Located in the middle of Kashmir, Pari Mahal, or the palace of the fairy is a splendid piece of an ancient monument that reflects the region’s historical and topographical beauty. Located in Srinagar, this splendid monument is a great example of architecture of the Mughal reign and takes the visitors through the rich history of Jammu and Kashmir. Built on the Zabarwan range overlooking the Dal Lake, Pari Mahal is a perfect example of Mughal architecture. This seven terrace garden was constructed during the period of Dara Shikoh son of the great Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
This palace was both used as a library and a dwelling for Dara Shikoh who was an educated, Sufi mannered person. Today, Pari Mahal Srinagar is one among the prime tourist attractions having tourists from all the corners of the world to observe the enchanting beauty of the place and the history associated with it.Let’s watch the beauty of Pari Mahal in this blog and how it came into existence and everything that you would require to know about the place before you plan to go there.
Pari Mahal Kashmir
Pari Mahal Kashmir has its origins in the mid seventeenth century. Constructed by Dara Shikoh, the palace was primarily planned to be an astronomical center and a bookhouse as he was interested in astronomy and astrology. Similarly lying in the southern city of Lahore, Pari Mahal represents an illustrative example of Indo-Islamic and Persian architecture with an emphasis on the symmetry in the building and the usage of arched niches, besides the beautiful terraced gardens.
Key features of Pari mahal
- Terraced Gardens: Seven terraces of Pari Mahal consist of green lawns, beautiful flowers, and designed hedges to make it look beautiful. All the terraces provide views of the surrounding environment that is rather picturesque.
- Water Reservoirs: The palace contains several water cisterns and fountains within the palace designed for water supply and beautification of the yards.
- Arched Niches and Halls: It features a number of arched niches and halls elevating the architectural design of the structure. Such areas were required for learning and academic discourse as well as for making astronomical calculations.
Pari Mahal Srinagar Timings
Pari Mahal Srinagar timings are the key to planning a visit to Pari Mahal. The palace is open for tours and visits seven days a week from the morning at 9:30 AM in the morning to the evening at 5:30 in the evening. However, it is advisable to confirm the specifics on the time before going there as they may change a bit with the calendar season.
Ways of getting to Pari Mahal
- By Air: The main airport nearest to Pari Mahal is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar which is about 20 Kilometers away. There is availability of hired taxis, or one can prefer to go by the local buses to reach there.
- By Road: Srinagar is well linked by roads to all the major places in Jammu and Kashmir. Like the most attractions in Lahore, you can also find a taxi and get there; however, using public transport is also possible.
- By Boat: As a different approach among tourist attractions that you should visit, you can take a shikara ride on Dal Lake and visit Pari Mahal.
Pari Mahal and the area around it
Pari Mahal is not just about the palace itself; its surroundings offer plenty of attractions to explore:
1. Dal Lake
Without any doubt, Dal Lake is one of the most popular spots for tourists to visit in Srinagar. There you can relax on the shikara, shop at the floating markets and marvel at the beauty of the Himalayan range.
2. Mughal Gardens
Srinagar city is famous for many Mughal gardens: Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh and Chashme Shahi. These gardens having terraced lawns, expensive fountains and baroque flowers are the symbol of Mughals’ love for nature and beauty.
3. Shankaracharya Temple
This archaeological site is present in Shankaracharya Hill and it has a strong view over the Srinagar and valleys. The location is historically and religiously immensely important; The place is an important religious shrine.
4. Hazratbal Shrine
This one of the most important Muslim religious places is located on the northern banks of Dal Lake. It is well known as being a shrine containing what is believed to be the hair of the Prophet Muhammad. Since the shrine is built and structured with fine arts, it serves to be peaceful and beautiful to be visited.
Conclusion
Pari Mahal is one of the finest pieces of architecture in Srinagar where tourists can explore history along with the beauty of nature. Be it a history lover or a nature lover or even if you just want to have a vacation which does not include much exploring, Pari Mahal Kashmir is a place which will captivate you. This palace is an ideal place to visit; therefore, plan your vacation with Capture a Trip, a travel company with years of experience who will help you guide and prepare a perfect travel itinerary. So pack your bags and be ready to discover the charm of Jammu and Kashmir tour.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. To what extent and how is the Pari Mahal, Srinagar linked with the past?
The Pari Mahal structure was developed in the mid seventeenth century by Dara Shikoh, the first offspring of Emperor Shah Jahan. Originally, as a library and an observatory for his research in astronomy and astrology or as an astrological observatory.
2. When it is opened for visitors Pari Mahal Srinagar, what are the set visiting hours?
Entry timings of Pari Mahal Srinagar are 9:30 in the morning to 5:30 in the evening daily. As for the prices, it’s advised to ask about the opening hours as they may change depending on the season.
3. What is the transportation to Pari Mahal?
The modes of getting to Pari Mahal are airborne, roadway as well as waterway. Srinagar is the closest airport which is approximately 20 km away from the city of Gulmarg. There are hired taxis and local buses for transfers and sightseeing; one should also not miss a Shikara ride in the Dal lake.
4. What are the features of Pari Mahal Jammu?
These are terraced gardens seven in number, water tanks and arched niches and halls. It has a lush green area with a nice and beautiful view of Dal Lake.
5. What places can be included near Pari Mahal?
Tourist attractions in the vicinity are Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens – (Shalimar Garden, Nishat Garden, Chashma Shahi Garden), Shankaracharya Temple and Hazratbal Shrine.
