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Kamran's Baradari: A Mughal Retreat on the Ravi

Explore Lahore's oldest Mughal monument: Kamran's Baradari, a historic riverside pavilion with stunning Mughal architecture and serene gardens.

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Kamran's Baradari, built in 1540 by Kamran Mirza, son of Emperor Babur, is Lahore's oldest Mughal monument [4, 5]. This 'Baradari,' meaning 'building with twelve doors,' was designed as a summer pavilion, allowing cool air to circulate through its arched entrances [4]. Now situated on an island in the River Ravi due to the river's changing course, it offers a serene escape and a glimpse into Mughal life [4].

A brief summary to Kamran's Baradari

  • J74V+PF3, Lahore, Lahore, Punjab, 54000, PK
  • Monday 9 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-7 pm
  • Friday 9 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (October to March) for a more comfortable experience, as Lahore can get very hot in the summer.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions like Jahangir's Tomb and Lahore Fort for a full day of historical exploration [4, 17].
  • Check the official opening hours before you go, as they may vary [5].
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Lahore city center, take a local bus or rickshaw towards the Ravi Bridge [4, 21]. Once at the Ravi Bridge, boat services are available to take you to Kamran's Baradari, which is located on an island in the river [4]. Bus fare is approximately PKR 30-50. The boat ride to the Baradari typically costs around PKR 50 per person for a round trip [4].

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Hire a taxi or use ride-sharing services like Uber or Careem to reach the Ravi Bridge [4, 21]. From there, take a boat to Kamran's Baradari [4]. A taxi ride from the city center to Ravi Bridge will cost approximately PKR 400-600 [4]. Parking is available near the Ravi Bridge for a small fee, around PKR 50 per hour [4].

  • Walking

    If you are near the Ravi Bridge, walk to the boat embarkation point [4]. A short boat ride is necessary to reach the island where Kamran's Baradari is located [4]. The boat ride costs PKR 50 per person for a round trip [4].

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Discover more about Kamran's Baradari

Kamran's Baradari, also known as Kamran Mirza's Baradari, stands as a testament to Lahore's rich Mughal heritage [4, 5]. Constructed in 1540 by Kamran Mirza, son of the Mughal Emperor Babur and brother of Humayun, it is considered the oldest existing Mughal monument in Lahore [4, 5, 7]. The term 'Baradari' translates to 'a building with twelve doors,' reflecting its design with twelve arched entrances that facilitate air circulation, crucial for its original purpose as a summer pavilion [4]. The Baradari showcases distinctive Mughal architectural elements, including intricate geometric patterns, delicate floral motifs, and the use of red sandstone [4, 10]. The central hall features high ceilings and large windows, providing natural light and panoramic views [3, 4]. Originally built on the western bank of the River Ravi, the Baradari now stands on an island due to the river's changing course over time, adding to its unique charm [4, 5]. Over the centuries, the Baradari has served various purposes. It was a place of leisure and retreat for Mughal royalty, a gathering place for intellectuals, poets, and artists, and even a jail during the reign of Sikh ruler Ranjit Singh [3, 4, 5, 6]. Today, it functions as a museum open to the public, offering a glimpse into the life and times of Kamran Mirza and the Mughal era [4, 5]. Significant restoration work, including efforts by the Lahore Conservation Society in 2006, has helped preserve this historical gem [4, 5].

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