Lahore Fort
Historical landmark · Walled City of Lahore ·

Lahore Fort

Historical landmark · Walled City of Lahore ·

Mughal architecture featuring Sheesh Mahal, elephant stairs

Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by Bilalabbasi133 via Wikimedia (Creative Commons)
Lahore Fort by Sulleiman Haider via Wikimedia (Creative Commons)
Lahore Fort by Aown Ali
Lahore Fort by Aown Ali
Lahore Fort by Aown Ali
Lahore Fort by Aown Ali
Lahore Fort by Aown Ali
Lahore Fort by Aown Ali
Lahore Fort by Aown Ali
Lahore Fort by Bilalabbasi133 via Wikimedia (Creative Commons)
Lahore Fort by Aown Ali
Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by null
Lahore Fort by null

Information

H8Q7+56P, Fort Rd, Walled City of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan Get directions

Information

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H8Q7+56P, Fort Rd, Walled City of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan Get directions

+92 42 99204196

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Last updated

Jan 2, 2026

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39 New Places in the Second-Edition Atlas Obscura Book

"Because it would be a shame to leave one’s elephant parked outside the citadel, the magnificent Lahore Fort in Pakistan features an entranceway crafted for an entire pachyderm parade. As the Mughal Empire expanded across the Indian subcontinent in the 16th century, Lahore became an increasingly important stronghold. Its strategic location was key in tying the expanded Mughal territories to the fortified cities of Kabul, Multan, and Kashmir. The city’s fortress was built under the reign of Emperor Akbar between 1566-1605 and housed several Mughal (and later Sikh) rulers over the following centuries. The two sections of the fort are divided by usage - an administrative portion and a residential portion. The elephant stairs (or Hathi Paer) are part of the private entrance to the royal quarters, and effectively allowed royalty to ascend all the way to the doorway before dismounting. In order to accommodate the lumbering creatures, the stairs were designed with wide treads, but minimal height (a balking elephant can really dampen the mood of a procession). Although it’s been centuries since a herd of jewel and silk-laden elephants travelled several abreast along this sloping corridor, it was once certainly the most magnificent driveway in the world." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

https://www.atlasobscura.com/lists/new-places-atlas-obscura-2nd-edition
Bilalabbasi133 via Wikimedia (Creative Commons)
Lahore Fort

Muhammad H.

Google
The fort itself is good but the administration is not good. Tickets for foreigners are 1k and locals 100. They were not allowing us to visit the Ranjeet Singh's Samadhi. The guards try to guide you to each section but we didn't take any guide. As you enter the fort are near the handicrafts shop enter the main door and take stairs to your left (hathi pair elephant stairs) they will take you to the Sheesh Mahal. If you try to go on the road that is too long and has nothing worth seeing There was loh Mandir under restoration (a few labourers were just smashing a stone with hammer with enough force to make it seem that they are working 😄) When you enter any section the guard will try to guide you and will also allow photography but you have to pay. They'll ask you to pay in the end. You can pay if you want to and they'll guide you. If you don't want to pay go on YouTube and watch the vlogs of a few YouTubers. That will save you some money.

Abdullah A.

Google
A timeless masterpiece of Mughal architecture — a must-visit for anyone who truly wants to experience the heart of Lahore’s history and culture. The Lahore Fort, locally known as Shahi Qila, is one of those rare places where you can genuinely feel the layers of history come alive around you. Located at the northern end of Lahore’s old walled city, right beside the majestic Badshahi Mosque, this fort is not just a tourist attraction — it’s a journey through centuries of art, power, and empire. I visited the fort on a calm afternoon, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had in Lahore. The entrance through the Alamgiri Gate immediately sets the tone — grand, imposing, and filled with Mughal charm. As you walk in, you can’t help but imagine how emperors like Akbar, Jahangir, and Shah Jahan once walked these same pathways. Every corner tells a story. The fort isn’t a single building but a whole complex — with palaces, courtyards, gardens, and beautifully decorated halls that reflect different eras of Mughal and later Sikh influences. The Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors) is without doubt the highlight. The mirror work inside is breathtaking — thousands of tiny glass pieces reflect light in such a mesmerizing way that it feels almost magical. Even after centuries, the craftsmanship remains stunning. The Naulakha Pavilion is another gem — elegant white marble, intricate floral carvings, and a peaceful balcony view overlooking the city. You can easily spend hours admiring the details and still find something new every time you look closer. What I really appreciated was the fort’s restoration and preservation efforts by the authorities and UNESCO. Although some parts are still under maintenance, it’s heartening to see that the fort’s glory is being carefully revived rather than modernized. Information boards around the complex provide historical context, which makes the visit educational as well as visually fascinating. The museum section inside is worth a visit too. It houses ancient coins, Mughal armory, paintings, manuscripts, and artifacts that give you an even deeper insight into how life must have been during the Mughal era. The staff were polite and helpful, and the ticketing process was smooth. If you’re planning to visit, I’d recommend coming in the late afternoon when the light softens — it’s the perfect time for photography, especially when the sun hits the marble and red sandstone walls. The fort is right next to the Badshahi Mosque, Hazuri Bagh, and Minar-e-Pakistan, so you can make it part of a full-day heritage tour. In short, Lahore Fort isn’t just a monument — it’s a living story of art, culture, and resilience. Whether you’re a history lover, a photographer, or simply someone seeking inspiration, this place will leave you speechless. A must-see landmark that captures the true soul of Lahore and the golden age of the Mughal Empire.

Ali A. D.

Google
I visited with History by Night, which costs 2500 per person, btw I did not buy the tickets in advance and got while there. Parking is a big issue here and costed me 500. Overall the experience was a little fun

Nabisha J.

Google
It’s boring, we were done after getting some pictures. The government should work hard to preserve the originality of fort, as I saw most people ruining walls. Plus there is nothing other than the walls to see. There should be libraries, monuments. Some kind of of theme, to build public interest.

Mudassar M.

Google
Lahore Fort, also called Shahi Qila, is a magnificent Mughal monument built mainly by Emperor Akbar in 1566 and later expanded by Jahangir, Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb. Located beside the Badshahi Mosque, it is famous for its grand gates, Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors), Naulakha Pavilion, and beautiful marble work. The fort has witnessed the rule of Mughals, Sikhs, and the British, making it a symbol of rich history and culture. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction where visitors can experience the royal glory of the past.🪨

Muhammad Mustansar B.

Google
Lahore Fort is a must-visit for anyone exploring Lahore. Every visit feels like stepping into the grandeur of the Mughal era. The Sheesh Mahal, Alamgiri Gate, and beautiful gardens are highlights. Tickets are affordable, and guided tours help understand its rich history. Visit early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and better photos. Some areas need improved maintenance, but overall it’s a fantastic historical experience.

Kashif Abdul Razzaq M.

Google
I visited the Lahore Fort after several decades, and initially, I only had flashes of the old fort in my mind. But this visit changed everything. I’m very happy to see that not only has the government beautifully preserved this magnificent historical fort, but they have also harmonized it with modern facilities. One such facility is the electric cart, which you can ride for just Rs. 100 to tour the entire fort. However, if you truly want to explore it properly, my suggestion would be to go on foot. That’s the only way you can absorb the history of each part and truly understand the glorious past of the fort. Wherever we went, we spent a lot of time reading about the history and also took many pictures. What made me happiest was seeing that special arrangements have been made for differently-abled visitors at Lahore Fort. For example, ♿wheelchair-accessible ramps are available throughout the fort. I highly recommend all history lovers visiting Lahore to definitely explore the Lahore Fort. You’ll return with joy in your heart.

Muhammad Umair J.

Google
It's waste of time to visit that place if you don't buy the ticket for each place. On every door they ask for 100/- Rs for entry like they are beggars. And the place that are free having nothing inside it. Not visiting this if don't want to waste your time. And don't eat anything from the restaurant that are around to it. Their taste is soo bad so don't waste your money..