Lahore Museum to Close for 2 Years for Major Restoration

Lahore Museum to Close for 2 Years for Major Restoration

The Lahore Museum, one of South Asia’s most famous cultural landmarks, will remain closed for two years. The closure is part of a massive restoration and upgrade project designed under a UNESCO master plan.

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A Journey Back to 1929

The project aims to bring the museum back to its original 1929 structure while adding modern facilities. All additions made after 1929 will be removed. The cost of this restoration is estimated at $8 million.

Currently, the museum houses nearly 60,000 artifacts. However, only 14,000 items—mainly coins—are displayed for visitors.

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What Will Change?

According to spokesperson Asim Rizwan, this will be the biggest development in the museum’s history.

Planned upgrades include:

New roof and structural improvements

Better drainage and electricity systems

Fire safety and lighting upgrades

Improved visitor services and galleries

A three-story new building will also be built at Tolinton Market’s parking area. Both buildings will be connected through an underground passage.

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Education and Research Benefits

Humaira Mansha, Education Officer at the museum, said the project is not just about repairing walls but about vision and learning.

She explained that modern facilities will help students of archaeology and history to study artifacts with advanced technology in a better environment.

Students also welcomed the project. They believe it will:

Create new research opportunities

Boost tourism in Pakistan

Improve Pakistan’s global image

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Government Support

The project’s feasibility study took four years and has been approved by the Lahore Museum Board of Governors, chaired by the Punjab Chief Secretary.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb have shown full support, calling it part of the government’s vision to promote tourism.

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When Will It Close?

The museum is expected to shut down in late December 2025 or early January 2026. During this time, all artifacts will be carefully relocated under the supervision of local and international experts.

Once completed, the Lahore Museum will become one of the most advanced museums in South Asia, balancing history and modern facilities.

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📌 Conclusion

The two-year closure of Lahore Museum marks a historic transformation. By 2027, visitors will experience a museum that reflects Pakistan’s rich past while meeting global standards.