Pari Mahal

Pari Mahal is a historic seven-terraced garden and palace located on the Zabarwan mountain range overlooking Dal Lake in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. Built in the mid-17th century by Mughal Prince Dara Shikoh, it served as a library, observatory and residence for his Sufi teacher Mulla Shah. Known as the Palace of Fairies, it features Mughal architecture, arched terraces and landscaped gardens with panoramic views of the lake and city.

Visitors can explore a seven-level terraced garden and ruined palace structure on a hillside above Dal Lake. The site offers arched doorways, baradaris, landscaped lawns and flower beds, and wide panoramic views of Dal Lake, Srinagar city and the Zabarwan hills. The complex is accessed via staircases connecting the terraces, with quiet garden areas for sightseeing, photography and leisurely walks.

Built in the mid-17th century (around 1650) by Mughal Prince Dara Shikoh, eldest son of Emperor Shah Jahan, for his Sufi teacher Mulla Shah Badakhshi. The structure served as a library, observatory for astronomy and astrology, and a retreat for spiritual teaching. It exemplifies Mughal architecture with Islamic influences and terraced garden planning.

Known as the Palace of Fairies, the site reflects Mughal cultural and architectural heritage and Sufi traditions of Kashmir. Its terraced garden design, water channels and pavilions represent classic Mughal garden aesthetics and remains an important heritage and cultural attraction in Srinagar.