Hiran Minar Sheikhupura, Punjab, Pakistan

Sheikhupura is the city where Hiran Minar  is located. This city is named after Mughal Emperor Jahangir as ‘shiekhu’ was his nickname.

Hiran Minar is one of Punjab’s most distinctive Mughal landmarks. It can be combined with nearby Sheikhupura Fort, featured in our guide to the historic forts of Pakistan.

Hiran Minar park complex was constructed in the 17th century in memory of his favorite pet antelope. This is what folklore says, as there are writings on the minaret eulogizing the antelope. Hiran Minar is 6 Kms from Sheikhupura interchange on the M-1 motorway and 3.5 hrs from Rawalpindi. This minaret is sited in a royal game reserve and the complex comprising of a water pond, gardens, gangway leading into an octagonal pavilion (made in the Shahjahan’s era).

Apparently, it is a Persian tradition to honor dead hunting pets, with monuments.  

The complex lies approximately 50 kilometres from Lahore and makes an excellent heritage day trip. Travellers interested in Mughal architecture can also explore our Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque guide

For years, we have been seeing the road sign for Hiran Minar but we never had the time to venture into that place. But one day we decided to take the detour towards the site and it was worth it. The place is quite spread out, nearly 300 square meters or more.

It has a drinking pond in the center meant to lure game from the surrounding jungle. The jungle has long gone. Only the pond remains with ramps leading into it.

Powerboat ride in the pond is nice, especially passing underneath the arched gangway that connects with the octagonal pavilion. This place attracts a lot of tourists.

The Mughal architecture is very interesting with single-piece chatri (umbrella) on top of the pavilion and airy terraces below for the royals to relax, surrounded by clear water.

Discover more heritage and historic places in Pakistan, or browse our complete Explore Pakistan guide