Towering minarets, white marble domes and one of the largest courtyards in the Islamic world, standing opposite Lahore Fort.
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Badshahi Mosque rises on the western edge of Hazuri Bagh, directly facing Lahore Fort's Alamgiri Gate. Its vast red sandstone courtyard, three white marble domes and four tall minarets make it one of the most recognisable buildings in Pakistan and the finest example of late Mughal architecture in the country.
It was commissioned by Emperor Aurangzeb and completed in 1673. For centuries it was among the largest mosques in the world. Over time it also lived through hard chapters during the Sikh and early British periods it was used for military purposes, and it was returned to the Muslim community in the mid-19th century. Major restoration work in the twentieth century brought back much of its original beauty. Today it is both a living place of worship and one of the most visited landmarks in Lahore.
Whether you come for the scale of the courtyard, the marble inlay, the sunset light on the red stone or the quiet moment after prayers, Badshahi Mosque is an unforgettable stop on any Lahore trip.
8 Days / 7 Nights
8 Days / 7 Nights
Also known as the Emperor's Mosque or Shahi Masjid, Badshahi Mosque was built between 1671 and 1673 under Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, in red sandstone with white marble inlay. The courtyard holds around 55,000 worshippers, and far more including the porticoes, framed by four corner minarets each roughly 50 m tall.
Main gateway: A grand red sandstone entrance with a broad staircase, giving the mosque its dramatic first impression.
The courtyard: A vast open square, one of the largest of any mosque, where tens of thousands can pray together.
Prayer hall: A long hall topped by three white marble domes, with carved and inlaid decoration inside.
Four minarets: Tall corner towers that frame the courtyard and are visible from across the old city.
Marble and fresco work: Fine inlay, carved stone and painted detail on the arches and ceilings.
Mosque museum: A small museum above the entrance area displays relics associated with the Prophet (PBUH) and his family. [VERIFY current access and timings]
Tomb of Allama Iqbal: Located just beside the mosque's entrance, the resting place of Pakistan's national poet.
Late afternoon brings warm light on the red stone, and the mosque is especially striking in the evening when it is lit up.
Lahore is well connected by air (Allama Iqbal International Airport), by rail (Lahore Junction) and by motorway from Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad and Multan.
From most parts of Lahore, the mosque is about 20 to 45 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
Take a taxi or ride-hailing service to the entrance near Hazuri Bagh and Iqbal's tomb. Parking is limited, so allow extra time on weekends and holidays.
Remove your shoes at the shoe counter, climb the steps and walk into the courtyard.
November to February
Cool, pleasant days, ideal for long visits. The best time to go.
March to April
Mild weather and clear skies. Very comfortable for sightseeing.
May to August
Very hot, and the stone courtyard can be unpleasant at midday. Visit early or near sunset.
July to September
Humid with occasional heavy rain. Check the weather and carry an umbrella.
October
Warm days and cooler evenings. Pleasant and less crowded.
Travel smart
A few useful things to know before you go there.
Be quiet and respectful, especially around prayer times.
Access can be limited during prayers and on special occasions, so confirm before you go.
Cover shoulders and knees. Women should carry a dupatta or scarf to cover their heads.
Use the shoe counter at the entrance and keep your token safe.
The courtyard stone gets very hot underfoot in the afternoon sun, so plan your visit for early morning or evening.
Morning and evening are cooler and better for photos.
These are the busiest times, and much of the space is reserved for worshippers.
Tripods, drones and commercial shoots may need permission.
Do not photograph people at prayer without permission.
The area around the Walled City is crowded, so watch your bags and phones.
Small vendors and food stalls nearby may not accept cards.
Confirm shoe-storage, guide and taxi rates before you start.
Near the Walled City: Heritage-style hotels and guesthouses close to the mosque and fort.
Gulberg and Mall Road: Wide choice of mid-range and luxury hotels, restaurants and shopping, with easy access to the old city.
Near the airport or railway station: Convenient for short stays and early departures.
Book early during winter holidays, wedding season, Ramadan and Eid.
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Explore Badshahi Mosque in Punjab and get directions easily.
Punjab
It was commissioned by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and completed in 1673.
Let us plan your Lahore heritage trip while you enjoy the domes, courtyards and flavours of the Walled City.
