In the heart of Narowal’s Khokhar village, surrounded by lush green fields, stands the magnificent Noor Masjid, an architectural wonder inspired by the Masjid-e-Nabawi (PBUH). Recognized as the eighth most beautiful mosque in Pakistan, this stunning structure was built in 2016 by Lt. Gen. (retd) Israr Ahmed Ghumman in honor of his spiritual guide, Pir Nusrat Naqshbandi, whose shrine is located adjacent to the mosque. Pir Naqshbandi, born in Narowal on January 1, 1942, passed away in Taxila on December 21, 2005.
The Noor Masjid attracts worshippers and visitors from near and far, who come to offer prayers and admire its beauty. It also serves as a significant religious tourist attraction, hosting the largest Eid prayers in Narowal. The mosque’s pristine white one-acre complex is a masterpiece, featuring vibrant glasswork, elegant interiors, and sparkling chandeliers. The 30-foot-tall structure is crafted from marble and other precious stones, showcasing remarkable artistry that makes it a must-see landmark in Narowal.
Noor Masjid can accommodate around 2,500 worshippers at once and includes a large ablution room for 35 people. The mosque is surrounded by a refreshing garden filled with various fruit trees, adding to its serene atmosphere. The premises also house a library with over 10,000 Islamic books, benefiting local students, and a public dispensary offering therapeutic services to residents.
Visitors from other cities and the mosque staff can stay in a shelter within the complex. The mosque promotes a sense of community by serving a langar every evening, providing meals to locals and travelers alike. The grand mosque has revitalized the area, drawing attention to Narowal, which had long been overlooked.
Iqbal Ahmed, a local resident, has been traveling 10 kilometers for almost five years to offer Friday prayers at Noor Masjid. He says the call to prayer in the muezzin’s voice “cools his heart,” which is why he visits every week. Student Omar Khan finds tranquility in reciting the Quran in the mosque’s courtyard after Fajr prayers, and he encourages visitors to experience the peace and beauty of Masjid Noor.
Kartarpur Corridor:
Narowal is also globally recognized for the Kartarpur Corridor, located in Shakargarh tehsil. Opened in November 2019 by then-Prime Minister Imran Khan, the corridor allows Indian Sikhs to visit the sacred Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, where the founder of Sikhism, Baba Guru Nanak, spent his final years. The visa-free border crossing facilitates the visit of 5,000 Sikh pilgrims daily, according to an agreement between Pakistan and India.
A City of Rich Culture:
Narowal boasts a rich cultural history. According to legend, the town was founded 900 years ago by Baba Naro Bajwa, and was originally surrounded by 22 villages inhabited by the Jat clan, known as Bajwa. Syed Habib Shah’s son, Inayat Ullah Shah, assisted in developing the town. Narowal, initially a municipality of Raya Khas tehsil in Sialkot district during British rule, became a separate district in 1991.
