Located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, the Mehtab Bagh is a Mughal-style garden with a spectacular structure as the focal point. Constructed in the early 1500s by Emperor Babur, this historical site fell into disrepair over the centuries. Today, it's a renovated relic that attracts visitors year-round. Experience the garden's fascinating symmetry and curious relation to the nearby Taj Mahal right now.
Looking at the History
In the 1600s, Shah Jahan oversaw many building creations in Agra, including the Taj Mahal. According to legend, he pinpointed Mehtab Bagh as a perfect mausoleum for himself. Loosely referenced as the "Black Taj Mahal," Jahan began renovating the site.
Although Jahan didn't complete the mausoleum, the Archaeological Survey of India preserved the property in the 1990s after many years of flooding across the land. Currently, Mehtab Bagh stands as a mirror image of the Taj Mahal. For example, it has the same garden width as the Taj Mahal's property across the Yamuna River.
Examining the Architecture
Mehtab Bagh reflects a classic Mughal design with four symmetrical gardens and four sandstone towers flanking each corner. Centralized in the middle of the garden, the main structure overlooks an octagonal pond near the river's edge. Feeding the pond is a stepped waterfall that stretches across the property. On a moonlit night, the Taj Mahal reflects perfectly onto the pond. Because of this unique feature, Mehtab Bagh gained its name, which translates to moonlit garden in Urdu.
Planning Activities at Mehtab Bagh
On average, it takes about an hour to explore Mehtab Bagh. Visitors can walk the gardens while enjoying the trees planted over the years. For example, guava and citrus trees flourish here. As spring arrives, the hibiscus bushes come into bloom, too. Because of the flora, birds flock to the garden. Bird watching is certainly encouraged at Mehtab Bagh.
Bring your camera to capture photos of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh's shoreline. Indeed, visiting Mehtab Bagh during the winter on a Friday gives you a comfortable view of the Taj Mahal without all the spectators. Because the Taj Mahal closes each Friday, photography fans can shoot the structure without the crowds.
Traveling to Mehtab Bagh
Taking a bus, taxi or auto rickshaw from Agra to Mehtab Bagh is the best way to access this property. It's open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily with an entry fee at the main gate. For a unique experience, take the ferry that travels on the Yamuna River between Mehtab Bagh and the Taj Mahal. For a small fee, you can see both sites from the water and avoid the busy streets.
Overall, Mehtab Bagh offers a relaxing walk around its garden with an intimate look at the Taj Mahal from a unique perspective. Booking a hotel in Agra and visiting Mehtab Bagh in the early morning are clever ways to avoid any crowds. This renovated property thrives with visitor contributions and India's preservation ordinances. As the garden grows older, Mehtab Bagh can rise as a must-see historic site for travelers across the globe.
