Delhi’s Magnificent Sheesh Mahal Reopens After 370 Years

The historic Sheesh Mahal, a stunning 17^th-century Mughal palace nestled in Shalimar Bagh, North Delhi, has been carefully restored and opened to the public as of July 2, 2025. Built during Emperor Shah Jahan’s reign, this majestic monument had long been neglected but has now been brought back to life through meticulous conservation efforts by the Archaeological Survey of India and the Delhi Development Authority. The re-opening was officiated by Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, heralding a new chapter in safeguarding Delhi’s rich cultural heritage. With its restored Mughal gardens and elegant architecture, Sheesh Mahal today stands as a proud symbol of the city’s regal past.

A Living Tribute to Delhi’s Mughal Heritage

Once a royal retreat commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1653, Sheesh Mahal at Shalimar Bagh has now reopened after extensive restoration. Its splendid architecture, entwined with lush gardens inspired by the Char Bagh layout, beautifully marries historical grandeur with public accessibility. Led by the Archaeological Survey of India and DDA, this revival invites visitors to experience a rare glimpse into Delhi’s illustrious Mughal legacy.

Now, with gardens in bloom and the palace shining under the Delhi sun, Sheesh Mahal isn’t just a relic — it is a vibrant museum, open and welcoming to all, that celebrates Delhi’s regal history and rich cultural tapestry.

Whether you’re passionate about history, architecture, or simply wish to reconnect with the royal roots of Delhi, Sheesh Mahal offers a captivating window into the city’s timeless Mughal story.

From Love to Legacy: The Story of Sheesh Mahal

Constructed in 1653 under Emperor Shah Jahan’s rule, Sheesh Mahal was part of a grand garden complex conceived as a luxurious royal haven. Known as Shalimar Bagh—meaning “abode of pleasure”—it was reportedly commissioned in memory of Aizzun-Nisha Begum. The site also holds historical importance as the place where Aurangzeb’s first coronation took place in 1658.

A 2024 Visit Sparks Revival

For many years, Sheesh Mahal and its grounds suffered from decay and neglect. It wasn’t until a visit by Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena in January 2024 that attention was drawn to its plight. His inspection prompted swift action: the Archaeological Survey of India took charge of restoring the palace’s exquisite Mughal architecture, while the Delhi Development Authority focused on reviving the garden’s layout based on the traditional Char Bagh design.

Authentic Revival Using Traditional Techniques

The restoration was grounded in a commitment to authenticity. The team employed traditional materials and methods, including:

• Lime surkhi (lime mortar mixed with crushed bricks)
• Lakhauri bricks (thin Mughal-era bricks)
• Natural binders like jaggery, bael fruit, and urad dal paste

These techniques helped preserve the original splendour of the Mughal architecture, including a baradari (pavilion) and three heritage cottages within the complex.

Heritage Meets Modern Use: New Spaces for Cultural Engagement

As part of the restoration, two of the cottages were transformed into vibrant community spaces:

• Readers’ Café Corner: A literary hub for book lovers and cultural enthusiasts
• Café Shalimar: A relaxed eatery for visitors and heritage tourists

These additions aim to make Sheesh Mahal more inviting for cultural engagement and leisure, ensuring its heritage is celebrated and accessible for generations to come.