Mehtab Bagh is located on the left Bank of River Yamuna opposite to the Taj Mahal. This park is originally built by Emperor Babur as the last series of the 11 parks on the Yamuna’s bank.The garden complex, square in shape, measures about 300 by 300 metres (980 ft × 980 ft) and is perfectly aligned with the Taj Mahal on the opposite bank.The excavation has revealed a huge octagonal tank at center and a gateway at the northern wall.This is now one of the best places to view the great mausoleum.
Major Highlights
- Mehtab Bagh includes a long stretch of a pool that beautifully reflects the image of Taj Mahal.
- Various beautiful plants can be seen flourishing in the garden.
- The structure of Mehtab Bagh is in the form of Charbagh complex.
- A perfect view of Taj Mahal can be relished from this garden.
Entry Fee
For Indian visitors, the entry fee for Mehtab Bagh is 20 INR, whereas, for foreign tourists, the ticket price is 250 INR as per ASI.
Visiting Timings
Mehtab Bagh opens all days from 6 in the morning to 6 in the evening. However, the ticket counter closes half-an-hour before the sunset.
Architecture of Mehtab Bagh
Mehtab Bagh reflects typical Mughal style of architecture, with a four garden layout, square in shape and measuring 300 metres on each side. The garden compound is constructed with red sandstone, brick and lime plaster. Two major elements of the garden include the octagonal domed tower made of red sandstone inside the garden and the large octagonal pond located towards the southern side. The pond's beauty lies in the fact that it displays the reflection of Taj Mahal on it.
There is a stepped waterfall present in the north of the garden that feeds this pond. The garden is characterized with four towers, one on each corner. Out of these four, only one tower stands today, which is present towards the south-east side. There is a large water tank on the east, with many water channels covering the garden to ensure that every part of it remains flourished. There are baradaris on the west and east of the garden. The garden also houses two ruined structures which are presumed to be the garden pavilions that did not survive the passage of time. There is an aqueduct in the north that feed the garden. Another significant structure in the garden is the small Dalit shrine near the entrance. The overall architecture of Mehtab Bagh is further enhanced by the many nurseries of plants that are being added to the garden along with temples, statues and others.
How to Reach Mehtab Bagh
Located at a distance of barely 7-8 kms from the Taj Mahal complex in the heart of the city, the garden can be easily reached through local electric/ battery operated rickshaws. You can also hire auto-rickshaws to reach the park. The city is also well connected through state-run buses which you can avail. Alternatively, you can book taxi cabs from anywhere in the city. Recently, the management has also come up with the option of the ferry ride from the eastern side of the Taj to across here.