Babur Garden: A Mughal Oasis in Kabul
Explore Bagh-e Babur, Kabul's historical Mughal garden: a serene escape with stunning views, rich history, and architectural beauty.
Bagh-e Babur, also known as Babur's Garden, is a significant historical site in Kabul, Afghanistan, with a history spanning nearly five centuries [5]. Established around 1528 by Zahir-ud-din Muhammad Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, the garden served as his final resting place, reflecting his deep appreciation for nature [4, 17]. Babur, who loved Kabul, requested to be buried in a roofless tomb there [2, 11]. The garden is designed as a series of 15 stepped terraces on a hillside, arranged along a central axis that points towards Mecca [2, 3]. From the top terrace, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the garden, the city, and the surrounding mountains [3]. The site showcases Mughal garden design, featuring water channels, fountains, and pools, creating a harmonious atmosphere [17]. Shah Jahan, one of Babur's heirs, added features such as a marble platform with lattice work, a mosque and a caravanserai [3]. Over the centuries, Bagh-e Babur has undergone several transformations. In the 1930s, it was converted into a public park with the construction of pools and flower gardens [2]. However, the garden suffered significant damage during the Afghan Civil War in the 1990s [7, 11]. Restoration efforts, which began in 2002, have focused on revitalizing the garden, preserving its historical monuments, and promoting it as a cultural and recreational space [5, 17]. Today, Bagh-e Babur is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, attracting thousands of visitors each year [4, 8]. It hosts cultural and artistic festivals and provides a tranquil environment for families and friends to spend time in nature [4]. The garden contains seven historical monuments, including the Queen's Palace, Babur Shah's tomb, Shah Jahan's tomb, a historic wall, a water canal and a caravanserai [5].
Local tips
- Visit during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) for pleasant weather and blooming flowers [19].
- Hire a local guide for a deeper understanding of the garden's history and cultural significance [19].
- Photography is allowed, but it's best to ask for permission beforehand [10].
- Carry water, as it may not be readily available inside the garden [10].
A brief summary to Babur Garden
- 34.503°N 69, Block 157-158 Walkway, Kabul, AF
- +93787344528
Getting There
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Taxi
From most locations in Kabul, the most convenient way to reach Bagh-e Babur is by taxi [13, 19]. Taxis are readily available throughout the city, though they may not always look like official taxis [13]. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A typical taxi ride from the city center to Bagh-e Babur, approximately 3km, may cost between 120 to 200 AFN [13]. Ensure the driver knows the location or use a landmark on Google Maps to guide them [13].
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Walking
If you are in the vicinity of Bagh-e Babur, walking is a viable option. From landmarks such as Chihil Sutun, it's a moderate walk. Be aware of your surroundings and local traffic conditions. No costs are associated with walking.
