Sheesh Mahal at Shalimar Bagh Restored to Mughal-Era Glory

One of the gems of the Mughal Era, Sheesh Mahal at Shalimar Bagh revived to its original grandeur. 

The historic Sheesh Mahal in Shalimar Bagh, a 17th-century Mughal-era palace built during Emperor Shah Jahan’s reign, has been restored and opened to the public. The restored structure was officially unveiled, marking a significant step in preserving Delhi’s rich architectural heritage.

Constructed in 1653, the palace had fallen into disrepair over the decades. It gained renewed attention following a visit by Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena in January 2024, after which the restoration work accelerated. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) led the conservation of the palace's heritage features while the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) revived the original Mughal-style Char Bagh Garden layout surrounding the monument.

Historically, Shalimar Bagh—formerly known as Aizzabad Garden—was commissioned by Shah Jahan in memory of Aizzun-Nisha Begum. The Sheesh Mahal is also believed to have hosted the first coronation ceremony of Aurangzeb in 1658, further adding to its significance.

As part of the wider restoration initiative, DDA reconstructed a dilapidated baradari (pavilion) and three heritage cottages using traditional materials like lakhauri bricks, lime surkhi, and organic binders such as gud and urad dal. Two of the cottages now house cafés: Café Shalimar and The Readers Café Corner, offering visitors a blend of history and leisure.

The restored site is expected to become a key cultural and tourist attraction in North Delhi, celebrating Mughal heritage in a modern context.