Hiran minar

Hiran Minar

Hiran Minar is a famous historical site in the  Historical Places Pakistani city of Sheikhupura,  In honor of his cherished pet deer Mansraj, the Mughal Emperor Jahangir constructed it at the beginning of the 17th century. The minaret is an exceptional example of the period's excellent craftsmanship and a fusion of Mughal and Persian architecture.

The Hiran Minar provides evidence of Pakistan's rich cultural and architectural legacy. and a sizable water tank, a mosque, a baradari, and a royal hunting area are all part of the Hiran Minar complex. The complex's centerpiece 100-foot-tall minaret is what draws most visitors. The building is stunning to see because of the calligraphy and beautiful carvings it has.

Hiran Minar Location

Only a short distance from Lahore, Lahore Fort Facts & History in the city of Sheikhupura, is where you can find the Hiran Minar complex. In the early 16th century, a stunning tower was constructed there.

The well-known Sheikhupura Fort, which was built in the early 17th century, is also close by. Both have a rich history and are significant cultural and historical landmarks.


History of Hiran Minar

HIRAN MINAR

The Mughal Emperor Jahangir erected Hiran Minar in 1606 as a tribute to Mansraj, his pet antelope, who had saved the emperor's life. When a wild animal attacked him while he was out hunting, Mansraj, who was with him, stepped in and dissuaded it.

The Emperor honored it by erecting Hiran Minar as a sign of his thanks. The deer was also a gift from Raja Suraj Mal of Udaipur, the ruler of Mewar.

The location was also used by the Mughal rulers as a pleasure and rest area. They frequented the location to hunt and take in the beauty of the gardens around them.

Shah Jehan made extensive alterations to the buildings of this famous site in 1638. He gave the go-ahead to build an octagonal pavilion known as a baradari that was encircled by a swimming pool. These are just a few of the characteristics that distinguish Hiran Minar as a distinctive and fascinating site.


Architechar of Hiran Minar

HIRAN MINAR

As previously indicated, this magnificent building, erected as a royal hunting retreat, includes a minaret situated next to the burial of the emperor's pet antelope.

It is shaped like a circle with a flat top and a parapet wall that tapers towards the top. A spiral staircase with 1018 steps and 210 square holes grouped in 14 rows decorates its exterior. Lime plaster is used on the exterior and inside of the Minar, with ornate panels and bands with arched niches dividing the bottom tier.

A prime example of Mughal-era construction, Hiran Minar features elaborate carvings and glazed tiles. The red sandstone tower is built on a platform that is encircled by a garden. There are four quadrants in the garden, and each has its own water features and fountains. A wall that previously served to keep deer inside surrounds the garden.

The pavilion, pool, and minaret were all built by several Mughal kings.

1. Minaret

Jahangir constructed the 110-meter-tall minaret in 1606 to serve as a monument for the emperor's beloved antelope's grave. A eulogy is written on the minaret's sides.

2. Water pool

A big rectangular tank with a diameter of 300 feet is situated immediately to the east of the Hiran Minar tower. Little buildings with pyramidal roofs and entrances on all four sides embellish the corners of the tank.

Also, the tank has little ramps on either side that provide easy access to the water for nearby species in the hunting park. The location uses several catchment basins and channels to maintain a steady water level.

3. Pavilion

The pool's central octagonal pavilion is two stories tall and has a stone chhatri, or gazebo, on top.

Its architecture is similar to the Sher Mandal in Delhi's Purana Qila and is thought to have been utilized for recreational purposes. The pavilion is a stunning and elaborate building that is well-liked by visitors.

MAINTAINING HIRAN MINAR

The preservation and upkeep of historical sites and monuments in Pakistan, such as Hiran Minar, is the responsibility of the country's Archaeology Department.

The department aims to raise awareness about the need to preserve these places for future generations by informing the public about the history and significance of the Minar.

The neighborhood is also committed to preserving Hiran Minar, ensuring that it is well-kept and safeguarded.

HOW TO REACH HIRAN MINAR?

Here are some transportation choices to take into account if you intend to visit the Hiran Minar:

1. By road

Driving from Lahore, you can get to Hiran Minar by using the Lahore-Sheikhupura Road. The trip takes a car for about an hour and covers a distance of around 50 kilometers.

Another option is to travel from Lahore to Sheikhupura via bus, which takes about two hours. On the other hand, if you're coming from Islamabad, you can take the M2 Highway.

2. By train

Between Lahore and Sheikhupura, several trains run, including the Multan Express, Sheikhupura Express, and Lahore Express. The train ride takes around an hour.

You can take a taxi or a local bus to go to Hiran Minar from Sheikhupura Train Station, which is the closest station to it and is around 15 kilometers away.

SCHEDULE AND TICKET COST

The following is the cost of admission and opening hours for Hiran Minar.

  • Saturday and Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Sun. 8 a.m. to 12 a.m.
  • Tickets cost 20 rupees each.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, Hiran Minar is a magnificent structure that provides a window into the area's rich past.