Nishat Bagh

The Garden of Joy • Twelve Terraces of Beauty

Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Best Time: Apr-Oct
Entry: ₹20-₹250
Daily Visitors: 1K+
Built: 1633 AD

About Nishat Bagh

Nishat Bagh, meaning "Garden of Joy," is a Mughal garden located on the eastern side of Dal Lake in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. Built in 1633 by Asaf Khan, the brother of Empress Nur Jahan, it is the second largest Mughal garden in Kashmir and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The garden is famous for its 12 terraces, each representing one of the 12 zodiac signs. It offers breathtaking views of Dal Lake and the surrounding mountains. The garden was designed in the traditional Persian Charbagh style with a central water channel flowing through all terraces.

Nishat Bagh covers an area of 46 acres and features beautiful flowerbeds, fountains, chinar trees, and stunning views of the Zabarwan mountain range. The garden is particularly beautiful during spring when flowers bloom and during autumn when the chinar leaves turn golden.

Historical Background

1633 - Construction

Built by Asaf Khan, the brother of Empress Nur Jahan and father-in-law of Shah Jahan.

Mughal Era

Served as a royal garden and retreat for Mughal nobility visiting Kashmir.

18th Century

The garden was expanded and maintained by subsequent rulers.

British Period

Preserved and maintained by the British administration as a heritage site.

Present Day

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and maintained as a major tourist attraction.

Garden Features & Architecture

Garden Layout

  • • 12 terraces representing zodiac signs
  • • Traditional Persian Charbagh design
  • • Central water channel with fountains
  • • Beautiful flowerbeds and lawns
  • • Ancient chinar and cypress trees

Key Features

  • • Panoramic views of Dal Lake
  • • Zabarwan mountain backdrop
  • • Water channels and fountains
  • • Stone pathways and pavilions
  • • Traditional Kashmiri architecture

Best Time to Visit

🌸

Spring (Apr-May)

Flowers in full bloom, pleasant weather, and vibrant colors throughout the garden.

🌞

Summer (Jun-Aug)

Lush greenery, flowing fountains, and cool shade from trees.

🍂

Autumn (Sep-Oct)

Golden chinar leaves, romantic atmosphere, and stunning mountain views.

Activities & Experiences

Garden Exploration

  • • Walk through 12 terraced levels
  • • Admire the fountains and water channels
  • • Enjoy panoramic views of Dal Lake
  • • Relax under ancient chinar trees
  • • Photography of garden landscapes

Cultural Experiences

  • • Learn about Mughal architecture
  • • Enjoy traditional Kashmiri music
  • • Picnic in designated areas
  • • Watch sunset over Dal Lake
  • • Evening strolls in the garden

Essential Visiting Tips

What to Bring

  • • Comfortable walking shoes
  • • Camera for photography
  • • Water bottle
  • • Sunscreen and hat
  • • Light snacks (if allowed)

Important Notes

  • • Best visited early morning or evening
  • • Avoid weekends for fewer crowds
  • • Respect the garden environment
  • • Check for special events
  • • Carry cash for entry fees

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

  • Top terrace: Panoramic views of Dal Lake
  • Water channels: Flowing fountains and reflections
  • Chinar trees: Especially beautiful in autumn
  • Terraced gardens: Symmetrical compositions
  • Mountain backdrop: Zabarwan range views

Camera Settings

  • Aperture: f/5.6 to f/8 for garden scenes
  • ISO: 100-400 for natural light
  • Shutter Speed: 1/60s for fountains
  • Lens: Wide-angle and telephoto lenses

Nearby Attractions

Dal Lake

The famous floating paradise with houseboats and shikaras.

Distance: 12 km from Nishat Bagh

Shalimar Bagh

Beautiful Mughal garden built by Emperor Jahangir.

Distance: 3 km from Nishat Bagh

Hazratbal Shrine

Important Muslim shrine on the shores of Dal Lake.

Distance: 10 km from Nishat Bagh

Pari Mahal

Ancient astronomical observatory with panoramic views.

Distance: 6 km from Nishat Bagh

Location & Map

🗺️

Nishat Bagh is located on the eastern side of Dal Lake in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir.

Address:

Nishat Bagh, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 191121, India

Coordinates:

34.1237° N, 74.8718° E

View on Google Maps

Quick Facts

Built:1633 AD
Built By:Asaf Khan
Area:46 acres
Terraces:12 levels
Design:Charbagh style
UNESCO:World Heritage

Entry Fees

Indian Citizens:₹20
Foreign Tourists:₹250
Children (0-12):Free
*Prices may vary. Check official website for updates.

Opening Hours

Daily:9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Best Time:Early Morning
*Timings may vary during festivals

How to Reach

By Air

Srinagar Airport (SXR) - 18 km from Nishat Bagh

By Train

Jammu Tawi Station - 300 km from Srinagar

By Road

Well connected by bus from major cities

Local Transport

Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and local buses from Dal Lake

Contact Information

+91-194-2452691
For guided tours and information, contact J&K Tourism.

Weather Guide

❄️
Winter (Nov-Feb)
-2°C - 15°C
Snow, very cold
🌸
Spring (Mar-May)
10°C - 25°C
Best time to visit
🌞
Summer (Jun-Aug)
15°C - 30°C
Pleasant weather

© 2026 TripGuides.in. All Rights Reserved.