Kashmir, often called “Paradise on Earth,” is home to some of the most beautiful gardens in India. These gardens showcase the region’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Let’s explore the magnificent gardens that make Jammu and Kashmir a heaven for nature lovers.
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1. Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden
The Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden, formerly known as Siraj Bagh, is Asia’s largest tulip garden. Located at the foothills of the Zabarwan Range overlooking Dal Lake in Srinagar, this garden comes alive in spring when millions of tulips bloom in a rainbow of colors.
Visitors are greeted by rows upon rows of tulips in various shades – red, orange, yellow, white, purple, and pink. The garden hosts the annual Tulip Festival in April, attracting thousands of tourists from across the world. Besides tulips, you can also find daffodils, hyacinths, and other spring flowers adding to the garden’s charm.
2. Nishat Garden
Known as the “Garden of Joy,” Nishat Garden is the second largest Mughal garden in Kashmir. Built in 1633 by Asif Khan, the brother of Nur Jahan, this terraced garden offers a breathtaking view of Dal Lake.
Nishat Garden has twelve terraces representing the twelve zodiac signs. Each terrace rises dramatically above the next, with beautiful fountains and a central water channel running through the garden. The play of water, the colorful flowerbeds, and the majestic chinar trees make Nishat a perfect place for relaxation and photography.
3. Mughal Gardens
The term “Mughal Gardens” often refers collectively to several gardens built during the Mughal era in Kashmir. These gardens reflect the Persian concept of paradise – a place of beauty, tranquility, and harmony.
The Mughal Gardens of Kashmir follow a similar pattern with terraces, fountains, central water channels, and symmetrical layouts. These gardens were designed not just as places of beauty but also as symbols of imperial power and as settings for court ceremonies and royal pleasure.
4. Badamwari Garden
Badamwari, or the “Almond Garden,” is famous for its almond blossoms that signal the arrival of spring in Kashmir. Located at the foothills of Hari Parbat in Srinagar, this garden transforms into a magical place when hundreds of almond trees burst into delicate pink and white flowers.
Dating back to the 14th century, Badamwari holds cultural significance for Kashmiris who traditionally celebrate the beginning of spring with a visit to this garden. The almond blossoms against the backdrop of Hari Parbat fort create a captivating scene that draws both locals and tourists.
5. Bagh-e-Bahu
Located in Jammu, Bagh-e-Bahu is a beautiful terraced garden developed around the ancient Bahu Fort. This garden offers panoramic views of the Tawi River and Jammu city.
The garden features well-manicured lawns, colorful flowerbeds, and fountains. A major attraction is the underground aquarium housing various freshwater fish species. Bagh-e-Bahu has become a popular recreational spot for families and tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
6. Shalimar Bagh
Shalimar Bagh, the “Abode of Love,” was built by Emperor Jahangir for his beloved wife Nur Jahan in 1619. This garden is considered the crown jewel of Mughal horticulture in Kashmir.
Shalimar has three terraces with distinct names: Diwan-i-Aam (public audience hall), Diwan-i-Khas (private audience hall), and Zenana (ladies’ garden). The garden features spectacular fountains, pavilions, and chinar trees. The central water channel, known as the Shah Nahar, brings water from nearby mountains to feed the fountains and pools.
7. Garden of Char Chinar
The Garden of Char Chinar is a small island garden in the middle of Dal Lake. Named after the four majestic chinar trees planted at its corners, this garden was built by Murad Baksh, brother of Emperor Aurangzeb.
The island offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the calm waters of Dal Lake. Visitors can reach the garden by taking a shikara (traditional boat) ride, making the journey itself a memorable experience.
8. Nasim Bagh
Nasim Bagh, or the “Garden of Breezes,” was laid out by Emperor Akbar in 1586. Located on the western shore of Dal Lake, this garden is famous for its giant chinar trees, some of which are hundreds of years old.
Unlike other Mughal gardens, Nasim Bagh has a more natural, woodland-like setting. The massive chinar trees with their changing colors provide a spectacular sight, especially during autumn when the leaves turn fiery red and golden.
9. Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Gardens
The Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Gardens spread over 80 hectares near Dal Lake, houses a diverse collection of plants, flowers, and trees. The garden contains various sections including a rose garden, a plant conservation area, and a medicinal plant section.
This garden serves both recreational and educational purposes. Visitors can learn about various plant species while enjoying the beautiful landscape. The botanical garden also plays a crucial role in conserving rare and endangered plant species of the region.
