Pari Mahal
About Pari Mahal
Pari Mahal, meaning "The Palace of Fairies," is a seven-terraced garden located at the top of Zabarwan mountain range, overlooking Dal Lake in Srinagar. Built in the mid-1600s by Dara Shikoh, eldest son of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, this historic monument served as a library and residence for Dara Shikoh and his Sufi teacher, Mullah Shah.
The architecture reflects a unique blend of Islamic and Persian styles, with the structure built using locally quarried limestone. The terraced gardens follow the typical Mughal charbagh pattern, and the monument offers spectacular panoramic views of Srinagar city and Dal Lake, especially beautiful during sunset. Today, Pari Mahal is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India and has been beautifully illuminated at night, making it one of Srinagar's most photographed landmarks.
Historical Significance
| Location | Zabarwan Mountain Range, Srinagar |
| Distance from Dal Lake | 5 km from city center |
| Built By | Dara Shikoh (Son of Shah Jahan) |
| Period | Mid-17th Century (circa 1640 AD) |
| Purpose | Observatory, Library, and Sufi Learning Center |
| Architectural Style | Mughal architecture with Islamic and Persian influences |
| Number of Terraces | Seven levels |
| Best Time to Visit | April to October (Sunset views recommended) |
Architectural Features
- Seven Terraces: Ascending terraced gardens connected by stairs
- Arched Structures: Beautiful arched colonnades and chambers
- Water Channels: Intricate water supply system throughout the terraces
- Stone Construction: Built with locally sourced limestone
- Panoramic Views: Spectacular vistas of Dal Lake and Srinagar city
- Night Illumination: Beautifully lit monument creating enchanting nighttime views
How to Reach
By Road
Located 5 km from Srinagar city center. Accessible via taxi or auto-rickshaw from Boulevard Road or Lal Chowk.
By Air
Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar is 15 km away.
Visiting Information
| Opening Hours |
9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (April-October) 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (November-March) |
| Entry Fee | ₹25 for Indians, ₹100 for Foreigners |
| Photography | Allowed |
| Duration | 1-2 hours |
| Night Viewing | Visible from outside (illuminated after sunset) |
Travel Tips
- Visit during sunset for the most spectacular views and photography
- Wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs to climb
- Carry water and light snacks
- Night view from outside the complex is equally beautiful when illuminated
- Combine visit with Chashme Shahi garden nearby
- Allow 1-2 hours to explore all seven terraces
Nearby Attractions
- Chashme Shahi Garden (1 km)
- Botanical Garden (2 km)
- Nishat Bagh (4 km)
- Shalimar Bagh (6 km)
- Dal Lake (5 km)
- Shankaracharya Temple (3 km)