The Governor's House in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan is the official residence of the Governor of Punjab. It is spread over 700 kanals. The current governor of Punjab is Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar. The residence is a typical mansion built among a large expanse of surrounding lawns and gardens. Close to the house, there is a tomb belonging to a man by the name of Muhammad Qasim Khan, who is said to be a maternal cousin of the Mughal emperor Akbar. Four doorways enclose the two-story tomb and to the north, there is a stairway which leads up. Much of the furniture and artifacts used in the house are antique relics that date back. During the British Raj and the subsequent annexation of the Punjab province, the building and the land around it was purchased for a paltry sum of Rs. 2,500 and utilized as a residence for the British Lieutenant-Governor of the Province. Following the independence of Pakistan in 1947, it was formally designated for the use of the province's governors. The Governor's House has evolved over the years in terms of architect due to altered political scenarios, different events and requirements. During the British Raj it was the residence for the British lieutenant-Governor of the province and since independence of Pakistan in 1947 it was formally designated for the use of the province's governors. Governor House is the most impressive and remarkable building having various styles of architecture. Different portions were added to the house from time to time which goes back to many generations, reflecting the legacy of early periods. There are pieces of furniture of olden days are still in use. The residence is a mansion built among a large expanse of surrounding lawns and gardens. The sprawling lawns and gardens consists of noteworthy trees and they are beautified with copious number of flower pots. A great attention is being paid for the maintenance of the lush green expansion. The Governor House is the epitome of Pristine, Prestige and Luxury. A blend of colonial architecture and Mughal era it has a unique appeal representing the two historical periods. To enjoy its extravagant beauty a Bus Cafe is being launched offering both high-end and low end courses catering to the taste of all classes. From classic English tea served with scones, jam and clotted cream representing the British era to burgers, sandwiches and fries portraying modern day times, the cafes serves all kind of variety while enjoying the view coming from the large windows of the bus surrounded by the greenery Lahore in general and the Governor house in particular is famous for. Whether you intend to read a classic like Charles Dickens sipping some tea or to enjoy a coffee on a sunny day with cold wind blowing amidst the lush green lawns of Governor House both makes for an evening well spent. Exploring the Governor House is not complete without sending you back with a unique Souvenir. The newly opened “Pakistan Handicrafts Shop” managed by Punjab Small Industries Corporation situated close to the lake in Governor House is an exotic souvenir shop showcasing the Pakistani culture and traditional art in its entirety. The shop displays a diverse range of products from famous truck art to miniature rickshaws, Mughal inspired blue pottery, Hand embroidered home textiles, intricately carved metal jewellery boxes & lamps, ornate souvenir plates & card holders. For the first time in its history visitors can also purchase exclusively designed Pens, coat pins, key chains and post cards embedded with historical images and the official logo of Governor House at an affordable price. The souvenir Shop is a one stop shop for all handcrafted products of Pakistan which will remind you of the glorious crafts & culture of Pakistan and your treasure-able time spent at the Governor house. For More Information visit the official website
