Mehtab Bagh, Agra Travel Guide

Mehtab Bagh, translating to 'Moonlight Garden,' is a meticulously designed Mughal garden offering an unparalleled view of the Taj Mahal. Situated on the opposite bank of the Yamuna River, this 25-acre garden complex provides a serene and less crowded alternative to experience the Taj Mahal's beauty.Originally established by Emperor Babur in the early 16th century, Mehtab Bagh was later refined by Emperor Shah Jahan as an integral part of the Taj Mahal complex. The garden is laid out in the Charbagh style, a Persian-inspired design that divides the area into four symmetrical sections with waterways and pathways. This design symbolizes paradise in Islamic culture, creating a harmonious and balanced environment.Historical accounts suggest that Shah Jahan envisioned building a black marble mausoleum for himself in Mehtab Bagh, mirroring the Taj Mahal. However, this plan was never realized. Over time, the garden suffered from floods and neglect, but was restored in the 1990s by the Archaeological Survey of India. Today, Mehtab Bagh features lush greenery, blooming flowers, and reconstructed water features, offering visitors a glimpse into Mughal garden design. The garden provides a unique vantage point of the Taj Mahal, particularly during sunset when the monument is bathed in a golden light and on full moon nights when the white marble glows.