Kashmir is truly described as the paradise on earth and the makers of this paradise on earth were none other than the Mughals. The exquisite creation of the Mughals is remarkably reflected in the parks and gardens of Srinagar. Of the beautiful parks and gardens of Kashmir, the most significant ones are Chashma Shahi and Pari Mahal.
About Chashma Shahi and Pari Mahal :
Chashma Shahi in Srinagar:
Terraced lawns, fascinating fountains and floral beds on the banks of Dal Lake constitute the Mughal Gardens one of which is the Chashma Shahi. Beautifully terraced garden and a colorful flowers make Chashma Shahi beautiful than any other parks and gardens of Kashmir. Originally Shah Jahan’s creation in the year 1632 it has undergone a number of renovations to retain its remarkable beauty. Shah Jahan named the garden after a mountain spring that waters it and so it has the name Chashma Shahi. Get your permits from the information counter to visit this garden in Srinagar.
Chashma Shahi has tastefully laid garden in terraces, which commands a magnificent view of the Dal Lake below and surrounding mountain ranges. The cool water of the spring is highly refreshing and digestive. The original garden was laid out by Shah Jehan in 1632 AD.
By the side of Chashma Shahi Garden are huts where some of the state government officials have their official residences to enjoy the luxurious stay while serving the Jammu & Kashmir State Government.
Pari Mahal in Srinagar:
Pari Mahal was initially a garden founded by Dara Shiko, Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan’s eldest son for his Sufi teacher, Mulla Shah. Once dotted with numerous springs, which have dried up now, the Pari Mahal gardens are now the treasure possession of the state.
Pari Mahal is bedazzling with radiant lights at night, and though located on the spur of a hill, can he seen from most places in Srinagar. Pari Mahal, once a Buddhist monastery, was converted into a school of astrology by Dara Shikoh.
Pari Mahal (House of the Fairies) is situated just above Chashma Shahi Gardens, about 10 km from Srinagar, in Jammu and Kashmir. It was once a Buddhist monastery, later converted into a school of astrology by Dara Shikoh – eldest son of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
Pari Mahal is a historic monument as well as a well-laid spacious garden. Situated around a small spring, the garden has beautiful flowering plants and various kinds of fruit.
Although Pari Mahal boasted a large number of springs earlier, only a few can be seen today. The mahal, on the spur of a hill, is illuminated at night and can be seen from most places in Srinagar.
How to Reach Chashma Shahi and Pari Mahal in Srinagar:
You can reach Chashma Shahi and Pari Mahal through different ways.
Nearest Airport: You can drop into the Srinagar Airport and then reach Chashma Shahi and Pari Mahal by taking a drive.
Nearest Rail head: Jammu Railway Station is the nearest railhead which is 305km from Srinagar.
Roadways: Srinagar is interconnected with good number of roadways to the rest of the city.