Himayat Bagh: A Mughal Garden Oasis

Himayat Bagh, a verdant oasis in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, is a testament to the city's rich Mughal heritage. This 400-acre garden, established in the 17th century under Emperor Aurangzeb, was initially conceived as a royal garden, providing fresh produce for the Mughal court. Legend says that the garden was created after dampness damaged the northern wall of Aurangzeb's palace, leading him to convert the area into fields, which later transformed into the garden. Today, Himayat Bagh seamlessly blends its historical charm with modern research. It functions as a Fruit Research Station and Nursery under the Marathwada University, where visitors can explore a diverse collection of plants and trees. The garden is particularly known for its impressive variety of mango trees, with over 300 different types. Visitors can stroll through the garden's pathways, admire the well-manicured lawns, and even purchase saplings of various fruits like tamarind and mango. A highlight of Himayat Bagh is the Barra Darri, an underground water chamber built by Ivaz Khan. This ingenious structure once served as a natural air conditioning system, cooling the surrounding area. Although no longer operational, the Barra Darri remains a marvel of Mughal engineering and now houses the office of the Fruit Research Station. Himayat Bagh provides a refreshing retreat for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape from the city.