Nishat Bagh is in Srinagar in Kashmir.
Nestled on the eastern side of the tranquil Dal Lake, in Srinagar is a terraced Mughal garden.
This magnificent garden, second in size only to the famous Shalimar Bagh, is an oasis of serenity and beauty that’s sure to make your heart skip a beat.
“Nishat Bagh,” which translates to “Garden of Joy,” “Garden of Gladness,” and “Garden of Delight,” is situated with the picturesque Zabarwan Mountains as its backdrop and stunning views of the Dal Lake surrounded by the Pir Panjal mountain range.
Designed and built in 1633 by Asif Khan, the elder brother of Nur Jehan and father-in-law of Emperor Shah Jahan, Nishat Bagh’s history is just as fascinating as its beauty. The story goes that Shah Jahan was so envious of the garden’s splendor that he cut off its water supply, causing it to be abandoned for a time. But a loyal servant, who was resting with Asif Khan in the garden, secretly turned on the water supply, much to Asif Khan’s surprise and fear of punishment. However, Shah Jahan was so pleased with the servant’s loyalty to his master that he approved of the water supply being restored and even gifted the garden to Asif Khan.
Nishat Bagh is divided into a public and private garden and is comprised of 12 well-manicured terraces, each representing the 12 signs of the zodiac. Bracketed by Cyprus and China trees and bursting with an array of roses and lilies, each terrace holds its own unique features.
In the heart of Nishat Bagh lies the gravesite of Mughal Princess Zuhra Begum, daughter of Emperor Alamgir II and granddaughter of Emperor Jahandar Shah, adding to the garden’s historical significance.
With timings from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM and an entry fee of only INR 10, this is a must-visit for anyone looking for a tranquil escape and a glimpse into Mughal history. Plan for 2-3 hours to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Nishat Bagh. Get ready to be transported to a world of joy, gladness, and delight!
