Nishat Garden and Chashma Shahi: Historical Background for Students
Introduction
The Mughal gardens of Kashmir are among the finest examples of Persian garden design in India. Built during the Mughal period, they reflect a blend of natural beauty and architectural skill. Two of the most famous gardens in Srinagar are Nishat Garden (Nishat Bagh) and Chashma Shahi (the Royal Spring Garden). Both were created in the 17th century when the Mughal emperors admired Kashmir as “Paradise on Earth.”
Nishat Garden (Nishat Bagh)
- Built by: Asif Khan, the brother of Empress Nur Jahan
- Year: 1633 CE during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan
- Meaning: “Nishat” means joy or delight
- Location: On the eastern bank of Dal Lake, with the Zabarwan Hills as a backdrop
Nishat Garden is designed in the classical Mughal terraced style, divided into twelve terraces symbolizing the twelve zodiac signs. Each terrace is decorated with fountains, flowing water channels, and lush chinar trees. It reflects the Mughal idea of creating a piece of paradise on earth.
Chashma Shahi (The Royal Spring Garden)
- Built by: Ali Mardan Khan, a governor of the Mughal court
- Year: 1632 CE, commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan
- Name Origin: “Chashma” means spring and “Shahi” means royal
- Location: Situated above the Nehru Park area of Dal Lake
Chashma Shahi is smaller compared to Nishat Bagh but equally significant. The central attraction is the natural spring, believed to have medicinal properties. The garden is laid out in the Mughal charbagh (four-part) style, with terraces, fountains, and flowering plants.
Conclusion
Both Nishat Garden and Chashma Shahi represent the Mughal legacy in Kashmir. They show how the emperors combined natural landscapes with artistic design to create gardens of peace, beauty, and culture. For students, these gardens are not only tourist attractions but also living examples of Mughal history, architecture, and environmental harmony.
