Mughal-era sarai gets new life in Doraha

Built under the reign of Emperor Jahangir, the Mughal Sarai of Doraha, also known as the Mughal Caravan Sarai, remained in a state of ruin until the current regime undertook its restoration, aiming to transform it into a major tourist attraction. The AAP government recently spent Rs 5.5 crore on reconstructing 50 per cent of the rooms, which had collapsed entirely, and preserving the remaining half, which required fewer repairs.

The villagers of Doraha and town residents have welcomed this move, stating that previous governments had never spared a thought to save and protect the historical treasure, once a resting spot for travellers, traders and royalty. The government has made efforts to preserve and revive the majestic walls and structures that had withered away with time.

Built in the 17th century AD and spanning over 168 square metres, the Mughal Sarai is a magnificent example of the lavishness of Mughal architecture. The gateways on its northern and southern sides once welcomed convoys from distant lands. The southern gate is adorned with intricate flora and fauna paintings, while the northern gate showcases delicate floral motifs—both reflective of the artistic excellence of the Mughal era.

These grand gateways are connected by a kaccha pathway, which travellers used to access their rooms in the sarai. At the heart of the structure lies an expansive courtyard, framed by rows of rooms once occupied by merchants, traders and wandering pilgrims.

The northern and southern wings comprise 20 rooms each, while the eastern and western sides house 30 rooms each. The rooms are well-ventilated, allowing ample light and air—an example of the thoughtful engineering typical of the Mughal period. A majestic suite of three rooms, believed to be reserved for distinguished guests, has had its ceilings restored with vibrant colours. On the eastern side, a hammam (bathing area) adds a royal touch to the architectural legacy.

The clever design of the sarai offered warmth in winter and freshness in summer, ensuring comfort for weary travellers. On the western side lies a mosque, painted in lively hues, evoking the Mughals’ religious sensibilities. Nearby, a single-storey structure—possibly the quarters of the mullah or caretaker—still stands. An octagonal bastion with a central room is built at each corner of the sarai. The spacious courtyard is surrounded by small chambers. The site is protected under the Punjab Ancient and Historical Monuments, Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1964.

However, over the decades, crumbling walls and faded paint pushed the sarai into despair, with few visitors other than local villagers or stray animals. The site remained in a state of utter neglect until Payal MLA Manwinder Singh Giaspura took note of its condition and made persistent efforts to secure a government grant for its facelift.

“Despite spending crores, the government has failed on the beautification and promotion part. The residents demand that if the government has taken the initiative to renovate the sarai, it should urgently work on the beautification of its lawns so that more and more locals are attracted to visit the spot with their families as a matter of routine. Once this is done, it can be popularised through word of mouth as well as through social media to increase footfall each day. Just outer construction will not help—the government will have to look into the promotion part so that no soul who takes National Highway-1 through Doraha passes without a halt at the sarai,” expressed the villagers of Doraha.

When contacted, MLA Manwinder Singh Giaspura said the renovation work is nearly complete. “The government shall soon be concentrating on beautification of the lawns to turn it into a major tourist spot one fine day,” he added

Ludhiana