Punjab

The word Punjab is a compound of two Persian words, panj (“five”)

and āb (“water”),
thus signifying the land of five waters, or five rivers
(the Beas, Chenab, Jhelum, Ravi, and Sutlej).
The word’s origin can perhaps be traced to panca nada, Sanskrit for “five
rivers” and the name of a region mentioned in the ancient epic
the Mahabharata.
History
The history of Punjab dates back to the Indus civilization. The region has been
invaded and ruled by many different empires and races including
the Aryans, Persians, Greeks, Egyptians, Afghans, and Mongols.

The population of Punjab had been pre-dominantly Hindu with large Buddhist
minorities before it was conquered by Muhammad bin Qasim in 712
AD. He was the first to bring the message of Islam to the region. It was later
spread through the teachings of various Sufi saints.
The Mughals controlled the region from 1524-1739. It was their reign
that saw the construction of the great architectural wonders such as the
Badshahi Mosque and the Shalimar Gardens.
Following the decline and subsequent fall of the Mughal Empire, Maharaja
Ranjeet Singh was the most prominent ruler of the Punjab. He established the
Sikh Empire that lasted from 1799-1849.
1524 to 1739 Mughals
1799 to 1849 Sikh Empire
The British Empire
During his time a lot of importance was given to the landed aristocracy and he
relied upon their loyal support to retain power. However, after his death,
political chaos ensued and two of his successor maharajas were assassinated
in the succession struggle. The British Empire took control and annexed
Punjab in 1849 after two Anglo Sikh Wars.
Last king of King
MAHARAJA DULEEP SINGH
Maharaja Duleep Singh was the last Sikh Maharaja of the Punjab and former
owner of the famous Koh-i-Noor diamond,
which was surrendered to the British and later added to the Crown Jewels.
For much of his life, Duleep Singh had a complicated relationship with Queen Victoria – at
times affectionate, at others turbulent. On the one hand, the British East India Company had
taken possession of his ancestral lands, and on the other she was godmother to several of his
children.
Exiled from India as a child, Duleep Singh lived much of his life in England and France,
although he fought hard to reclaim his territory and title from the British.

More information about Duleep

Maharaja Duleep Singh was born in Lahore, in modern-day Pakistan, on 6 September 1838, to
Maharaja Ranjit Singh (1780–1839) and Rani Jindan Kaur (1817–1863).
Known as the 'Lion of Punjab', his father Ranjit Singh was the first Sikh Maharaja of the Punjab
and Sikh Empire, in modern-day eastern Pakistan and north-western India.
After his father’s death, a series of successors were killed. Finally, Duleep Singh was declared
Maharaja at just 5 years old.
THE PUNJAB SURRENDERED
The British, through their agents in the East India Company, were quick to exploit the unstable
situation in the Punjab. After two Anglo-Sikh wars, the Company took control of the region. The
Maharaja, still only 10 years old, was forced to surrender his lands and the prized
Koh-i-Noor diamond.
In return, he was granted a pension, provided he 'remain obedient to the British Government'.
DULEEP SINGH AND THE KOH-I-NOOR DIAMOND

1845 A FAMILY INHERITANCE

1845
The Koh-i-Noor had long been a symbol of conquest when Duleep Singh inherited it from his
father.
Previous owners included Mughal Emperors, Shahs of Iran, and Emirs of Afghanistan. The
British East India Company now wished to possess it.
1849 THE KOH-I-NOOR SURRENDERED
1849
In 1849, the British East India Company forced the 10-year-old Maharaja to sign the 1849
Treaty of Lahore, which stated that the Koh-i-Noor diamond be surrendered to Queen Victoria.
1850 QUEEN VICTORIA RECEIVES THE KOH-I-NOOR
1850-54
The Koh-i-Noor was displayed in the Great Exhibition of 1851 as a symbol of British imperial
power.
It was then recut to conform to contemporary European tastes, which preferred the sparkle of a
many-faceted stone. The recutting reduced the stone from 191.03 modern carats to an oval of
105.60 carats.
DULEEP SINGH SEES THE KOH-I-NOOR ONCE MORE

Four years after she acquired it from him, Queen Victoria invited Duleep Singh to view the Koh-
i-Noor at Buckingham Palace
1937
THE KOH-I-NOOR IN THE CROWN JEWELS
1937 - PRESENT
Today the Koh-i-Noor is set in the Crown of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother,
created in 1937 for the Coronation of King George VI.
It is on public display in the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London, alongside the Coronation
Regalia.
More information available in the link
https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/history-and-stories/duleep-singh/#gs.3ws2zp
Who was the first king of Punjab?
Ranjit Singh (born November 13, 1780, Budrukhan, or Gujranwala [now in Pakistan]—
died June 27, 1839, Lahore [now in Pakistan]) founder and maharaja (1801–39) of the Sikh
kingdom of the Punjab.22-Dec-2023

Punjab – Pakistan
Area
. Area 79,284 square miles (205,345 square km).
. The province contributes approximately 54% to the national income, 61% of the total
employment in Pakistan,

Punjab, province of eastern Pakistan. The name Punjab means “five waters,”
or “five rivers,” and signifies the land drained by
the Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej rivers, which are tributaries of
the Indus River. Punjab is Pakistan’s second largest province, after
Balochistān, and the most densely populated.

Boarders
It is bordered by the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir to the northeast,
the Indian states of Punjab and Rajasthan to the east,
Sindh province to the south,
Balochistān and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces to the west,
and Islamabad federal capital area and Azad Kashmir to the north.
The provincial capital, Lahore, is located in the east-central region, near the
border with India.
Plateau

A plateau is a flat, elevated landform that rises sharply above the surrounding
area on at least one side. Plateaus occur on every continent and take up a third
of the Earth's land. They are one of the four major landforms, along with
mountains, plains, and hills.

Plateau in Panjab
Potwar Plateau, tableland in Rawalpindi, Attock, and Jhelum districts,
Punjab province, Pakistan. Lying between the Indus and Jhelum rivers and
bounded on the north by the Hazara Hills and on the south by the Salt Range,
its varied landscape is constantly affected by erosion. Its elevation varies from
1,000 to 2,000 feet (300 to 600 metres) in a system of residual hills and
hillocks formed from glacial debris as remnants of the Ice Age. The Kala Chitta
Range thrusts eastward across the plateau toward Rawalpindi;
The Potwar Plateau is one of the most densely populated areas of
Pakistan. It contains the ancient city of Rawalpindi and the new national
capital, Islamabad, built since 1961. The plateau is the location of Pakistan’s
major oil fields, the first of which were discovered at Khaur (1915) and
Dhulian (1935); the Tut field was discovered in 1968, and exploration
continued in the area in the 1970s. The oil fields are connected by pipeline to
the refinery at Rawalpindi.
Some more information about Potwar plateau in this link
https://historypak.com/potohar-plateau/

There are 2 important plateaus in Pakistan:

the Balochistan Plateau (which is located in the Balochistan province)
and the Potwar/ Potohar Plateau (which is located North of the Salt
Range, Punjab).

Number of cities and Divisions

. There are 10 Divisions and 41 districts in Punjab.
https://livestock.punjab.gov.pk/system/files/List%20of%20Tehsils
%2C%20Districts%20and%20Divisions%202023%20Punjab
%E2%80%A2%20Galaxy%20World.pdf
Link provides complete detail about the division

Cities and their old names

 Mahmudpur →Lahore
 Lyallpur →Faisalabad(changed – 1977)
 Montgomery →Sahiwal (changed – 1966)
 Khanpur →Gujranwala
 Salwankot→ Sialkot
 Campbellpur →Attock (1978)
 Ajodhan → Pakpattan
 Rowdayana →Swat
 Pushkalavati →Charsadda

 What is the old name of Lahore?

 Lohāwar
 Lahore's name had been recorded by early Muslim historians as Lōhar, Lōhār,
and Rahwar. Al-Biruni referred to the city as Lohāwar in his 11th century work,
Qanun,while the poet Amir Khusrow , who lived during the Delhi Sultanate ,
recorded the city's name as Lāhanūr.18-Apr-2017

Cities and their nick names

 Land of Five River- Punjab

 City of Colleges- Lahore
 City of lightening- Karachi
 Manchester of Pakistan- Faisalabad
 Gateway of Pakistan- Karachi
 Brasilia of Pakistan- Islamabad
  Valley or city of Flowers- Peshawar
 City of Textiles- Faisalabad
 Switzerland of Pakistan- Swat
 Little Pakistan- Bradford
 Gateway of Invaders- Khyber Pass
 Pearl of the Himalaya- Kaghan Valley
 Killer Mountain of the world- Nanga Parbat
 Salt Home of the world- Pakistan
 Land of pure people- Pakistan
 City of greeneries- Islamabad
 Bread Basket of Pakistan- Punjab
 Queen of crops- Punjab

Which city of Pakistan is laid out on the shape of British flag?

‫پاکستان کا کون سا شہر برطانوی پرچم کی شکل میں بنا ہوا ہے؟‬

A. Faisalabad

which city of Pakistan is called city of Engineer's?

‫پاکستان کے کس شہر کو انجینئرز کا شہر کہا جاتا ہے؟‬

A. Lahore

_____________ is called the heart of Pakistan.

‫پاکستان کا دلْ ۔۔۔۔۔ کہالتا ہے۔‬

A. Lahore

Which city of Pakistan once known as “City of Maple Trees”?

‫پاکستان کا کون سا شہر کبھی "میپل کے درختوں کا شہر" کہالتا تھا؟‬

A. Abbottabad

Which country is known as maple country?

Canada
The correct answer is Canada. Canada is known as the Land of Maple Leaf. The first
Mayor of Montreal and Quebec Jacques Viger said the maple leaf is the symbol of the
Canadian people.
Faisalabad is commonly Known as
‫فیصل آباد کو عرف عام میں کیا کہا جاتا ہے۔‬

A. Manchester of Pakistan

Despite being the third largest populated city in Pakistan,

Faisalabad is overlooked when people travel to Pakistan. The
reason why this city is called the Manchester of Pakistan,
is because of the bazaars surrounding it. The bazaars near the
tower offers everything there to buy, from basic food to books
and jewelry.

Raj Shahi is the old name of which city?

‫راج شاہی کس شہر کا پرانا نام ہے؟‬

A. Islamabad

Who choose the name of Islamabad?

According to a history book by Muhammad Ismail Zabeeh, teacher and poet Qazi
Abdur Rehman Amritsari proposed the name of the city. Occasionally in writing,
Islamabad is colloquially abbreviated ISB.

Which city of Pakistan called city of colleges?

‫پاکستان کے کس شہر کو کالجوں کا شہر کہا جاتا ہے؟‬

A. Lahore

About the Creative City: Found in the Punjab province in Pakistan, Lahore is
often referred to as the 'city of colleges' due to the vast variety and number of
higher educational institutions in the city.

Debul was the old name of which city_____?

‫دیبل کس شہر کا پرانا نام تھا‬

A. Karachi

The Arabs knew it as the port of Debal, from where Muhammad

bin Qasim led his conquering force into Sindh (the western
 corner of South Asia) in AD 712. Lahari Bandar or Lari Bandar
succeeded Debal as a major port of the Indus; it was located
close to Banbhore, in modern Karachi.
What is the other name of Karachi?
Karachi was founded as "Kolachi" by Sindhi and Baloch tribes from Balochistan and
Makran, who established a small fishing community in the area.

What is the old name of Attock?

‫اٹک کا پرانا نام کیا ہے؟‬

A. Campbellpur

Why was Attock called Campbellpur?

The District was named Campbellpur after the name of Sir Campbell who laid the
foundation stone of Campbellpur City in 1908, a few kilometers away on the southeast
of Attock Khurd Town.

Parashpura is the old name of which city?

‫پراش پورہ کس شہر کا پرانا نام ہے؟‬

A. Peshawar

B. The city is famous for its bazaars and churches and is known as
the "city of flowers" because of the many gardens built during the
Mughal era.31-Jan-2023

Lyallpur is the old name of ?

‫الئل پور کس کا پرانا نام ہے؟‬

A. Faisalabad

Why is Faisalabad called Lyallpur?

The name Lyallpur was given with a view to pay tribute to Sir James Lyall, Lt. Governor
of Punjab, for his services rendered in colonization of the lower Chenab valley
Which is the third largest city of Pakistan?
‫پاکستان کا تیسرا بڑا شہر کون سا ہے؟‬

A. Faisalabad

Why is Faisalabad called Manchester of Pakistan?

This is a list of all the notable places in the city of Faisalabad, the third largest city in
Pakistan. Faisalabad is also called Manchester of Pakistan due its textile importance in
Pakistan. The city is known for its colonial heritage and its roots tracing back to the rule
of the British Empire.

Which is the city of Shrines and Tombs?

‫مزارات اور مقبروں کا شہر کون سا ہے؟‬

A. Multan

Which city is also known as the CITY OF GARDENS ?

‫کس شہر کو باغات کا شہر بھی کہا جاتا ہے؟‬

A. Karachi

B. Lahore

It is also known as the 'City of Gardens' because of its many

parks and gardens. This city is known for its rich culture and
lively atmosphere. Pakistan's major Urdu film industry Lollywood
is based here at the "Cultural Heart of Pakistan".

Which is the cultural capital of Pakistan ?

‫پاکستان کا ثقافتی دارالحکومت کون سا ہے؟‬

A. Islamabad

B. Lahore

Which city is known as cultural capital of Pakistan?

Lahore's culture is unique. It is sometimes referred as the cultural capital or the heart of
Pakistan, the city was a seat of the Mughal Empire and the Sikh Empire as well as the
capital of Punjab in Mahmud Ghaznavi's 11th century empire and in the British Empire.
When Pakistan shifted capital from Karachi to Islamabad?
‫پاکستان کا دارالحکومت کراچی سے اسالم آباد کب منتقل ہوا؟‬

A. 1967

Islamabad officially became the capital of Pakistan on 14 August

1967, exactly 20 years after the country's independence. The
first capital of Pakistan was the coastal city of Karachi in Sindh,
which was selected by Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
When was the first capital of Pakistan shifted?
In 1959, President Ayub Khan decided to shift Pakistan's federal capital from Karachi —
first to Rawalpindi and then to the newly-built city of Islamabad. At the time, no one had
anticipated that in the future the seat of power will be besieged by demonstrations and
protest marches.07-Nov-2021

City of Hot Weather is known as?

‫گرم موسم کا شہر کس شہر کو کہا جاتا ہے؟‬

A. Jacobabad

Which city is known as city of Saints?

‫کون سا شہر سنتوں کا شہر کہالتا ہے؟‬

A. Multan

The City of Saints, Sufis and Beggars (Gard, Garma, Gada o

Goristan) is a popular Persian saying associated with Multan. It
has been home to many renowned saints in the 11th and 12th
centuries, the most prominent being Sheikh Baha-ud-Din
Zakariya, Shams-ud-din Sabzwari, as well as Shah Rukn-e-
Alam.

‫بہاولنگر کا پرانا نام کیا تھا‬

A. ‫سالنوالی‬
 B. ‫روجھان والی‬

Cultural places or famous places/ historical places

There are 15 places

Badshahi Mosque Lahore, Punjab

The Badshahi Mosque in Lahore was commissioned by the sixth Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
Constructed between 1671 and 1673, it was the largest mosque in the world upon
construction. It is the second largest mosque in Pakistan and the fifth largest mosque in the
world.
It is Lahore's most iconic and famous landmark and a major tourist attraction. Aurangzeb's
mosque's architectural plan is similar to that of his father, Shah Jehan, the Jama Masjid in Delhi;
though it is much larger. it also functions as an idgah. The courtyard which spreads over
276,000 square feet, can accommodate one hundred thousand worshippers; ten thousand can
be accommodated inside the mosque. The minarets are 196 feet (60 m) tall. The Mosque is one
of the most famous Mughal structures, but suffered greatly under the reign of Maharaja Ranjit
Singh. In 1993, the Government of Pakistan included the Badshahi Mosque in the tentative list
for UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The mosque was constructed by the sixth Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, who, unlike the previous
emperors, was not a patron of art and architecture. He built the mosque between 1671 and
1673 under the guidance of Fidai Khan Koka, his "master of ordinance".
On 7 July 1799, the Sikh army of the Sukerchakia chief, Ranjit Singh, took control of Lahore.
After the capture of the city, the Badshahi mosque was desecrated by Ranjit Singh, who used its
vast courtyard as a stable for his army horses, and its 80 hujras (small study rooms surrounding
the courtyard) as quarters for his soldiers and as magazines for military stores. Ranjit Singh
used the Hazuri Bagh, the enclosed garden next to it, as his official royal court of audience. In
1818, he built a marble edifice in the garden facing the mosque.

On the occasion of the 2nd Islamic Summit held at Lahore on 22 February 1974, thirty-nine
heads of Muslim states offered their Friday prayers in the Badshahi Mosque, including, among
others, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto of Pakistan, Faisal of Saudi Arabia, Muammar Gaddafi of Libya,Yasser
Arafat of the Palestine Liberation Organization and Sabah III Al-Salim Al-Sabah of Kuwait. The
prayers were led by Mawlānā Abdul Qadir Azad, the then khatib of the mosque.
Between 1939 and 1960, the mosque was repaired to bring it back to its original condition. In
1993, the Government of Pakistan included the Badshahi Mosque in the tentative list for
UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Precise information
The second largest mosque in Pakistan, after the Faisal Mosque in Islamabad, the sanctuary
accommodates over 55,000 worshipers.
Jama Masjid in Delhi, India, closely resembles the architecture and design of the Badshahi
Masjid. Badshahi Masjid is one of the locations where Qari' Abdul Basit recited the Qur'an.
History
Built under the patronage of the sixth Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb Alamgir, the mosque came
to completion in 1673. Aurangzeb's foster brother Muzaffar Hussain (also known as Fidaie Khan
Koka), governor of Lahore 1671 to 1675, supervised the building. He also served as Master of
Ordnance to the emperor. The construction of the mosque took about two years from May
1671 to April 1673.

Badshahi Mosque had badly damaged and misused during Sikh Rule. When the Sikhs
ruled Lahore, they used the mosque for horse stables for the many horses, camels, and
other animals that they used. They also would steal the jewels from the mosque, such
as marble, rubies, gold, and other valuables. Sikhs forbade Muslims from entering the
mosque to worship, the government granting only a small place outside the mosque
where they could worship.

Even when the British took control of India, they used the mosque for military training including
rifle and cannon fire range. Sensing Muslim hate for them, the British demolished a large
portion of the wall of the mosque, rendering the mosque unusable as a rallying place for anti-
British planning. The British later returned the mosque to Muslims as a good will gesture, even
though the structure had become dilapidated from misuse and neglect. The Badshahi Mosque
Authority restored the holy place to its original glory

How long is Badshahi Mosque?

Its construction was completed by 1674 AD. It has a beautiful gateway which measures 21.33
metres in length and a courtyard that measures 161.5 x 160.6 metres and is said to be the
largest mosque courtyard in the world for outdoor prayers. The marble domes cover seven
prayer chambers.

It has four towering minarets

The Badshahi Mosque is adorned with four towering minarets, each standing at a height of 176
feet. These minarets serve both a functional and aesthetic purpose, adding to the grandeur of
the mosque and providing a visual landmark for the city of Lahore.

It offers breathtaking views of the Lahore Fort

Located adjacent to the Lahore Fort, the Badshahi Mosque offers breathtaking
views of the majestic fortress. The two landmarks together create a
mesmerizing sight and are a testament to the rich architectural heritage of the
Mughal era.

2 Lahore Fort
Lahore Fort, fortified complex
in Lahore, Pakistan, comprising mosques and palaces built by Mughal emperors. The
fort stands as one of the prime examples of Mughal architecture.

The history of Lahore Fort reaches back into the recesses of Indian history,
with excavations at the site suggesting it was inhabited before the conquest of Lahore
by Maḥ mūd of Ghazna in 1021.

The substantial and imposing structure seen today was added to over the centuries,
starting most significantly in 1566 when the Mughal emperor Akbar replaced and
extended the existing mud-built fort with one of brick masonry and red sandstone.

Lahore was an important city in the Mughal Empire, strategically located between the
other great Mughal strongholds of Kashmir, Kabul, and Multan. It was also the site of
the first Mughal conquests in India, so it was both fitting and necessary for the city to
boast a grand and functional fort.

Lahore Fort was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981.

About Lahore Fort
The Lahore Fort (Shahi Qila) in Lahore, Pakistan is a large complex of fortifications, marble
mosques and palaces built by Mughal Emperor Akbar, known as Akbar the Great. Whilst there
were buildings and fortifications on the site since the 11th century and even before, it was under
Akbar the Great that the current fort flourished.

What is Lahore Fort famous for?

Lahore fort is the only place in Pakistan which represents the different phases in the
development of Mughal architecture. It achieved prominence during the reign of
Emperor Akbar. Afterwards his successors, Jahangir, Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb
added numerous new buildings.

Which is the main gate of Lahore Fort?

the Alamgiri Gate

Located at the western end of the fort, the Alamgiri Gate is the entrance of the
Lahore Fort. It was built by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1674. It has two
semi-circular bastions where lotus petal design adorns its base. It opens to
the Hazuri Bagh and faces the Badshahi Mosque.

Who built Lahore Fort?

Akbar the Great

Akbar the Great held his Court In Lahore for 14 years from 1584 to 1598, and built the
Lahore Fort, as well as the city walls which had 13 gates.
How many gates are in Lahore Fort?

13 gates
The 13 gates of Lahore stand as a remarkable testament to the city's rich
historical and cultural heritage. They showcase the artistic and engineering
skills of past civilizations, with each gate boasting a unique design that reflects
the era in which it was constructed.09-Aug-2023
Mcqs

Which of the following fort was built by Akbar?

A. Attock fort
B. Lahore fort
C. Kot Diji
D. A & B

Noor Mahal

The Noor Mahal (Urdu: ‫ )نور محل‬is a historic real estate owned by the Ministry of Defense (MoD)
under the management of the Army Secretariat in Bahawalpur,

Who is owner of Noor Mahal?

Col. Manbeer Choudhary

Noormahal Palace in Karnal, Haryana is owned by Col. Manbeer Choudhary and his
wife Mrs. Binny Choudhary. It reflects the owner's vibrant and eclectic taste in art and
architecture.

Delhi Gate
Delhi Gate was the most important of all the gates because the Mughals used
it while travelling from Delhi to Lahore Fort. That is why the straight
passage leading to Lahore Fort from this gate came to be known as ‘Royal
Trail’ or Shahi Guzargah.

Delhi Gate - Walled City of Lahore, Lahore ‫الہور‬, Pakistan

Delhi Gate (Urdu: ‫دہلی دروازه‬, romanized: Delhī Darwāzā) is one of six remaining historic
gates of the Walled City of Lahore, Pakistan. Delhi Gate and the adjacent Shahi
Hammam were restored in 2015 by the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan.

Back ground

The Delhi Gate was originally built during the Mughal period, and is now known as
the Chitta Gate, about 100 metres west of the new Delhi Gate. The gate was named
after Delhi since the gate opened east, in the general direction of that city.[1] During the
Mughal era, the gate served as the main gateway to Lahore, and its doors were shut every
evening.[1] The surrounding area includes several buildings of historical significance
including the 17th century Wazir Khan Mosque, Shahi Hammam, and havelis.

"The original 13 gates around the city of Lahore were built by the third Mughal
emperor Akbar in the mid 1600s. These thirteen gates provided access to the city of Lahore
which was once enclosed within a thirty feet high fortified wall, built by the same Mughal
emperor".[1] Delhi Gate also served as Union Council 27 (UC 27) in Tehsil Ravi of Lahore
City District.

Wazir Khan Mosque

Who built the Wazir Khan Mosque?

Hakim Shaikh Ilm-ud-din Ansari

Another architectural masterpiece of Shah Jahan's era, the Wazir Khan Mosque, is
located deep within the old quarter of the ancient Walled City of Lahore. It was built
by the Governor (or Wazir) of the Punjab, Hakim Shaikh Ilm-ud-din Ansari. The
construction of the mosque commenced in 1634.

Why is Masjid Wazir Khan famous?

Wazir Khan Mosque is renowned for its intricate faience tile work known as Kashi-kari,
as well as its interior surfaces that are almost entirely embellished with elaborate
Mughal-era frescoes. The mosque was commissioned by the chief physician to the
Mughal Court, Ilam-ud-din Ansari, who was known as Wazir Khan.

Did Shah Jahan built Wazir Khan Mosque?

The Wazir Khan Mosque is 17th Century mosque located in the city of Lahore, province
of Punjab. Construction of Wazir Khan Mosque began in 1634 AD, and was completed
in 1641 AD during the reign of Shah Jahan.

Who was the architect of Wazir Khan Mosque?

The Mosque was built by Hakim Ilamuddin Ansari who was the wazir (minister/governor)
appointed by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for the region of Punjab; he became widely
known as Wazir Khan.

Who is buried in Wazir Khan Mosque?

Sufi saint Syed Muhammad Ishaq Gazruni

The mosque contains the tomb of the Sufi saint Syed Muhammad Ishaq Gazruni, also known as
Miran Badshah.

Construction of Wazir Khan Mosque began in 1634 C.E., and was completed in 1641. It is on the
UNESCO World Heritage

What is the hammam of Shah Jahan?

That is the Shahi Hammam or the Royal Bath. It is the only existing Royal Bath, one of
the few remainders of 17th century monuments built during the reign of Mughal
Emperor Shah Jahan. What was the Shahi Hammam for? It was a public bath built in
1634 by the Mughal courtier Wazir Khan or Hakim Ilm ud Din Ansari

Which Mughal king is buried in Pakistan?

the Mughal Emperor Jahangir
The Tomb of Jahangir (Urdu: ‫ )مقبرۂ جہانگیر‬is a 17th-century mausoleum built for
the Mughal Emperor Jahangir. The mausoleum dates from 1637, and is located in
Shahdara Bagh near city of Lahore, Pakistan, along the banks of the Ravi River.

Rohtas Fort
Rohtas Fort, also known as Qila Rohtas, located in Jehlum, Pakistan,

History of Rohtas Fort

When Sher Shah Suri took control of the region in the early 16th century, he instructed the construction
of the Fort to establish his dominance over the local Potohar tribes and end any local uprisings.

It took eight years, from 1541 to 1548, for forts construction. The Mughal
Emperor Humayun finally took control of it in 1555. After being captured by
Gurmukh Singh Lamba’s Sikh forces in 1825, the Sikh Empire used Rohtas
Fort for administrative purposes until the British troops collapsed the Fort in
1849. Due to the Fort’s exceptional preservation of Muslim architecture and
military tactics in South Asia, it became added to UNESCO’s list of World
Heritage Sites in Pakistan in 1997.
Ander Kot

Inside the Fort’s perimeter walls are two distinct areas known as Ander Kot and Main Fort. The elite’s
exclusive neighborhood of Ander Kot is cut off by a dividing wall and situated on the Fort’s northwest
side. The renowned Rani Mahal and Haveli Maan Singh are also here.

Haveli Maan Singh

As you go through the Fort, you’ll come across the Haveli Maan Singh. The
tower, the only surviving example of Hindu architecture in the Fort, is named
after one of Akbar’s greatest generals, erected sometime between 1550 and
1614. It is a brick, two-story structure that is neatly plastered and bears no
resemblance to the Fort.

Rani Mahal

Near Haveli Man Singh is the Rani Mahal. It is a one-story building. Only one of the original four rooms
still stands today. The four rooms’ foundations are still visible today. This palace was once home to the
wives and daughters of the Sultan.

Royal Mosque

Royal or Shahi Mosque is one of the most awe-inspiring structures in the complex, situated close to the
Kabuli Gate. The mosque has a prayer hall and a tiny open courtyard with stairs leading directly to the
top of the Kabuli Gate to make it simpler for worshippers to flee the mosque in the event of an enemy
attack.

Baolis (Step Wells)

Rohtas Fort is known for its impressive Baolis (step wells), once used to collect and store water. There
are two Baolis inside the Fort: The Royal Baolis and a Central Baolis.

Museum

Recognizing the historical importance of Qila Rohtas, the authorities decided to build a Museum inside
the Fort to showcase the royal life of King Sher Shah Suri.

Gates of Rohtas Fort

This majestic Fort consists of a total of 12 gates. All the gates depict an Ashlar stone pattern. Let us
discuss the detail of the gates one by one:

Shah Chandwali and Langar Khani Gate

The gate connecting the stronghold to the main Fort is the Shah Chandwali gate. The gate’s name is to
its architect, Shah Chandwali. The Langar Khani gate leads to the kitchen of the Fort. It is a double gate
with a wide central rounded opening.

Kabuli and Khwas Khani Gate

The Himalayan Wildlife Foundation built the Rohtas Museum inside the Kabuli gate. This gate opens in
the direction of Kabul. Also, it features a visitors’ information center. Khas Khanu Gate, named after a
prominent general of Sher Shah Suri, is the main entrance to the Fort from the old G.T road.

Sohail and Kashmiri Gate

The ceremonial main entrance to the Fort is through the Sohail gate. This gate features rich decoration
on the outer area with floral motifs. The Kashmiri gate is named so because it opens towards the
direction of Kashmir.
The Gatali and Sar Gate

The Gatali gate is a single gate because it opens towards the Gatali village, an important area for
crossing the Jhelum River.

The locals constructed the Sar Gate to provide a passage to the adjacent forest. An old pond is in front
of this gate in the Fort. That is why it is called Sar gate ( Water Pond).

Pipli and Talaqi Gate

Pippi gate is a 2.13 meters wide small entrance. The Urdu word Talaq, which means divorce, is where
Talaqi Gate gets its name. According to historical facts, Prince Sabir Suri entered this gate and suffered
from a fatal attack of fever. So they considered the Talaqi gate a bad omen

Frequently Asked Questions

Who built Rohtas Fort?

The Mughal Emperor, Sher Shah Suri, built Qila Rohtas in the 16th century. Its elevated position on the
hill gave it the ideal vantage point to warn of invaders or attacks. Suri constructed Qila Rohtas to house
around 30,000 military members at a time. There are 12 gates or entrances in the Fort, many of which
are still in place today.

What is unique about Rohtas Fort?

Qila Rohtas is a unique illustration of early Muslim military architecture in central and south Asia. The
massive walls, which cover more than 4 km and are lined with bastions and pierced by impressive
gateways, make up the main fortifications. The Fort’s splendidly preserved buildings include a Shahi
Mosque, Rani Mahal, and even Baolis (Step Wells). It’s an incredible structure, with walls up to 30 feet
thick in some places!

Who is buried at Rohtas Fort?

Shah Chandwali is a saint who died while working and was buried close to the gate after passing away.
The Shah Chandwali gate connects the main Fort and the citadel. Shah Chandwali, who refused to
accept payment for his labor on this gate, is honored by the gate’s name. His memorial is still standing
today.

Attock Fort
The magnificent Attock Fort overlooks the hills of the Pothohar Plateau and
the Indus River. The fort of Attock is located in Attock, Pakistan. The ancient
name of Attock was ‘Attock Khurd,’ which means ‘the Little Foot of the
Mountain.’ Attock was known for the confluence of the Indus and Kabul rivers.
The rulers built the Attock Fort at strategic points to protect the territory from
the attacks of invasions.

Attock District has historical significance because it remains the passage to

India. Many people, such as Alexander the Great, Ibn-e-Battuta, and Mughal
Emperor Babar, have crossed through this city, Attock, and entered India. Due
to its historic fort, Attock remained the main objective of the conflict. Due to its
fortification, many great powers of the Subcontinent have fought over Attock.
This fort saw the fall of the eighteenth century’s Mughal Empire and the rise of
Sikhs in Punjab.

History of Attock Fort

Mughal Emperor Akbar, the grandson of Babar 1581, recognized the
importance of this Attock and ordered him to build the magnificent Attock Fort.
Construction on the fort began as quickly as possible and took over two years
to finish in 1583. Khawaja Shamsuddin Khawafi supervised the Attock Fort
construction. The main objective of building this Attock Qila was to guard the
area against outside invasions and attacks. Along the Indus River’s banks, on
a hill, was made the fortress of Attock. It also protects the Indus River
passage. Raghunath Rao, Sabaji Shinde, Sidhojiraje, Gharge Desai Shinde
(Deshmukh), and the Marathas empire captured the Attock Fort on 28 April
1758.

It became the northern boundary of the Martha empire. After the Third Battle
of Panipat, Ahmad Shah Durrani retook Attock fort, ending the Maratha
empire. The Attock Qila remained a prominent feature during the Afghan-Sikh
Wars in Attock. In 1812, Sikhs captured the fort of Attock, and then later,
British rule took over the fort. After the India-Pakistan Partition, this fort of
Attock came under the control of the Pakistan army. The Pakistan army uses
this fort as the headquarters of the 7th division. The particular service group
(SSG), a special operations force of the Pakistan Army, took control of the fort
in 1956. The Attock Qila remains under Special Services Group (SSG)
custody.
The Architecture of Attock Fort
The Attock fort was built almost two years, from 1581 to 1583. It is one of the
finest pieces of architecture.

Who Built Attock Fort?

Attock Fort was built on the orders of Mughal Emperor Akbar during his reign
at Attock Khurd from 1581 to 1583.

The purpose of this fort is to protect the area and defend the passage of the
Indus River. It was built under the supervision of Khawaja Shamsuddin
Khawafi.
Emperor Jahangir Visited Attock Qilla Three Times during his Reign
First time in the year 1016 AH, on his way to Kabul. The second time was
when Jahangir returned from Kabul, and the third time was in 1626 when he
was going to stay in Kabul.
Four Gates of Attock Fort
The fort is surrounded by four gates and a 1600m long wall. Every entrance
has its significance and worth at its site.
The gates are namely the Delhi gate, Mori Gate, Lahori Gate, and Kabuli
Gate.
Lahori Gate
Lahori Gate is located at the entry point to the lower part of the fort. Lahori
gate is on the south side of Attock fort. In 1857, the arsenal was built on the
site of the Lahori Gate.
Mori Gate
Mori Gate of the Attock Fort has its significance. It is located at the entry point
to the upper part of the fort on the east side.
Delhi Gate
Delhi Gate is located in the center of the Attock fort. This Dehli gate links the
upper part of the fort with the lower regions.
Kabuli Gate
The Kabuli Gate is the fourth gate of Attock Fort. It is located in the southeast
part of the fort.
Phansi Ghat
The Attock Qila is also famous for another feature of Hangman’s platform,
also known as Phansi Ghat. Anyone who juts out over the raging river hangs
on this platform. Moreover, no mercy is pleased even on the dead body and
throws it over the executive board
Bagh Neelab
Bagh Neelab is one of the most attractive places near the Fort of Attock. Bagh
Neelab is located where the Haro river joins the Indus river. The Indus river
and the lush green and beautiful hills of Kala Chitta (at the height of 3800 feet)
enhance the beauty of the fort and territory.
Tunnel in Attock Fort
There are many tunnels in the Attock fort. These tunnels escape warriors from
the enemy during wars and attacks. Soldiers also used these tunnels to hide
from the enemy. Many forts have tunnels, but Attock fort has long and large
tunnels.

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Derawar Fort
Derawar Fort

In the Cholistan Desert of Punjab, Derawar Fort is an awe-inspiring sight. At over 1500 meters in length,

The Fort’s origins are a little mysterious, but it’s thought to have been built in
the 9th century by a Hindu king named Rai Jajja Bhatti. Over the centuries, it
was a defensive stronghold, a royal palace, and even a prison. It’s one of the
biggest forts in Pakistan.
Derawar Fort Cholistan Desert is a World Heritage Site listed by UNESCO
because of its historical and cultural significance.

Derawar Fort History

A Hindu Rajput king of the Bhati clan named Rai Jajja Bhati initially built
Derawar Fort in the ninth century A.D. to tribute Rawal Deoraj Bhati, the ruler
of Jaisalmer and Bahawalpur. The area was under the control of the Arab-run
Emirate of Multan. The Fort’s previous names were Dera Rawal and Dera
Rawar, respectively. With time, the Fort’s pronunciation changed to Derawar,
now its official name.
Muhammad ibn Qasim, an Arab commander of the Umayyads, took control of
the Fort in 711 CE. It was then governed by the Emirate of Multan, which
Mahmud Ghaznavi had taken control of in 1008 AD while securing Punjab.
The Ghurids, led by Muhammad Ghori, later conquered the Fort, which the
Delhi Sultanate later annexed.
From the early sixteenth century to the late eighteenth century, the Mughals
ruled over the Fort. The Shahotra tribe was driven out of the Fort in the 18th
century by Muslim Nawabs of Bahawalpur. The Fort was later rebuilt in its
current form in 1732 by the Abbasi ruler Nawab Sadeq Muhammad, but due
to Bahawal Khan’s concerns at Shikarpur, it escaped their control in 1747.
Nawab Mubarak Khan captured the Fort in 1804. Near a crumbling wall in the
Fort, archaeologists discovered debris with 1,000-year-old catapult shells.
Nawab Sadeq Muhammad Khan Abbasi V, the 12th and final ruler of
Bahawalpur State was born in Qila Derawar in 1904. His father died when he
was only three years old, making him the new Nawab until 1966.
Forty circular bastions, ten on each side, are visible for miles across the
desert and stand 30 meters tall. Each one features intricate cut brickwork
patterns as decoration. The Moti or Pearl Mosque and the Bahawalpur
Nawabs’ cemetery are both close by, filled with elaborate and ornate graves.
The remnants of structures inside the Fort have tile and fresco work.
Ancient Dry River
The Thar desert of the Indian Subcontinent, located in contemporary Pakistan,
has a western section called the Cholistan desert, or Rohi. Archaeological
findings show that an Indus Valley culture with an agricultural economy once
lived in this region irrigated by the Hakra River. From approximately 4000 BC
until 600 B.C.

Cholistan Desert
If you are looking for an epic experience, look no further than the Cholistan
Desert! This vast and otherworldly landscape is home to some of Pakistan’s
most impressive historical sites, including the majestic Qila Derawar.
The Greater Thar Desert, which includes Sindh province and the Indian state
of Rajasthan, consists of the Cholistan Desert in southern Punjab, Pakistan.
The Cholistan was once a large river basin formed by the waters of the Sutlej
and Yamuna Rivers, though it is now a dry area.
Abbasi Mosque
In the Cholistan Desert of Bahawalpur District, Punjab province of Pakistan,
close to Derawar Fort in Yazman Tehsil, is a mosque known as the Abbasi
Mosque. In 1849, Nawab Bahawal Khan constructed it. The Moti (pearl)
Masjid in Agra, built by Shah Jahan, inspired the design of this stunning white
marble mosque. It still belongs to the Abbassi family and is a piece of the
historical residence of the former Nawabs of Bahawalpur.

Sheesh Mahal

Mumtaz’s enthusiasm and love for Shah Jahan have

been memorialized entirely at Sheesh Mahal. The love story that led to the
construction of this tower is as fascinating as the structure itself.
According to folklore, Mumtaz Mahal, Shah Jahan’s cherished bride, longed to
float in the stars as she saw in her dreams. Subsequently, Shah Jahan built it
for her in Lahore to make her wish come true.
Unfortunately, she died before entering the palace, which pained the king.
Later, as a homage to her, Shah Jahan had his warriors construct the Taj
Mahal in India.

History of Lahore Sheesh Mahal

It is one of the most gorgeous Mughal palaces, and people from all over the
world visit and study it. The Sheesh Mahal is located in the northwestern
corner of Lahore Fort, within reach of the Shah Burj block.
It was constructed between 1631 and 1632 during the reign of the Mughal
emperor Shah Jahan. The ornately designed white marble pavilion is
embellished with exquisite mirror work.
Only the monarch, queen, royal family, and close friends had access to this
hall. It is one of 21 monuments constructed by Mughal emperors within the
walls of the vast Lahore fort. It is known as the “Jewel of the Fort” because of
its unusual design. It has also been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since
1981.
The love story that inspired the building’s creation is as unique as the tower.
According to history, Mumtaz Mahal, Shah Jahan’s adored wife, wished to
float in the stars as she saw in her dream, and to satisfy her wish, Shah Jahan
built it for his beloved queen Mumtaz Mahal when she lived in Lahore.
Unfortunately, she died before entering the palace, leaving the king distraught.
Later, Shah Jahan directed that the Taj Mahal be built as her memorial in
India.
FAQs
What is Sheesh Mahal famous for?
Sheesh, Mahal is famous for its lavish design and decoration, including
hundreds of tiny mirrors that shimmer and reflect the light in thousands
of different directions.
Who built Sheesh Mahal Lahore?
Sheesh, Mahal Lahore was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the
17th century.
Is Sheesh Mahal actual?
Yes, Sheesh Mahal is an actual place; you can visit it by going to the Lahore
fort in Lahore.
Why was Sheesh Mahal built?
Sheesh, Mahal was built as a summer palace for the Mughal Emperor Shah
Jahan and his family.

Khewra Salt Mines

The mines were found in 320 BC while Alexander the Great’s army was
taking a break nearby, and commercial production didn’t start until the Mughal
era. Since the Indian subcontinent was divided, the mine has been under the
management of the Pakistan Mineral Development Corporation (PMDC). It is
one of the most significant natural resources of Pakistan.
The Khewra Mines, which draw thousands of tourists annually, is now a well-
liked tourist attraction for visitors from other countries. A British geotechnical
engineer named Dr. H. Warth created the mine’s main tunnel, where tourists
tend to congregate.
Although it is Pakistan’s most significant source of consumable salt and the
second-largest salt mine on the planet, you might be asking why it is so well-
known as a tourist site. One peek inside the cave is all it takes to find the
answer, but if you need more incentive, there’s much to discover. The Khewra
Mines have 19 levels and more than Forty kilometers of tunnels, including
seven stories above and 12 levels below ground.

The enormous mine contains almost 40 kilometers of tunnels extending over

730 meters, or nearly half a mile, into the mountain beneath the salt
resources. It has a surface area of 110 square kilometers and is 228 meters
or 748 feet deep (with 11 different stories). Only half of the salt discovered is
mined; the other half acts as reinforcement pillars to hold up the mine.

History of Khewra Mines

In memory of Lord Mayo, who explored the Khewra Salt Mine while serving as India’s Governor, the
mine is also called the Mayo Salt Mine. The mine is situated within a salt range that was developed
approximately 800 million years ago when a deep marine evaporated and was followed by a geological
activity to create a salt range about 300 kilometers long (185 miles).

When Alexander the Great traveled through the Jhelum and Mianwali region in his Indian mission, he
came across the salt deposits at Khewra. However, the horses of Alexander’s troop, which were
observed tasting the rocks, were the ones who found the mine, not he or his friends. After licking the
rock salt stones, his army’s sick horses likewise made a full recovery. Salt was traded throughout the
Mughal era in many markets, even Central Asia. Sikhs seized control of the mine after the fall of the
Mughal dynasty.

Gulab Singh, the Raja of Jammu, and Hari Singh Nalwa, the Sikh General in charge, shared control of the
Salt Range. The latter held Khewra; the former was in charge of the Warcha mine. During the Sikh era,
salt was mined for use and as a means of income. The British continued to expand the mine in 1872,
sometime after seizing the Sikhs’ domain.

Mining of Pink Himalayan Salt

In the West, Himalayan salt is a fantastic alternative to regular table salt since
it contains additional minerals. Rock salt is currently extracted from the salt
mines by more than 400 people. 30% of the remaining rock salt is used for
food reasons, leaving about 70% for industrial application.

Khewra Mines: World’s Second

Largest Mine
After over 2330 years, the Khewra salt mines are now the second-largest in
the world, trailing only the Sifto Canada, Inc. salt mine in Goderich, Ontario.
They produce 325,000 tonnes of salt annually, with a lifetime production
estimate of 220 million tonnes. This region’s enormous salt reserves,
estimated to be 6.687 billion tonnes, are hardly even scratched by this.
Although salt is believed to have been mined and traded in this area since
Alexander’s time, it wasn’t officially documented until the 1200s under the
Janjua-Raja clan.

Salt Export from Pakistan

According to a media report on Thursday, Pakistan may overtake other
countries in the global salt trade as local rock salt from Khewra in the Punjab
province is about to be enrolled with international trade organizations. This
registration will stop Indian traders from marketing Pakistani rock salt as
Himalayan Pink Salt.

FAQs
How deep are the Khewra Mines?
Interestingly, the total salinity of the mine is estimated at 6,687 million tons.
According to reports, the salt mine covers 110 square kilometers and has a
real depth of 228 meters or 758 feet. The mine has 11 floors, 6 of which are
underground.
Where is the salt range located?
At the west side of the Jhelum River, the slat ranges rise abruptly from the
plains of Punjab. These jagged peaks and desolate ravines run for 180km in
the west. linear formation of these sheer escarpments containing bright red
marls has gained their name for having the thickest seams of rock salt in the
salt range. The Salt Range is located near Pind Dadan Khan in District
Jhelum.
How is it the second-largest mine in the world?
The Khewra Salt mines were discovered by the horses of the army of
Alexander the significant ack in 326 BC. The army stopped here to rest, and
the horses started to lick the stones nearby. One of the soldiers tried it, and
these vast salt ranges were discovered. It is the second largest salt mine in
the world, with a depth of 748 feet spanning over 11 stories. The tunnels run
half a mile, and only 50% of the total extraction is taken out, and the rest is
used to support the mine columns.

First largest salt mine

1. Sifto Salt Mines in Ontario

This Canadian salt mine holds the distinction of being the largest salt mine in the
world. It is located 1800 feet under Lake Huron. For perspective, that’s just 15 feet
shorter than the CN Tower in Toronto! The salt was once deposited 400 million
years ago by an ocean that covered the Great Lakes Basin.

The mine has been in operation since 1959. The biggest purpose for this salt is a
life-saving one. The rock salt produced from the mine is sold to retailers all over
North America to spread in the winter snow and ice. This helps prevent black ice
which causes many wintry accidents and fatalities. The salt is also sold to make
industrial and cleaning products.

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Shalimar Garden, Lahore

Shalimar Gardens in Lahore, aptly known as the “City of Gardens,’ is one

such site that has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage list.

History of Shalimar Garden

Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan constructed the huge Shalimar Gardens. The first Shalimar Paradise in
Kashmir, established by his father, Emperor Jahangir, in 1620 against snow-capped mountain peaks,

inspired him to design this romantic garden. Since Kashmir was far from the Mughal Empire’s capital,
Shah Jahan desired a similar garden to be constructed in Lahore to entertain the royal family and nobles
of the province.
According to historians, between 1620 and 1630, a flood rushed through Lahore, exposing a stepped
landscape at the margin of the River Ravi. Due to its terrain and fertile soil, the location was ideal for
constructing a royal garden. Even though it was around a day’s journey from the Lahore Fort at the time,
it was chosen as the perfect location for Shalimar Gardens due to its steady water supply.

In June 1641, the development of Shalimar Gardens in Lahore began. It took a group of engineers and
architects over 18 months to develop the three-tiered garden complex with artificial water cascades,
pools, fountains, and seating, as the topography was radically different from the Kashmiri scenery.

The Shalimar Gardens are the only reason Lahore is known as “The City of
Gardens,” even though numerous other important Mughal cities in the
subcontinent, such as Delhi, Agra, and Fatehpur Sikri, also feature gorgeous
gardens

Baradari at Shalimar Garden

Shalimar Park was constructed for the royal family’s enjoyment during their
vacation to Lahore, and it has an exceptional Baradari (Twelve doors).

Farah Baksh
The name of the highest terrace is Farah Baksh (Bestower of Pleasure). It is
slightly hidden from view, and it is thought that monarchical women used it for
their privacy.
Faiz Baksh at Shalimar Garden
The second level, or mid-level garden, is known as “Faiz Baksh,” which
translates to “giver of good.” The terrace at Faiz Baksh was reserved for the
Emperor alone. It is regarded as the best spot in the garden since, from this
terrace, the entire garden can be seen.
Hayat Baksh

Only the lowest terrace, known as Hayat Baksh (Bestower of Life), had a public entry. It was accessible to
court noblemen and authorized restricted public access at times. The ascending hierarchy of the
terraces is symbolic of the many social strata in the court.

Diwan-e-Khas-o-Aam
The garden also contains numerous minor structures that serve multiple functions for the royal family.
The Aiwan and Diwan-e-Khas-o-Aam are two of the most prominent halls. The former was a magnificent
hall with numerous functions, visited by Mughal monarchs.

In contrast, the latter was used to entertain local and international guests. A few summer pavilions are
dispersed throughout the area to offer relief from the summertime heat.

Sawan Bhadun Pavilions at Shalimar Garden

The garden was designed as a royal relaxation area and served as the Emperor’s residence whenever he
visited Lahore. Several pavilions and summer cottages, also known as Sawan Bhadu Pavilions, were
constructed there for this purpose.

Hammam

You will be amazed to learn that the Royal Bath exists and that it contains a concealed heating system.
The Royals utilized this bath exclusively. The bath is unique and unparalleled among the Mughal bathing
methods.

For the Hamam’s water supply, there was a well on the Hamam’s eastern side that delivered water
through a brick channel (aqueduct). The track was also connected to the water tank built in the
hammam’s southeast corner.

Aram Gah ( Resting Place)

On the uppermost terrace, the present main entrance was originally the Aramgah (rest room) of
Shahjahan.

The Aiwan ( Grand Hall)

The Aiwan, or Grand Hall, is the most prominent and stately of the three main pavilions in Shalimar
Garden, Lahore. It was built in 1641 by Emperor Shah Jahan as a place for him to hold court and
entertain guests.

The Aiwan is rectangular, with a large central hall and two smaller side chambers. It is constructed of red
sandstone with white marble inlay work. Today, it is a popular spot for travelers to enjoy the garden
views.

Kawabgah of Begum Sahib ( Emperor’s wife)

The Kawabgah is a pavilion used by the women of the royal household. It is a two-story building with a
marble platform on the second story. The venue is surrounded by a railing and views the gardens
below.

Naqqar Khana

The building on the top terrace to the east, presently known as Naqqar Khana, was formerly known as
Jharoka-e-Daulat Khana-e-Khas-o-Aam (the hall window of a unique and familiar audience); to the west
was the home of the Empress.

Restoration of Shalimar Gardens

Substantial restoration efforts have been undertaken since it is believed that
the Shalimar gardens were damaged during a battle between Moin-ul-Mulk
and Ahmad Shah. The restoration of the parks began, although adequate
research was not conducted until recently.

FAQs

Which Mughal ruler built Shalimar Garden in Lahore?

Emperor Shah Jahan built Shalimar Garden in Lahore.

Who built Shalimar Garden in Lahore?

Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built Shalimar Gardens for his wife, Noor Jahan.

Where is Shalimar Garden located?

Shalimar Garden has located in Lahore near GT road Lahore.

Why is Shalimar Garden famous?

Shalimar Garden was famous for its spectacular water System and its intricate design.

What is inside Shalimar Gardens?

Shalimar Garden consists of fountains, gardens, and three famous terraces.

Katas Raj Mandir

Katas Raj Mandir near Chakwal in Pakistan’s Punjab region is dated to Hindu
Shahis (kings) from 615 to 950 CE and is devoted to Lord Shiva. As
such, Katas Raj Mandirs have become one of the most important Hindu
pilgrimage sites in Pakistan and are still used by members of the country and
those who travel there every year from overseas. Katas Raj Mandir, also
known as Qila Katas, is a Hindu temple in Katas, near Choa Saidanshah,
some 40 kilometers from Chakwal city in Punjab, Pakistan. Katas Raj
Temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and date from the Hindu Shahi
dynasties, which are approximately the 615 to 950 CE eras.

Katas Raj

According to Hindu mythology, the foundation of these Qila Katas was laid by Krishna, who also installed
a Shiva ling there. A holy pond can be located in the temple. According to a Brahmanicaltradition, the
pond was formed by Shiva’s sorrowful tears after the death of his wife, Sati. Today, the Hindu pilgrims
visit Katas Raj Chakwal to swim in the pool to beg forgiveness for their sins. Concerning the origins
of Katas Raj, The Pandawa brothers, who are a subject of the tremendous poetic epic of “Mahabharta,”
are said to have visited the place, and this temple, the mandir, i.e., was built to honor their presence. It
is stated that this is the region in the epic known as Dvaitavana.

Katas Raj Temples History

According to Hindu belief, the temples were built around the time of the
Mahabharata and are thought to have housed the Pandava brothers for a
significant amount of their exile. Hindus also consider the location of the
Yaksha Prashna’s account of the Pandavas’ participation in a riddle
competition with the Yakshas, which bears a specific mythological significance
to Hinduism.

What is the Meaning of Katas Raj?

The name “Katas Raj” derives from the Sanskrit word “kataksha,” which
means “tearful eyes.” Local Hindu mythology holds that Lord Shiva sobbed
uncontrollably after the passing of his beloved bride Sati. The ponds at Katas
Raj were created by his tears that fell on the ground.

What is another Name for Katas Raj

Temples?
The Katas Raj Temples are also frequently alluded to as Qila Katas. In the
national language, the word Qila signifies a castle or a fort. Hence the name
Qila Katas is relevant among locals around the Katas Raj Temples.

Festivals at Katas Raj Temples

Every year, a sizable contingent of Sikh and Hindu pilgrims from India travel to
Pakistan to observe religious festivals following the Pakistan-India agreement
on visits to religious shrines from 1974. 200 Hindu pilgrims at most may
participate in the cross-border journey. Hindu pilgrims typically travel to Katas
Raj twice a year, once in February or March for the Maha Shivratri festival and
once in November or December.

FAQs
How old are Katas Raj Temples?
The age of temples ranges between 2,500 to 2,900 years. The smaller
temples were added about 900 years ago.
Who made Katas Raj Temples?
The initial temples were built by the emperor Ashoka.
Why is the Katas Raj Temple famous?
They are famous for their religious, cultural, and historical significance to
Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists.

Tomb of Jahangir
Lahore is a city full of historic buildings, and the Tomb ofJahangir is among
the most famous tourist attractions. Mughal Emperor Jahangir was an
essential part of the history of this era. He ruled from 1605 to 1627.
His mausoleum was built ten years after his death. Emperor Shah Jahan, son
of Emperor Jahangir, built his Tomb at the bank of River Ravi in the suburbs
of Lahore.
If you move northwest from the Walled City of Lahore, you will come across
the area of Shahdara Bagh. This location was famous for its pleasure gardens
in the Mughal era. Jahangir Tomb was also built in his favorite pleasure
garden Bagh-e-Dil Kusha.
The Tomb of Jahangir is famous for its exquisite interior and exterior. The
interior is embellished with white marble and frescoes, whereas the surface is
dominated by pietra dura. Jahangir Tomb Lahore, the Tomb of Asif Khan, and
Akbari Sarai are part of the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list.

Interesting facts about the Jahangir Tomb

 It is located in Shahdara Lahore, a suburban area adjacent to River Ravi.

 The Tomb is located in Dil Kusha Garden, one of the pleasure gardens of Emperor Jahangir.

 His wife, Noor Jahan, designed Jahangir Tomb.

 It covers an area of 55 acres.

 It was built ten years after Emperor Jahangir’s death on the order of his son and Emperor Shah
Jahan.

 The design of this Tomb is Chahar Bagh patterned with vast gardens surrounding the
mausoleum.

 On the west side of the Jahangir Tomb in Dil Kusha Garden, you will see Asif Khan’s Tomb and
Akbari Sarai.

 The Asif Khan Tomb, Akbari Sarai, and Jahangir Tomb are all part of the UNESCO world heritage
tentative list.

 The construction cost of the Jahangir Tomb in 1637 was estimated to be Rs.10 Lakhs.
History of Jahangir Tomb

In 1627, Mughal emperor shah Jahan ordered the construction of a Tomb for his father, Jahangir. This
Tomb was completed ten years after Jahangir’s death and cost approximately Rs. 10 Lakhs.

In the early 19th century, the Sikh ruler Ranjit Singh stripped some of the marble from the Jahangir
Tomb and used it in different Sikh buildings, including Golden Temple Amritsar. The white marble you
see in Hazuri Bagh Lahore was also stripped from here.
Akbari Sarai

On the west of the Jahangir Tomb, a caravan inn known as Akbari Sarai is located. It was built in 1637
and had more than a hundred rooms used by Mughal emperors as a resting place. The gate that you will
use to enter the gardens is also the main entrance of Akbari Sarai. You will also see rich embellished
white marble in sandstone on the walls of this gate.

Jilau Khana (Forecourt)

Besides Akbari Sarai, a Jilau Khana or forecourt is also present. It was
constructed on the west side of the Tomb. It adds more substance to the
whole building.
Asif Khan Tomb
This elevated Tomb is located west of the Jahangir Tomb, obstructed by
Akbari Sarai. You can see this Tomb on the west side while standing in the
main entranceways.
Asif Khan was the brother-in-law of Jahangir, whose Tomb was also made by
Shah Jahan in 1641. This whole building was covered in precious white
marble and stone. Sikh rulers have heavily damaged this building and stripped
most of its marble and stones.
Noor Jahan Tomb
Noor Jahan, the wife of Emperor Jahangir, was buried near him. Her Tomb
was also well adorned with white and red marble and sandstone. Most of the
marble from her Tomb was stripped off by Sikh rulers.
A railway line was built between the Tomb of Noor Jahan and Asif Khan,
separating the two. Before this, these were in the same garden compound.
The gardens are no longer present.

FAQs

Who built Jahangir’s Tomb?

His son Emperor Shah Jahan built this Tomb and designed it by his wife, Noor Jahan.

Where is the Tomb of Jahangir?

Tomb of Jahangir is located Northwest of the Walled City in Shahdara Town Lahore.

What is the History of Maqbara Jahangir?

Maqbara Jahangir was ordered to be built by his son right after he died in 1627 but was completed after
ten years. It is a magnificent mausoleum of the Mughal era.

How do you get complete detail of the Jahangir Tomb?

You can get complete details of Jhangir’s Tomb in this article. Still, suppose you wish to know more about
this place. In that case, you can visit the website of the Lahore Tourism Department or can contact
Walled City Authority Lahore.

Shah Rukn-e-Alam Tomb (1320-24)

The tomb of Shah Rukn-e Alam is situated in focal Multan and houses the graves of the Sufi holy person
Sheik Rukn-ud-Din Abul Fateh (1251-1335) and many of his followers and relatives. Worked from 1320-
to 24, it is usually positioned among the vital landmarks of Indo-Islamic design, moving later
commemorations, for example, the Tughluq burial places in Delhi and the various mausolea at Uch
Sharif.

The Tomb of Shah Rukn-e-Alam, located in Multan, was built between 1320 and 1324 by
Ghiyath al-Din, the first ruler of the Tughluq dynasty in the Sultanate of Delhi. It is the
mausoleum of the Sufi saint Shah Rukn-e-Alam and his descendants. The tomb is considered
the earliest example of Tughluq architecture. It influenced the style of later monuments in the
Indian subcontinent.

What is the most famous tomb in Multan?

The tomb of Shah Rukn-e-Alam, grandson of Shaikh Bahauddin Zakaria, which was
built between 1320 and 1324, is an unmatched pre-Moghul masterpiece. The
Mausoleum of Rukn-i-Alam could possibly be considered the glory of Multan.

What is the relationship between Shah Rukne Alam and Bahauddin Zakariya?
Hazrat Shah Rukne Alam (RA) was the son of Sadar-Al-Din Arif. He was born in Multan
on Friday, the 9th of Ramadan-ul-Mubarak 649 Hijri (1251 AD). He was the grandson
and successor of Sheikh Bahauddin Zakariya.

Hiran Minar is a historic site located in the Sheikhupura district of Punjab. It is named
after a deer that was once kept there and is known for its beautiful Mughal architecture. The tower is a
popular tourist attraction in Pakistan and is a testament to the country’s rich cultural and historical
heritage.

Hiran Minar: Location

The Hiran Minar complex is located in the city of Sheikhupura which is just 40 Km northwest
from Lahore. It is home to a beautiful tower, which was built in the early 16th century.

The famous Sheikhupura Fort is also nearby, which dates back to the early 17th century. Both
are important cultural and historical landmarks with a rich history.

History of Hiran Minar

Hiran Minar was built in 1606 by Mughal Emperor Jahangir as a memorial to his pet antelope,
Mansraj, who saved the emperor’s life once. He had been hunting when a wild animal attacked
him and Mansraj, who was accompanying him, intervened and fought off the animal.

Why is Hiran Minar famous?

Hiran Minar is famous for its unique architecture and historical significance. It was built by the
Mughal Emperor Jahangir in the early 17th century as a hunting reserve for deer and features a
tall tower adorned with stone antlers. The monument was constructed as a memorial for
Jahangir’s beloved pet deer named Mansraj and is considered to be a symbol of the emperor’s
love for animals.

Who is buried in Hiran Minar?

No one is buried in Hiran Minar. It is a monument constructed by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir
as a memorial for his pet deer, Mansraj.
Jaulian
More than 3,000 years ago, the main center of the Gandhara kingdom was
Gandhara, the birthplace of the great Buddhist Civilization. This city was the
location of numerous magnificent Buddhist institutions, the oldest of which,
Jaulian, served as a center of learning from the fifth century BC to the fifth
century AD. Especially regarding the Buddhist art and architecture of
Gandhara, Jaulian was once a thriving ancient city and a major center of
learning. Visitors can still find a giant Stupa, a Buddhist shrine, and a Buddhist
monastery’s ruins at the Jaulian archaeological complex. In
1980, UNESCO added the Jaulian monastic complex to its list of World
Heritage Sites

History of Jaulian
Jaulian Taxila was built in the ancient state of Gandhara when Buddhism first
spread outside the Indian subcontinent. Between the first and fourth centuries
CE, the Kushan Empire was the dominant power in the area, centering on the
confluence of the Kabul and Swat rivers in Pakistan and Afghanistan. The
Kushans eventually established themselves as the dominant force, a nomadic
people from the Eurasian steppe. They took control of a significant portion of
the Silk Road that connected China, India, and the Mediterranean Sea. The
White Hun invasion in the 450s CE destroyed Jaulian and the rest of
Ancient Taxila, which was later abandoned. Later kings like the Hun King
Mihirakula victimized these Buddhist monks, and the site never fully
recovered.
Architechture of Jaulian Buddhist
Stupa
Jaulian’s structure and form are reminiscent of the nearby Mohra Muradu. A
stupa, a Buddhist shrine, is a mound-shaped religious building that may house
Buddha or Buddhist saint relics, commemorate a holy occasion, or designate
a sacred site. Stupas evolved to bring the living Buddha to more people and
serve as an outward representation of the faith. The main methods of
worshiping the Buddha and demonstrating adherence to the faith included
making a pilgrimage to a stupa or giving money to have one built.
The Jaulian Buddhist Stupa complex consists of the main stupa, 27 subsidiary
stupas, and two adjacent courts. Around the courts are 59 chapels that depict
scenes from the Buddha’s life. The complex consists of several monastic life
structures, including a storeroom, a kitchen, an assembly hall, and monk
quarters. Gandhara was an excellent location to profit from commercial
activity because it had access to the Central Asian corridor of the Silk Road,
the seaports along India’s west coast, and land routes to the Persian Empire
in the west. By embracing diverse cultures and adopting traits from its
subjects influenced by Hellenistic, Persian, and Indian cultures, the Kushan
Empire promoted trade. It made it easier for them to do business with their
neighbors. The blend of architectural details on the stupas at Jaulian, which
incorporate Greek, Persian, and Roman elements within the Buddhist
complex, is another example of this cultural fluidity.

When was the Jaulian Buddhist Stupa built?

Jaulian Buddhist Stupa was built in the second century CE, during the spread of Buddhism in the Indian
subcontinent. Buddhism moved from the northwest of the Indian subcontinent to Afghanistan’s Hindu
Kush Mountains, Central Asia, and China along the trade routes of the Taxila Valley. The building of
stupas and monasteries in Gandhara started in earnest after 100 CE under the Emperors Kaniska and
Huviska.

What is the history of Darbar Mahal?

Darbar Mahal is a royal palace in the city of Bahawalpur. The palace was built by
Bahawal Khan V for his wife. It was completed in 1905. Since 1971 this palace is in the
control of armed forces and is not open for general public.

Some other famous places available in the link

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g1203029-Activities-c47-Punjab_Province.html

Deserts

Cholistan Desert, Thal Desert

Rivers
Which five rivers from Punjab enter the river at Mithankot?
The Satluj, the Beas, the Ravi, the Chenab, and the Jhelum join together to enter the
Indus near Mithankot in Pakistan. The major Himalayan rivers are the Indus, the Ganga,
and the Brahmaputra.

Which is the smallest river of Punjab?

The Ravi river

The Ravi river is the smallest of the five major Punjab rivers.

Which is the second longest river in Pakistan?

The Chenab is Pakistan's second-longest river, covering a distance of around 974 km
(605 miles). As it flows, it meets the Jhelum River and later joins the Sutlej River, a
tributary of the mighty Indus River.30-Jan-2024

What is main river of Punjab?

The longest river of Punjab is Sutlej. Punjab is a state in the northwest region of India
and is one of the most prosperous states. The name Punjab is made of two words Punj
(Five) + ab (Water) i.e. land of five rivers. These five rivers of Punjab are Sutlej, Beas,
Ravi, Chenab, and Jhelum.

Which river is called father of rivers?

Indus River, great trans-Himalayan river of South Asia.

Which is the largest river in Punjab Pakistan?

Is Ravi the longest river of Pakistan?
The Indus River is the longest river in Pakistan, and it is also the country's national river.
The river originates in the Tibetan Plateau in China, and it flows through the entire
length of Pakistan before emptying into the Arabian Sea.26-Jan-2023

Jhelum River

The Jhelum River:

 It is a river that runs between India and Pakistan.
 It is an Indus River tributary.
 The Jhelum (Vyeth in Kashmiri, Vetesta in Sanskrit, and Hydaspes in Greek) is the valley's
principal stream.
 It is the largest and westernmost of Punjab's five rivers, flowing through the Jhelum
District in Pakistan's Punjab province.

Some other facts

  It begins in the Verinag Spring in Anantnag, at the foot of the Pir Panjal range in the
Kashmir Valley.
 It then passes through Srinagar and Wular Lake before entering Pakistan.
 On its way to Pakistan, the river carves a steep, tight valley.
 It merges with the Chenab River at Trimmu in Pakistan.
 It is approximately 725 kilometers (450 mi) long in total.
Tributaries of Jhelum River
 The major tributary of the Jhelum is the Kishenganga (Neelum) River, which joins near
Muzaffarabad and flows into Pakistan's Punjab province.
 The Kunhar River is the river's second major tributary, connecting Pakistan-occupied
Kashmir (PoK) and Pakistan via the Kohala Bridge of Kanghan Valley.
 Sandran River, Bringi River, Arapath River, Watlara River, Lidder River,
and Veshaw River are also tributaries.

What is special about Jhelum River?

The River is also famous for the Battle of Hydaspes fought in BC 326 in which Alexander the Great along
with his army crossed Jhelum and defeated Porus, an Indian King. Ancient Greeks regarded the River as
the son of Thaumas, the sea god and Elektra, the cloud goddess.

How deep is the Jhelum River?

Emerging from the lake, the Jhelum flows westward and crosses the Pir Panjal in a gorge some 7,000
feet (2,100 metres) deep with almost perpendicular sides.

What is the other name of Jhelum River?

Jehlum and Chenab are two of the five rivers that flow into Punjab. The present names are Romanised
names. During ancient times, Jehlum was known as Vitasta, whereas Chenab was known as Askini.

Which dam is built on Jhelum River?

The Mangla Dam is located on the Jhelum River about 30 km from Jhelum, it is the
twelfth largest dam in the world. The project was designed and supervised by Binnie &
Partners of London and it was built by Mangla Dam Contractors. It was constructed in
1967 across the Jhelum River.

Jhelum city

Why is Jhelum called Jhelum?

The word Jhelum is reportedly derived from the words Jal (pure water) and Ham (snow). The name thus
refers to the waters of a river (flowing besides the City) which has its origin in the snow-capped
Himalayas.

What is the history of Jhelum?

Jhelum is one of the oldest district of Punjab. It is situated on the bank of river Jhelum was known to
Muhammadan historian as the wihat or bihatab, corruptions of its Sanskrit name “Vitasta”. The
Alexander historian however called it Hydaspes while its modern Kashmiri name is veth.

Is Jhelum a Himalayan river?

The Jhelum River is the only major Himalayan river which flows through the Kashmir
valley. The Indus, Tawi, Ravi and Chenab are the major rivers flowing through the state.

What is the major project on the Jhelum River?

The Karot hydropower project is a 720MW run-of-river project developed on the Jhelum River in
Pakistan. Credit: SMEC/China Three Gorges Corporation. The Karot hydropower project started
commercial operations in June 2022.10-Nov-2023

Who founded Jhelum?

Alexander the Great

The old town, across the river, may have been Bucephala, founded by Alexander the Great in the 4th
century bce. Although once a salt-trade center, Jhelum is now a major timber market. The town's
industries include textile mills, sawmills, newsprint plants, glassworks, and cigarette factories.19-Jan-
2024

Who built fort in Jhelum?

king Sher Shah Suri
It was built under Afghan king Sher Shah Suri. This fort is about 4 km in circumference.
The Rohtas fort was built to crush the local tribes of Potohar, who rebelled against the
Sur dynasty after the Mughal emperor Humayun was ousted by the former.

One of the six UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Pakistan, Rohtas Fort dates back to the
16th century. It was constructed by General Sher Shah Suri, the founder of short-lived Sur Dynasty
in the sub-continent. The fort is considered one of the largest and perhaps the most impenetrable
fortresses in South Asia. It is also a must-visit place during a trip to Jhelum.

UNESCO described it as an ‘exceptional example of the Muslim military architecture of Central

and South Asia.’ This Fort in Jhelum was built following the Battle of Chausa, which saw the
defeat of Mughal Emperor Humayun at the hands of Suri.

Khewra Salt Mine

A replica of Lahore’s Badshahi Mosque built with salt bricks inside the mine
It is one of the most popular day trip destinations near Islamabad. The troops of Alexander the
Great discovered the salt range in Jhelum District in 320 BC. Khewra Salt Mine , which is the
oldest and second largest salt mine in the world, attracts more than 200,000 visitors each year. It
is famous for the production of pink Himalayan salt.

This mine is among the most popular places to visit in Pakistan. It is also ideal for children who
love educational trips. The salt mine houses several stunning salt carvings of important
landmarks.

TILLA JOGIAN
View from the top of a Salt Range mountain near Jhelum
Up until the creation of Pakistan, the abandoned monastic complex at Tilla Jogian used to be an
important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Sikhs alike. Located approximately 25 kilometres
from the city of Jhelum, this historical site dates back to the 1st century BC.

For centuries, Hindu jogis and ascetics meditated on this mountain summit in the Salt Range. In
the 16th century, founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak is believed to have spent time meditating here.
According to historians, Mughal Emperors Akbar and Jahangir had also visited Tilla Jogian
during their respective reigns.

After the fall of the Mughal Empire, the invading Pashtun forces of Ahmed Shah Abdali
plundered the site. Although the temple complex was later re-built, it was abandoned in 1947
when almost the entire Hindu population of the area migrated to India.

Is Jhelum River a tributary?

of Indus

The Jhelum River is a tributary of Indus and is located in eastern Pakistan, northern India. It originates
from the Verinag Spring in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir and flows into the Chenab river.28-
Jan-2020

What is the Battle of Jhelum also known as?

The Battle of Jhelum, also known as the Battle of the Hydaspes, was a battle fought by
Alexander the Great in 326 BC against King Porus of the Paurava kingdom on the
banks of the river Hydaspes (now known as the Jhelum).

Which river did Alexander cross?

The Jhelum River was deep and fast enough that any opposed crossing would probably doom the entire
attacking force. Alexander knew that a direct crossing would fail, so he found a suitable crossing, about
27 km (17 mi) upstream of his camp.
The Jhelum River (/dʒeɪləm/) is a river in the northern Indian subcontinent. It originates
at Verinag and flows through the Indian-administered territory of Jammu and Kashmir, into Pakistani-
administered Azad Kashmir, then the Pakistani province of Punjab.

Many writers have different opinions about the name of Jhelum. One suggestion is that in ancient days
Jhelumabad was known as Jalham. The word Jhelum is reportedly derived from the words Jal (pure
water) and Ham (snow). The name thus refers to the waters of a river (flowing beside the city) which
have their origins in the snow-capped Himalayas.

Chenab River
The Chenab River
 Another important tributary of the Indus River System is the Chenab River, also known
as Asskini Chandrabhaga.
 It forms where the Chandra and Bhaga rivers meet in Himachal Pradesh's Western
Himalayas.
 The Baralacha La Pass is the principal source of water for these streams.
 The Chenab River flows through Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir before
joining the Indus.
 It is the Indus River System's greatest tributary.

Chenab river is one of the most significant Rivers in Pakistan. It flows in both countries, India and
Pakistan. This Chenab river is formed by combining two headwaters named Chandra and Bhaga. Both
heads exist in the upper Himalayas in the Lahaul and Spiti districts of Himachal Pradesh, India. Chenab
river passes through the region of Jammu, India, into the plains of Punjab, Pakistan, before finally
reaching the Indus river. The Chenab river was named Asikni, which depicts that it was seen to have
dark-colored water, which later changed to Iskamati. The common name of this river in Mahabharata
was Chandrabhaga because this river was formed by the junction of two rivers, Chandra and Bhaga
rivers.

History of Chenab River

In 325 BC, Alexander the Great supposedly established the town of Alexandria on the Indus( Present day
Uch Sharif or Mithankot or Chacharan in Pakistan) at the junction of the Indus and the merged stream of
the Punjab rivers(Now knowns as the Panjnad rivers). This river was familiar to the Indians in the Vedic
period.

Dams of the Chenab River

Baglihar Dam ( 900MW)

Another name for this Dam is the Baglihar Hydroelectric Power Project, a run-off river project on the
Chenab river in the Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It was the first power project
accomplished by the Power Development Corporation of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The concept of this
power project originated in 1992, was accepted and approved in 1996, and initiated construction in
1999. The evaluated cost of this Project was US $1 Billion. Two stages of 450MW each existed in this
Project. The Project’s first stage was accomplished in 2008-2009 and finalized the second stage in 2015-
2016.

Salal Dam ( 690 MW)

Salal Dam, also entitled Salal Hydroelectric power station is a run-off river electricity-producing project
on the river of the Chenab in the Reasi District of Jammu and Kashmir. Under the Indus water treaty
regime, India erected the first electricity-producing Project in Jammu and Kashmir. In 1920 Salal project
was first conceived, and possible and practicable studies began in 1961 by the government of Jammu
and Kashmir and prepared Project design in 1968. Central Hydroelectric Project Control Board began
construction in 1970. In this Project, two stages of a powerhouse with the capacity of producing 690
MW power by using the head created by the Dam were designed. India accomplished this Project in
1987.

Dul Hasti Hydroelectric Plant at Chenab River

A Hydroelectric Power plant name Dul Hasti is located in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir,
India, and was constructed by NHPC. It is a run-off river project situated on the Chenab river. The Dul
Hasti power-producing project includes a dam and a tunnel that lead to a power plant that bends in the
river of Chenab in the region of Kishtwar. The height of this Dam is 65 m, and the length is 186 m. This
Project was initiated in 1985 and ended in 2007 with the operational Project that can produce electricity
of over 2000 Million units per Annum.

Ratle Hydroelectric Plant

This Ratle Hydroelectric plant is still under construction on the Chenab river and has not been
accomplished yet. It is next to a village near Drabshalla in the Kishtwar district of the Indian Union state
of Jammu and Kashmir. Two power stations adjoining one another and a tall gravity dam with a length of
133 m (436ft) exist in this Project. The Dam will transfer water through four intake tunnels at a distance
of 400 m (0.25 mi) southwest of the power stations. The primary power station will accommodate four
205 MW Francis turbines, and the supplementary power station will have one 30 MW Francis turbine.
The capacity of both power stations after installation will be 850 MW.

Pakal Dul Dam at Chenab River

The Pakal Dul Dam is a concrete face rockfill dam, still under construction, located on the Marusudar
river, the Chenab river streamlet, in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The Major
objective of the Dam is the production of hydroelectricity. The Dam will transfer water to the power
station through a long headrace tunnel of 10 km (6.2 mi) to the south on the Dul Hasti Dam Reservoir on
the Chenab.

Kiru Hydroelectric Power Project.

Kiru Hydroelectric Power Project is a run-off river electricity-producing project established over the
Chenab river in the Kishtwar Tehsil of Doha district in Jammu and Kashmir, India. The Budgeted amount
for investment is Rs.46.4m ($769m). The capacity of this Project after installation will be 624 MW. The
Project was initiated in 2016 and approved in January 2019 by the State Administrative Council, and
accomplishment is expected by 2023.
Kishtwar Hydroelectric Power Project.

The Cabinet committee led by Narendra Modi has approved the construction of the KWAR Hydroelectric
project, which has a capacity of 540 MW, situated on the river of Chenab in the Kishtwar district of the
Union state of Jammu and Kashmir. The investment amount approved for the Project is more than over
4 thousand 526 crore rupees.

Pakistan has four headworks on the Chenab River

Below is the detail of four headworks located on the Chenab river.

Marala Headwork

Marala Headwork is located on the Chenab river in Sialkot in Punjab, Pakistan. In the Era of British India
(1906-1912), a weir was initially constructed to nourish the Upper Chenab Canal as part of the Triple
canal project. A new Barrage under Marala was built in 1968 to feed Marala- Ravi Link canal, adding to
the original Upper Chenab Canal. Marala Headwork is a massive Hydro engineering project whose
primary purpose is to check water flow and control floods in the river Chenab. This Barrage was
constructed across the river in 1968 with a maximal discharge of 1.1 million ft³/s (31,000 m³/s). Marala
Headwork gave rise to two main water channels, i.e., Marala Ravi Link Canal & the Upper Chenab Canal.

Khanki Headworks

This Khanki Headwork is situated on the Chenab river in the Gujranwala district in Punjab, Pakistan.
Khanki headwork was accomplished in 1889 and is one of the oldest headworks in Pakistan. The primary
purpose of this Khanki Headwork is to transfer water to Lower Chenab Canal, which arises from the
Khanki headwork. The water distribution of over 3 million acres (12000 km2) of agricultural land is
regulated by Khanki Headwork by one main tributary, the Lower Chenab Canal, and 59 minor
distributaries. British government built the Old Khanki Barrage from 1892 to 1898 on the Chenab river to
transform 3 million acres of infertile and arid land into cotton and wheat field. The weir was
reconstructed due to frequent damages in portions and needed to be significantly remodeled during
1919-1920 and 1933-1935. With time some severe technical glitches appeared, due to which a member
of the National Assembly, Justice Iftikhar Ahmed Cheema, gave the concept of renovating the whole
Project for the betterment of farmers. The New Khanki barrage was constructed in August 2017 with a
total cost of Rs 21.3 billion, and the Asian Development Bank provided 87 percent funds. This new
Khanki Barrage will transfer 11,653 cusecs of continuous irrigation supplies to the downstream Lower
Punjab Canal.

Qadirabad Headwork

Qadirabad Headwork is located on the Chenab river in the Mandi Bahauddin district of Punjab, Pakistan.
This Headwork’s main objective is to control River Chenab’s water flow for irrigation and flood control
purposes.

Trimmu Barrage

Trimmu Barrage is a barrage constructed on the river of Chenab in the Jhang District of the Punjab
province of Pakistan. It is located downstream of the convergence of the River Jhelum and River Chenab.
It is approximately 25 km from Jhang near Atharan Hazari, where River Jhelum merges with River
Chenab. It is one of the seven associated canals to be constructed under the Indus water plan of
Pakistan. Pakistan generated this plan after Indus Water Treaty. The main objective of this Barrage is to
control water flow into the River Chenab for irrigation and flood control purposes. Trimmu Barrage was
built between 1937 and 1939 by English engineers. Later amended its name. The curved grid iron’s
bridge section is amalgamated with many protective bands to protect Jhang city from floods. Several
upgrades took place on this Barrage, like new gate construction and old gate maintenance. Barrage
construction was completed on 30 June 2022, and till that time, HTV was banned entirely; however, LTV
was allowed for specific hours.

FAQS

Which Dam is built on the river Chenab?

Baghlihar Dam, also called Baglihar Hydroelectric Power Project, is located on the Chenab river in the
Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is a run-off river project.

Dams

There are many dams built, under construction or proposed to be built on the Chenab for the purpose of
hydroelectric power generation in the country, including: Baglihar Hydroelectric power project (900
MW) near Ramban. Salal Dam - 690 MW hydroelectric power project near Reasi.

Why is the Chenab river famous?

This river is famous because it has rich potential for producing electricity in India. Many dams are
constructed, under construction, or filed to be built on the Chenab river for hydropower generation.
e.g., Baglihar Dam with a potential of 900 MW near Ramban.

What is the other name of the Chenab river?

Another name for the Chenab river was Asikni, in Rigveda. The name indicates that it was seen to have
Dark-coloured water.

Conclusion

Under the Indus Water Treaty, the water of the Chenab river was allotted to Pakistan. India is permitted
non-consumptive uses such as producing hydropower. The water of the river Chenab is widely used for
irrigation purposes in Pakistan. Its water is shifted to the tributaries of the Ravi river via several interlink
canals. Dams and Barrages built on the Chenab river are essential in controlling the rivers, water flow,
floods, and hydropower generation.

The land lying between the river Ravi and river Chenab is called________?

A. Bari Doab
B. Chaj Doab
C. Rachna Doab

Precise note

Mountain ranges

Noble award