Nestled on the serene banks of the Yamuna River, directly opposite the Taj Mahal, Mehtab Bagh (the Moon Garden) is a hidden gem offering an enchanting view of the iconic mausoleum. This 17th-century Mughal garden was designed not just as a lush retreat but as an integral part of the Taj Mahal’s original layout. With its symmetrical beauty, fragrant flora, and breathtaking moonlit vistas, Mehtab Bagh creates an ethereal experience that captivates every visitor. A walk through this garden at sunset or under the glow of the full moon is a romantic journey back in time, where history and love intertwine.
The Romantic History of Mehtab Bagh
The story of Mehtab Bagh begins with Emperor Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, who longed for the lush gardens of his homeland. Upon arriving in Agra after the Battle of Panipat in 1526, he was dismayed by the harsh climate and the lack of the grand gardens he had admired in Samarkand and Kabul. Determined to bring the splendor of Persian-style gardens to India, Babur created several lush retreats along the Yamuna, including the foundation of Mehtab Bagh.
Centuries later, Emperor Shah Jahan, known for his unparalleled love for Mumtaz Mahal, envisioned Mehtab Bagh as a celestial extension of the Taj Mahal. Built between 1631 and 1635, the garden was meticulously aligned with the Taj to create a seamless reflection in the river’s waters, offering an enchanting mirror image of the grand white-marble mausoleum. Some legends even suggest that Shah Jahan initially planned to construct a black Taj Mahal on this site as his final resting place, opposite the white marvel. While this idea remains a historical mystery, Mehtab Bagh continues to be a place where love, architecture, and nature come together in perfect harmony.
Mehtab Bagh was designed in the classic Charbagh (four-quartered) garden style, a signature of Mughal landscaping. At the heart of the garden once stood a grand octagonal tank, adorned with scalloped arches and surrounded by red sandstone pavilions. Water cascaded through intricate terracotta pipelines, creating soothing waterfalls and reflecting the moonlight in its shimmering pools. The pathways were lined with fountains, vibrant flower beds, and lush greenery, making it a tranquil paradise.
Over time, the garden faced destruction due to floods, and its once-majestic structures crumbled under the weight of history. However, thanks to extensive restoration efforts by the Archaeological Survey of India, Mehtab Bagh has been revived with nearly 8,000 Mughal-era plants and trees, bringing back its lost charm.
Mehtab Bagh Deserves a Spot on Your Agra Itinerary
1. Unparalleled View of the Taj Mahal
Mehtab Bagh offers a picture-perfect, crowd-free vantage point for admiring the Taj Mahal. Whether during sunrise, sunset, or under the moonlit sky, the sight of the Taj from this garden is truly mesmerizing.
2. Romantic and Peaceful Ambiance
Far from the bustling crowds of Agra, Mehtab Bagh provides a serene and romantic setting, perfect for couples, history lovers, and photographers seeking an intimate connection with the Taj Mahal.
3. Step Into Mughal History
Walking through the garden is like stepping into the pages of Mughal history. The remnants of pavilions, water channels, and restored flora transport visitors to the era of royal grandeur and architectural brilliance.
4. Ideal Spot for Photography
For those looking to capture the perfect shot of the Taj Mahal without the usual tourist rush, Mehtab Bagh offers unparalleled angles, reflections, and a timeless backdrop.
How to Reach Mehtab Bagh
Located just across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal, Mehtab Bagh is easily accessible from Agra’s main attractions. You can reach it via tuk-tuk, private cab, or even a guided tour that explores the historical connection between the garden and the Taj Mahal.
Mehtab Bagh: The Best Kept Secret for a Taj Mahal View
Mehtab Bagh is more than just a garden; it is a poetic tribute to Mughal romance and architectural grandeur. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a hopeless romantic, or a photography lover, this moonlit paradise offers a magical experience like no other. Don’t miss the chance to witness the Taj Mahal from this mesmerizing vantage point and immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Mehtab Bagh.
