Gulzar Mahal, Royal palace in Bahawalpur, Pakistan.
Gulzar Mahal is a palace in Bahawalpur built in Indo-Saracenic style with three floors, octagonal towers, domed roofs, and detailed stone carvings on its exterior. The structure features large verandas and intricate fretwork throughout its design.
Construction began in 1900 under Bahawal Khan V and was originally named Mubarak Mahal as part of the larger Bahawalgarh Palace compound. The military took over the site in 1966 and converted it to government offices.
The palace brings together local, Sikh, and Arabic design elements in its balconies and traditional Islamic patterns. Visitors can see how these different craft traditions merged together in the building's details.
The military currently operates this building as government offices, which limits public access to the site. It is best to inquire in advance about visiting conditions, as access may be restricted or require special permission.
The palace is set within a 75-acre garden, which gives it a sense of openness unusual for urban monuments in the region. This expansive green space was part of the original vision for the royal estate.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
