Journey back to the era of Mughal emperors at Yadavindra Gardens, which showcase the beautiful designs of Mughal garden culture. Stroll through the terraced grounds, picnic on the lawns and enjoy the romantic atmosphere of dimly lit fountains after dark.
Yadavindra Gardens were designed in the 17th century by Nawab Fadai Khan, a renowned Mughal architect. Following traditional Mughal design, the garden is symmetrically laid out around water channels that flow down a series of terraces. Each terrace features palatial buildings, fountain displays or flower arrangements. The gardens were used to host gatherings of the royal court.
Enter the garden at the highest terrace, where you will pass through the Shish Mahal, a grand palace. Next to this building is the Hawa Mahal, known as the Airy Palace. Below, on the second terrace is the Rang Mahal, a passage flanked by arched doorways. From these elevated terraces, look out onto the gardens stretching below you.
Continue your way down through the grounds toward the Jal Mahal, or Palace of Water, which features an attractive square pool. For a spectacular view of the Mughal architecture, look back towards the Shish Mahal from here. You will also see its white façade reflected in the water channel below.
Sit down in the open-air amphitheater near the bottom of the gardens, and enjoy the beautiful surrounds. Stop by the nursery to see saplings that will one day grow into decorative flower displays for the gardens. At the Japanese Garden, learn about the art of ikebana, Japanese flower arrangement.
Meander through the grounds at night when the fountains, buildings and other areas are illuminated.
Yadavindra Gardens are approximately 13.7 miles (22 kilometers) northeast of Chandigarh on the Ambala-Shimla highway. The floral and historic attraction is open daily, from morning until late into the evening. Admission charges apply.
