Shalimar Gardens

The Garden
Covering an area of 12 hectares, it gives a Splendid view of the Kashmir Valley, nearby Gardens and lakes. The Shalimar Bagh (Garden) has four terraces, lined one on the other. The last terrace - the highest of them was reserved for the Royal Ladies at the time of Mughal Era. From the terrace one can see the canal which flows directly to the other end of the Garden. Numerous small and big fountains flow, through the Channel. This Canal is the main source of water to all the parts of the garden. This Canal, named as Shah Nahar or the Central Canal is the central axis of the garden.

The top most terrace which used to be reserved for the Royal Ladies and the emperor himself , is the most spectacular of all. It has a huge water tank with black stone pavilion in its middle. In the early days of the garden , this pavilion used to work as a banquet hall. Numerous flowers and trees cover the area of the Shalimar Garden. The most wonderful thing about the Shalimar Garden is the LIGHT AND MUSIC SHOW, which is held every evening in Shalimar Garden.

At the lowest terrace is the Char Bagh. Meant for general public has the Hall of Public Audience. The second terrace was meant for the Royal Courtiers, special guests of the Emperor or the elite. It also houses the Hall Of Private Audiance.