Pavilions next to a lake built by a Mughal emperor

THERE IS A GARDEN by the shore of the Ana Sagar (lake) in Ajmer, Rajasthan. Originally laid out in the early 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, it is now a public garden.

A baradari

In 1637, Emperor Shahjahan had five marble pavilions constructed in the gardens next to the lakeshore. Known as ‘baradari’, four of them are still intact. During the British occupation of India, these edifices were used to house the Commissioner of Ajmer and some of his officials. After Independence, the baradari were restored to their original forms after dismantling structures that had been added to convert them to dwellings.

For a modest admission fee, visitors can enter the park and enjoy views of the lake from the lovely baradaris.