It is one of three 'Pearl Mosques' built by Shah Jahan, the others being in Agra and Delhi.
The interior contains no ornamentation or floral motifs, adhering to a minimalist aesthetic.
During the Sikh rule, the building was utilized as the Moti Mandir treasury.
The mosque is raised on a high plinth, isolating it from the surrounding fort ground level.
Its architectural design draws inspiration from the earlier Pearl Mosque located within the Agra Fort.
Moti Masjid, meaning 'Pearl Mosque,' is a Mughal-era place of worship located within the Lahore Fort complex. Commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1645, it is constructed entirely of white marble brought from Makrana. The mosque features five scalloped arches forming the front facade and a central courtyard. It served as a private mosque for the royal family during the Mughal period. The interior prayer chamber is divided into three distinct aisles. During the Sikh Empire, the building was converted into a treasury by Ranjit Singh. It was later restored to its original function as a mosque during the British Raj. The site is a registered UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the Lahore Fort complex.
From the center of the white marble courtyard looking toward the three distinct domes.
Visit during early morning to avoid the heat and crowds of the afternoon.
Ensure your legs and shoulders are covered, as this is a functional religious site.
Allocate time to explore the rest of the Lahore Fort, as the mosque is located deep within the complex.
Do not mistake it for the larger Badshahi Mosque nearby; the Moti Masjid is significantly smaller and located within the fort walls.
Visitors must remove footwear before entering the marble courtyard. Modest attire is mandatory for both men and women; women should carry a headscarf.
