Fort and Shalamar Gardens

Lahore, the former capital of the Mughal Empire, is frequently referred to as the City of Gardens because of the abundance of parks, gardens, and picnic areas it has. Only a few of the Mughal-era gardens in the historic city have survived the several reigns that followed the fall of the great empire and the subsequent partition, even though the city is deserving of the title conferred upon it. Fewer yet of those gardens have been kept as a reminder of the cultural importance of this thriving city. The magnificent Shalimar Gardens in Lahore is one of the few that has not only endured but also stands tall as the pinnacle of Mughal architecture. Shalimar Gardens' famous complex was constructed between 1641 and 1642. Shalimar Gardens in Lahore, also known as Shalimar Bagh, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Punjab and welcomes both domestic and international visitors all year long. If you visit Lahore, you must see this spectacular tiered garden with its hypnotic fountains, breathtakingly gorgeous greenery, finely crafted pavilions, and much more. Things to see:

The charming Shalimar Gardens are made up of three magnificent terraces that showcase the creativity and ingenuity of Shah Jahan's engineers, architects, horticulturists, royal craftsmen, and hydrologists. The three terraces were carefully built on naturally tiering topography and are each elevated by 13 to 15 feet. The middle terrace has a narrow rectangle-like appearance while the top and bottom terraces are square-shaped. Shalimar Bagh has three levels, each with lush green grass, lovely flowerbeds, and lovely fountains. The 16-hectare-plus historical property also boasts the most complex water features of any Mughal-era garden in the subcontinent. The attractive garden complex's upper level is known as Farah Bakhsh, which means Bestower of Pleasure.  The Emperor's harem once occupied this terrace. The king himself was given exclusive access to the middle level, known as Faiz Bakhsh, which translates to Bestower of Goodness. The name Hayat Bakhsh, which means Bestower of Life, is given to the lowest terrace. It was accessible to noblemen and sporadically to the general people. This level served as Shalimar Gardens' primary entrance. This Lahore park is home to spectacular structures with Mughal-era artwork in addition to its lush vegetation and intricate water features. The Baradaries, which were constructed so that the emperor and his noblemen could enjoy the coolness brought on by the fountains, the lovely Sawan Bhadun pavilions, the Aiwan, Aramgah, Khwabgah, Naqar Khana, and Diwan-e-Khas-o-Aam, among others, are some of the most notable buildings in Shalimar Gardens.

  • imageDuration Required
    2 hours

Address of Fort and Shalamar Gardens

G. T. Road, Shalamar Town, Lahore, Punjab

Opening & Closing time of Fort and Shalamar Gardens

  • Monday
    08:00-16:30
  • Tuesday
    08:00-16:30
  • Wednesday
    08:00-16:30
  • Thursday
    08:00-16:30
  • Friday
    08:00-16:30
  • Saturday
    08:00-16:30
  • Sunday
    08:00-16:30