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There is something so enchanting about palaces and castles that draw the attention of tourists from all across the world, inviting them to explore the beauty and splendour of these historical structures. Much like those situated in other countries, the palaces in Pakistan also tell the tale of royalty and nobility. These architectural landmarks give their visitors an insight into the life led by the affluent in the past by showcasing some of the most lavish features and captivating landscapes.
Over the last few centuries, this region saw the rise and fall of many different dynasties. As a result, Pakistan is home to some of the most unique and stunning palaces in the world that should be on every traveller’s list.
If you are someone with a deep interest in history or architecture, you will particularly enjoy visiting these beautiful palaces in Pakistan.
Palaces in Pakistan Every History-Lover Must Visit
These are the most fascinating palaces in Pakistan that will leave you in awe of their grandeur and magnificence.
Noor Mahal
The spectacular structure of Noor Mahal makes it one of the most fascinating and aesthetically pleasing palaces in Pakistan. This tourist attraction is located in Bahawalpur and perfectly encapsulates the rich history of what used to be one of the most prosperous princely states in the region. Owing to its grandeur, the architectural marvel is also widely known as the ‘Palace of Lights.’
It is said that Nawab of Bahawalpur Sir Sadiq Muhammad Khan IV built this showstopping palace for his beloved wife, who refused to live there due to its proximity to a graveyard. The construction work on the site began in 1872 and was finally completed in 1875. At the time, its development cost approximately RS 1.2. million.
The majestic Noor Mahal spans 8 kanal of land and comprises 32 rooms, which are located across its two floors and the basement. The palace also has five gorgeous domes paired with Corinthian-style columns. The vast garden surrounding the impressive structure is just as captivating, with its lush greenery and giant fountains adding to its visual appeal.
Meanwhile, the luxurious interior of Noor Mahal features incredible artwork, vintage furniture, crystal chandeliers, mosaic floors, antique swords, grand pianos, elegant carpets, and a range of exquisite fixtures that will simply take your breath away.
Presently, Noor Mahal is supervised by the Pakistan Army and is open to the public for certain hours throughout the day. It is also considered one of the most alluring palaces in Bahawalpur.
Faiz Mahal
The stately structure of Faiz Mahal does not require any introduction. This palace is situated in the Khairpur district of Sindh and is widely regarded as one of the most important historical places in Pakistan. Its iconic location on DCO House Road makes it easily accessible from different cities in the region, thus ensuring tourists can easily reach it.
Built in 1798, Faiz Mahal is a remnant of the Talpur dynasty that once ruled a significant part of the sub-continent. Since the present-day Khairpur used to be a princely state, this majestic palace served as a stronghold of the Talpurs. According to historians, Faiz Mahal initially served as a sovereign court. However, after the state was abolished, this place became the primary residence of the Talpur monarchs.
It won’t be wrong to say that Faiz Mahal is among the most stunning examples of Rajput and Mughal architecture in Sindh. It not only serves as a symbol of the Talpur legacy but also showcases the finest elements of Islamic art. Owing to its grand features and undeniable charm, this palace is considered one of the top tourist attractions in Pakistan.
Faiz Mahal is largely recognized for its gorgeous pink walls with elegant white trimmings. The exquisitely designed balconies and graceful domes also add to its architectural brilliance, creating a stunning contrast with the green hue of the lovely gardens surrounding the palace.
Today, the Sindh Tourism Development Corporation (STDC) supports and promotes tourism at Faiz Mahal.
Darbar Mahal
Deemed one of the most picturesque palaces in Bahawalpur, Darbar Mahal will leave you in awe of its otherworldly charm. It is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture that continues to stand tall and mesmerise visitors with its legacy and historical significance.
This historical landmark was commissioned by Nawab Bahal Khan (V) in 1904 and the construction was completed in 1905. Initially, the palace was called Bahawal Garh and was dedicated to the wife of the Nawab. It also served as a regional court for the state before the independence of Pakistan. In 1971, Darbar Mahal was given to the Pakistan Armed Forces. It now houses several government offices and is not open to the public.
Meanwhile, the elegant red-and-white façade of Darbar Mahal appears heavily inspired by the Mughal palaces in Pakistan. Much like Lahore Fort, this structure is also built out of red bricks and features intricately designed white domes that are interconnected by the means of short corridors. The roofline and windows also showcase predominantly white hues, paying homage to the traditional Arab and Indian architectural themes. It is also worth mentioning that Darbar Mahal is outfitted with more than 80 grand windows offering scenic views of the well-manicured gardens.
The interior of Darbar Mahal also deserves a special mention. The palace is adorned with delicate ornaments, vintage artwork, striking furniture, ancient swords, velvet curtains, ceramic tiles, and exceptionally designed chandeliers.
Sadiq Garh Palace
Much has been written and said about the desolate and decrepit condition of the Sadiq Garh Palace, though it remains one of the most beautiful palaces in Pakistan despite its crumbling white walls. The awe-inspiring structure served as the principal royal residence of then-ruler of Bahawalpur Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan (V) in 1882. It still stands tall in Dera Nawab Sahab near Ahmedpur East, symbolising the glory and opulence of the formerly princely state.
The pristine white Sadiq Garh Palace was designed by Italian architects, which explains its unique yet enthralling design features and gorgeous accents. The construction of the palace complex took nearly 10 years and cost around Rs 1.5 million. It spans hundreds of acres and comprises somewhere between 99 and 120 rooms, with each room boasting a large walk-in closet, an attached bathroom with a huge bathtub, and a unique décor theme.
Being one of the biggest palaces in Pakistan, Sadiq Garh Palace encompasses three floors featuring exquisite rooms, grand dining rooms, an extravagant ballroom, a Turkish hall, spacious kitchens, and a throne meant for the Nawab of Bahawalpur. The palace has also hosted a number of renowned historical figures including Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Viceroy of India Lord Mountbatten, and Shah Iran Mohammad Reza Pahlavi.
The palace complex also included a separate secretariat, mosque, gym, cinema, a small arms factory, symmetrical gardens, fountains, a water filtration plant, and an automobile workshop.
Sheesh Mahal
Located inside the majestic Lahore Fort, Sheesh Mahal is also referred to as Mirror Palace after its radiant walls intricately embedded with countless pieces of mirrors and glass. Known as one of the major tourist attractions in Pakistan, Sheesh Mahal was commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved queen, Mumtaz Mahal.
The tale associated with this unique structure entails that one night the queen dreamt that she was floating in the air and could reach to touch the stars. When she woke up, she narrated her dream wistfully to the king, who in turn asked the finest craftsmen in his empire to construct the one-of-a-kind palace. According to historians, it took one year for the construction to be completed. Thus, in 1632, Sheesh Mahal became the latest addition to the Quadrangle of Jahangir, the grand courtyard that housed Pari Mahal and Naulakha Pavilion.
Although the present-day Sheesh Mahal is not as stately and imposing as the other Mughal palaces in Pakistan, it is still a popular tourist attraction in the city. The entire structure is made from finely cut mirrors that catch the rays of the sun at the perfect angle and illuminate the entire space. However, originally, these pieces of mirrors were paired with true pearls, precious stones, and diamonds.
The Sheesh Mahal is presently open to the public. So, if you are looking to visit the top historical places in Pakistan, you should consider adding this palace to your list.
White Palace
The northern areas of Pakistan are filled with scenic views that will leave you mesmerised. Apart from breathtaking natural beauty, many of these areas are home to historical palaces that once served as an abode to the noble families. The stately White Palace of Marghazar in Swat is one such example of these artistically crafted structures.
Although it is not as expansive as many other palaces on this list, the White Palace – also known as Safaid Mahal – is among the most popular tourist attractions in the expansive Marghazar Hill. It enjoys a picturesque location in Swat, where it is nestled between snow-covered mountains and shimmering lakes at an altitude of 7,136 feet about 13 kilometres from Saidu Sharif.
As the name suggests, the White Palace is made from pristine white marble imported from the same quarry as the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. The first king of Swat, Miangul Abdul Wadud or Badshah Sahib, built this extravagant structure in 1940 as the summer home of the royal family. Initially, it was named Swati Palace. However, the name was later changed to Motti Palace. Finally, the ruler decided to name it the White Palace.
The 35-feet-tall structure exudes an almost magical charm. It is also considered the first building in the area featuring Victorian architecture in all its opulent glory. The bronze used in its ceiling was imported from Belgium, while the fans and light fixtures installed inside the palace were brought from England. Meanwhile, artisans were called from Turkey to work on this sprawling complex.
It is also important to mention that White Palace comprises 24 luxurious rooms as well as a Royal Suite that housed Queen of the United Kingdom Elizabeth II and Duke of Edinburgh Prince Philip for three days back in 1961. Since the palace has now been converted into a tourist resort, you can easily visit it on your next trip to Swat Valley.
Mohatta Palace (Qasr-e-Fatima)
The historical Mohatta Palace, now renamed as Qasr-e-Fatima, is also a worthy addition to the list of palaces in Pakistan.
This architectural monument commands a brilliant location in the posh neighbourhood of Clifton in Karachi. It spans more than 2000 sq. yd. and offers sweeping views of the Arabian Sea. The palatial structure was constructed in 1927 and was meant to serve as the summer house of a successful Hindi businessman named Shiv Ratan Mohatta. However, after the separation of the sub-continent in 1947, the Mohatta family moved to India, leaving behind their lavish residence.
After it became vacant, the Government of Pakistan established the offices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Mohatta Palace. After the ministry shifted to Islamabad, the palatial house was given to Fatima Ali Jinnah, the sister of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. The official name of Mohatta Palace was changed to Qasr-e-Fatima in her honour.
Considered one of the most popular places to visit in Karachi with family, the vast complex of Qasr-e-Fatima features a historical building boasting the elements of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The structure is meticulously crafted from pink Jodhpur stone and yellow Gizri stone, giving the palace its signature hue. Moreover, the main building is divided into three levels, namely the basement, ground, and first floors.
The interior of the palace comprises elegant teak wood floors, a hot water pool and changing rooms, intricately designed staircases and balustrades, and stunning floral motifs. The lush green gardens surrounding the main structure are also a sight to behold.
Qasr-e-Fatima now serves as a museum, making it easily accessible for those who want to explore its spellbinding beauty.
This brings us to the end of our guide on the most beautiful palaces in Pakistan. If you are still struggling to choose the top places to visit in Pakistan this summer, here are a few blogs that may help you out.
- The Most Beautiful Hill Stations in Pakistan
- Plan a Road Trip from Islamabad to Khunjerab Pass
- 5 Historical Forts in Pakistan That You Need to Visit
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