Mehtab Bagh is in the shape of a crescent. It is one of the best places to witness spectacular sunrise and sunset, along with the Taj Mahal. The garden is not famous for its garden, inlay, or architectural style but also a hangout place. Today, many tourists love to click some picturesque views and take a long walk in the garden, while appreciating its timeless beauty. Curious people even have their pre-wedding photoshoots, maternal shoots, and video shoots. Let’s learn more about its history and architecture.
History of Mehtab Bagh
Mehtab Bagh is a garden even older than the Taj Mahal itself. The gardens were initially built by Bbaur as the last one in a series of 11 parks on the Yamuna’s eastern bank. And, after waiting for 100 years, Emperor Shah Jahan chose this place for constructing the Taj Mahal.
Shah Jahan added an octagonal pool, white walkways, pavillions, fruit trees, different flora, and fountains. All these things together enhanced the beauty of the Mehtab Bagh.
The garden is also known as Moonlight Garden because it was used in the cool night atmosphere. When the moon’s rays shined on the Taj Mahal you can see its perfect reflection in the river and the pool of Mehtab Bagh. However, over the years Mehtab Bagh was redesigned several times. In 1990 it was nearly destroyed due to floods and re-excavated in 1994. During the re-excavation, the true beauty of Mehtab Bagh comes to shine.
Architecture of Mehtab Bagh
Mehtab Bagh is typically designed using the Mughal architectural style by blending a perfect garden layout. The garden is square with 300 meters on each side. When the site of Mehtab Bagh was re-excavated, several inscriptions were found mentioning about several other gardens that didn’t stand the time.
The garden compound is made up of white marble and red sandstone cladding, brick, and plaster of lime. The walls of the garden are 289m in height. From the re-excavation, it is believed that the garden had four towers and now only the south tower remains. The main component of the garden is an octagonal pond. In full moonlight, you can see the reflection of the Taj Mahal in this pond.
There is a large water tank on the Eastern side of the garden. The water channels cover the garden to provide water at every spot. Further, you will spot two ruined structures in the garden which are assumed to be the garden pavilions of the past.
Best Time To Visit Mehtab Bagh
Visiting Mehtab Bagh during the sunrise and sunset is a spectacular experience. You will witness the changing hues of the sky, a slightly cold breeze, and an atmosphere filled with serenity. In summer you can visit anytime between 6 am to 7 pm. Visiting Mehtab Bagh in winter is another level of experience.
Timings and Ticket of Mehtab Bagh
The timings for visiting the Mehatb Bgah is from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. The entry fees are as follows:
Entry Fee for Indians, SAARC/BIMSTEC citizens: INR 15
Entry Fee for Foreigners: INR 100 Per Head
The entry is free for children below the age of 15