Forts & Palaces
Archaeological Sites
The other place, Shalimar Gardens, was laid out by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and features Persian-style garden design with flowing water, glorious symmetry, and serenity. It transports you into a world without chaos and makes you want to capture every nook and cranny of this magnificent architecture with your camera. As both landmarks are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, you can expect them to showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage perfectly.
The garden was originally named after John Lawrence, 1st Baron Lawrence, who served as the first Chief Commissioner and later as the Lieutenant Governor of Punjab, and subsequently became Viceroy of India from 1864 to 1869. Following the Partition and the establishment of Pakistan, Lawrence Gardens was renamed Bagh-e-Jinnah in honor of Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
Bagh-e-Jinnah, a vast park featuring century-old trees, vibrant birdlife, a library, a cricket ground, a botanical garden, cricket practice facilities, historical sites, and abundant green spaces, is a true gem.
Visitors can enjoy the enchanting fragrance of blooming flowers, the soothing sounds of chirping birds, the gentle rustle of fallen leaves underfoot, and stunning scenery—all of which offer heartwarming and soul-stirring experiences.
The park is named after the father of the nation, Muhammad Ali Jinnah (may Allah bless his soul). It includes several impressive gardens, such as Gulshan-e-Fatima, named after Fatima Jinnah, the mother of the nation, along with the Botanical Garden. Highlights within the park include a cycling track, the magnificent Quaid-e-Azam Library, a tennis court, and the Jamia Masjid, all of which are worth a visit.
Kamran Baradari, also known as the Baradari of Kamran Mirza, is one of the oldest and most attractive Mughal monuments, located along the Ravi River in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. Built in 1540 by Kamran Mirza for family gatherings, Baradari features many interesting and entertaining elements for visitors, including stunning views of the Ravi River, lush greenery, and vibrant flowers, making it a captivating sightseeing spot.
Lahore City is home to many unseen places, each with its unique significance and value. Historical Mughal sites, in particular, showcase a remarkable beauty steeped in history. Kamran Baradari has a distinctive structure that fascinates visitors.
The rooms at each corner are proportioned as if there are twelve in total. The term Baradari has an interesting meaning; Bara means twelve, and Dari means doors. Thus, when combined, they give rise to the charming description of a twelve-door place of Kamran.
All India Muslim League passed the Pakistan Resolution in Greater Iqbal Park, formerly known as Minto Park, on 23 March 1940. The 13 historical gates of the city surround the park. And is positioned at the edge of Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque. It houses the famous Minar-e-Pakistan and holds significant historical value. Following its recent expansion, the park now covers 32 acres, featuring a lake, library, food court, an open-air gym, and an 800-foot-long musical fountain.
Here are some other Mughal-era architecture marvels you should not miss while exploring Pakistan’s historic sites. Lahore Fort is a magnificent building from the Mughal Era that has stood the test of time. You will love its exceptional architecture, intricate artwork, and palatial halls. Must visit historical places of Pakistan, Lahore, Punjab.
The fort is on a high plateau overlooking the river and the city on the opposite side. It features massive walls equipped with cannons for defense. One of the major highlights is a large underground prison, which was among the most secure facilities of its time. Additionally, there is a tall viewing tower with windows all around, where the king would relax in the evening.
Constructed in the mid-sixteenth century on a hillock where the tiny Kahan River meets another stream called Parnal Khas, the fort faces east towards the Tilla Jogian Range. It rises 300 feet above its surroundings and is situated 2,660 feet above sea level. The fort is irregularly shaped, following the contours of the hill. Its circumference is exactly 5.2 kilometers, and a 533-meter-long wall separates the citadel (designated for the chieftain) from the rest of the fort.
Baltit Fort, also known as the Upper Fort, is located in Karimabad city at an elevation of 2,700 meters. It was formerly the residence of the Hunza kings and remained inhabited until 1945. After its abandonment, Prince Aga Khan restored the fort, and it has since become a popular tourist attraction. Inside, there are several rooms, including stores for wheat and corn, a secret meeting room with a storage cavity for gold, a guard room, and a royal kitchen equipped with large spoons.
The entrance fee is 2,000 PKR for tourists and 650 PKR for locals. For 700 years, the fort was home to the Royal Family of Hunza. In 1891, British troops invaded Hunza and occupied the fort with the Hunza state. Eventually, the fort was abandoned in 1945 and was later donated to the Baltit Heritage Trust, which undertook its restoration. The architecture of Baltit Fort represents a fusion of Tibetan and Central Asian influences, with some British elements, particularly the inclusion of fireplaces.
Altit Fort is an ancient fort in Karimabad, approximately 1,100 years old, that served as the residence for former rulers. Ali Khan Foundation renovated it with support from the Norwegian government in 2011. The restoration was carried out with high quality, leaving no trace of new construction. The fort features wooden columns and furniture that showcase art from Hindu, Buddhist, and Muslim traditions. Its platforms provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and valley.
Within the fort, you will find numerous rooms, including a guard room, an official room, a princess room, an observation tower, a mosque, a kitchen, a store for dried fruits, and a jail. From the top, you can enjoy stunning views of mountains such as Rakaposhi and Ladyfinger. The entrance fee is 1,650 PKR for foreigners and 600 PKR for locals.
Noor Mahal is a beautiful palace located in Bahawalpur, Pakistan. It was built in 1875 by Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan IV, the ruler of Bahawalpur State, as a summer residence for his wife.
The grandeur and architecture of this aesthetically designed piece of art leave a deep impression on my mind.
During your visit, a guide usually narrates the history of the palace and its inhabitants, adding to the magical aura of the property. At night, the place becomes even more impressive, standing tall in all its glory!
I highly recommend this site to travelers in the region. The best season for a visit is winter, and the optimal time of day to enjoy the view is at night. The staff at the palace can also organize dinners for small groups.
Fong Khar is 380 years old and is built on a large rock, making it an incredible historical site that has been well-preserved. Visitors can experience the centuries-old lifestyle in a modern setting. If you are fortunate enough to access the rooms inside the fort, the experience will be unforgettable. If you visit Baltistan, make sure to explore this ancient civilization.
Shigar Valley is near Skardu city and is easily accessible by road. It offers spectacular views of mountains and fields, as well as a rich rural culture unique to Baltistan. The area features a fortress that has been transformed into a boutique hotel. Shigar has delicious fruits, including cherries, apricots, and apples, and the architecture is exceptionally unique. The mosque located just outside the Shigar fortress is also a remarkable sight.
In a region rich in cultural heritage, Serena Khaplu Palace stands as one of the finest surviving examples of a royal residence in Baltistan. It is along the legendary route leading to the world’s incredible junction of three mighty glaciers at Concordia.
Architecturally and culturally, it boasts significant treasures, possibly exceeding those found in Shigar Fort, due to its proximity to Leh in Ladakh and Srinagar in Kashmir. Serena Khaplu Palace is a unique heritage boutique hotel that offers guests the chance to experience the restored original architecture of a 19th-century Raja palace while enjoying the modern amenities and services of a luxury hotel.
The ruins of Taxila are 30 kilometers north of Islamabad/Rawalpindi, just off the famous Grand Trunk Road. Ancient Taxila was a significant Buddhist center from the 5th century BC to the 6th century AD. It is at a pivotal junction between South and Central Asia.
Renowned archaeologist Sir Alexander Cunningham rediscovered the ruins of Taxila in the mid-19th century. In 1980, Taxila was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and in 2006, it was ranked as the top tourist destination in Pakistan by The Guardian newspaper. Taxila is one of the earliest Buddhist universities in the world.
Other notable sites are Bhir Mound, Dharmarajika Stupa, Sikap and Sirsukh cities, the Shrine of the Double-Headed Eagle, Jandial Temple, and Jaulian Buddhist Monastery, among others.
The site remained unattended for the next seventy years until regular excavations commenced in January 1921 under the Archaeological Survey of India, which recognized the true significance of the ruins. The city existed about five thousand years ago as a twin capital of the Indus Valley Civilization. Major excavations took place at various parts of the site between 1923 and 1925, and again from 1926 to 1934.
Sir Mortimer Wheeler undertook further investigations in 1946 to determine the rich chronological sequence, uncovering, among other things, portions of a massive mud-brick fortification with rectangular bastions at regular intervals. In addition to the fortification wall encircling the citadel, there was a lower city containing significant public and private buildings, as well as two cemeteries to the south.
Mohenjo-Daro is a legacy of one of the oldest urban civilisations in the world. If you have heard about the Indus Valley civilisation, you might also know about its advancements and modernity. Even though this settlement dates back to 2500 BCE, it reflects this civilisation’s urban planning, advanced engineering, and social organisation.
For a reason, it was one of the most advanced and well-known civilisations of its time. And Mohenjo-Daro, although now in ruins, takes you back in time. While you walk the ancient streets here, you can sense the expertise of this ancient civilisation. It tells you a lot about the sophisticated society and makes you feel like you have stepped into the favourite chapter of your history book.
These Hindu temples are pretty popular among history buffs. They are a complex of temples interconnected with corridors. These ancient temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva. A sacred pond surrounds the temple, and the legend claims that the tears of Lord Shiva created this pond.
While you visit these temples, you will be reminded of the subcontinent’s pluralistic history and the coexistence of various faiths through the centuries. It is a remarkable historical site that you will surely enjoy exploring.
Located in Mardan, KPK, Thakt-e-Bahi is a Hindu-Parthian archaeological site. The Buddhist monastery, built in the first century AD and used until the seventh century, is one of the most impressive Buddhist monuments. Its four complex areas consist of a Stupa Courtyard, monastic rooms, a temple complex and a Tantric temple complex for Tantric meditation.
Thakt-e-Bahi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that provides a glimpse of the ancient Gandhara civilisation. The site’s well-preserved architecture is awe-inspiring and attracts archaeology lovers from around the globe. Another great thing about this historic site is its hilltop location, which makes the trip here much more refreshing and memorable.
Badshahi Mosque is one of the most visited historical places in Lahore, Pakistan. It is an amazing architectural masterpiece with a rich history. Located in the center of Lahore, it offers beautiful views of Minar-e-Pakistan and the Lahore Fort, making it an attractive spot for tourists.
Emperor Aurangzeb built this mosque in 1673. After three years of dedicated effort, they have constructed this magnificent mosque. It was built using red sandstone, as with many structures from that period. Moreover, the Badshahi Mosque is similar to the Jamia Mosque in New Delhi. The courtyard is massive and can accommodate approximately 100,000 worshipers. On one side of the courtyard is the tomb of Allama Iqbal, the first poet laureate of Pakistan.
The Faisal Mosque is the national mosque of Pakistan, in Islamabad, the capital city. It was built in 1986. It is the fifth-largest mosque in the world, and Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay designed it. The mosque is shaped like a desert Bedouin’s tent and has become an iconic symbol of Islamabad. Most of the construction cost, approximately US$120 million, was a gift from King Faisal of Saudi Arabia.
The history of this iconic building dates back to 1966, when the late King Faisal made a historic visit to Pakistan and expressed interest in building a mosque in the green city of Islamabad. Nearly three years later, in 1969, an international competition was held to choose the mosque’s design.
Today, the mosque ranks as the sixth largest in the world, offering accommodation for up to 300,000 worshipers.
During the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, the Wazir Khan Mosque stands as a testament to Mughal architectural brilliance and artistic finesse. Its intricate tilework, frescoes, and calligraphy are awe-inspiring, and the hard work of the craftsmanship of that era.
The architectural design and layout of the mosque beautifully showcase the Mughal style, highlighted by a majestic entrance gate, a spacious central courtyard, and an exquisite prayer hall. The towering minarets and grand domes further amplify its impressive presence, making it a visual treat for all who visit.
However, the Wazir Khan Mosque is more than just an architectural marvel; it holds deep historical significance as a vital place of worship and cultural exchange. Over the centuries, it has been a witness to numerous important events, serving as a gathering spot for both religious and social activities, thus enriching the cultural tapestry of Lahore.
In essence, the Wazir Khan Mosque stands as a remarkable treasure chest of history and a true gem in the heart of Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
Sunehri Masjid, also known as Tilayee Masjid, was constructed by Mir Syed Bikhari Khan, the chief administrator under the Vice Governor of Punjab, in the year 1163 A.D. Nestled in the Brass Bazaar within the Kashmiri Gate area, it sits prominently in the middle of a square.
It requires special permission for its construction due to concerns about traffic disruption. This stunning mosque boasts three large, gold-plated domes and four minarets, with an exterior that strikingly resembles Sikh Gurdwaras.
Inside, it follows the Mughal design, showcasing intricate frescoes and ceiling paintings akin to those found in the Wazir Khan Mosque and Mariam Zamani Mosque.
The Abbasi Mosque is a beautiful white marble structure designed in the style of the Moti (Pearl) Mosque of Shah Jahan, similar to the Agra. It is part of the ancestral home of the Nawabs of Bahawalpur and remains in the Abbasi family. Located next to Derawar Fort in the Cholistan Desert, the mosque stands proudly in the wilderness.
The Abbasi Mosque resembles a pearl set against the backdrop of the Cholistan Desert. It was built in 1844 by the Nawab of Bahawalpur and is a punier replica of the Moti Mosque in the Red Fort of Delhi. The mosque is in good condition and has been well maintained by the local community, in contrast to the now dilapidated Derawar Fort.
The mosque features a large hall and a spacious courtyard that can accommodate up to 1,000 people, utilizing the courtyard for additional space. Similar to Derawar Fort, the minarets of the mosque are visible from a considerable distance while traveling through the Cholistan Desert.
Allama Iqbal was born on 9 November 1877 in Sialkot, Punjab. He was a prominent philosopher, poet, and lawyer, known primarily for his extensive poetry written in Persian. His tomb is near the steps of the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore.
Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the visionary poet of the East, was the first to conceptualize an independent country for the Muslims of the subcontinent.
He is buried in a relatively small mausoleum at the entrance of the Badshahi Mosque. Two honorable guards are on duty at the tomb from the Punjab Rangers.
The site holds historical significance, but it is not a major tourist attraction, overshadowed as it is by the magnificent Badshahi Mosque.
Jahangir, the fourth Mughal king, is a renowned historical figure, and his tomb is the only one dedicated to a Mughal king in Lahore, Pakistan. Noor-ud-din Mohammad Jahangir (31 August 1569 – 28 October 1627) rests here. The main entrance from Akbari Inn to Jahangir’s tomb features a stunning depiction of the rising sun and stars. Traditionally, the Parkh Festival was celebrated in the garden every summer until 1958. Jahangir’s tomb is considered the second most beautiful building in the subcontinent, following the Taj Mahal in Agra, India.
The tomb of Jahangir, dating back to 1637, is part of an expansive Persian-style garden. It is richly decorated with inlaid carved marble and is influenced by Safavid-style architecture from Persia. The burial chamber is magnificent.
Surrounded by sprawling landscapes, Jahangir’s tomb is a masterpiece of the great Mughal period, showcasing the remarkable skills of artisans from that time. Take a moment to appreciate the intricate details in both the interiors and exteriors, which reflect the dedication of these talented craftsmen.
The Tomb of Nur Jahan is a 17th-century mausoleum in Lahore, Pakistan, built for the Mughal empress Nur Jahan. The Sikh Empire plundered the marble from the tomb in the 18th century for use in the Golden Temple in Amritsar.
This red sandstone mausoleum, alongside the nearby tombs of Jahangir, Asif Khan, and the Akbari Sarai, is part of a collection of Mughal monuments located in Shahdara Bagh, Lahore, Pakistan. She was buried in 1645 AD at Shahdara (Lahore), just outside the mausoleum of Jahangir across the railway line.
The Tomb of Nur Jahan is stylistically similar to the tomb of Jahangir. But it is about half the size and lacks corner minarets. The tomb suffered significant damage in the 19th century when its marble decoration was removed for use in other monuments.
This destruction extended even to the sarcophagus, which is no longer present. More recently, overly enthusiastic restoration efforts have led to the loss of some remaining fragments of the original ornamentation.
If you have a slight idea about Pakistani history, you might know the country was home to the glorious Mughal Empire. Even to this day, numerous architectural marvels built by the Mughal Emperors adorn the streets of Pakistan. One such landmark is the Hiran Minar in Sheikupura. Mughal Emperor Jahangir built this complex in memory of his beloved deer, hence the name Hiran Minar. Hiran is the Urdu word for deer.
The complex, built in the 17th century, features four 30-foot-high minarets and a beautiful pavilion surrounded by water, which adds to its picture-perfect architecture. The site attracts history buffs and photographers interested in capturing ancient sites and stunning architecture.
Mr. Mohammed Ali Jinnah, the most magnificent leader known as Quaid-e-Azam, died in 1948 and was buried in independent Pakistan at Karachi, the then capital city. A spacious park surrounds the Mazar-e-Quaid, or mausoleum of Quaid, which is an impressive structure.
A smartly turned-out guard of eight personnel is present 24/7. The change of guard ceremony, which occurs every hour, is a sight worth witnessing. The base of the structure is square, adorned with impressive arched doors and a grand chandelier donated by the Chinese government.
Given the undulating land and the location of the Mousoleum at the top of a hill, there are many good vantage points and places to rest and reminisce. The complex attracts many visitors and is accessible from all sides in the city center, with ample public transport options and parking available.
The Mazar complex also contains the graves of three other notable individuals: 1. Fatima Jinnah (his sister), 2. Liaqat Ali Khan 3. Sardar Abdur Rab Nishtar.
Recently, the northern areas of Pakistan have caught the attention of travellers because of the towering peaks, glorious landscapes, and picture-perfect scenery. But the history here is something that is waiting to be explored by history enthusiasts. So, once you have booked your flight to Pakistan from the UK, you should start learning about the top historic sites in the region. Here is the perfect blog with a list of must-visit historic sites in the country.
Pakistan is a diverse country. While people might have started exploring its natural beauty, the history here awaits tourists like you. So, if you are interested in the historic sites in Pakistan that showcase its rich heritage, you must visit the sites mentioned above. Not only that, there is a lot more to see here. It is time for you to stop overthinking and book a flight to Pakistan if you haven’t already done so. You can look for UK to Pakistan flights through Qatar Airways, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and numerous others.
