Lahore is one of the most popular cities in Pakistan and the largest after Karachi. It contains everything from historical architecture to food streets. Lahore is the capital of Punjab and a city everyone must visit once in their lifetime. Lahore offers an unforgettable experience and will make you feel alive due to its vibrant nature and loving people.
As the saying goes “If you haven’t seen Lahore, you have not been born”, Lahore offers a really unique environment and culture which is a mix of traditional and contemporary. We have gathered a list of the best places to visit in Lahore that will help you the next time you decide the visit this awe-worthy city that has a lot to offer for everyone:
1. Badshahi Mosque:
Badshahi Mosque is one of the most famous monuments that Lahore is known for. It is also the second-largest mosque in all of Pakistan and the 8th largest mosque in the world in terms of its holding capacity which is approximately around 100,000. Badshahi Masjid was constructed by the 6th Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb Alamgir way back in 1673. The mosque has beautiful architecture, constructed with red bricks that were brought from Jaipur, which is now in India. It is a must-go-to if you are a tourist as it will set the feel of Lahore for you for the entire trip.
2. Shalimar Bagh:
Since Lahore is known as the city of Mughals, there are a lot of sites here that were laid down by the Mughal emperors. One such site is the Shalimar Gardens which were laid down by Shah Jahan for his wife Noor Jahan in 1961. The gardens take inspiration from Arabic and Persian culture and were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981. There are about 410 marble-made water fountains in the garden and the whole water system of the building is so complex that architects are still trying to comprehend it. There are also 5 water cascades in the garden which give the place its relaxing yet majestic vibes. You must visit this place as it will take you straight back to the Mughal era.
3. Wagah Border:
The border between India and Pakistan situated near the Grand Trunk Road is popular because of the border ceremony that takes place daily. Wagah border is a place that everyone must visit to witness the amazing closing ceremony also known as The Beating Retreat Ceremony which has been taking place since 1959. In the ceremony, the guards from both sides of the border come to take off the flags of their countries and then close the border formally. Entry to the ceremony is free and the place is crowded daily with patriotic residents who come to attend the ceremony.
4. Food Streets:
Like every other Pakistani city, Lahore is famous for its delicious food too. The dishes here are usually on the desi side and you will find things such as Paaye, BBQ, Chohlay, Nihari, Halwa Puri, and Falooda here. There are a lot of different food streets in Lahore that you can visit to experience the nightlife of the city. If you visit Lahore, make sure you visit Fort Food Street, Lakshmi Chowk, Anarkali, and Gawalmandi to taste all of the delicious food that the city has to offer.
5. Shahi Qila, Lahore Fort:
The Lahore Fort, commonly known as Shahi Qila is another ancient site from the Mughal era although the question regarding who laid down the fort’s initial site remains unanswered to date. This majestic fortress features grand architecture and it is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The fort contains 13 gates and the recent structure of the fort was constructed by the Mughal emperor Akbar. The fort includes other historical sides such as the Moti Masjid, Alamgir Gate, Sheesh Mahal, and Naulakha Pavilion. This ancient site will leave you mesmerized with its grandeur and easily become one of your favorites.
6. Emporium Mall:
The dream mall of any shopaholic, the grand-scale building contains everything from local brands to international ones. Emporium is a must-visit if you want to see the contemporary side of Lahore’s culture and experience the city’s modern architecture. The mall consists of 11 stories and includes a huge food court with numerous food chains as well as a cinema. The place is well-managed and the beautiful design of the Emporium Mall is something you wouldn’t want to miss out on.
The weather in Lahore is also pleasant and it rains frequently here. Lahore contains some of the most interesting places and the city will keep you uplifted with its incredible architecture, food spaces, and innumerable restaurants.
