Multan is the 7th largest city of Pakistan, known for its historical places and beautiful architecture. Due to an abundance of tombs in the city, Multan is also known as the ‘city of saints’ among the masses.
Some historians suggest that Multan is around 2000 years old and it has been a center for Sufi activities. This fact makes the city even more interesting.
If you are interested in exploring different architectural designs in Pakistan and have a knack for history, Multan is the perfect place for you to be. To ensure good construction and designing make sure you hire the right architects.
Here, in this blog, we bring you a concise yet very informative list of places to visit in Multan.
So, sit back and enjoy the virtual tour to Multan.
List of Places to Visit in Multan
- Tomb of Shah Rukn e Alam
- Tomb of Shah Gardez
- Multan Fort
- Ghanta Ghar, Multan
- Bibi Pak Daman Mausoleum
- Patrick Alexander Vans Agnew Monument
- Multan Art Council
- Shrine of Baha-ud-Din Zakariya
1. Tomb of Shah Rukn e Alam
Sheikh Rukn-ud-Din Abul Fateh, also known as Shah Rukn-e-Alam is one of the most famous Sufi saints of Multan. He was a mystic who belonged to the Suhrawardiyya Sufi order.
Every year, over 100,000 pilgrims from all over the world visit the shrine.
Shah Mehmood Qureshi, the foreign minister of the recent government is the current Sajjada Nashin and custodian of the shrine.
The tomb is situated at the heart of Multan. It was constructed between 1320-1324 CE. Historians suggest that the tomb was built by the famous Ghias-ud-Din Tughlak, Governor of Depalpur.
In the 1970s the tomb was renovated by the department of Auqaf. The tomb received a fresh makeover by the Kashigars of Multan. The brown historical building decorated with blue stones is the epitome of ancient Mughal architecture.
Get to know the best restaurants in Multan.
2. Tomb of Shah Gardez
Another famous Sufi mystic who is buried in Multan is Shah Yousuf Gardezi. His tomb is situated about 600 meters southwest of the former fort of Multan. The tomb consists of a small cubical building with a flat roof, decorated on all sides with blue and white glazed tiles embellished with floral patterns and aina-Kari mirror-work on the interior.
Yousaf Gardezi is known for his immense work for the revival of Islam in the subcontinent.
If you are visiting Multan and looking for an accommodation option, do not worry anymore. Multan has some of the best hotels providing excellent services.
3. Multan Fort
The Multan Fort is an ancient landmark of South Asian Defence and Architecture. Some historians suggest that the fort was built between 800 to 1000 BC. The fort was constructed by the Katoch Dynasty but the fort received grave destruction by the British Empire during colonial rule.
The gigantic fort is truly a work of art. It has huge walls that are 40 to 70 feet (21 m) high and 6,800 feet (2 km) in circumference. The fort’s 46 bastions included two flanking towers at each of the four gates.
Within the fort, there are 30 towers, a mosque, a Hindu temple, and a palace. There were 8 gates in the fort but over time, four gates deteriorated and now the fort has four gates only which are:
- Qasim Gate
- Khatri Gate
- Sikhi Gate
- Hariri Gate
4. Ghanta Ghar, Multan
The famous clock tower of Multan, also known as the Ghanta Ghar is one of the main tourist attractions in Pakistan. It was built around 1884 AD during the British Raj. The construction of the Ghanta Ghar started in February 1884 and it took four years to complete the construction.
Interestingly, the foundation of the Ghanta Ghar is based on the ruins of Haveli of Ahmad Khan Sadozai which was destroyed during the Siege of Multan.
The hall and the building were called Ripon Hall and Building but after independence, the place was named “Jinnah Hall’. Initially, the building was used for office meetings and cultural programs.
If you want to see the hustle and bustle of the city, you should visit the Ghanta Ghar Multan. There shopping malls around the Ghanta Ghar that sell traditional Multani things such as Ajrak and clay pottery.
5. Bibi Pak Daman Mausoleum
Bibi Pak Daman, famously known as Bibi Rasti was the mother of the renowned Rukn-i-Alam. She was also a student of Bahauddin Zakariya and did a lot of work for the revival of Islam in Multan.
She was buried near the ancient temple of Mai Totla. The tomb is rectangular in shape and is heavily decorated with the blue and white stonework, a signature style of Multan’s architecture.
The east facade is decorated with a set of triple arches resting upon double columns, providing access to a deep portico that shelters several graves.
The tomb stands at the center of a compound made up of thick walls. The tomb also includes a domed gatehouse.
Many people from Multan and its adjacent areas come and pay their respect at the tomb.
6. Patrick Alexander Vans Agnew Monument
A gigantic tower stands at the heart of Multan near Ibne-Qasim Bagh. It is a monument that was made in the honor of a British Civil Servant of the East India Company.
Patrick Alexander was assassinated by the retainers of Dewan Mulraj which also led to the Second Sikh War and the British annexation of the Punjab region.
If you have a knack for local history and ancient architecture, you should visit this place.
7. Multan Art Council
If you are an art enthusiast and want to devour different colors of arts and crafts in Multan, you need to visit Multan Art Council. The center was established in 1975 and was founded by the statutory provisions of the Punjab Council of Arts (PUCAR) Lahore.
The center is built on spacious grounds and comprises a hall, art gallery, stage, and a garden.
Art exhibitions and performing arts are regular at the council. The council also holds puppet shows, painting exhibitions, sculptures, and other activities for the people of Multan and its adjacent areas.
Some of the major events held at the council are: 1st Sufi Festival, Sculptures of Sadiq Ali Shehzad exhibition, International Women Day 2009, Japanese Calendar Show, Lok Mela, and Fine Arts Classes Work Thesis.
8. Shrine of Baha-ud-Din Zakariya
Baha-ud-Din Zakariya was one of the most prominent Sufi mystics, poets, and teachers who also established the Suhrawardiyya order of Baghdad in medieval South Asia.
He died in 1268 and his Darbar was built in Multan. The mausoleum is a square of 51 ft 9 in (15.77 m), measured internally. Above this is an octagon, about half the height of the square, which is surmounted by a hemispherical dome. It is one of the most visited places in Multan City.
Every day many pilgrims visit his shrine for prayers from across the country.
These are some of the places that are worth visiting in Multan. If you want to see the true colors of Multan city, you need to visit these places.
Did not find the place you were looking for? Let us know in the comment section below and we will get back to you with the review of the place.
Until then, give this blog a read and let us know your thoughts about the places that we mentioned in the blog. Moreover, for more information about ancient places in the world, visit Graana blog.
FAQs
Here are some FAQs related to places to visit in Multan
What are the top tourist attractions in Multan?
The top tourist attractions in Multan include Multan Fort, Shah Rukn-e-Alam Shrine, Tomb of Bahauddin Zakariya, Hussain Agahi Bazaar, Tomb of Shah Shams Tabrez, and Baha-ud-Din Zakariya University.
How can I reach Multan?
You can reach Multan by air, train, or road. Multan International Airport is the main airport serving the city, with flights connecting to major cities in Pakistan and abroad. Multan is also well-connected by rail, and several trains operate to and from Multan. Additionally, the city is accessible by road with well-maintained highways and bus services.
What is the best time to visit Multan?
The best time to visit Multan is during the winter season, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor exploration. The scorching summer months of May to August should be avoided due to high temperatures.
Are there any famous shrines or religious sites in Multan?
Yes, Multan is known for its famous shrines and religious sites. The Shah Rukn-e-Alam Shrine and the Tomb of Bahauddin Zakariya are prominent Sufi shrines attracting devotees and tourists. These sites hold religious significance and architectural beauty.
Are there any traditional bazaars or markets in Multan?
Yes, Multan is renowned for its vibrant traditional bazaars and markets. Hussain Agahi Bazaar is a popular market known for its handicrafts, textiles, and local products. Visitors can explore the bazaar to experience the city’s rich cultural heritage and shop for traditional items.
Can I visit Multan Fort?
Yes, Multan Fort is open for visitors. It is a historical fortress dating back to the Mughal era and showcases impressive architectural features. Inside the fort, there are various attractions such as the Tomb of Shah Gardez, Qasim Bagh Stadium, and various historical structures.
Is there any local cuisine that I must try in Multan?
Multan is famous for its delicious local cuisine. Some must-try dishes include Sweets like Sohan Halwa and Multani Sweets, Multani Pulao, Sajji (roasted meat), and Kheer. These dishes are known for their rich flavors and unique taste.
Are there any parks or recreational areas in Multan?
Yes, Multan has several parks and recreational areas where visitors can relax and enjoy the outdoors. Some popular parks include Fatima Jinnah Park, Qasim Bagh Stadium, and Shah Shams Park. These parks offer green spaces, walking paths, and recreational activities.
