Are you ready to step into the Palace of Fairies? Yes, you heard it right, the Pari Mahal in Srinagar is where fairies probably reside! Don’t believe us? Well, that’s the charm of this historical monument that’s perched on the Zabarwan range overlooking the picturesque Srinagar and the Dal Lake.
Legend has it that the Pari Mahal was once a Buddhist monastery, but was later converted into a school of astrology for Mughal Prince Dara Shikoh. And wait, there’s more! Rumor has it that Dara Shikoh’s younger brother, Prince Aurangzeb, killed him here to take over the Mughal reign. Talk about sibling rivalry, huh? Later on, the Mahal served as a venue for a paramilitary camp.
Despite the bloody history, Pari Mahal today is a sight to cheer! The magnificent six terraces and the colorful flowers and exotic fruit plantations are a treat for the eyes. The Islamic architecture is a fabulous illustration of the bygone era, and the surrounding gardens are exceptionally well-maintained.
But beware, tourists! The structure is mostly in ruins, so watch your step, especially on the staircase. And don’t forget to carry your identity proof to enter the premises. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even get photographed in traditional Kashmiri outfits.
Reaching the Pari Mahal is a breeze. It’s just a 10-minute drive from the Chashm-E-Shahi, and visitors can rent cabs to get there via the Gupkar Road. From Srinagar, it’s about 13 kilometers away.