The beautiful Chashme Shahi Garden in Srinagar was built by Ali Mardan Khan in 1632 while Shah Jahan’s reign and the king commissioned it for his favorite son Dara Sikoh. The terraced garden’s location was set around a natural spring on the slopes of the Zabarwan Mountains. This natural spring which also exists today, starts at the very first terrace of the garden and flows down to others. Finally the water gathers at a pool with a fountain designed at its centre. A common belief is that, this spring water has medicinal values and is good for the skin. Like most of the gardens built during the Mughal reign, the Chashme Shahi Garden also reflects glimpses of Persian architecture. It is the smallest out of all Mughal gardens in Kashmir. Fascinating flower beds and manicured trees and lawns truly add to its grand looks till date. Just next to Chashme Shahi lies the Pari Mahal another tourist destination. This building was used as a learning ground of astrology for Dara Sikoh, who was later killed by his brother Aurangzeb. Tourists have to pay a minor entry fee to enjoy some splendid time inside this impressive garden.