Visiting Delhi’s Sheesh Mahal in Shalimar Bagh, during winter’s early afternoon, was probably the best decision. As I was walking into the Sheesh Mahal, mellow sunshine was enveloping the whole sky. The chirping of birds made my whole experience more cinematic. It was nothing like a monument, but more like revisiting the old pages of Delhi’s Mughal past. You could feel the reminiscence of the historic past, through a long, lush park, its age-old trees and of course, heavenly architecture.

Sheesh Mahal Pathway (Image Credit:  Instagram @calmtfdownrs)

Sheesh Mahal is not just any restored heritage; it is truly a spot where you can just sit and embrace the beauty of nature. The pathways, shaded by trees, well-kept lawns, flowers, sky and everything around seem so meditative that a different sort of calm settles in.

Shalimar Bagh's Sheesh Mahal (Image Credit: Instagram @calmtfdownrs)

Then there comes the iconic Mirror Palace (sheesh mahal in Hindi), it is not a giant monument, small in size, but it carries the epitome of elegance. Now, there are no traces of mirror work, like in old times, which used to shine in moonlight. Still, the old memories and stories that the beautiful architect carries are unexplainable, making it so easy to imagine that this space once served as a royal retreat.

Shalimar Bagh's Sheesh Mahal (Image Credit: Instagram @calmtfdownrs)

Situated in the North West part of Delhi, Sheesh Mahal has been reopened after nearly 370 years; however, the palace is not fully functioning. But the newly opened cafe, library, outdoor gym and nursery that even sells plants feels like a refreshing disconnect from the city’s chaos. The restoration feels respectful, preserving its heritage and charm with new ways of reliving the past. Everything there made me linger longer.

Newly Opened cafe, Library And Nursery at Mirror Palace (Image Credit: Instagram @calmtfdownrs)

I was not the only one who wanted to spend more time walking and embracing nature. On talking to locals from nearby neighbourhoods, I found out they often revisit the palace for morning walks, to bask in the winter sun on benches, they come, laugh, enjoy nature and go back home with a peaceful heart and calmness.

 

Shalimar Bagh's Sheesh Mahal (Image Credit: Instagram @calmtfdownrs)

Finally, it was time to leave. On my way back home, I realised Sheesh Mahal is not about restoration or preserving history, it's way deeper than that, it was about returning it to the people. In fast-moving Delhi, I finally have my meditative spot, which is also a window to the rich past and yet a peaceful pause from the present.