Delhi's Sheesh Mahal, an example of Mughal opulence, has been restored to its former grandeur and is now open to the public after 370 years. Tucked inside the Shalimar Bagh in North-West Delhi, this 17th-century palace once served as a royal retreat for Emperor Shah Jahan. Following meticulous restoration work led by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), the monument was reopened on July 2, 2025.
The restored Sheesh Mahal is now open to visitors, offering a look at Mughal-era architecture with its landscaped gardens, sandstone structures and traditional design elements. The site is expected to attract history enthusiasts, architecture admirers and tourists interested in Delhi's cultural heritage.
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Glimpse Into The Past Of Sheesh Mahal
Commissioned in 1653 by Emperor Shah Jahan, the Sheesh Mahal was once part of a larger pleasure garden known as Aizzabad Garden, which he reportedly built in memory of Aizzun-Nisha Begum. Over time, it became more popularly known as Shalimar Bagh, derived from Persian roots meaning "home of pleasure." The palace gained further historical importance when Aurangzeb, Shah Jahan's son, was crowned there in 1658.
The complex originally featured elements of the Char Bagh design, an iconic four-part Mughal garden layout, symbolising paradise on earth. But after centuries of neglect, the palace had lost much of its splendour. That changed when Delhi's Lieutenant Governor visited the site in January 2024, sparking an urgent call for conservation.
How Sheesh Mahal Was Restored
The ASI and DDA spearheaded a restoration grounded in traditional Mughal construction methods. Craftsmen used lime surkhi (lime mortar with brick dust), lakhauri bricks (thin, flat Mughal-style bricks) and natural binding agents such as jaggery, bael fruit and urad dal paste to replicate historical building techniques.
This revival extended beyond the palace walls to include the restoration of its baradari (12-pillared pavilion) and three heritage cottages, which have now been creatively repurposed.
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New Things To Explore In Sheesh Mahal
The restoration of Sheesh Mahal also introduces a thoughtful cultural space for visitors:
- The Readers' Cafe Corner: A haven for book lovers and cultural connoisseurs, designed to inspire quiet reflection.
- Cafe Shalimar: A relaxed eatery nestled within the gardens, perfect for grabbing a coffee or a light bite after a stroll.
These additions transform the monument from a passive historical site into a lively community space.
Travel Guide To Sheesh Mahal
- Location: Sheesh Mahal is situated inside the Shalimar Bagh District Park, North West Delhi.
- How to reach: The nearest metro stations are Shalimar Bagh, Jahangirpuri and Haiderpur Badli Mor. From any of these, local transport or a short auto ride will take you to the entrance of the park.
- Timings: It is open daily from 11 am to 9 pm, including weekends and public holidays.
- Best time to visit: Early mornings or late afternoons offer the most comfortable experience, especially in warmer months. The site's gardens are particularly beautiful during spring and early winter.
Why You Should Visit Sheesh Mahal
Whether you're a history enthusiast intrigued by the Mughal era, a Delhi local looking to reconnect with the city's roots or a traveller seeking lesser-known gems, Sheesh Mahal is a destination worth your time. Its careful restoration not only breathes life into forgotten architecture but also opens the door to a more inclusive, engaging experience of Delhi's rich past.
