Shalimar Gardens Lahore facts for kids
The Shalimar Gardens in Lahore, Pakistan, are amazing historical gardens. They were built a long time ago in the special Mughal style. These beautiful gardens are a famous place to visit near Lahore city. They show off the incredible art and design of the Mughal Empire.
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Shalimar Gardens: A Royal Oasis in Lahore
The Shalimar Gardens are a wonderful example of Mughal garden design. They are known for their careful layout and beautiful water features. These gardens are not just pretty; they also tell a story about the rich history of Pakistan.
Who Built the Shalimar Gardens?
The Shalimar Gardens were built by Emperor Shah Jahan. He was a powerful ruler of the Mughal Empire. He also built the famous Taj Mahal in India. The construction of the gardens started in 1641 AD. They were completed very quickly, in just one year, by 1642 AD. Emperor Shah Jahan wanted a beautiful place for royal gatherings. He also used the gardens as a resting place for his royal family.
Design: Three Terraces of Beauty
The Shalimar Gardens are designed in a special way. They have three levels, or terraces. Each terrace is a little lower than the one before it. This design helps water flow smoothly through the gardens.
- The top terrace is called 'Farah Bakhsh'. This means 'Bestower of Pleasure'.
- The middle terrace is called 'Faiz Bakhsh'. This means 'Bestower of Goodness'.
- The lowest terrace is also called 'Faiz Bakhsh'.
These terraces are connected by waterfalls and fountains.
What Makes Them So Special?
The gardens are famous for their many fountains. There are 410 fountains in total! These fountains get their water from a special canal. This canal was built to bring water from the Ravi River. The water flows through the gardens, creating a cool and peaceful atmosphere. The gardens also have many different types of trees and flowers. They were planted to create a colorful and fragrant paradise.
The Shalimar Gardens are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This means they are very important to the world's history and culture. They were added to the list in 1981. This helps protect the gardens for future generations to enjoy.
Visiting the Gardens Today
Today, the Shalimar Gardens are a popular place for visitors. People come to see the beautiful design and relax. You can walk along the paths and enjoy the sounds of the fountains. The gardens are a great place to learn about Mughal history. They also offer a peaceful escape from the busy city.
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