Restored Loh Temple, Sikh-era hammam and Athdara reopen at Lahore’s Shahi Qila

After extensive conservation and restoration work, the centuries-old Loh Temple, the Sikh-era hammam and the Athdara pavilion at Lahore’s historic Shahi Qila were formally opened to the public on Sunday.

Located at the foothills of the fort, the Loh Temple was uncovered in recent years and later underwent detailed excavation, research and preservation.

While local tradition links the site to Loh, the son of Shri Ram, experts said there is no authenticated historical evidence to support the claim. Researchers said fresco remains discovered during early zoning led to further excavation, which revealed additional rooms, corridors and courtyards beyond what was initially visible.

Restoration teams first addressed severe water seepage and dampness by improving drainage before beginning work on internal structures, plaster and frescoes. Conservation efforts also covered the Sikh-era hammam and the adjacent Athdara pavilion, where Maharaja Ranjit Singh once held court.

Officials said the pavilion was originally built during Mughal emperor Shah Jahan’s reign and later converted into a hammam during the Sikh period.

Floral ceiling designs, marble and stone features, wooden elements and Sikh-era paintings were restored using historical standards and archival evidence. Authorities said the Shahi Qila reflects layers of Hindu, Mughal, Sikh and British-era history, all of which are being preserved.

The project was jointly implemented by the Walled City of Lahore Authority and the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan with financial support from the United States government