Mehtab Bagh

Mehtab Bagh In Agra

Mehtab Bagh, a 25 acre garden plot constructed during 1631 to 1635 AD, is the moonlight garden located along the western side of bank of the river Yamuna. It is laid just across the Yamuna, aligned with the world famous Taj in a symmetrical style. This is the ideal location from where one can view the perfect beauty of Taj Mahal under the romantic glossy moon light. This garden is one of the most attractive gardens in Agra and it replenish the grandeur era of Mughal dynasty in the minds of the traveler. This picturesque area is now converted into the epic centre of the eco-friendly environment developing around Taj Mahal. The soft cool breeze from Yamuna and the fragrance of the colored flowers in the garden are sure to attract all visitors to this romantic place.

History of Mehtab Bagh

Mahtab Bagh is situated on the sandy bank of Yamuna River just opposite the Taj Mahal mausoleum. The place is an ideal spot for it provides picturesque view of Taj Mahal. The name Mehtab Bagh means 'Moon Light Garden' and the same was testified by the beautiful reflection of Taj Mahal in the pool at night in Mahtab Bagh. The place has a history of its own. It is believed that the great emperor Shah Jahan who built Taj Mahal for his queen wanted an identical one for himself at Mehtab Bagh. However the archaeological findings have proved the existence of garden complex. Whatever the popular beliefs be, the place is worth a visit as it provides bewitching image of Taj Mahal.

Location of Mehtab Bagh

Mehtab bagh is situated just behind Taj Mahal on the other side of river yamuna. It is best clubbed while visiting other monuments those lie on this side of the river (Chini ka Rauza, Tomb of Itmad-ud daulah, Ram Bagh). One can get an auto to Mehtag bagh from Ram Bagh circle. There is also a newly constructed bridge on the river just after Agra Fort which you can take as a short cut.

Attractions of Mehtab Bagh

The important attraction of Mehtab Bagh is Taj Mahal itself. The garden has been renovated by the Archaeological Survey according to the original plan. The place has been enriched with vegetation and at present more than 40 species of plants bloom in the garden. The garden has been built in a typical Charbagh fashion. The growing attention to Agra Mehtab Bagh can be credited to the escalating concern for the Taj and its grounds, which are in danger by urban sprawl, too many tourists, and air pollution that eats away into the shrine's marble exterior.

The lush gardens that once lined the riverbanks on either side of the Taj may flourish again in a scheme to protect it from further damages. Conservationists uphold that a buffer zone of greenery would keep development at bay and help remedy local air, noise, and water pollution. Much of the land for the greenbelt had already been acquired through a previous proposal to establish a 340-acre national park around the Taj. While yours to Agra a visit to this opulent garden will mark you treat your eyes far away from the hustle bustle of the busy town.

Timings and Entry Fee

Visiting Hours: Sunrise to Sunset [Evening is the best time]
Entree Fee: 5 INR (Indian), 100 INR (Foreigners)

How to Reach

Mehtab Bagh can be reached on either side of river Yamuna. The ferry from the eastern side of Taj Mahal takes only few minutes to reach Mehtab Bagh. The distance by road is about 2 kms and takes about 15 minutes. Yamuna Bridge Railway Station lies in the vicinity of Mehtab Bagh. The drive to the railway station is only a couple of kilometres. Agra Airport lies far west of the Mehtab Bagh. The distance from Mehtab Bagh to Agra Airport is about 13 kms.