Walled City of Lahore
As you walk through the Walled City of Lahore, you can’t help but feel as if you’ve been transported back in time. The narrow streets and colorful buildings create a unique and charming atmosphere that is hard to find anywhere else. Plus, there’s something special about being able to explore an entire city that is surrounded by walls.
Pakistan’s Walled City of Lahore is a true feast for the eyes. It is located in the northwestern part of the country. The walled city was once Pakistani society’s cultural and political center and is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its narrow streets, beautiful architecture, and lively bazaars, the walled city is a must-see for any Pakistani tourist.
So, if you’re planning to visit this fascinating city, read on!
History of the Walled City of Lahore
The Walled City of Lahore, also known as the “Old City” or “Anderson Shehr,” is a portion of Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan, protected by a city wall during the Mughal Empire.
This area was founded in the 1st Century, accordion to the Greek Philosopher, Potley. The entrance of the five great Mughal leaders, Barbur, Humayun, Akbar, Jahangir, and Shah Jahan, had the most significant impact on the architecture of the Walled City of Lahore. They created the Mughal reputation as some of the world’s best royal architects and builders. Lahore’s Walled City showcased its artistic abilities.
During Akbar’s reign, the walled city was built to its greatest extent. The town became known for its gates, mosques, and palaces.
As with most ancient towns, each of the thirteen gates (Akbari Gate, Bhati Gate, Delhi Gate, Kashmiri Gate, Lohari Gate, Masti Gate, Mochi Gate, Mori Gate, Roshnai Gate, Shahalmi Gate, Shairanwala Gate, Taxali Gate, and Yakki Gate) served a purpose.
To improve security, the British shuttered all gates except the Roshnai Gate. Six gates have been renovated since the country’s independence from the British in 1947.
In the Walled City, two significant mosques have been constructed. Aurangzeb, Shah Jahan’s son, erected the best-known mosque, the Badshahi Mosque. The mosque was modeled after his master builder father’s Jama Masjid in Delhi.
Area of Walled City of Lahore
Lahore’s Walled City covers an area of 256 acres and has 200,000 people. After conquering Punjab in 1849, the British demolished the city walls and replaced them with gardens, some of which survive today.
The Circular Road connects the old city to the urban grid. The thirteen old gates, or their emplacements, still provide access to the Walled City. The inner city’s intricate and scenic streets are mostly intact, but the city’s rapid demolition and usually illegal rebuilding have undermined the historic environment.
Some historical structures have been settled upon. The few remaining historic houses in the city are typically two or three stories tall, with brick façades, flat roofs, and richly carved wooden balconies and overhanging windows.
Walled City of Lahore Attractions
Here is a list of the attractions offered by the Walled City of Lahore:
Lahore Fort
The Walled City of Lahore has several historic landmarks, including the world-famous Lahore Fort. Built-in the 16th Century by the Mughal Emperor Akbar, the fort is a sprawling complex of palaces, mosques, and gardens.
Today, it is one of Pakistan’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting visitors from all over the world. The Lahore Fort is a testament to the power and strength of the Mughal Empire. It is a magnificent example of Mughal architecture, and its complex design reflects the wealth and sophistication of the empire. The fort was built to protect the city from invaders, and it’s high walls and thick gates ensured that only authorized personnel could enter.
However, the Lahore Fort was a military stronghold and a center of learning and culture. The emperor’s court and several important libraries and mosques were located here. The Lahore Fort symbolizes Pakistan’s rich history and cultural heritage.
It is an essential part of the Walled City of Lahore, and it represents the power and glory of the Mughal Empire.
Shalimar Garden at Walled City of Lahore
The Walled City of Lahore has many beautiful gardens, and one of the most stunning is Shalimar Garden.
Built-in the 16th Century by the Mughal Emperor Akbar, Shalimar Garden is a classic example of Mughal architecture and landscape design. The garden is laid out in a traditional Charbagh style, with four quadrants divided by ornate fountains and walkways. The park’s centerpiece is a large pool, reflecting the nearby buildings’ light and creating a stunning effect.
Visitors to Shalimar Garden can also enjoy the flowers and plants planted throughout the garden and the numerous sculptures and fountains.
With its incredible history and beauty, Shalimar Garden is an essential spot for any visitor to Lahore.
Badshahi Masjid
Lahore is a fascinating place to explore, and one of the most popular attractions is the Badshahi Masjid. Built in the 1600s, the mosque is an excellent example of Mughal architecture, with its large onion-shaped domes and intricately carved walls.
Today, it is one of the largest mosques in Pakistan and can accommodate up to 100,000 worshippers. Visitors are welcome to explore the mosque; many admire its beautiful exterior and interior.
However, the Walled City of Lahore is more than just a tourist attraction – it is also home to a vibrant community of residents who have lived here for generations.
There is much to discover, from the bustling bazaars to the historic buildings in this unique part of Pakistan.
Wazir Khan Masjid at Walled City of Lahore
Wazir Khan Masjid is one of the most iconic landmarks in Lahore’s Walled City. The mosque was built in the 17th Century by the Mughal governor of Punjab, Wazir Khan.
It is considered one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture in Pakistan. The mosque is noted for its intricate tilework. It is in the heart of the Walled City, near the Delhi Gate. The Walled City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to numerous historic buildings and monuments.
Wazir Khan Masjid is one of the most important mosques in Pakistan and a must-see for any visitor to Lahore.
The Tomb of Jahangir
Lahore is home to several historical sites, but one of the most impressive is the Tomb of Jahangir.
Emperor Jahangir, who ruled the Mughal Empire from 1605 to 1627 C.E., had the tomb built for him. On October 28, 1627, the emperor died in the Kashmir foothills near Rajauri. On Friday, November 12, 1627, a funeral procession brought his body from Kashmir to Lahore. Jahangir’s “favorite spot” in Lahore was the Dilkusha Garden, where he was buried. His son, the new Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, ordered the construction of a “mausoleum befitting an Emperor” in his father’s honor to house his father’s remains.
Visitors can easily spend a day exploring all the Tomb of Jahangir offers. But even if you only have a few minutes to spare, the tomb is worth visiting. It is truly a remarkable testament to the skill of the Mughal artisans who built it.
Hazuri Bagh Baradari at Walled City of Lahore
Hazuri Bagh Baradari is one of the most famous places in the heart of the Walled City; Hazuri Bagh Baradari was built in 1818 by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The baradari is a two-story building with a central hall and an octagonal domed roof.
The exterior of the building is decorated with intricate floral patterns and stone carvings. Hazuri Bagh Baradari is best known for its beautiful marble pavilion, which was added to the baradari in 1848. The pavilion is adorned with delicate latticework and has a central dome reflecting the setting sun’s light.
Musicians play traditional Punjabi music from the pavilion every evening, creating a magical atmosphere in Hazuri Bagh.
Shahi Hammam (Royal Bath)
Have you ever considered the royal bath, its appearance, and how to take it? If not, then visit Shahi Hamman in Lahore. Built-in 1634 by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the Shahi Hammam is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture.
Shahi Hammam was divided into three sections: the JAMA khana (dressing area), the Nim Garm (warm baths), and the Garm (hot baths). The baths were gendered and included a reception area and a small prayer room.
The baths were illuminated by sunlight that filtered through several openings in the bath’s ceiling, which also aided ventilation, keeping with Persian tradition. The majority of the hammam’s interior has been preserved, as have several Mughal-era frescoes. Due to the lack of windows on the façade, merchant shops could operate along the hammam’s outer walls.
So, add Shahi Hamman to your bucket list when you visit Lahore; you won’t be disappointed.
Fakir Khana Museum
One of the exciting landmarks in the walled city of Lahore is Fakir Khana Museum, the Hakeem Bazar near Bhati Gate.
Around 1730, the Fakir family settled in Lahore and established a publishing house. Their social standing in Lahore stemmed from their ancestors’ connections to the Sikh Empire: three of the family’s ancestors, Fakir Nooruddin, Fakir Azizuddin, and Fakir Imamuddin, served as emissaries to Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The family amassed a collection of objects, many of which were bestowed upon them by Ranjit Singh.
In 1901, the family opened their home as a public museum, and the site received some government funding for upkeep.
This Museum contains a collection of artifacts, paintings, and textiles that date back to the Mughal era. The group is particularly notable for its Islamic calligraphy and miniature paintings.
So, if you are interested in art and history, Fakir Khana Museum is a must-visit place.
Haveli Nau Nihal Singh
This Haveli is located within Lahore’s Walled City, near the Mori Gate in the city’s southern half. The Haveli is also close to the Bhatti and Lohari Gates.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the founder of the Sikh Empire, built the Haveli for Kanwar Nau Nihal Singh in the late 1830s. The mansion was intended to be Nau Nihal Singh’s residence. Maharani Datar Kaur’s grandmother was also instrumental in rehabilitating the Haveli.
Nau Nihal Singh’s widow, Bibi Sahib Kaur Sahiba, gave birth to a stillborn son just minutes before she died in 1841. This prompted his mother, Maharani Chand Kaur, to renounce her claim to Punjab’s golden throne. The dowager Maharani retired to this Haveli and received a 900,000 rupee pension. Her enemies, however, saw her as a threat and beat her to death with wooden pikes by her servants on June 11, 1842.
Since the British colonial era, the Haveli has housed the Victoria Girls’ High School.
Today, Haveli is the most popular destination for locals and tourists.
Fort Road Food Sreet
If you’re looking for a place to get your food fixed in the Walled City of Lahore, then Fort Road Food Street is the place for you. This vibrant street has food stalls and restaurants, from traditional Pakistani dishes to international cuisine.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you’ll find something to suit your taste on Fort Road Food Street. And with its convenient location, it’s the perfect place to stop for a bite after exploring the Walled City. So, check out Fort Road Food Street next time you’re in Lahore.
Walled City of Lahore Timings
You can visit some places 24/ seven7, and some areas have specific timings like food street, Shahi Qila, Badshahi Mosque, etc.
Location of the Walled City of Lahore
Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan 54000
Conclusion
Lahore is a fantastic city with a rich history. If you ever get the chance to visit, be sure to take some time to wander through the walled old town and experience all that it has to offer.
FAQs
How can I go to Walled City in Lahore?
There are several ways to reach the Walled City in Lahore. You can take a taxi, rickshaw, or local bus anywhere in the city. The Walled City is located in the heart of Lahore and is easily accessible by all means of transport.
What is the old name of the city of Lahore?
The old name of the city of Lahore is not known for sure. However, it is thought to be derived from the Loh-e-Pur, meaning “fortress of the Loh,” referring to an ancient tribe once inhabited the area.
How many gates were there in the walled city of Lahore?
There were 13 gates in the walled city of Lahore.
Where is the narrowest street in Walled City, Lahore?
Fort Road Food Street is the narrowest street in Walled City, Lahore. It is only 3 feet wide and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.