A heritage narrow-gauge line, once used for logging, now a gentle ride deep into the trees.
Hand-planted in 1866 · Kasur District, Punjab
The Forest Pakistan Planted by Hand
One of the largest hand-planted forests on Earth — 12,510 acres of shade, birdsong and heritage, 74 km south-west of Lahore. This is an independent guide to visiting it well.
1866
Year planted by British foresters
12,510
Acres of irrigated plantation
74 km
South-west of Lahore
2 ft
Gauge of the forestry railway
Source: Punjab Forest, Wildlife & Fisheries Department · see references
Why Visit
Four Reasons to Make the Trip
A working forest with a big heart — part open-air museum, part playground, entirely refreshing.
The Forest Guide
Two Dacoits, One Forest, 150+ Years of Shade
In the 1860s the British planted this forest to supply timber for Pakistan's expanding railways. Today it stands as one of the largest man-made forests in the world — named, legend says, after two infamous outlaw brothers. Discover its full story, its wildlife, and what to see.
Read the Forest Guide
From the Journal
Latest Stories & Guides
A Day Trip from Lahore to Changa Manga: One Perfect Itinerary
An hour-by-hour Changa Manga day trip plan from Lahore: the N-5 drive via Pattoki, the best walking hours, a lakeside picnic, the heritage forest train (if it runs) and a golden-hour bridge walk.
Changa Manga Timings & Entry: What to Confirm Before You Go
Opening hours, ticket prices and ride availability at Changa Manga change without notice. Here is the honest pre-visit checklist — what to confirm, who to ask, and the best hours to plan around.
Keep the Forest Green: A Responsible Visitor's Guide to Changa Manga
Litter, wildlife distance, plastic, noise and respect — small visitor choices that decide whether Changa Manga stays healthy for the next 150 years.
For Local Businesses
Register Interest A Verified Directory Is Coming
ChangaManga.pk is preparing a verified directory of local businesses around the forest — food, guides, transport and stays. If you run one, register your interest now and we will write to you when listings open.
Gallery
The Forest, in Photographs
Real photographs of Changa Manga — the plantation, the lake, the bridges — gathered from public documentation of the site. Credits are noted beneath each frame.
Plan Your Visit
Walk In With a Plan
Routes, seasons, packing lists and the honest list of things to confirm on arrival — the visit planner has the practical side covered.
Open the Visit Planner