagh is considered the high point of Mughal horticulture. It is now a public park and also referred to as the "Crown of Srinagar".It is the earliest of the Mughal imperial gardens called Shalimar Gardens, followed by the one in Lahore, begun in 1641 under Shah Jahan and the one in Delhi, begun in 1653 by Izz-un-Nisa, his wife.

Weather

Spring (March to May): During spring, temperatures range between 10°C and 30°C. The garden bursts into bloom, showcasing vibrant flowers like tulips and cherry blossoms. The pleasant weather and blooming flowers make this a prime time for visiting.

Summer (June to August): Summer temperatures typically range from 14°C to 25°C, providing a comfortable atmosphere to explore Shalimar Garden’s lush greenery. This season is also ideal for enjoying a shikara ride on Dal Lake or visiting other Mughal gardens in the area

Autumn (September to November): In autumn, temperatures drop to around 7°C to 20°C, and the chinar trees turn brilliant shades of red and gold. This is a visually stunning time to visit, with the garden reflecting beautiful fall colours.

Winter (December to February): Winter temperatures range between -2°C and 10°C, with occasional snowfall blanketing the garden. While the cold can be intense, this season offers a peaceful and snowy landscape, creating a picturesque winter setting.

How to reach

By Air:

The nearest airport is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (Srinagar Airport), which is about 25 kilometres away. You can take a taxi or a local transportation vehicle from the airport to Shalimar Garden, which will take approximately 60 minutes.

By Train:

The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi, located about 300 kilometres from Shalimar Garden. From Jammu, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Srinagar, and then continue to the garden.

By Bus:

The Shalimar bus station is just 650 metres away from the garden, making it easily accessible on foot (a 10-minute walk). You can find various local and intercity buses that connect to this station.

By Car:

If you're driving, Shalimar Garden is well-connected via major roads. It's about a 30-minute drive from the Srinagar railway station, which is approximately 23 kilometres away.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Shalimar Bagh is either during Spring or Autumn Season (mid-February to mid-April and September-October) when the flowers are in their full bloom and Chinar trees change their colour from green to orange and yellow giving a warm glow to the garden.

History

Shalimar Bagh was built by Mughal Emperor Jahangir in 1619. He enlarged the ancient garden in 1619 into a royal garden and called it 'Farah Baksh' ('the delightful'). In 1630, under Emperor Shah Jahan's orders, Zafar Khan the governor of Kashmir extended it. He named it 'Faiz Baksh' ('the bountiful').

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the visiting hours for Shalimar Garden?

What is the historical significance of Shalimar Garden?

How can I reach Shalimar Garden?

Are there any entry fees for visiting Shalimar Garden?

What flora can be found in Shalimar Garden?

Flora Fauna

Chinar Trees

A signature feature of Shalimar Garden, the chinar trees (Platanus orientalis) are native to Kashmir and admired for their vibrant colour changes through the seasons. They provide shade and add to the aesthetic appeal of the garden

Roses

Various rose species flourish here, contributing to the garden’s fragrance and visual allure, especially during peak bloom periods in spring and early summer

Jasmine

Known for its sweet scent, jasmine adds a delightful aroma to the garden pathways and complements the garden’s tranquil ambiance.

Fruit Trees

The garden features a variety of fruit trees, including apple, cherry, and apricot, which not only bear seasonal fruits but also enhance the garden's lushness.

Black Bulbul

Known for its unique dark plumage and distinctive call, the Black Bulbul (Hypsipetes leucocephalus) is a common sight in the garden. These birds feed primarily on insects and fruits, adding a lively energy to the environment as they hop between branches of the garden’s trees. Their vocalisations often resonate through the garden, providing a beautiful auditory backdrop for visitors.

Himalayan Bulbul

Another frequent visitor, the Himalayan Bulbul (Pycnonotus leucogenys) is recognizable by its white cheeks and tufted crown. These birds are found in higher altitudes and are well adapted to the region's colder climate. They feed on small insects and berries, and their melodic calls can often be heard, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. Srinagar District

Parakeets

Green parakeets are commonly seen around the garden, often flying in small flocks. These birds add vibrant splashes of colour as they glide through the air. Parakeets in the area feed on a variety of seeds and fruits, and their chatter contributes to the dynamic soundscape of Shalimar Garden.

Bats

As evening falls, small bats can be seen flying over the garden. These bats play an important role in controlling insect populations and contribute to the natural ecosystem of Shalimar Garden. While they might be less visible during the day, they are an essential part of the garden's nocturnal wildlife.

Myths

Origin of the Garden's Name

One common myth suggests that the garden's name, "Shalimar," is derived from the Sanskrit term meaning "Abode of Love." Legend has it that Emperor Jahangir built the garden for his beloved wife, Nur Jahan, as a symbol of their love. The story underscores the garden's romantic roots, with the layout designed to evoke a sense of paradise. The gardens were also known by other names, such as "Farah Baksh" (the delightful) and "Faiz Baksh" (the bountiful), which reflect the Mughal ideal of a paradise on earth.

Chini Khanas or "Lamp Niches"

Another myth associated with the garden revolves around the "chini khanas," or niches behind waterfalls, which were originally intended to hold oil lamps that would light up the waterfalls at night. Today, these niches are filled with flower pots, yet the legend persists that the lamps' glow used to cast a mesmerising reflection on the water, creating a magical ambiance throughout the garden.

Nur Jahan's Footprint

Some locals believe that the garden contains a footprint of Nur Jahan, marking the spot where she first set foot in the garden. This myth enhances the romantic lore around Shalimar, adding a personal touch to the legend of the garden’s creation. However, there is little historical evidence to substantiate this, and it remains part of the garden’s rich oral tradition.

Videos

Shalimar Garden

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Shalimar Garden, a Mughal-era masterpiece filled with lush flora, intricate fountains, and stunning landscapes in Srinagar.

Foods

Rogan Josh

A classic lamb dish cooked in a flavorful sauce with Kashmiri spices, often available at local restaurants like Ahdoos and Mughal Darbar.

Kashmiri Pulao

A fragrant rice dish prepared with local saffron, nuts, and dried fruits, this is a staple you can find in places like Shamyana Restaurant, which sits close to the scenic Dal Lake.

Kebabs

Kashmiri-style kebabs, including mutton and chicken varieties, are widely loved. Mughal Darbar and other local eateries on Residency Road are known for their delicious kebabs.

Dum Aloo

A vegetarian delight, dum aloo is made with potatoes cooked in a spicy yogurt-based gravy. Krishna Dhaba is a well-known spot for vegetarian dishes in Srinagar.

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