Panchkula, March 7 -- Once a splendid Mughal-era retreat, the 17th-century Pinjore Gardens, also known as Yadavindra Gardens, is slowly losing its charm. Spread over 100 acres at the foothills of the Himalayas, the historic gardens were built by Nawab Fidai Khan during the early reign of his foster brother, Mughal emperor Aurangzeb (1658-1707). Today, neglect and poor maintenance threaten its centuries-old legacy, leaving visitors disappointed.

The garden's crown jewels - the Rani Mahal and Sheesh Mahal - remain closed to the public, their structures in urgent need of restoration. Visitors who once marveled at the intricate architecture now find crumbling structures and fading wall paintings that tell a story of neglect. The historic aur...