Enigmatic Mausoleums: Hakimon ka Maqbara and Maqbara of Princess Lala Rukh

The Maqbara Lala Rukh and Maqbara Hakiman are located approximately 50 kilometers away from the capital city in the historic town of Hasan Abdal. Within Hasan Abdal, there is also a significant Sikh pilgrimage site known as the Gurdwara Panja Sahib, situated near the tomb of Lala Rukh. This town has a fascinating history that enthralls every visitor. Alongside the Gurdwara, there is another notable monument worth exploring called the shrine of Baba Wali Kandhari and the tomb of Hakim and Lalarukh. Hasan Abdal itself is an ancient town with origins dating back to at least the 7th century AD, as documented by a Chinese traveler's memoirs.

 

                                                                  

During the Mughal period, this location gained considerable importance due to its position off the main Delhi-Kabul road. The town served as a significant stopover and resting place for caravans traveling to the Northwestern frontiers, thanks to its pleasant atmosphere and the presence of clean water springs. In the 17th century, the Mughals bestowed special attention upon this place, constructing gardens and various buildings. Some of these structures still endure today, including the renowned Wah Gardens located less than three kilometers southeast of the area. Emperor Akbar mentioned this place in his work, Ain-e-Akbari. Subsequently, Jehangir, Shah Jehan, and Aurangzeb also visited the area and spoke highly of its natural beauty, abundant water springs and ponds, vibrant fish, and pleasant weather.

                                                      

Fortunately, several buildings from that era have managed to survive. I have already introduced you to Wah Gardens, which have been restored and provide a glimpse into its former beauty and grandeur. Within the city of Hassan Abdal itself, two tombs from that time remain, located directly in front of the Gurdwara Panja Sahib.

 

                                                                     

The "Hakimon ka Maqbara" or the tomb of apothecaries/doctors is a two-story octagonal structure situated within a garden. It was constructed during the reign of Emperor Akbar between 1581-1583, and it serves as the final resting place for the two Hakims of Akbar's court, Hakim Abdul Fateh Gilani Masihuddin and Hakim Humayun Khawaja Gilani. A pond, which was once famous in this area, still exists in front of the tomb and surprisingly contains various colorful fish. The water remains clean, indicating that the location is being well maintained.

                                                             

The tomb of Lala Rukh is located in the same garden, about a hundred meters north of the Hakimon ka Maqbara. Enclosed within a walled garden, the grave of Lala Rukh rests on a raised platform approximately six feet high. The square-shaped walled enclosure features small guard rooms at each of its four corners, with a single entrance in the south. The exact identity of the person buried here remains unknown, although it is speculated that it might be Princess Lala Rukh, one of Akbar's daughters.

                                                            

Within the garden, two graves can be found, one in the center and another in a corner. The central grave carries a local myth suggesting that it could belong to Mughal Princess Lalarukh. However, there is no historical evidence to support this claim. Locals hold different opinions, with some asserting it to be the burial site of Humayun's daughter, while others propose that it is the resting place of Jehangir's daughter, who passed away during a journey to Kashmir and was interred here. Despite the varied interpretations surrounding the identity of Lalarukh, this place attracts numerous visitors seeking solace and serenity within its peaceful surroundings.

                                                           

As a heritage enthusiasts if you have a fascination for exploring traces of the Mughal era in this region, then this location, in addition to Wah Gardens, presents an intriguing opportunity to visit. The garden itself offers a delightful and tranquil setting. Hence, on your next journey through Hassan Abdal, consider allocating an hour of your time to visit this site and appreciate the allure of a classic garden and the wonders of Mughal architecture.