The Shalimar Bagh was constructed in 1653 by Izz-un-Nissa Begum, wife of Emperor Shah Jahan, as a tribute to the Shalimar Bagh in Kashmir. The garden bears witness to key events in India’s history, including Aurangzeb’s enthronement in 1658 and Nadir Shah’s encampment in 1738, during his invasion of Delhi. Later absorbed into British estates, the site, features remnants of colonial-era constructions, many of which have since fallen into ruin. Presently, only the Sheesh Mahal, complex and a few formerly dilapidated structures - now restored - remain.
When Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena first visited Shalimar Bagh on 20-01-2024, this site was a decrepit and desolate location. comprising crumbling heritage structures amidst overgrowth of vegetation, dirt and litter. Years of neglect had hidden the jewels here, threatening them to be forgotten forever from the pages of history.
Shri Saxena ensured that conservation of historic structures, environmental upgradation works and restoration of garden around the monument were initiated in a mission mode. Untiring efforts, out of box imagination and seamless coordination between the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), which was the main stakeholder and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) resulted in this transformation that one witnesses today.
The Sheesh Mahal monument has been restored to its pristine historic glory using original material and the front garden has been re-laid in Moghul Charbagh style. The garden around the heritage monument has been thoughtfully revived to improve visitor experience while honoring the heritage precinct’s historic character. The existing lawns are enhanced with sandstone pathways and seating areas aligned with heritage monument, water channels and heritage pathways, further augmented by flower beds, shrubs, and orchard plantation in the lawns. To support both functionality and aesthetics, discreet landscape lighting, resembling the Mughal era are provided.
Today, the restored Shalimar Bagh stands as a testament to Delhi’s layered history - a blend of Mughal grandeur, colonial transitions, and the passage of time