6 Stunnings Baghs That You Absolutely Must Visit In Srinagar

Kashmir is renowned for its gorgeous gardens with myriads of flowers and trees. Most of these are from the Mughal Era and hence, the beauty is unmatched. Symmetrical flower beds, neatly trimmed and shaped bushes, the heavy duty maintenance is praiseworthy! So, here are the best baghs that you need to visit when in Srinagar:

1. Nishat Bagh

This is the 2nd largest Mughal Garden in Kashmir and has the colossal Zabarwan Hills in the backdrop. The garden has several Chinar trees and receives a supply of crystal clear spring water which only adds to its beauty. Bollywood flicks like Lamhaa (2010) and Fitoor (2016) have been shot here! Since it's connected to the Dal Lake, you can even hop on a Shikara to get here.

Where | Eastern Side Of The Dal Lake

2. Chashme Shahi

Mere mortals like us get books and bicycles as birthday presents. But for Mughal bigwigs like Shah Jahan, a huge garden seemed like a befitting birthday gift for his son, Dara Shikoh! It's constructed around a spring which is believed to have medicinal properties and is surrounded by a great variety of flowers ranging from Dahlias to Roses. Pari Mahal lies nearby which gives you a great view of the city.

Where | Near Raj Bhawan

3. Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden

Close to Chashme Shahi and Pari Mahal, one can only imagine how beautiful and regal the surroundings will be. This is Asia’s largest Tulip garden and is flocked by thousands of tourists every year. It's a visual delight to look at rows of Tulips, Daffodils and Hyacinths etc. Every year around April, a Tulip Festival is also organized when the flowers are in full bloom and the garden comes to life!

Where | Chashme Shahi Road, Zabarwan Range

4. Shalimar Bagh

One of the largest Mughal Gardens in Srinagar, Shalimar Bagh is designed with numerous fountains, shallow terraces, trees & flowers. For some this place is a romantic abode, for others it's a great site for photography. Built by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, it has managed to retain its past glory over the years and continues to be one of the most popular gardens in Srinagar. Pro Tip - Don't miss the spectacular evening light & sound show!

Where | Shalimar, Rainawari

5. Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden

The sheer variety of flowers found here is mind blowing. From tiny flowers to gigantic flowers, straight trees to crooked trees; they have it all! Well spaced flower beds and manicured lawns shows the high level of maintenance; you may sit on one of the benches and absorb the view of this beautiful garden which is flanked by the majestic hills. If the weather is good, the clouds descend to the level of the trees! You can even enjoy a leisurely boat ride here.

Where | Near Chashme Shahi

6. Harwan Garden

Floral arches? Yes please! A relatively unknown garden, mostly visited by the locals, this one’s a true hidden gem! You’ll find many families enjoying a peaceful lunch or some tea with snacks; family garden picnics are quite common in Kashmir. If you’re lucky, there might even be a photographer who will dress you up in the traditional Kashmiri attire for a photoshoot! 

Where | Murandar Bagh

A whiff of history and oodles of beauty - that's what all of these baghs are about!