Nestled along the scenic banks of the Jhelum River in Muzaffarabad, the historic Quaid-e-Azam Tourist Lodge, also known as the Barsala Dak Bungalow or Quaid-e-Azam Memorial Rest House, remains one of the most significant heritage and tourism landmarks in Azad Kashmir.
Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and steeped in history, the lodge holds a special place in Pakistan’s national heritage. Originally constructed during the Dogra era, the charming rest house gained historical prominence when Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Fatima Jinnah stayed there in July 1944 while traveling from Srinagar to Rawalpindi.
One of the lodge’s most treasured artifacts is the historic chair reportedly used by Quaid-e-Azam during his stay, which has been carefully preserved and continues to attract visitors interested in Pakistan’s history and independence movement.
The building suffered extensive damage during the devastating 2005 Kashmir Earthquake, but was later meticulously restored by the Azad Kashmir Tourism Department. The restoration preserved the lodge’s original architectural charm while ensuring that this important historical site remains accessible to future generations.
Located just three kilometers from the iconic Kohala Bridge, often regarded as the gateway to Azad Kashmir, the lodge occupies a prime location on the Murree-Muzaffarabad Road. Its accessibility, combined with its historical significance and picturesque setting, makes it a popular stopover for travelers exploring the region.
Visitors to the lodge can enjoy panoramic views of the Jhelum River, lush green surroundings, and the peaceful atmosphere that once welcomed the founding father of Pakistan. The site offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts, students, and tourists alike.
As tourism continues to grow in Azad Kashmir, the Quaid-e-Azam Tourist Lodge stands as a proud symbol of Pakistan’s heritage, preserving memories of the nation’s founding era while offering visitors a chance to connect with history in one of the country’s most scenic landscapes.
