Located in Bahria Town Lahore, this is a replica of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. The original in Paris features a lift that takes visitors to the top for a stunning view of the city. I am not sure if the replica in Lahore offers this facility. The tower also has several restaurants in the surrounding area to satisfy your culinary cravings. At night, it lights up similarly to its Parisian counterpart, although the original Eiffel Tower is truly mesmerizing after dark. During the day, the Lahore version resembles an electricity pole, but it is still an enjoyable place to spend some time.
This replica is smaller than the original Eiffel Tower and is in Sector E of Bahria Town Lahore. Taking a cab from Lahore is an easy way to get there. There is a reasonably sized park around the tower with various food outlets. Visitors can take a lift to the top to enjoy views of the area. There is also a hotel on the first level that serves dinner, but it is advisable to make reservations to avoid waiting, as space is limited. Weekends tend to be busier than weekdays.
The Badshahi Mosque was built in 1673 and serves as a remarkable symbol of Mughal architecture. Visitors can feel the weight of history as they stroll through the mosque and admire the vibrant Islamic calligraphy. The centuries-old marble is intricately crafted into the ceilings, walls, and floors, showcasing the artistry of the era.
In the west wing of the mosque, there is a hall that offers a unique acoustic experience. Visitors will find that if one person whispers into a corner of the corridor, another person standing at the opposite corner can hear it clearly; they must be positioned closely to the corners for this effect to work.
The expansive area surrounding the mosque reflects a blend of multi-religious architectural influences. The well-maintained greenery around the mosque, along with the nearby temple and fort, enhances the experience. Various restaurants are right outside, where visitors can enjoy refreshments.
The Badshahi Mosque is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Lahore. Over 400 years old, it stands as a jewel of Mughal architecture. While access can be challenging due to heavy and unruly traffic in the old city, the effort to get there is well worth it, as the mosque itself is an exceptional sight to explore.
Next door, visitors can also explore the imposing Lahore Fort, which includes sections dating back to the Sikh rule in Punjab during the mid-1800s. Adjacent to the mosque is the famous food street, which features a variety of delightful restaurants offering traditional Pakistani cuisine. The Pakistan Monument (Minar-e-Pakistan) is also nearby, making it another must-see attraction when visiting Lahore.
Lahore Fort is a historic landmark built by the Mughal Emperor as a critical defense against invaders. It served as a gateway to the Walled City of Lahore. Beyond its strategic importance, the fort is a magnificent site that once housed kings and queens. The Deewan-e-Aam and Deewan-e-Khas exemplify the lavish lifestyles of royalty.
This remarkable fort stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Mughal Era. Initially constructed during Emperor Akbar’s reign in the 16th century, it underwent numerous additions and modifications under subsequent emperors like Jahangir, Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb. Within its walls lie numerous iconic structures that provide a fascinating glimpse into the opulent past and way of life.
Notable attractions include the Sheesh Mahal, Alamgiri Gate, Nawlakha Pavilion, Deewan-e-Khas, and Deewan-e-Aam. The grounds of Lahore Fort sit beside the Badshahi Mosque, and all three sites share a common entrance. Therefore, it is a brilliant idea to plan a visit to all of them in one trip. A visit to Lahore wouldn’t be complete without exploring this splendid fort!
Minar-e-Pakistan is a remarkable fusion of Mughal and modern architecture, designed by Nasreddin Murat-Khan (1904 – October 15, 1970), a Russian-born architect who settled in Pakistan. He was supported in this monumental task by Abdur Rehman Khan Niazi. The construction began on March 23, 1960, and after eight years of hard work, it was completed at a cost ranging between 500,000 and 700,000 rupees.
Standing at 70 meters tall, Minar-e-Pakistan offers breathtaking views of the vibrant city of Lahore and the magnificent Badshahi Mosque. For those who find the climb up 324 stairs daunting, an elevator is available for a leisurely ascent to enjoy the stunning panorama. The four platforms of the Minaret symbolize the challenges faced by Muslims in their quest for a homeland, crafted from four distinct materials: Taxila stones, hammer-dressed stones, chiselled stones, and elegant white marble.
On March 23, 1940, Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah passed a significant resolution at this site. Initially known as Manto Park and Iqbal Park, the area was once separated from the Lahore Fort, Badshahi Mosque, the Smadhi of Maharaja Ranjeet Singh, Gurdwara Dera Sahib, and the Shrine of Hazrat Sher Shah Wali by a road. But now all of these landmarks are part of a complex.
The park features colorful dancing water fountains, restaurants, cafeterias, and a History Museum. Visitors can take a train or a horse carriage ride around the Minaret. It is also a popular venue for political processions.
The Wazir Khan Mosque was built during the Mughal era in 1640 under the guidance of Hakim Ilm-ud-Din Ansari, also known as Wazir Khan. This mosque, built during the reign of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, dates back to the 17th century. Construction began in 1634 and was completed in 1641, taking a total of seven years.
He enlisted skilled artisans from across India, as well as South and Central Asia, to create a stunning masterpiece that is both ornate and breathtaking. The mosque is beautifully proportioned and has some lovely floral mosaics, which are relatively rare and unusual in Pakistan’s mosques.
It is accessible through the Delhi Gate, located within the walled city of Lahore. This mosque is considered one of the finest examples of Kashi-kari, which refers to the art of hand-painting ceramic products, tiles, and pottery.
The primary reason for my attraction to this mosque is its connection to my ancestors. It is located just inside the Delhi Gate. Many guided tours of the walled city of Lahore are available. Several informative notice boards effectively guide visitors.
The interior of the mosque is beautiful; although it is smaller than the Badshahi Mosque, it features impressive architectural details and exquisite calligraphy. Inside the mosque, there is a pond designated for Wazoo (ablution).
Since its renovation, the mosque has become increasingly attractive to tourists. Additionally, a shrine to the saint is within the mosque grounds. I highly recommend this site for those who appreciate ancient Islamic calligraphy and architecture.
Delhi Gate is one of the historic gates of the Walled City of Lahore, Pakistan. It was once the main entrance to the city during the Mughal era, facing the route that led to Delhi, hence its name. The gate has been beautifully restored and is now a popular tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into Lahore’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. Inside the gate, you can explore narrow streets, traditional markets, and historic landmarks, including the famous Shahi Hammam (Royal Bath).
Mughal Emperor Akbar built the ancient Walled City of Lahore in the late 1500s. A formidable wall surrounds this historic area, nine meters high, complemented by thick ramparts and a protective moat. There were thirteen gates, known as Darvazas, which controlled access in and out of the old city. These gates are closed for security at night and during times of unrest.
Strolling through the narrow lanes of the Walled City brings a sense of vibrancy, reflecting the lively atmosphere of the area. It’s heartening to see the Aga Khan Foundation (AKDN) actively engaged in restoring the hammams, mosques, streets, and houses to their former glory.
The Anarkali Bazaar in Lahore is spacious and truly has everything you need! As one of the oldest and most historical markets, it is easy to navigate without getting lost among the shops. While many well-known brands have a presence, it is worth noting that not every brand is available there. However, you will still find a diverse selection that is incredibly satisfying.
There are plenty of parking spaces available, and the bazaar is easily accessible by bus. We absolutely loved visiting this historical market, and it is definitely more crowded than other bazaars.
You will discover a wide range of items, including fabrics, the latest designs, leather goods, jewelry, cosmetics, home decor, books, stationery, and some of the best food Lahore has to offer. The nearby amenities, the opportunity to stroll around, and the hidden gems of the old city, along with its stunning historical architecture, all contribute to the place’s charm. Most importantly, you will experience the warmth of the local people.
I highly recommend this location to everyone. It has always been a wonderful place to visit in Lahore to enjoy for all ages!
The tomb was built and completed by Shah Jahan for 1 million rupees in 1637 CE. It is a single-storey square building set in a lush square garden designed in the Chaharbagh style. Each corner of the structure features an octagonal minaret that is architecturally connected to the main building. The most striking feature is its arcaded verandah in front of a series of rooms, with four vaulted bays leading to the central burial chamber. This chamber houses the marble tombstone of the Emperor above the grave below.
Intricately inlaid precious stones beautifully adorned the sarcophagus, and its platform showcases floral patterns alongside the ninety-nine attributes of Allah. The pathway leading to the grave is lavishly decorated with frescoes on the ceiling and side walls, enhanced by stunning tile mosaics. The floor features elaborate designs made from various stones, including Sang-e-Badal and Sang-e-Abri, paired with black and white marble for added elegance. Enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the tomb. Hardly any part of the structure remains unembellished.
The Tomb of Anarkali is one of the most significant buildings from the Mughal period. This ingeniously planned octagonal structure serves as a memorial for the love story of Prince Saleem, who later became Emperor Jahangir. According to popular legend, Nadira Begum, known by the title Anarkali, was part of the harem of Emperor Akbar. Suspecting Jahangir’s intense affection for the beautiful Anarkali, Akbar ordered her to be buried alive within a brick wall, leading to her death in 1599 AD.
The tomb is circular in shape and topped with a lofty dome. It was surrounded by a garden known as Anarkali Garden, though it has served various purposes in the last few hundred years. Under Sikh rule, Kharak Singh occupied the mausoleum. It later served as the residence of General Ventura, the Italian general of the Army of Ranjit Singh. The British converted the tomb into a Christian church. Since 1891, it has functioned as the Punjab Archives Museum, offering a treasure trove of historical insights into British Punjab.
Initially established during British India in the 1860s, the old Lahore Museum was housed in the Punjab Exhibition Hall. The famous cannon, Zam Zama, was installed outside in 1870. Along with the Punjab School of Arts (which later became the Mayo College of Arts), John Lockwood Kipling (1837-1911) managed the old museum. The father of writer Rudyard Kipling, who referenced the museum and Zam Zama in his book *Kim* (1901). In 1894, the museum’s new building was completed, and it moved there the same year, located directly across from the old campus of the University of the Punjab on The Mall.
Today, the Lahore Museum is set in beautiful grounds and boasts one of the finest collections of art and artifacts in South Asia. Notable highlights include:
This museum features a unique collection that encompasses various religions and cultures. A visit to Lahore is incomplete without experiencing this remarkable museum.
The street is in the Old Lahore area, succeeding to the world-famous Badshahi Mosque. Especially after 8:00 PM, you can capture postcard-worthy photos with beautiful lighting. There are numerous restaurants along the street, and if you choose those with terraces facing the street, you won’t miss the magnificent view of the mosque. However, the quality of food at these restaurants is not very high, so I recommend trying only small snacks.
It is a must-visit destination for anyone in Lahore. All the cultural highlights are here, offering a glimpse into the historic essence of Lahore. There are many traditional food restaurants, particularly those with rooftop views of the Badshahi Mosque and its surroundings.
On this street, you can indulge your taste buds with treats like pan, Kashmiri tea, firni (a local custard served in clay pots), kulfi (ice cream), and popcorn. During my visit, I also noticed a setup where you can wear costumes of various Mughal Emperors for a photo opportunity in a historic backdrop. Overall, it is a wonderful experience that captures the charm of old Lahore happily.
The street is situated right next to Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque, providing an outstanding view of the entire area. Traditional multistoried houses have been repurposed into restaurants, decorated in a classic style. Haveli, Kuko Den, and other eateries on the street are authentic representations of Pakistani culture.
Among these, Haveli and Kuko Den are perhaps the best, offering a menu that features local traditional dishes, as well as a few Chinese and Western options.
Sheesh Mahal was built during the reign of King Shah Jahan. The inspiration for its creation came from a dream of Mumtaz Mahal, Shah Jahan’s beloved wife, who dreamt that she was floating so high in the air that she could touch the stars. Upon waking, she expressed her longing for the ecstasy she had felt in her dream.
The term “Sheesh Mahal” derives from the extensive use of mirror mosaics, known as Aina Kari, which define the hall’s interior. The upper walls and ceiling are intricately decorated with convex mirror glass, often referred to as Aleppo glass.
These reflective surfaces are beautifully complemented by stucco tracery and gilded details, resulting in a lavishly ornate appearance. The glass mosaic work highlights two distinct periods of artistry: the ceiling reflects the Mughal era, while the wall decorations date back to the Sikh period.
The Sheesh Mahal complex, located within Lahore Fort, is centered around a square-plan courtyard, reflecting the characteristic Char Bagh layout of Mughal garden design.
The rear chamber of Sheesh Mahal features a beautifully carved marble screen adorned with tendril, floral, and geometric patterns. Notable aspects of Sheesh Mahal include gilt work (the application of pure gold), Pietra dura work (the inlay of semi-precious stones into white marble), marble perforated screens, Aiena Kari (convex glass mosaic work), and Monabat Kari (stucco tracery).
The versatile use of variegated marble stone slabs, such as Sang-e-Musa, Sang-e-Abri, and Sang-e-Badal, enhances the beauty of the spacious courtyard in front of the palace. At the center of the Mahal, a shallow water basin with four jet fountains, and other buildings connected to this basin through four water channels on each side.
The Shalimar Gardens are a series of terraced gardens featuring more than 400 fountains and water cascades. There is ample parking available, and if you arrive early, you may find a guard who can provide a guided tour in fluent English. If the guard recognizes you as a genuine tourist, he may even have the fountains turned on for you.
As one walks through this garden, they encounter a reflecting pond that connects the Queen’s garden to the Royal garden and further down to the commoners’ garden. The most magnificent of these is the Royal Garden, which features a marble tablet and a running waterfall when it is operational.
This area is designed as a central gathering place for Emperor Shah Jahan himself, along with designated spots for musicians to perform, allowing their melodies to drift over the surface of the reflecting pond on warm summer evenings. Established in 1641 and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this garden boasts a rich history.
Many visitors find that the gardens are reminiscent of the Taj Mahal gardens, offering perfect symmetry and beautiful stonework. Currently, the gardens consist of three levels; two levels have been encroached upon over the years.
These gardens have been a popular picnic spot in Lahore for families and kids for many years. So, feel free to join in on what the locals do: pack a picnic and enjoy the gardens on a sunny morning or afternoon, perhaps with a good book about the Mughals.
As everyone knows, Pakistan and India are neighboring countries that have had strained relations since 1947. However, the flag ceremony at the Lahore Wagah Border is a unique experience you will not want to miss. It is best to arrive at least 1.5 hours before sunset to secure a good spot. Just before sunset, lower the flags, and border guards from both sides engage in a spectacular parade and competitive display. This ceremony is a must-visit when you are in Lahore, Pakistan, offering an experience unlike any other in the world.
People of all ages truly enjoy this event, so I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Lahore. When the ceremony began, the crowd cheered enthusiastically for our brave soldiers. Our regiment was impressive in their uniforms, stature, and movements, making a strong impression with their forceful actions on the ground. It felt like a competition, with people from both sides watching and applauding.
This ceremony was undoubtedly a highlight of my trip to Lahore. For patriots, it is an exhilarating event, and for tourists, it offers a remarkable experience. The atmosphere is electric, making it a unique opportunity to witness the Pakistani and Indian armed forces putting on this show. The duration of the event is just right—not too long, yet not too short. Multiple security checkpoints help ensure safety, and vendors are available with snacks and flags for those who wish to enjoy some popcorn or wave a Pakistani flag in support.
Interestingly, you will be pleased to find the environment to be very friendly and happy, with no tension. Even with crowds cheering from both sides, there was an unmistakable sense of healthy patriotism, which was wonderful to see.
