Gulmarg Ski Resort – Winter Wonderland

Shalimar Bagh is the largest and one of the most historically important Mughal gardens in Kashmir, originally built by Emperor Jahangir as a tribute to his love for the valley. Laid out in a classic charbagh-inspired pattern, the garden features broad lawns, tall chinar trees, terraced levels, and a central water channel that runs through intricately designed stone pavilions. Shalimar’s architecture and layout showcase the refined aesthetic of Mughal landscape design, balancing symmetry with views of Dal Lake and the surrounding hills. Visitors can wander along shaded pathways, sit beside fountains, and imagine royal processions that once used these grounds as a summer retreat. Because of its size and variety of spaces, Shalimar feels both grand and intimate, with quiet corners away from main paths. For travelers interested in history, architecture, and photography, it is an essential stop on any Srinagar itinerary.

Chashme Shahi is a compact yet beautiful Mughal garden built around a natural spring believed to have refreshing and medicinal qualities. Terraced across three main levels, the garden features a central water channel that originates from a small stone pavilion at the top and cascades down into pools and fountains below. Despite being smaller than Nishat and Shalimar, Chashme Shahi offers a peaceful atmosphere, colorful flower beds, and charming views over Dal Lake and the city. Visitors can sip water from the spring at designated points, stroll along the paths, and enjoy the fragrance of seasonal blossoms. Because of its size, the garden can be explored comfortably in a shorter time, making it ideal to combine with nearby viewpoints like Pari Mahal. For travelers who appreciate intimate, well-kept green spaces with a touch of legend, Chashme Shahi is a delightful stop.

Pari Mahal, meaning “Palace of Fairies”, is a unique seven-terraced garden and historical structure perched on a hill above Srinagar, offering one of the most impressive panoramic views over Dal Lake and the city. Unlike typical Mughal gardens, Pari Mahal combines remnants of old buildings with manicured lawns and flower beds spread across multiple levels. Visitors climb gently between terraces, each opening up wider vistas of the lake, surrounding mountains, and dense tree cover below. The ruins of arched halls and chambers add a sense of mystery and grandeur, hinting at its past use as a residence and learning center. Because of its elevated position, Pari Mahal is especially popular for sunset views, photography, and quiet contemplation. For travelers who want both history and a commanding viewpoint in a single stop, Pari Mahal is a highlight of the Srinagar hillside.