Achabal Gardens, “the places of the princes”, is a small Mughal garden located at the southeastern end of the Kashmir Valley in the town of Achabal, Anantnag district, India. Located near the Himalayan Mountains, the site may have been a Hindu sacred site known as “Akkshavala” previously.
About Achabal Gardens :
Achabal is situated at a distance of 58 km from the district of Srinagar. Reached via Anantnag, Achabal served as the pleasure retreat of the Mughal Empress Nur Jehan. Situated at a height of 1,677 m, Achabal is a visual treat for the eyes. Achabal is adorned with one of the best Mughal Gardens in India.
Resplendent in a history that dates back to the times of the Mughal rulers in India, much of the Kashmir Valley is scattered with gardens and palaces which are relics of the rich architectural heritage which we have inherited from the glorious rule of the Mughals in India. One of these is a garden built as a pleasure retreat of Empress Noor Jahan, the wife of Emperor Jahangir and one of the most charismatic empresses of the Mughal Era. A tour to Achabal is the perfect way to witness the charming Mughal architecture. Located at a height of 1,677 meters above sea level and around 58 kms away from Srinagar, a tour to Achabal is the perfect weekend getaway from Srinagar.
Laid following the Persian style of gardening, one of the most popular styles of the Mughal era, the Garden is a riot of colors while sparkling waters gush out of exquisitely designed fountains. The garden which is built on the foot of a hill is surrounded by a spell binding array of tall Chinar trees, which add a special touch of regality to the still stately Mughal Gardens at Achabal. A tour to Achabal during autumn is made even more special when these Chinar Trees turn red, evoking images of beauty that remain with you ages after your holiday in Jammu and Kashmir is over!
How To Reach :
By Air : The easiest way of reaching Achabal is by air. The nearest airport is at the Badgam District around 58 kms away from the village of Achabal.
By Rail : The nearest railhead to Achabal is at Jammu from where it takes an approximate time of around 2 hours to reach Achabal.
By Road : Achabal is well-connected to a number of other regions of Jammu and Kashmir. There are a number of well maintained roads which lead to Achabal.