Nishat Garden, often called the “Garden of Joy”, is one of Srinagar’s most impressive Mughal gardens, set on the eastern bank of Dal Lake with the Zabarwan Range rising dramatically behind it. The garden is laid out in a series of wide terraces that climb gently from the lakeside towards the hills, connected by a central water channel, fountains, and stone chutes. Lush lawns, flower beds, chinar trees, and cypress-lined pathways create a picture-perfect setting for leisurely walks, family outings, and photography. From the upper terraces, visitors can enjoy wide views over Dal Lake, shikaras, and distant cityscapes, making Nishat a favorite golden-hour spot. The garden’s symmetry, water features, and carefully planned viewpoints reflect the refined tastes of Mughal landscape design. For travelers, Nishat Garden is a key introduction to Kashmir’s blend of natural beauty, history, and architecture in a single, accessible location.
srinagar, Kashmir
April to October, especially late afternoon to sunset when the light softens and views over Dal Lake are at their best.
4.7/5
Nishat Garden is a classic example of Mughal terraced garden design adapted to Kashmir’s mountain-lake setting. Its long, rectangular layout steps up from the lakeshore in carefully proportioned terraces, each offering slightly different vantage points and landscaping. The central watercourse, fed by springs, flows down through fountains and stone channels, creating soothing sound and movement that enhance the garden’s calm mood. Mature chinar and cypress trees provide welcome shade, while flower beds change character with the seasons. Because of its size and open lawns, Nishat never feels overwhelmingly packed even when busy, making it an ideal place to pause, stroll, and absorb the natural and historical charm of Srinagar’s lakefront.
Walk slowly up each terrace to enjoy changing perspectives.
Relax on the lawns with views of the lake and mountains.
Capture photographs of fountains, arches, and tree-lined paths.
Enjoy snacks from nearby stalls or small eateries outside the garden.
Combine Nishat visit with a shikara ride on Dal Lake later in the day.
Spend an afternoon exploring Nishat and then take a shikara ride on Dal Lake from a nearby ghat as the sun sets.
Include Nishat in a full-day Srinagar tour featuring Shankaracharya Temple in the morning and Shalimar Bagh and Hazratbal Shrine later in the day.
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srinagar, Kashmir, India
April to October, especially late afternoon to sunset when the light softens and views over Dal Lake are at their best.
Nishat shares Srinagar’s moderate summers, pleasant spring and autumn, and cold winters. Spring brings fresh blooms and new leaves, while summer offers long daylight hours ideal for evening garden visits. In autumn, golden chinar leaves add a special charm, carpeting parts of the garden. Winters can be cold and occasionally snowy, making visits shorter and heavily dependent on weather.
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