Lahore Fort’s historic Akbari Gate, which remained closed to the public for nearly two centuries, will reopen in December this year after restoration.
Built during the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar, the gate was sealed during British rule. The restoration project, which began in 2023, aimed to revive the structure in its original architectural style and make it accessible to visitors.
Located on the eastern side of Lahore Fort, Akbari Gate once connected the Walled City with the fort. Ordinary citizens, traders and royal delegations used the entrance to access the fort during the Mughal period.
Director of Conservation Wajahat Ali Khan said that Akbari Gate was among the earliest structures built at the fort. He added that the fort was later expanded from east to west, with additional gates constructed over different periods.
The British Raj, however, closed the entrance as part of its administrative policy and to demonstrate its authority.
The restoration project was completed through a collaboration between the Punjab Walled Cities and Heritage Areas Authority (PCWA), the French Development Agency and the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan.
During the work, teams removed layers of plaster added during the Sikh and British periods, uncovering old fresco paintings, including images of Hindu deities. Special measures were taken to preserve the artwork.
Project engineer Yasir Ali said that the heavy wooden main gate had become jammed and unbalanced after remaining closed for years. The team repaired it and made it functional again. He added that an access path and slope had also been constructed to improve entry from the Rim Market side.
Workers also discovered an old drainage system while excavating the courtyard and incorporated it into the restoration plan.
Under the project, the ground floor will house a ticket counter, while the first floor will feature a gallery displaying historical photographs and documents. A CCTV monitoring room, wheelchair ramps and parking facilities will also be provided.
Lahore Fort in-charge Owais Raza said that visitors will be able to enter the fort through Akbari Gate once it opens in December.
He added that authorities were also working to convert historic buildings into galleries, cafes and other public facilities to promote tourism and create opportunities for local economic activity.
