‘Pari Mahal’ was constructed by Dara Shikoh during the times of his father, Shah Jahan (1227-58 AD). Its structural remains and the terraced garden provides a perfect fusion of building and gardening skill. Divided into six terraces, it differs from other Mughal gardens of the valley as it does not possess any cascades, water clutches, or waterfalls of the regular layout of canals. Barring one, there existed ornamental pools and fountains in the five terraces. The water was brought into the terraces and the tanks through underground earthen pipes. Its monumental gateway was from Dal Lake's side and in the middle of the enclosure wall of the sixth terrace. Outside there are ruins of the plinth, which are identified as ruins of the guardroom structure. The main structure and the site were several times repaired and decorated.
Today, like archaeological sites, Pari Mahal has lost its charm and detached from its lovers, it gives a deserted look. Its walls are crumbling, the garden is poorly maintained, and the unchecked growth of grasses and bushes inside the structures has weakened the whole edifice1.
1 Kashmir Heritage Tourism by Iqbal Ahmad, 121-122.