ABOUT
A palace so celestial that it appears to have emerged from the pages of a fairy tale. The name "Pari Mahal" means "Fairy Palace," and it is said that the palace was built for the fairies who used to visit the area. Built by Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Shah Jahan, the palace has been an inspiration and fascination for many beloved monuments around the globe from the Taj Mahal’s use of white marble and symmetrical layout to Shalimar Bagh’s terraced gardens. Pari Mahal was originally a school of astrology and astronomy and reflections of these can be seen in the marvellous surprises it hides Interestingly, the layout of the gardens is said to resemble the solar system, with the central fountain representing the sun and the surrounding terraces representing theplanets. Merely dreaming of this magical place won’t do it justice, experience it up close in the enchanting city of Srinagar.
WHAT'S INCREDIBLE
- Pari Mahal was built in the mid-17th century by Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It was originally a school of astrology and astronomy.
- Terraced gardens: The Pari Mahal garden is a masterpiece of Mughal Garden design. The garden is designed in seven terraces, each one representing a different planet. The terraces are connected by water channels and fountains, which create a tranquil and serene atmosphere. The terraces are also adorned with a bloom of flowers, plants, and trees, adding to the serenity.
- Stone pavilions: The stone pavilions in Pari Mahal are another architectural marvel. These pavilions are made of local grey limestone and are intricately carved with ornate designs and motifs. The pavilions served as a place for the students of astrology and astronomy to study and observe the night sky.
- Scientific water channels: Pari Mahal's water channels, designed to transport water from the nearby Zabarwan Mountains, are another stunning architectural feature. Made of stone, they create a calming sound as water flows through them, while also helping to cool the garden's air during hot summers.
- The architecture of Pari Mahal in Srinagar has influenced many global monuments, including the Taj Mahal and Shalimar Bagh. The use of white marble and symmetrical layout in the Taj Mahal and terraced layout, water channels, and fountains in the Shalimar Bagh show clear similarities to Pari Mahal.
- Dara Shikoh is believed to have installed several astronomical instruments in the palace to study the movements of the planets and stars.
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FASCINATING STORIES
FASCINATING STORIES
- The legend of the seven fairies: According to local folklore, Pari Mahal was built by seven fairies who used their magical powers to create the palace and its beautiful gardens. The fairies are said to have disappeared into the mountains after the palace was completed, leaving behind their magical legacy.
FASCINATING STORIES
- The astronomical instruments: As mentioned earlier, Dara Shikoh, the Mughal prince, used Pari Mahal as an observatory and installed several astronomical instruments to study the movements of the planets and stars. These instruments are believed to have been later dismantled and taken away by the British.
FASCINATING STORIES
Films shot here
- Film: Mission Kashmir (2000) - The Bollywood movie Mission Kashmir, directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, was partially shot in Pari Mahal. The palace's beautiful terraced gardens and intricate woodwork were featured prominently in the movie.
FASCINATING STORIES
- Song: "Jiya Jale" from Dil Se (1998) - The popular Bollywood song "Jiya Jale" from the movie Dil Se, directed by Mani Ratnam, features stunning visuals of Pari Mahal. The song's beautiful lyrics, composed by A.R. Rahman and sung by Lata Mangeshkar and M.G. Sreekumar, perfectly capture the palace's tranquil beauty.
FASCINATING STORIES
- Dara Shikoh was known for his interest in mysticism and spirituality, and he was said to have spent many hours studying and meditating in the gardens of Pari Mahal. It is believed that he wrote several treatises on astrology and other esoteric subjects while living at Pari Mahal.
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ELEVATE YOUR EXPERIENCE
- ACTIVITIES
Things to do:
Places to explore near the attraction
- Shalimar Bagh: A Mughal Gardensimilar to Pari Mahal, just a 10-minute drive away.
- Nishat Bagh: Another Mughal Garden with beautiful views of the Zabarwan Mountains, located about 5 kilometers away.
Things to do:
- Chashme Shahi: A garden with a natural spring, located about 7 kilometers away.
- Hazratbal Shrine: A famous Muslim shrine, located about 8 kilometers away.
- Dal Lake: A large lake with floating gardens, houseboats, and stunning views, located about 9 kilometers away.
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ESSENTIALS
TIMINGS
From 9.30 AM to 7.30 PM, on all days of the week, except on Friday
WEATHER
Srinagar is pleasantly warm (20-30°C) in March-May, rainy (16-30°C) in June-September, mild and pleasant (9-20°C) in October-November and very cold (2-11°C) in November-February.
OTHER ATTRACTIONS NEARBY
PLACES TO STAY
From opulent hotels to intimate bed and breakfasts that offer a cozy atmosphere, Srinagar has something to offer for every type of traveler.