WEB CHUTNEY

There are a lot of beautiful palaces in Pakistan. There Islamic styles of architecture, stonework, delicate designs, mirror-work, carved marbles and glass mosaic rank them among the great palaces of Mughal era landlords. Here are 10 beautiful palaces of Pakistan you must visit.

1. Noor Mahal

Noor Mahal belongs to the Nawab of Bahawalpur during British Raj. It was built in 1872, and is located in Bahawalpur, Pubjab. In September 2001, the building was declared a “protected monument” by the government of Pakistan Archeology Department. It is now open for visitors.

2. Gulzar Palace

Gulzar Palace was built in 1950s by the Nawab of Bahawalpur for his wife. It is located in Bahawalpur.

3. Darbar Mahal

Darbar Mahal was constructed in 1905 by Nawab Muhammad Mubarik Khan for his wife. Now it is under the control of Pakistan Army. Little area of the palace is open for visitors. Bahawalpur has few most beautiful palaces, which is why it is often known as the “Princely State” in local culture.

4. Mohatta Palace

Mohatta Palace was built by Shivratan Chandraratan Mohatta, a Hindu Marwai businessman, as his summer home in 1927.It is located in Karachi. In 1999, government of Pakistan has opened a Museum inside the palace. Also behind the building there is a small collection of “English” statues such as Queen Victoria, soldiers of the Raj.

5. Khaplu Palace

Khaplu Palace is locally known as Yabgo Khar (The fort on the roof) was built in the mid-19th century. It is one the oldest fort and palace and is located in Khaplu, in the Baltistan region. In 2013 the palace was awarded the Award for Distinction by UNESCO Asia Pacific Heritage Awards. The The famous drama serial Dayar-e-Dil was shot at Khaplu fort.

6. Omar Hayat Mahal

Omar Hayat Mahal also known as Umer Hayat Mahal Library and Gulzar Manzil. It was built in early 20^th century, and is located in Chiniot.

7. Bedi Mahal

Bedi Mahal was built by a Sikh spiritual and political leader in the late 19^th century. It is located in Kallar Syedan, Rawalpindi District, Punjab.

8. Sheesh Mahal

Sheesh Mahal was constructed under the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1631-32.It is located within the Shah Burj block in northern-western corner of Lahore Fort. In 1981, as part of the larger Lahore Fort Complex, Sheesh Mahal inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

9. Faiz Mahal

Faiz Mahal was built in Khairpur Mirs in 1798, as the principal building serving as the sovereign’s court for the royal palace complex of Talpur monarchs of the Khairpur dynasty. The building has a classical Mughal architecture like Taj Mahal. It is located in Khairpur, Sindh.

10. White Palace

White Palace was built in 1940 by the first king of Swat, Miangul Abdul Wadud (Badshah Sahib). The palace now serves as a hotel and and has become a visitor attraction in summer. It is located in the small town of Marghazar.