Pari Mahal

Pari Mahal is a historic monument and garden located in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India. Pari Mahal is situated on top of Zabarwan Mountain Range overlooking Dal Lake in Srinagar. Pari Mahal, which means "The Fairies' Abode" or "The Angels' Abode," has historical significance dating back to the Mughal period in Kashmir. It was built in the mid-17th century by Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, who had a keen interest in mysticism, philosophy, and the arts. Pari Mahal is an example of Islamic architecture and Mughal garden design. The structure consists of terraced gardens with six levels, each representing a different type of garden, and it offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Dal Lake. Pari Mahal was initially built as an observatory for Dara Shikoh to pursue his studies in astrology and astronomy. The terraced garden layout and the overall design make it an aesthetically pleasing place. Today, Pari Mahal is a tourist attraction, and visitors can explore its historical architecture, enjoy the well-maintained gardens, and take in the scenic views of Srinagar and Dal Lake. It stands as a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the region.