Timings: 06:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Time Required: 1 - 2 hours
Entry Fee:
- Indians & SAARC Nations: INR 30
- Foreigners: INR 200
Overview
Mehtab Bagh, one of the last Mughal gardens in Agra, is located just across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal. This beautiful charbagh (four-garden) complex is perfectly aligned with the Taj, offering stunning views, especially at sunset. The garden, designed by Shah Jahan, is a photographer's haven, with its tranquil ambiance and mesmerizing reflection of the Taj Mahal in the water during moonlit nights. The park is filled with blooming flowers, fruit trees, and medicinal herbs, making it a horticultural delight.
Key Features
- Four Sandstone Towers: Standing at each corner, with one still intact in the southeast.
- Octagonal Tank: The central water body that reflects the Taj Mahal.
- Stepped Waterfall: Nourishing the pond, located at the northern end of the garden.
- Ruined Pavilions: Remnants of former structures within the garden.
- Aqueduct & Water Channels: Ensuring the garden stays lush and vibrant.
History
Originally laid out by Emperor Babur in 1530, Mehtab Bagh fell into neglect over time. Shah Jahan later revived it as a moonlit garden, providing an ideal vantage point for viewing the Taj Mahal. After centuries of flooding and neglect, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) began restoration efforts in 1994, uncovering its original layout and enhancing its beauty with new plants and flowers.
How to Reach
Mehtab Bagh is just 7-8 km from the Taj Mahal and can be reached by electric rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, taxis, or even a ferry ride from the Taj’s eastern side.
