Lahore today is an ever expanding metropolis and still retains the reputation of being the cultural capital of Pakistan. The old definitely meets the new in Lahore. Whilst work is being done to restore the major historical sites dating back to the Mughal era to their former glory, Lahore is also becoming more contemporary with the emergence of new shopping complexes, cinemas and eateries. Lahore is truly a city on the move and whilst the old areas of Lahore such as the Inner City and Mall Road retain their charm and continue to capture the imagination of locals and tourists alike, it is at the same time willing to embrace a more modern face a
A must stop for tourists; this gallery showcases the works of Abdur Rehman Chughtai, the national painter of Pakistan. He dabbled in a number of arts and styles but is best known for his watercolor paintings. Chughtai’s paintings are beautiful and his work is easily recognized. The subjects in his paintings are delicate and it was the manner in which he drew their eyes that became his signature trademark. Abdur Rehman Chugtai, who unlike other artists found fame and fortune within his own lifetime. Do not miss out on viewing the art of one of the greatest Pakistani artists to have lived!
The museum itself is in a small house in the inner city. The Fakirs were an important family during the Sikh rule of Punjab in the 1700s. Fakir was an ascetic and his sons took over in his role as an important member and minister in the court of the Sikh ruler Ranjit Singh. This small museum showcases the history of Lahore and contains important pieces such as relics from the Prophet Muhammad’s (P.B.U.H) time as well as swords, jewels and coins dating back to the Sikh era and the Mughal rule of the city.
An interesting monument, the Hiran Minaar was built in the memory of beloved ‘Hiran’, the deer belonging to Mughal Emperor Jehangir. It was built around 1615 in an area where the Emperor loved to hunt. Surrounding this Minar is a lake and visitors must travel by boat up to this structure.
Located on the outskirts of Lahore, this beautiful tomb is a sight not to be missed. Jehangir was a Mughal emperor who died around 1625 on his return home from Kashmir. He is buried close to his wife, Nur Jehan, and brother-in-law, Asif Khan. The tomb is exquisite and is surrounded by beautiful gardens. The tile work is intricate and efforts have been made to restore the tomb to its former glory.
This fort is a magnificent structure and was crucial to the military strength of the Mughals who used it as their military headquarters. The Sikhs too, who ruled Lahore briefly, used the fort as part of their defense strategy. Inside the fort is a small museum showcasing the Mughal rule of Lahore with artifacts dating back to the era. Another gallery is dedicated to the Sikh rule of Lahore. There is also an armory gallery displaying the swords, daggers and other arms that were used. Be sure to ask for a tour of the underground dungeons of the fort. Prisoners were kept down there during the military dictatorship of Zia-ul Haq from 1977-1988. The prisoners were mainly his critics. The fort also comprises a number of halls. The Shish Mahal or Hall of Mirrors is the most famous of these and was built by the emperor Shah Jehan for his wife and her court. The hall is truly magnificent. The Diwan-e- Aam or Hall of Public audience built by Shah Jehan was where the Mughal emperor would speak to his subjects and from where he would view the festivals and parades. The Diwan-e-Khaas or Hall of private audience was where the emperor would meet with special guests and foreign dignitaries.
This museum was built in 1894. It is one of the most famous museums of South Asia because of the sheer size of its collection. The museum comprises of over twenty galleries and takes one on a fascinating journey through the different ages of the Subcontinent. Lahore Museum is the place to go if you want to improve upon your history of this region. Exhibits date all the way back to the Stone Age. The museum displays exhibits from the Indus Valley Civilization with relics from Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa. Pieces include pottery, jewelry, weaponry, textiles. They also showcase relics from the Mughal and Sikh rule as well as pieces from the period leading to the partition. Important items include the statue of the fasting Buddha, as well as ancient manuscripts and religious texts.
Lahore Zoo was established in 1872 and occupies a site on The Mall beside Lawrence Gardens in central Lahore. It is managed within Punjab’s wildlife administration.
Minar-e-Pakistan is an important monument that stands in Iqbal Park. It is of great historical significance and stands at the exact same spot at which Muslim leaders proclaimed in 1940 that India had to be divided and a separate homeland for Muslims had to be created to ensure their safety. This structure is 60 meters high and is constructed of concrete with marble and stone walls and floors. Visitors can climb the staircase within to reach the top of the monument. It is now notorious for the number of homeless and poverty-stricken people who jump off its high walls committing suicide.
This site is unique since it is the only surviving public bath from the Mughal Era. It was constructed by Ilmuddin Ansari on the orders of the emperor Shah Jehan. The architectural style of this bath is similar to that adopted in other parts of the Islamic world. The baths were magnificent with fountains, steam rooms and dressing rooms.
This museum was established in the memory of Shakir Ali, an art professor who taught at the prestigious National College of Art. Apart from his personal belongings which are on display, his paintings and drawings are also showcased in a gallery. In addition to his work, the art of other contemporary artists are also on display. A research library containing a wide collection of art books is located in the basement of the museum. Workshops and exhibitions are also held at this museum.
Although pricey, the food served here is exceptionally good. Famed amongst the elite of Lahore the Japanese dishes served here are truly divine. The décor is chic and sophisticated. The sushi, teriyaki and nana wings are amongst numerous specialties.
Mouth watering sub-continental cuisine is served here with a wide range of authentic dishes to choose from. Fresh ingredients are used to churn out these really good dishes. The décor and the cuisine reflect the Mughal era transporting diners back in time. The paneer or cheese tikka served with mint sauce is delightful, and amongst the entrees the Chilman Biryani and Qorma are scrumptious. For desert try some classic kheer or rice pudding. Cuisine: Sub- continental Address: Pearl Continental Hotel, Mall, Lahore Tel: 111-505-505 ext 2196 Website: www.pchotels.com
This lovely restaurant serves delicious Italian cuisine. The food is pricey but worth it. The décor is wonderful and the dim lighting creates an ambience which is both intimate and comfortable. The Tarragon Chicken, Atlantic Sole, Mediterranean Sole, Bernaise Steak, Prawn Tempura and Lobster Thermidore are simply divine. For desert don’t miss out on the bread and butter pudding served with fresh vanilla ice cream.
Stop for lunch or dinner at this fabulous joint. Located at the top of a luxury shopping complex, it is very busy at any given time of the day. There is a diverse range of dishes to choose from. For starters try some wonderfully fresh potato skins. For the entrée, go for the mushroom burger, chicken crunch sandwich, the chicken and cheese crepe or one of the delicious steaks. Don’t miss out on desert - experiment with the fried ice cream or the scrumptious chocolate mousse.
Although pricey, the food served here is exceptionally good. Chinese cuisine is extremely popular in Lahore and no place does it better than Dynasty. Treat yourself to some divine Chop Suey, wonderfully fresh egg rolls and chicken with almonds. The décor too is chic and sophisticated, integrating Chinese architectural styles.
This is one of Lahore’s better known restaurants and is never empty. But that comes as no surprise, since the dishes served here are mouth-wateringly good! Fairy lights deck the ceiling, fabulous paintings decorate the walls and loud music echoes throughout this café. Try the Calamari as a starter, for the main course try go for the Cannelloni, Pasta Alfredo or the Chicken Cashew Nut served with Garlic Rice. The strawberryade is also wonderfully fresh.
This is a well known restaurant in Lahore serving traditional dishes. Both meat and sea food lovers will not be disappointed; this eatery serves some of the most delectable dishes and is a personal favorite. The décor is simple and down to earth. Be sure to try the chicken Behari Kebab, the Lucknow Chicken, Tomato and Cheese Gravy and Prawn on Tawa. Mirchi also serves a diverse range of breads or naans as they are locally known. Straight from the tandoor, the cheese naan or the Kolanji naan are simply divine!
Foodies are unlikely to leave this place disappointed - delicious Chinese and Thai dishes from stews to vegetable dishes are served here. The Shrimp on Toast and Honey Sesame Chicken are divine. The American Chop Suey is quite famous as is the Chicken and Almonds, the Prawns in Tamarind Sauce and the Sweet and Sour Chicken.
Vivacious and down-to-earth best describes the ambience of this restaurant. The crowd usually consists of youngsters who come to enjoy the live music. The waiters don cowboy hats and costumes. Dishes served include a wide range of burgers and steaks.
Stop for lunch or dinner at this restaurant. The atmosphere is cool and hip and the dishes served are mouth watering. The thin crust pizzas are a specialty and so is the Caesar salad. Sandwiches and burgers are available here too.
This is one of Lahore’s finest and most well known luxury hotels. It is located in a very busy neighborhood and is close to a number of Lahore’s tourist attractions. This lavish hotel comprises of a number of standard and atrium rooms as well as luxury suites. The décor is elegant, sophisticated and regal. Hotel facilities include restaurants, a fitness centre and spa, car rental, in house doctor, pharmacy, jewelry shops, book store, babysitting, room service, laundry service, airline offices, money changers and a business centre. In room facilities include internet, international dialing, electronic safe, and a mini-bar.
This is arguably one of the most lavish hotels in the city. Located on the famous Mall Road, the hotel is close to some of the renowned landmarks of Lahore. It has a total of 188 rooms and guests get to choose between Lady Avari rooms, e-rooms, Jacuzzi rooms, suites, the business club and the executive club. The décor is spectacular and sophisticated with white and black gleaming marble. Rooms are spacious and extremely comfortable. Hotel facilities include restaurants, a pool, tennis courts, table tennis facilities, a fitness studio, salons, massage services, boutiques, room service and laundry service. In room facilities include satellite TV, mini-bar, tea/coffee maker.
This hotel is small and intimate and is an excellent place to stay. They have a total of 120 deluxe rooms and executive suites. Hotel facilities include restaurants, a pastry shop, internet access, a pool, a gym, a health club, salons and a doctor. In room facilities include satellite TV, electronic safe, tea/coffee maker, iron and mini-bar.
This hotel is located close to many of Lahore’s main attractions. There are a total of 43 guest rooms. The décor is elegant and simple. Hotel facilities include a swimming pool, a health club, car rental, a bookshop and a bakery. In room facilities include cable TV, a locker, a massage chair, mini-bar and internet access.
This hotel is in a fantastic location close to major business, shopping and historical districts of Pakistan. Rooms are comfortable and elegantly furnished. In room facilities include a buffet breakfast, a refrigerator, mini-bar and newspaper. Hotel facilities include a rooftop pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and gym, car rental, salon and laundry services.
This club has a less than ideal location on the outskirts of the city of Lahore and it is therefore, a bit out of the way. However, it is a good getaway and is established on 100 acres of gardens. Club facilities are plentiful and include badminton courts, swimming pools, cricket grounds, cycling, a fishing lake, horse riding, a jogging track, a football field, a gym and restaurants. The club house contains the guest rooms which are comfortable, clean and cozy.
This hotel used to be one of the most lavish before competition arrived. It has not been maintained very well. However for those not willing to spend an exorbitant sum on lodging, then this is a good place stay. The rooms are unimpressive but clean.
This hotel is in the heart of the city and close to almost all the famous shopping districts of Lahore. Rooms are comfortable and cozy. Customers can opt for the standard room, the deluxe room, the junior suite or the executive suite. Hotel facilities include room service, housekeeping, a business centre, and a restaurant. In room facilities include cable TV and a mini-bar.
This hotel is in an excellent location in the heart of Lahore. It is small containing only 20 rooms. The décor is unimpressive and simple. Hotel and room facilities are scarce and include a daily newspaper, a buffet breakfast, internet, cable TV, a mini-bar and car rental. However, the excellent location compensates for this because located close by are the city’s major shopping centers and restaurants.
Hotel Kashmir Palace is located close to the center of Lahore. The hotel staffs are friendly and helpful and the 100 guest rooms are clean, comfortable and wonderfully furnished. Hotel facilities include internet access, a health club, laundry and ironing services, concierge services, and shoe shining services. In room facilities include a newspaper, cable TV and mini-bar.
Alhamra’ literally means a woman in red clothes. This building is made up of red bricks, earning the same impression. The architect was Nayyar Ali Dada and this complex has been admired for its superb architecture, even receiving an award for it. It is a venue for many art exhibitions, theatrical shows, and musical concerts. It also acts as a training center offering courses in various arts including classical dance or kathak, painting, sculpture, and photography. Visitors should stop by this council as there is always some exhibition going on. It is also a good way to familiarize oneself with upcoming Pakistani artists.
There are a number of different visas available for those wishing to travel to Pakistan. The tourist and business visas can both be applied for at the nearest Pakistan Embassy. The application form is available online. Those wishing to travel to Pakistan must have a passport valid for up to 6 months, must give details of the reason for their visit, the duration of their visit, the city of destination and the port of landing. They must give details about their profession and provide proof that they have enough funds to support their stay in the country. They must also provide the names/ contact details of friends or family in their country of residence and in Pakistan.
The best time to visit Lahore is in the winter from November to January and in the springtime from February to March. Temperatures during these months range from cool to cold and the climate is very pleasant indeed. The summer months are not a good time to visit Lahore as temperatures have known to soar to 45 degrees Celsius. In addition, the monsoon season is extremely wet.
Location: Lahore is located in the heart of the province of Punjab with the Wagah Border towards the East and India right next door. Sheikhupura lies on the West and the River Ravi towards the North. Dialing code +92; Emergency numbers: Police – 15 Fire- 16 Ambulance- 1122 Population 8.9 million Languages; Urdu, Punjabi, English: Time zone GMT/UTC + 5 Average January temperatures 13 Degrees Celsius
The currency used in Lahore is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). Banknotes used are the 10, 20, 50,100, 500, 1000, and 5000 Rupee notes. Coins used are for 1, 2, and 5 Rupees.
Lahore has a population of 8.9 million. Like other third world cities, it suffers from high population density. The majority of the population are Muslims but there are some Christians, Hindus and Sikhs residing within the city as well. Urdu, Punjabi, and English are the main languages spoken. Lahore is the food capital of Pakistan. 45% of the residents are engaged in elementary occupations, whilst 17.5% are employed in the services sector. The people are hearty, down to earth, friendly and vivacious. Lahoris take great pride in their culture and language and are famed for their love of food and this clear by the abundance of restaurants! Poverty in Lahore is quite rampant, but at the same time, great wealth exists in small pockets and there is a great disparity in income between the rich and poor.
Lahore today is an ever expanding metropolis and still retains the reputation of being the cultural capital of Pakistan. The old definitely meets the new in Lahore. Whilst work is being done to restore the major historical sites dating back to the Mughal era to their former glory, Lahore is also becoming more contemporary with the emergence of new shopping complexes, cinemas and eateries. Lahore is truly a city on the move and whilst the old areas of Lahore such as the Inner City and Mall Road retain their charm and continue to capture the imagination of locals and tourists alike, it is at the same time willing to embrace a more modern face and integrate into the global culture.
Lahore is an old city and one which has endured a very colorful history. It has been home to many conquerors who all eventually became captive to its spirit. It served as the Capital of the Ghaznavid Empire, conquered by Mahmud of Ghaznavi in the 11th Century, who incidentally became the first Muslim ruler of this region. It was subsequently ruled by many Muslim dynasties for a long time, the most famous of which were the Mughals who arrived in the 1520s. Babar was the first Mughal emperor to be bewitched by the city of Lahore.
This up and coming mall is fast becoming popular amongst Lahore’s elite. Housed within it are international brands such as Next, Mothercare, Early Learning Center, Accessorize as well as local brands such as Khaadi and a number of jewelers. Pakistani fashion designers are also setting up shop here. A food court is present inside.
This is a famous and luxurious shopping mall in Lahore. It sells a diverse range of products. Local brands are well represented here and they include Ammar Belal, Nickie and Nina, Karma, Nomi Ansar, Dara (specializing in traditional Pakistani kurtas). These designers make traditional as well as contemporary clothing. An excellent spa and a trendy restaurant called Roasters are also located within the mall.
This is another of the many malls that have come up in Lahore that caters to the luxury lifestyles of the residents of the city. As in other malls, a diverse range of products is available here. One of the many stores is Gul Ahmed, a local luxury brand that sells casual and formal wear including chiffon shirts, kurtas and suits as well as handbags, shoes, bed sheets and cushion covers. Another store, Taneez, specializes in silver knick knacks, cutlery and fabulous decorative pieces.
A few local fashion labels are housed here including Amir Adnan. Mothercare and Early Learning Centre are also located in this building along with a number of clothing and footwear shops and jewelers.
This is another of the many famous shopping districts of Lahore. Located at some distance from one another but in the same vicinity are Charles and Keith, Next, Mothercare, Early Learning Center, Khaadi, Gul Ahmed and Bareeze. Taneez and Source specializing in silver and wooden/ iron decorative pieces respectively are also found in the area.
This plaza houses a number of shops. Some sell textiles such as Textilion and others such as Crossroads sell good quality jeans, sweaters and shirts. Chic and Huner, two local shops specializing in footwear are also located here. Other shops sell ‘unbranded’ clothing and footwear, often imported from the East Asian countries.
This is one of Lahore’s oldest shopping areas, certainly the most beautiful architecturally speaking. A number of shops selling CDs and DVDs are found here, in addition to stores selling beautifully embroidered garments. Tourists can also go for pricier apparel at Junaid Jamshed, a local designer. Sozo Water Park, Joy land, a bowling alley and a number of eateries are also located at the Fortress Stadium.
This market is a must stop for any tourist visiting Lahore. It is busy and popular amongst locals and tourists alike. For those with eclectic tastes, wishing to pick something quirky to make their trip all the more memorable, then this is the place to go. Antiques, souvenirs, various arts and crafts are available in addition to numerous clothing and shoe stalls. Khussa Mahal, one of Lahore’s oldest shops, is a local favorite. It sells beautiful ethnic footwear and tourists are unlikely to leave the place without buying a few sandals.
This is another one of Lahore’s famous markets. Local brands and products are available here, including Textilion and Crossroads. A number of shops selling CDs and DVDs are found at H Block Market, in addition to stores selling beautifully embroidered garments. Tourists can also go for pricier apparel at Bareeze and Planeta.
This is an ancient market place and is named after a woman called Anarkali, a mistress and lover of the Mughal prince Jehangir, who was buried alive by Jahangir’s father the Emperor Akbar for not returning Akbar’s love. It is located in the inner city and sells a number of commodities including women’s, men’s and children’s apparel, costume jewelry, sandals and other knickknacks. The market has a fascinating feel to it; the winding alleys transport customers back in time and one can very well imagine ladies bargaining here in the 1800s.
These magnificent gardens were made by Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan in the 1640s. The gardens cover an area of over 80 acres. They are built at the three levels corresponding to the Giver of Pleasure, Giver of Goodness and the Giver of Life. Beautiful trees and shrubs are aplenty and white marble structures dot the gardens here and there. There are about 450 fountains. A great spot for picnicking, these gardens are on the UNESCO world heritage list
This famous market, a remnant of the old city of Lahore, now houses a museum showcasing Lahore through the ages. On display are the works of various craftsmen, artists, calligraphists, and painters. Also housed within are various galleries dedicated to a single aspect of Lahore such as its history, its social life, its shrines, its mosques and other religious places, its hospitals, its gardens, and its schools. The place in itself is very special and was built during the British colonial era in 1864 where it served as a venue for an exhibition of Indian crafts. It served thereafter as a marketplace.
It is at this point where Pakistan and India meet. Tourists must visit the Wagah Border where they will be treated to a history lesson in Pakistan-India relations. On either side of the border, the citizens of the two countries sit on concrete steps, singing patriotic songs. Half an hour before sunset, a little ceremony takes place where the Pakistani and Indian guards engage in different competitions.
‘Alhamra’ literally means a woman in red clothes. This building is made up of red bricks, earning the same impression. The architect was Nayyar Ali Dada and this complex has been admired for its superb architecture, even receiving an award for it. It is a venue for many art exhibitions, theatrical shows and musical concerts. It also acts as a training centre offering courses in various arts including classical dance or kathak, painting, sculpture and photography. Visitors should stop by this council as there is always some exhibition going on. It is also a good way to familiarize oneself with upcoming Pakistani artists.
This event takes place every Thursday. The venue is the shrine of a great and arguably the most celebrated Sufi Saint of Pakistan - Data Ganj Bakhsh. His real name was Ali Hajvery and he came to the sub-continent around the 11th Century. Thursday is thought to be a special day in Islam when people should pray and seek forgiveness from Allah. In Pakistan, a lot of people visit these shrines, in the belief that the saints can speak to God on their behalf. Data Ganj is one of these saints and large crowds throng to his shrine to pray for him. Food is distributed amongst the poor and from two till five in the evening, Qawwalis(traditional songs) are sung.
This festival was held annually signaling the advent of spring and was celebrated with great gusto. Festivities were held at various venues around the city on rooftops mainly, and included kite flying, musical concerts and barbeques. A major proportion of the festivities would occur in the walled Old City atop Havelis. The festival was discontinued due to the deaths that resulted from the badly produced kite string. However, it has recently made a comeback and the sky is now dotted with colorful kites once again.
This event takes place annually at the Fortress Stadium and has been occurring for the past 24 years. The fair lasts about five days and the purpose is to promote book selling, buying and reading. A number of publishing companies take part at this event. It is a rare treat for children and adult readers alike. Both English and Urdu literature are available.
This event is held annually. It started in 2001 and actually takes place in Karachi where this initiative was born. More recently the festival has travelled to Lahore as well. The festival showcases the art of film making and new and upcoming artists are presented here. The audience has been growing in strength since its inception and a panel of judges deliberates the winner of each award. Over 40 countries participate in this event and both local and international films are screened.
This event, launched by the DAWN group of newspapers, the widely read English daily in Pakistan, is held at the Pearl Continental Hotel. The purpose is attract Pakistani students to come and learn of the opportunities they have by introducing them to various institutes of higher learning.
The half-day tour package takes one to Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort and the Instrument Bazaar where tourists will be delighted by the diverse range of traditional musical instruments available, including the tabla, sitar, harmonium, flute and gungroo.
The Badshahi Mosque is arguably the most famous of Lahore’s mosques. This magnificent red sandstone structure was built during the Mughal era in the 1600s by the emperor Aurangzeb who was famous for his religiosity and intolerance. The mosque’s four minarets soar into the sky and are visible from afar. Tourists must not wear shorts, women must be modestly dressed and shoes must be taken off before entering. The mosque is truly breathtaking and is also the burial site of the famous Pakistani poet and philosopher Allama Iqbal.
Less known and overshadowed by the Badshahi Mosque, the Wazir Khan Mosque is probably all the more beautiful for its subtlety. This striking mosque was built in the 1630s by the Mughal emperor Shah Jehan. The Mughals were the patrons of the arts and the exquisite tiling on the floors, walls, and ceiling of the mosque is testament to this. The mosque is named after a court physician turned governor of Lahore - Wazir Khan. Tourists must not be dressed in shorts, women should dress modestly and shoes must be left at the entrance. The mosque is not as easily accessible as the Badshahi Mosque. Enter from the Delhi gate and ask passers-by for directions.
Daewoo operates the bus services in Lahore and is the most reliable transport provider. But whilst the fare is cheap, the system is really hard to understand. Moreover, because the bus stops at the stands every few minutes, the journey to one’s destination can take a very long time. The advantages of this service are that the charges are fixed, buses are air conditioned, the service covers most areas of the city, bus stands are dotted close to each other and the buses arrive frequently. Bus number 5 covers all areas of Lahore, all the way from Defence to the railway station. It is advisable to travel only on Daewoo buses which are the safest option.
Taxis are few and far between in Lahore and travelling this way is not recommended. Whilst the fare is cheap, taxis are not air-conditioned nor are they always safe. However if tourists wish to go for this option, they should hire radio cabs which are more expensive but safer.
Renting a car in Lahore is easy and advisable. It is however, costly to do so. Rates vary from 850 PKR a day to 6500 PKR a day, depending on the type of car rented. Tourists should find out whether rates include fuel charges. Tourists have the option of going for chauffer driven rented cars or driving around themselves. An additional amount has to be paid for kilometers exceeded. There are a number of car rental companies. These include:
Tourists wishing to drive around Lahore should keep a few things in mind. Firstly drivers must carry international driving licenses on them at all times. The speed limit must be observed and drunk driving is severely punished. Lahore’s drivers are extremely reckless so caution must be exercised. Traffic jams are frequent and roads sustain all sorts of traffic, including rickshaws, donkey-drawn togas and bicycles. There has also been a significant increase in the deployment of traffic policemen around the city.
For those travelling to Lahore, there are some points that are worth remembering. Always remain vigilant as there are a number of pickpockets in the city. Avoid dark places, especially deserted places at night. If it is necessary to venture out in the evening, do so in large groups. Avoid beggars too, as giving money to one will draw others and before you know it, you will be surrounded by a whole group of them.
