Army Museum Lahore | Overview, Address, Contact

After the successful completion of the Army Museum in Rawalpindi in 2014, General Raheel Shareef (COAS) ordered the creation of another Army Museum in Lahore, following the same design but with improvements. The Museum’s aim was to showcase the history of Pakistan Army through displays, honoring the sacrifices of our heroes since 1947 and inspiring the youth to be proud citizens of Pakistan. Construction began in 2014, and the Army Museum Lahore was inaugurated in August 2017, finally opening its doors to the public on 23rd September 2017. Despite the challenges of Covid-19, the Museum has been visited by around one million people since its opening.

Galleries In Army Museum Lahore

Shuhada Gallery

This gallery honors the brave soldiers of the Pakistan Army who sacrificed their lives for the country since its independence in 1947. The names of these martyrs are engraved on marble stones. The display includes soldiers from various ranks, from ordinary soldiers to general officers.

History of Pakistan

In this gallery, you can explore the rich heritage of Pakistan spanning over 9000 years. It showcases significant political and military events, starting from the early settlement in Mehrgarh, Balochistan, to the Indus Valley Civilization. The gallery also highlights key invasions and battles that occurred between 800 BC and 1900 AD, along with iconic personalities of the Pakistan Movement and the struggle for independence.

Rebirth of a Nation

This gallery tells the story of Pakistan’s birth after the end of British colonization. It acknowledges the celebration of independence while also recognizing the hardships faced by millions who were displaced. The sacrifices made by over a million people during this period are commemorated. The gallery also highlights the challenges of asset division and the struggles faced by immigrants on their journey to the new land of Pakistan.

1948 – Early 1965

Here, you can learn about the role of the Pakistan Army from independence in 1947 to the period leading up to the 1965 Indo-Pakistan War. The gallery focuses on the evacuation, transportation, and protection of Muslim refugees from India, as well as the defense against Indian aggressions. It also covers important events such as UNSC Resolutions, disputes in Runn of Kutch, Sir Creek encounter, and operation Grand Slam. Additionally, there’s a diorama depicting freedom fighters in the fight against illegal occupiers in Kashmir.

1965 War

Dedicated to the Indo-Pakistan War of 1965, this gallery showcases the bravery of the Pakistani Army against a much larger Indian force. It highlights various sectors of conflict, such as Lahore, Sialkot, Khem Karan, and Rajasthan. Major Aziz Bhatti’s command post is a prominent attraction, along with a brief overview of the role of the Air Defense, Pakistan Air Force, and Pakistan Navy.

1971 War

This gallery focuses on the events surrounding the 1971 war when Pakistan was divided between East and West wings. It highlights the challenges faced due to the geographical distance between the two regions and the Indian involvement in terrorism. The gallery also showcases different sectors in East and West Pakistan, featuring dioramas of Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed and Lance Naik Mehfooz Shaheed.

Siachen

The Siachen gallery showcases the harsh and glaciated region of Siachen, known as the highest battlefield in the world due to India’s illegal occupation. The extreme living conditions and challenges faced by soldiers in Siachen are depicted, along with a tribute to the shuhadas (martyrs) of the Gyari incident in 2012. A diorama of Havaldar Lalak Jan fighting the enemy is also featured.

Nishan-e-Haider

This gallery is dedicated to Pakistan’s highest gallantry award, Nishan-e-Haider. It honors members of the Armed Forces who displayed extreme heroism and bravery in the face of danger during military operations. The gallery showcases busts and brief descriptions of these courageous individuals.

Arms Gallery

This section displays Pakistan’s involvement in United Nations peacekeeping operations since 1960. It highlights the significant and consistent contributions made by Pakistan to UN peacekeeping missions around the world. The gallery features brief descriptions of Pakistan Army contingents serving in different countries and displays pictures of UN Shuhahas (martyrs).

Evolution of Warfare

In this gallery, you can explore the evolution of warfare throughout history. It covers various aspects of military development, tactics, and technology that have changed over time.

Contact

Timings

Note: Museum will remain closed on Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Azha, Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH), and 9th & 10th of Muharram.

Address

Amjad Chauhdry Road, Lahore, Pakistan

Visitor Instructions

1. All visitors must go through security checks, including checking bags and belongings, before entering the museum.
2. Children under 12 must be accompanied by their parents or guardians.
3. Weapons, harmful materials, pocket knives, scissors, blades, and any writing materials are not allowed in the museum.
4. No smoking is allowed inside the museum.
5. Please don’t bring any food or drinks inside the museum, except in the museum cafe.
6. Avoid touching the museum displays.
7. The museum will not allow entry to any visitors half an hour before closing time to ensure a smooth closing process.
8. For school visits, it is recommended to have at least one teacher for every 20 students.
9. Mobile selfie sticks are not allowed inside the museum.
10. Professional photoshoots are not allowed in the museum premises.
11. Cameras with tripods, mono-pods, multiple lenses, flashlights, and photography bags are not allowed inside the museum.
12. Panorama photos, live photos, and video calling are strictly prohibited inside the museum.
13. In case of an emergency, use the nearest exit and follow the instructions of the museum staff.
14. Please take care of your personal belongings; the museum is not responsible for any losses.
15. If you lose something or find something, please visit the Reception/Information Desk for inquiries or to return items.
16. The museum parking lot is only for museum visitors and authorized vehicles. Parking is not allowed after museum hours.
17. Unvaccinated individuals are not allowed inside the museum for safety reasons.