Hiran Minar in Shiekhpura – Pakistan

Grave of Beloved Pet

Hiran Minar, also known as the Deer Tower, is a remarkable historical monument located in Sheikhupura, a city in the province of Punjab, Pakistan. The complex, which includes a beautiful minaret and a large water tank, was built in the early seventeenth century by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir as a memorial to his beloved pet deer.

HISTORY OF HIRAN MINAR

The Hiran Minar complex was built in year 1606 C.E. on the orders of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir as a symbolic landmark in memory of his beloved pet – DEER – after its death.

The construction of Hiran Minar was started in 1606 and completed in 1620 during the reign of Mughal Emperor Jahangir. It is said that Jahangir was a great lover of nature and animals, and he used to visit this area for hunting. One day, while he was on a hunt, his favorite pet deer was attacked and killed by a lion. Jahangir was deeply saddened by the loss of his beloved pet and decided to build a monument in its memory.

ARCHITECTURE OF HIRAN MINAR

The Hiran Minar is a striking example of Mughal architecture, which combines Islamic and Indian elements to create a unique style. The complex is surrounded by a large artificial lake, which was created by damming a nearby stream. The minaret itself is 30 meters tall and is decorated with intricate geometric patterns and calligraphy.

One of the most fascinating features of the Hiran Minar is the large circular water tank that sits at its base. This tank was used to train elephants for warfare and is thought to be one of the largest elephant-training tanks in the world. The tank is connected to the nearby lake by a series of underground channels and is fed by a system of wells that were dug around the perimeter.

The Hiran Minar is also famous for its beautiful gardens, which are laid out in the traditional Mughal style. The gardens are divided into four quadrants, each with its own unique design and features. The gardens are filled with fruit trees, flowers, and fountains, and are a popular spot for picnics and relaxation. In addition to its architectural and horticultural features, the Hiran Minar is also steeped in history and legend. According to local lore, the minaret was built by Emperor Jahangir to commemorate his favorite pet deer, which was killed by a lion while the emperor was out hunting. The emperor was said to have been so grief-stricken by the loss of his beloved deer that he ordered the construction of the minaret and the surrounding complex as a tribute.

The Hiran Minar complex also includes a baradari, a small pavilion with twelve pillars, which is located on a small hill overlooking the minaret and the lake. The baradari was used by Jahangir for relaxation and contemplation, and it offers a stunning view of the entire complex.

The minaret of Hiran Minar is a unique structure that has no parallel in the world. It is said that it was built to serve as a landmark for travelers and to provide a platform for the emperor to watch his troops and elephants during training exercises. The minaret is decorated with intricate geometric patterns, calligraphy, and floral motifs, and it stands as a testament to the architectural genius of the Mughal Empire.

Pool

There is a huge pool in the heart of Hiran Minar Complex. It is 229 x 273 meters large. The water tank at the base of the Hiran Minar is also a remarkable feature of the complex. It was used to train elephants for warfare and is thought to be one of the largest elephant-training tanks in the world. The tank was filled with water, and the elephants were made to swim and perform various exercises to increase their strength and agility.

Boating

As stated above, the place is located in the middle of a massive man-made lake, where now you can undergo the great experience of pedal boating by just paying PKR 100 per pedal boat for one tour of the whole pool.

Pavilion

It was built in the era of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. It is at the centre of the pool. The gardens surrounding the Hiran Minar are also a major attraction for visitors. The gardens are laid out in the traditional Mughal style and are divided into four quadrants, each with its own unique design and features. The gardens are filled with fruit trees, flowers, and fountains, and they provide a peaceful and relaxing environment for visitors to enjoy. The Hiran Minar has undergone several renovations and restoration efforts over the years to preserve its beauty and historical significance. The government of Pakistan has also taken steps to promote tourism in the area and to develop infrastructure to support visitors. The complex is now a popular destination for tourists from around the world and a proud symbol of Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage.

Lighting

In recent years, beautiful lighting arrangements have been made at Hiran Minar to increase the charm of this place at night and facilitate tourists visiting after dark or Maghrib.

How to visit Hiran Minar ?

Today, the Hiran Minar is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of Pakistan. Visitors can explore the minaret, walk through the gardens, and learn about the history and legends associated with the complex. The Hiran Minar is also an important archaeological site and has been the subject of many research projects and excavations.

If you want to travel and visit the Hiran Minar, book your ticket to travel to Lahore either by bus or by flight. When you reach Lahore, you can easily approach the Hiran Minar.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Hiran Minar is a unique and fascinating monument that combines history, architecture, and natural beauty. It is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the Mughal Empire and serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of Pakistan. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful spot to relax, the Hiran Minar is definitely worth a visit. The Hiran Minar is a magnificent example of Mughal architecture and a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the Mughal Empire. It is a unique and fascinating monument that combines history, architecture, and natural beauty, and it serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of Pakistan. If you ever have the opportunity to visit Pakistan, a trip to the Hiran Minar should definitely be on your itinerary.

Author: Syed Haseeb