Pakistan boasts an abundance of historical treasures, from the mysterious remains of Indus Valley Civilization to majestic Mughal architecture – each is an irreplaceable treasure that must be protected for future generations.
From the majestic Fort of Rohtas to Bahawalpur’s elegant Noor Mahal, these historical sites will take you on an enthralling journey back in time.
Lahore Fort
Lahore Fort (Shahi Qila), is located at the northwest corner of Walled City and contains many notable structures like Alamgiri Gate, Naulakha Pavilion and Moti Masjid. In 1981 UNESCO added this landmark along with Shalamar Gardens as World Heritage Sites.
Jahangir made two noteworthy additions during his reign; the Picture Wall displays both Christian themes and Persian mythology, while Diwan-i Aam is an outstanding public audience hall with 40 pillars that replicates Chehel Sotoun at Agra Fort.
Maktab Khana was a small enclosed court adjacent to Diwan-i Aam that clerks used for recording visitors entering the fort.
Kot Diji Fort
Kot Diji Fort in Khairpur, Sindh Province of Pakistan was constructed by the Talpur dynasty and features a mosque, palace and baoli or stepwell inside its walls.
These walls are so thick that modern weapons cannot breach them, offering views over the village below. Furthermore, their windows offer glimpses into daily life below.
Archaeological excavations at the site have unearthed cultural elements predating Harappan civilization, such as pottery with horizontal and wavy lines as well as triangular patterns.
Fort Shahi Darwaza features one large gate, with water reservoirs, stores of weapons, jail cells and various security staff cells as well as a small royal residence within its confines.
Takht-i-Bhai
Takht-i-Bahi (Throne of Origins), dating back to the 1st century and built into a rock face, is an outstanding Buddhist monastery dating from Gandhara’s 1st century history and represents one of its major monastic centers as an exceptional example of architectural styles from this era.
Named for its mythological associations, Mardan Ruins can be found approximately 15 km (9 miles) northeast of Mardan in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. Today, this area is well known for cultivating sugar cane, wheat, maize, vegetable and orchard crops.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes a court of stupas, monk cells where monks meditated, meeting halls, covered passageways and remains of several carved sculptures that have been unearthed over time – all important sources of information on early Buddhist and Swat Valley culture development.
Hiran Minar
Hiran Minar stands as a testament to Pakistan’s long history and vibrant culture, reflecting intricate designs and calligraphy typical of Mughal era art and culture.
Shah Jahan added an octagonal pavilion and water tank, making this structure distinctive among other monuments in Sheikhupura. These features make the monument stand out.
Hiran Minar stands as a reminder of Emperor Jahangir’s deep affection for Mansiraj, his pet antelope. When Mansiraj died during hunting expedition, Jahangir built a monument in its memory as an act of respect and as a means of mourning the animal that so greatly moved him. Today, its presence serves as an emblematic representation of our deep connection to animals and struggle for independence that our forefathers endured to create separate nations.
Katas Raj Temple
Katas Raj Temple is one of Pakistan’s premier Hindu pilgrimage spots, housing structures and relics that span an unbroken line from Buddhist times until British rule – representing at least 1500 years’ worth of history in one location.
The complex was constructed by Hindu Shahi kings between the 7th and 10th centuries, as part of their devotional rites, with a sacred pond for Hindus to pray at. Hindus believe it contains holy Ganges waters.
Still in poor condition and uncared-for by visitors, the site faces becoming another tourist spot lost to time and erosion. An immediate plan must be implemented for its restoration.
