Neevin Mosque
A 15th-century mosque built 25 feet below street level, offering a unique historical and spiritual experience in Lahore's old city.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Ensures the mosque is open
Neevin Mosque
Best Time
Ensures the mosque is open
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 15th-century mosque built 25 feet below street level, offering a unique historical and spiritual experience in Lahore's old city.
"It's still mind boggling to see something so low/below street level."
🚗 Rickshaw Recommended
Streets are too narrow for cars. Take a rickshaw and park on the main road. :auto_rickshaw:
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Visit during prayer times as it might be locked otherwise. :clock:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Subterranean Sanctuary
Paper Mandi Bazar, Kucha Baili Ram, Androon Lahore
Experience a mosque built 25 feet below ground, a unique Lodi-era marvel from around 1460 AD.
Lodi Dynasty Legacy
Walled City of Lahore
Explore an ancient wonder predating the Mughals, a testament to the architectural ingenuity of the Lodhi dynasty.
Peaceful Prayer Space
Androon Lahore
Discover a remarkably well-maintained and serene mosque, a peaceful retreat in the heart of the old city.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Descend into History
Navigating Narrow Streets
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rickshaw Recommended
Streets are too narrow for cars. Take a rickshaw and park on the main road. :auto_rickshaw:
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Visit during prayer times as it might be locked otherwise. :clock:
💧 Underground Drainage
Unique underground tanks were built to handle rain, preventing water issues. :droplet:
🚶♂️ Explore the Old City
Neevin Mosque is part of Lahore's historic walled city, rich with other ancient sites.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rickshaw Recommended
Streets are too narrow for cars. Take a rickshaw and park on the main road. :auto_rickshaw:
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Visit during prayer times as it might be locked otherwise. :clock:
💧 Underground Drainage
Unique underground tanks were built to handle rain, preventing water issues. :droplet:
🚶♂️ Explore the Old City
Neevin Mosque is part of Lahore's historic walled city, rich with other ancient sites.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Neevin Mosque is lauded for its unique underground architecture and historical significance, offering a peaceful spiritual experience. Visitors appreciate its well-maintained condition and the glimpse it provides into Lahore's pre-Mughal past. However, some find it can be closed unexpectedly, and navigating the narrow surrounding streets can be challenging.
"Being purposely built 25 feet below street level; one of the most unique Mosque 🕌 remaining from the Lodi period. The original building is believed to be built almost 560 years ago! Although nothing appears to be remaining from the original structure; it’s still mind boggling to see something so low/below 👇🏽 street level.
Try to visit during prayer times; otherwise you may find the Masjid locked 🔒. PLEASE DO NOT take your car 🚗. Streets are extremely narrow. Take a rikshaw and park on the main road."
Haroon Sarwer
"Exploring a 400-year-old heritage site, hidden 18 steps underground, history feels alive here!"
Shahzad Ahmad khan
"An ancient wonder of Lodhi dynasty (prior to Mughal era). This masterpiece was built by Lodhi emperors 25 feet deep the road level."
Farhan Wilayat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Neevin Mosque is located in the Paper Mandi Bazar, Kucha Baili Ram, within the Androon (Walled City) of Lahore. Due to extremely narrow streets, it's best to take a rickshaw or taxi to the nearest main road and then walk or take a local cycle rickshaw.
Finding it can be a bit tricky as it's in a maze-like old city. Look for signs or ask locals for directions to Paper Mandi Bazar.
Absolutely not. The streets are far too narrow for cars. Parking on the main road and taking a rickshaw is the recommended approach.
Many visitors recommend exploring the Walled City on foot or by cycle rickshaw to truly soak in the atmosphere and access historical sites like Neevin Mosque.
While direct public transport to the mosque's immediate vicinity is limited due to the narrow lanes, you can reach the general area of the Walled City via local buses and then use rickshaws.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Neevin Mosque is generally free, as it is an active place of worship. However, donations are always appreciated to help with its upkeep.
The mosque is often open during prayer times. It's advisable to visit during these periods as it might be locked at other times.
While the mosque itself is accessible, the journey through the narrow lanes of the old city might present challenges for those with mobility issues. The entrance involves descending stairs.
Yes, you can visit on Fridays, but it will likely be very crowded due to Jumu'ah prayers. Visiting outside of prayer times might be more peaceful.
No, there is no admission fee. It's a functioning mosque, and visitors are welcome to enter respectfully.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Its most striking feature is being built approximately 25 feet below street level, a unique architectural choice from the Lodi period.
Built around 1460 AD during the Lodi dynasty, it was commissioned by Zulfiqar Khan to be constructed below ground level.
One legend suggests that the famous Indian saint Mujadid Alif Sani stayed in this mosque during his visit to Lahore.
Locals have taken responsibility for its upkeep, and it is described as very well maintained and peaceful.
As it is a place of worship, modest clothing is essential. Cover your shoulders and knees. Women may wish to bring a headscarf.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful of worshippers. Avoid taking photos during prayer times or of individuals without their permission.
The unique underground entrance and the architectural details of the mosque itself offer great photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light. However, consider visiting during prayer times for a more authentic atmosphere, if you are comfortable with the crowd.
Drone photography is generally not permitted in densely populated historical areas like the Walled City of Lahore without special permits.
Popular hashtags include #NeevinMosque, #Lahore, #WalledCityLahore, #AndroonLahore, #PakistanHistory, and #MosqueArchitecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Navigating the narrow streets of the Walled City with children requires patience. Opting for a cycle rickshaw can be a more enjoyable and safer way to travel within the old city. Pack snacks and water, as amenities might be limited in the immediate vicinity.
🚶♂️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Delve into the legends surrounding the mosque, such as the stay of Mujadid Alif Sani, to enrich your understanding of its spiritual and historical significance. The mosque's well-preserved state, despite centuries of change, speaks volumes about its enduring cultural value.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Architecture of Neevin Mosque
This unique design not only makes it historically significant but also practical. The mosque features two underground water tanks, locally known as 'gharqi,' which were ingeniously incorporated to manage rainwater and prevent flooding, a common concern in such low-lying structures. Despite the passage of centuries and potential rebuilding, the concept of its underground existence remains a testament to the innovative spirit of its creators.
Visitors often express awe at this architectural feat, noting how history feels palpable when descending into its serene interior. The mosque has maintained its sanctity through various historical periods, including Sikh and British rule, unlike some other historical buildings that were repurposed.
Historical Significance and Legends
Beyond its architectural uniqueness, Neevin Mosque is associated with a notable legend. It is said that the revered Indian saint, Mujadid Alif Sani, stayed at this mosque during his time in Lahore. This association adds a layer of spiritual significance to the site, drawing visitors interested in its historical and religious connections.
The mosque's resilience is also noteworthy. It managed to retain its sanctity and purpose even during periods when other historical structures were converted for military or utilitarian purposes. This enduring respect for its religious function highlights its importance in the cultural fabric of Lahore.
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