Mughal Gardens

The Mughal gardens in Srinagar, Kashmir, are renowned for their stunning beauty and intricate design, reflecting the grandeur of Mughal architecture and landscaping. Established during the Mughal Empire (1526–1857), these gardens were created by Mughal emperors who were enamored with the natural beauty of the Kashmir Valley.

Key Mughal gardens in Srinagar include:

1. Shalimar Bagh: Built by Emperor Jahangir in 1619 for his wife Empress Nur Jahan, Shalimar Bagh is the largest of the Mughal gardens in Srinagar. It features a four-tiered layout with cascading fountains, reflecting pools, and beautifully manicured flower beds. The garden is known for its serene environment and grand water channels.
2. Nishat Bagh: Constructed in 1633 by Asif Khan, the brother of Empress Nur Jahan, Nishat Bagh is renowned for its terraced layout and expansive views of Dal Lake. The garden’s design includes a series of terraces with cascading water channels, reflecting the Persian influence and Mughal love for symmetry.
3. Chashme Shahi: Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1632, Chashme Shahi is the smallest of the major Mughal gardens but is noted for its elegant layout and natural spring that feeds its water features. The garden features a series of terraces and is known for its charming water channels and vibrant floral displays.

These gardens are characterized by their use of water features, terraced levels, and carefully planned layouts, creating a harmonious blend of nature and architecture. They remain popular tourist destinations, celebrated for their beauty and historical significance.

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Trekking Gears or Trekking Equipment Required

What to pack for the trek is one of the important questions. Not having proper gears can prove troublesome, cause health issues or just simply ruin your mood. So, here is a general idea of what you should bring to Annapurna Base Camp trekking.

1. A light weight trekking boots. It is not impossible to do this trek in sneakers or trainers. Many people have. Just that you will be walking in snow for some part of the trek and boots offer more safety. If you are a women trekker, check out these best hiking boots for women of 2017.

If you will be trekking this one time only, no need to spend on hiking boots. Just make sure that your shoes are well fitting, light and comfortable.

2. A pair of crocs
3. Four pair of liner socks. Two pair for warm climate and two pair for cold climate. Trekking/liner socks are better but it is okay if you only have the normal ones.
4. Few pairs of underwear. There are trekking underwear that you could buy in home. They are good for other outdoor activities as well. Normal ones can be bought in Nepal.
5. A high-quality best down jackets and a down pant. You can buy or rent a good down jacket and a down pant in Nepal for cheap for a $1 or less per day.
6. T-shirts and trousers keeping in mind both cold and warm temperature you will be traversing.
7. A set of thermals. Or, you could layer up.
8. A light sleeping bag. This can be bought or rented in Nepal too.
9. A trekking pole. Though relatively easy, there are many ups and downs in this trek and a trekking pole can assist you. Else, you could find a sturdy stick en route and use it to support yourself.
10. Two pairs of Gloves. One for warm weather and one for cold.
11. A woolen hat
12. Sunglasses
13. A torchlight or a head torchlight
14. A First aid kit including Diamox and Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS)
15. Toiletries– Toilet paper, hand sanitizer, water purifiers, sunscreen, moisturizer, toothpaste and toothbrush.
16. A waterproof map of Annapurna Base Camp
17. Snacks you like and entertainment such as books, cards, an iPad etc.

If you are unsure of what equipment to buy in Nepal and what to bring from home, this article will help you decide whether to buy trekking equipments at home or in Nepal.

Some Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the frequently asked questions answered to provide a clearer picture on Annapurna base Camp Trek.

1) How fit do I need to be to do this trek?

Annapurna Base Camp is a Grade B or a moderately difficult trekking route. So any fit person can do this trek, even if you do not have any previous experience. You should be aware of what to expect and mentally prepare for it. Then, as long as you will to, you can.

2) How long do we walk every day when doing Annapurna Base Camp trekking?

On average, you walk about 4 to 6 hours per day. One or two days can be as less as 3hrs and one or two days can be as long as 7hrs.

3) What is the highest altitude reached in this trek?

The highest altitude reached is 4190m. This is the elevation of Annapurna Base Camp. ABC is the highest we will climb in this trek.

4) What about battery charging and hot shower facilities?

Yes, you can charge batteries en route. Charger should be brought. There are hot shower facilities as well. You may have to pay certain amount for both ($1-$2). Negotiate. Also, hot water facility could be free at lower elevation.