Kim's Gun.
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Zamzama Gun (Kim's Gun)

4.6
·73 reviews·Lahore, Pakistan

A colossal 18th-century cannon, the Zamzama Gun, also known as Kim's Gun, stands as a monumental testament to Lahore's rich and turbulent history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Best for viewing and photos

CrowdMedium
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Kim's Gun.

Zamzama Gun (Kim's Gun)

Best Time

Daytime

Best for viewing and photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A colossal 18th-century cannon, the Zamzama Gun, also known as Kim's Gun, stands as a monumental testament to Lahore's rich and turbulent history.

4.6
(73 reviews)

"This historic cannon is a powerful symbol of conquest and a must-see landmark on Lahore's Mall Road."

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TIP

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture stunning shots of this historic cannon, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:

📜 Learn its History

Read up on its journey from the Durrani Empire to Ranjit Singh's conquests. :scroll:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Mighty Zamzama Gun

The Mighty Zamzama Gun

Mall Road, Lahore

A colossal 18th-century cannon, a symbol of power and conquest, with a rich history of changing hands.

Kim's Gun's Legacy

Kim's Gun's Legacy

Lahore Museum vicinity

Also known as 'Kim's Gun,' this historic artillery piece is a testament to Lahore's strategic importance.

Bhangianwali Toap's Story

Bhangianwali Toap's Story

Mall Road

Once the 'Cannon of the Bhangis,' its capture and recapture by various rulers highlight its storied past.

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A Monument of Empires

Discover the Zamzama Gun, a colossal cannon steeped in history. Learn about its origins in the Durrani Empire and its role in pivotal battles across the Punjab. Understand its significance as a symbol of power and conquest.

Location & Access

The Zamzama Gun is prominently displayed on Mall Road, near Anarkali Bazaar and the Lahore Museum. It's easily accessible and a popular spot for history enthusiasts and photographers.

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Best for viewing and photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Early Morning
Why
Fewer crowds, softer light
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Remarkable progress in Punjab’s environmental drive According to the Punjab Government, the first anti-smog gu_n operation in Kahna, Lahore, has successfully reduced the Air Quality Index (AQI) from 666 to 170 — a 70% decrease in air pollution. Scientific analysis from advanced monitoring systems confirms the results. Video Courtesy: Govt of Punjab #punjab #maryamnawaz #punjabgovt #pmln #lahore ...
@pakistaneconomicnet
41.9K likes • 1.1M views

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture stunning shots of this historic cannon, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:

📜 Learn its History

Read up on its journey from the Durrani Empire to Ranjit Singh's conquests. :scroll:

zam zam toys Shah alam market Lahore
@zamzamtoys1
19.9K likes • 828.3K views
The roar that shook empires — Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s legendary Zam Zama Cannon, Lahore c.1900s Once known as the “Bhangian di Toap” (Cannon of the Bhangis), this mighty gun was captured by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1802 and became a symbol of power and unification. This original stereoview photograph by Underwood & Underwood (c.1905) captures locals seated beside the cannon — a silent witness to...
akaalheritage
13 likes • 257 views

📍 Prime Location

Easily combined with a visit to the Lahore Museum and Anarkali Bazaar. :world_map:

🗣️ Local Lore

Ask locals about the gun's legends; they often have fascinating stories. :speech_balloon:

Kim's Gun, It was cast in about 1757 in Lahore. It is one of the oldest Cannon in the world. The Zamzama Gun (Urdu: زمزمہ, meaning "thunder" or "roar", sometimes written "Zam-Zammah" or "Zam-Zammeh") also known as Kim’s Gun or Bhangianwali Toap is a large-bore cannon. It was cast in about 1757 in Lahore (present-day Pakistan) during the Durrani Empire. It is currently on display in front of the ...
_faisalbhatti
17 likes • 1.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture stunning shots of this historic cannon, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:

📜 Learn its History

Read up on its journey from the Durrani Empire to Ranjit Singh's conquests. :scroll:

📍 Prime Location

Easily combined with a visit to the Lahore Museum and Anarkali Bazaar. :world_map:

🗣️ Local Lore

Ask locals about the gun's legends; they often have fascinating stories. :speech_balloon:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(73 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the Zamzama Gun's imposing presence and its deep historical roots. Its prominent location on Mall Road makes it an easily accessible landmark. While some note its historical significance, others appreciate its connection to Rudyard Kipling's novel 'Kim.'

"Zamzama Gun Kims Gun or Bangian wali Tope is located on Mall road near Anarkali Bazar Lahore. The Zamzama Gun, a historic cannon with a legacy spanning nearly 300 years, stands as one of Lahore's iconic monuments. Known as the “Zamzama Toup,” meaning "thunder" or "roar," this massive cannon—sometimes referred to as "Kim’s Gun" or "Bhangianwali Toap"—is among the largest of its kind in the Indian subcontinent. It was cast in 1757 in Lahore during the Durrani Empire, under the guidance of Shah Wali Khan, the prime minister of Afghan King Ahmad Shah Durrani. The cannon, measuring 14 feet 4.5 inches (4.382 meters) with a bore diameter of 9.5 inches (24 centimeters), was crafted by Shah Nazir, a metalsmith serving the former Mughal viceroy, Muin-ul-Mulk.
Originally intended for battle, the Zamzama Gun saw its first significant use during Ahmad Shah’s campaign in the Third Battle of Panipat in 1761. On his return to Kabul, however, Ahmad Shah left the gun in Lahore with his governor, Khawaja Ubed, as transportation arrangements for the cannon had fallen through. The second identical cannon Ahmad Shah had commissioned was taken to Kabul, though it was reportedly lost near the Chenab River.
In 1762, the gun changed hands when Maharaja Hari Singh Bhangi, a prominent Dhillon Jat ruler, seized Lahore’s arsenal following his victory over Khawaja Ubed. Among his conquests was the Zamzama Gun, which he and his Sikh forces renamed “Bhangi Toap.” Initially kept in Lahore Fort’s Shah Burj, the cannon was later given to Charat Singh Shukerchakia, a Sandhawalia Jat ruler from Gujranwala, as part of a share of war spoils.
Charat Singh’s acquisition of the Zamzama Gun surprised the Bhangi Sardars, who had believed the cannon’s weight would make it impossible for him to transport. Nevertheless, Charat Singh successfully took it to his fort in Gujranwala. The gun subsequently became a contentious trophy, passing through several rulers' hands and even sparking skirmishes. It was seized by the Chathas and transported to Ahmadnagar, where conflicts erupted between the Chatha brothers, Ahmad Khan and Pir Muhammad, leading to bloodshed.
The cannon eventually returned to Gujjar Singh Bhangi, who reclaimed it with Pir Muhammad Chatha's assistance. However, Charat Singh Shukerchakia soon recaptured the cannon, only for it to be seized again by Pashtun forces. A year later, Raja Jhanda Singh Bhangi defeated the Pashtuns and brought Zamzama to Amritsar. In 1802, Ranjit Singh captured the cannon after defeating the Bhangis. He then deployed it in his battles across the Punjab, using it at Daska, Kasur, Sujanpur, Wazirabad, and Multan, where it suffered significant damage during the siege of Multan.
Today, the Zamzama Gun is displayed outside the Lahore Museum, a testament to its turbulent past and the various empires and rulers it served over the centuries."

Salman Qamar

"The Zamzama Gun meaning "thunder" or "roar", sometimes written "Zam-Zammah" or "Zam-Zammeh" also known as Kim’s Gun or Bhangianwali Toap is a large-bore cannon. It was cast in about 1757  in Lahore (present-day Pakistan) during the Durrani Empire. It is currently on display in front of the Lahore Museum in Lahore, Pakistan. The gun is 14 feet 4+1⁄2 inches (4.382 metres) in length, with a bore at its aperture of 9+1⁄2 inches (24 centimetres). This gun, one of the largest ever made in the sub-continent, was cast at Lahore along with another gun of the same size in 1757 by Shah Nazir (a metalsmith of the former Mughal viceroy Muin-ul-Mulk), under the directions of Shah Wali Khan, who was prime minister in the reign of the Afghan King Ahmed Shah Durrani. The gun was used by Ahmed Shah in the battle of Panipat, in 1761. After the battle, on his way back to Kabul, he left it at Lahore with his governor, Khawaja Ubed, as the carriage that was supposed to take the gun to Kabul was not ready. The other gun he took with him but that one was lost in passage through the Chenab.
In 1762, Dhillon Jat Ruler Maharaja Hari Singh Bhangi went into battle with Khawaja Ubed. Bhangi attacked the then-village of Khawaja Said two miles (3.2 km) from Lahore (now part of the city of Lahore), where the Mughal governor Khawaja Ubed had his arsenal, and seized his artillery, arms and ammunition. Amongst the guns captured was the Zamzama Gun itself. It was renamed by its Sikh captors Bhangi Toap.
For the next two years, it lay in the Shah Burj of the Lahore Fort. Thereafter, Raja Lehna Singh and Maharaja Gujjar Singh Bhangi got hold of it and they gave it to Sandhawalia Jat Ruler Charat Singh Shukerchakia as his share in the spoils. The Bhangi Sardars thought that Charat Singh would not be able to carry this gun with him and it would remain with them. Contrary to their expectations, Charat Singh successfully carried this gun to his fort at Gujranwala.
From Charat Singh, Zamzama was snatched by the Chathas who took it to Ahmadnagar where it became a bone of contention between the brothers Ahmad Khan chatha and Pir Muhammad chatha. In the fight that ensued, two sons of Ahmad Khan and one of Pir Muhammad were killed. In this fight, Gujjar Singh Bhangi sided with Pir Muhammad. After the victory, the gun was restored to Gujjar Singh. After two years, the gun was wrested by Charat Singh Shukerchakia from whom it was once again snatched by the Pashtuns.
Next year, Raja Jhanda Singh Bhangi defeated the Pashtuns of Chatha and brought the gun to Amritsar. In 1802, Ranjit Singh, after defeating the Bhangis, got hold of the gun. He used it in the battles of Daska, Kasur, Sujanpur, Wazirabad and Multan. In the siege of Multan, the gun was badly damaged."

Muhammad Shoaib

"Zamzamah Toup(Canon)is also called Bhangion ki Toup is located in Istanbul Chowk near metropolitan Office,the neighborhood is NCA and The School of Pharmacy,this is a historical Canon to concore the enemy's"

asif mehmood Shahid

What People Like

Imposing historical monument
Central Mall Road location
Connection to 'Kim'

What People Dislike

Limited interactive elements

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Zamzama Gun is located on Mall Road, a central and well-known area in Lahore. You can easily reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services (like Uber or Careem), or local buses. It's often visited in conjunction with the Lahore Museum, which is nearby. Reddit

Yes, many local bus routes pass along or near Mall Road, making it accessible via public transport. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most convenient routes. Reddit

From Lahore Airport (LHE), the quickest way is by taxi or ride-sharing app, which will take approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. TikTok

While direct parking right at the cannon might be limited, there are usually parking areas available along Mall Road or in nearby commercial zones, especially if you're visiting the Lahore Museum. Reddit

Yes, Anarkali Bazaar is relatively close to the Zamzama Gun. It's a pleasant walk, taking about 15-20 minutes, allowing you to soak in the city's atmosphere. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Zamzama Gun is an outdoor monument displayed on Mall Road and is freely accessible to the public. There is no admission fee to view it. Reddit

As it's an outdoor monument, you can view the Zamzama Gun at any time. However, for the best experience and safety, visiting during daylight hours is recommended. Reddit

There is no entry fee to see the Zamzama Gun. It's a public monument. Reddit

While it's a historical artifact, it's generally advised not to touch or climb on the cannon to preserve it for future generations. Reddit

Official guided tours specifically for the cannon might not be readily available, but guides can often be hired near the Lahore Museum who can provide historical context. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged at the Zamzama Gun. It's a popular spot for photographers. Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon (golden hours) offer the best lighting for photography, creating dramatic shadows and warm tones. Instagram

Drone usage is often restricted in urban areas and near historical monuments in Pakistan. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. Reddit

Selfies are common, but please be mindful of other visitors and the historical significance of the monument. Instagram

Try capturing its scale by including people in the frame, or focus on the intricate details of its casting and historical markings. Instagram

🎫 📜 History & Significance

Cast in 1757 in Lahore, the Zamzama Gun has a turbulent history, serving various rulers including the Durrani Empire, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, and the Bhangi Misl. It was used in significant battles like the Third Battle of Panipat. InstagramReddit

It's known as 'Kim's Gun' due to its prominent mention in Rudyard Kipling's novel 'Kim,' where it plays a significant role in the story. Instagram

'Zamzama' is a Persian word meaning 'thunder' or 'roar,' reflecting the cannon's formidable power. InstagramReddit

The Bhangi Misl was a powerful Sikh confederacy. They captured the gun in 1762 and renamed it 'Bhangi Toap' (Cannon of the Bhangis). InstagramReddit

It was used in the Third Battle of Panipat (1761) and later by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in battles at Daska, Kasur, Sujanpur, Wazirabad, and during the siege of Multan. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Zamzama Gun is a fantastic visual for kids to grasp historical concepts. Its sheer size is impressive and can spark imagination about ancient warfare. It's a great, quick stop that won't bore younger children. Pair it with a visit to the Lahore Museum for a more comprehensive historical experience. Reddit

Tip: Encourage kids to imagine the stories behind the gun. Its location on Mall Road also means you can easily find snacks or ice cream nearby for a treat after exploring. TikTok

📚 History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by military history and the complex political landscape of the Indian subcontinent, the Zamzama Gun is a must-see. Its lineage traces through multiple empires and conflicts, offering a tangible link to the past. InstagramReddit

Explore: Delve into its role in the Durrani Empire, its capture by Sikh rulers, and its mention in Kipling's 'Kim.' Consider visiting the Lahore Museum nearby for further context on the region's rich heritage. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Turbulent Journey of Zamzama Gun

The Zamzama Gun, cast in Lahore in 1757, is more than just a cannon; it's a historical artifact that has witnessed centuries of conflict and power shifts in the Punjab region. Its creation was commissioned by the Afghan King Ahmad Shah Durrani, and it was crafted by the skilled metalsmith Shah Nazir. Initially intended for Durrani campaigns, its immense size made its transport back to Kabul difficult, leading to its placement in Lahore. InstagramReddit

Its ownership changed hands multiple times through battles and political maneuvering. It was seized by Maharaja Hari Singh Bhangi, who renamed it 'Bhangi Toap.' Later, it became a prize for rulers like Charat Singh Shukerchakia and was even fought over by brothers. The gun's journey continued through various hands, including Pashtun forces and Raja Jhanda Singh Bhangi, before finally being captured by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1802. Reddit

Ranjit Singh utilized the Zamzama Gun extensively in his military campaigns across the Punjab, including significant sieges like Multan, where it sustained damage. Today, displayed outside the Lahore Museum, it stands as a silent witness to the region's dynamic history, a powerful symbol of empires and the ever-changing tides of power. InstagramReddit

Zamzama Gun: A Literary Icon

Beyond its historical significance, the Zamzama Gun gained international fame through Rudyard Kipling's classic novel, 'Kim.' In the book, the cannon is a central element, serving as a meeting point and a symbol of the grand, often chaotic, landscape of colonial India. Kipling's vivid descriptions brought the 'great, green-bronze serpent' to life for readers worldwide, cementing its place in popular culture. Instagram

The gun's presence in the novel has made it a point of interest for many visitors who are familiar with the story. It's often referred to as 'Kim's Gun' by those who have read the book, adding another layer to its identity. This literary connection ensures that the Zamzama Gun resonates not only with history buffs but also with literature enthusiasts. Instagram

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