Located along the Grand Trunk Road, Kharian is a picturesque town in Pakistan’s Punjab province, captivating visitors with its harmonious blend of urban and rural life. Steeped in history, Kharian has produced notable artists, celebrities, and revered martyrs, including the highly esteemed Major Aziz Bhatti Shaheed.
Its lively marketplaces, verdant wilderness, and gracefully swaying trees contribute to Kharian’s charm. The sounds of tractors’ engines and the lively tunes of Saraiki and Punjabi folk music echo through its narrow streets. Smoke rising from brick kilns and earthen hearths further deepens the connection to rural life.
Graana.com discusses everything you need to know about Kharian, including things to do and FAQs.
History and Beauty of Kharian
Travelling along the GT Road from Islamabad City, Kharian unfolds as a picturesque terrain adorned with lively marketplaces, verdant wilderness, and gracefully swaying trees.
Kharian’s history has long captivated the curiosity of many, establishing it amongst the most captivating locales in Punjab. This city has been the birthplace of notable celebrities, artists, and revered martyrs, among whom is the highly esteemed Major Aziz Bhatti Shaheed.
Kharian is the ideal destination to immerse yourself in Punjab’s harmonious blend of rural and urban life. Every corner of this small town echoes with the sounds of tractors’ rowdy engines and the lively tunes of Punjabi and Saraiki folk music. The pervasive views of smoke rising from earthen hearths and brick kilns further deepen the connection to rustic life.
Yet, as you delve further into this mini town, characterised by grazing buffaloes and brick houses, you’ll encounter delightful surprises. It becomes evident that Kharian is not an ordinary village. You will realize this when you witness vigorous infrastructure, villas adorned with expensive vehicles, and vertically developing industries seamlessly coexisting with the rustic charm of a village.
When you are in this locale, you’ll realise that you’ve stepped into the “Little Norway of Pakistan.” Specifically, this mini Norway is situated within Kharian, also called Aalam Pur Gondlan village. Recent studies indicate that the village has a total population of 2,000 people, with 400 individuals having relocated to Norway along with their families.
Things You Should Do in Kharian
Kharian attracts visitors from across Pakistan and international travellers, particularly Norwegians, eager to explore the captivating blend of urban and rural life. If you plan to visit Kharian, be aware that it’s approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Islamabad via Grand Trunk (GT) Road.
The trip to Kharian takes approximately 3 hours for those journeying from Lahore. During your stay, do not overlook Pabbi Forest, a highly frequented tourist destination in Kharian, conveniently located along GT Road.
The primary allure within the forest is a captivating lake, its natural charm accentuated by a wooden bridge that enables pedestrians to explore the opposite side of the woods. On the other side of the lake, tourists, backpackers, and regular visitors can access barbecue grills, fostering the perfect setting for impromptu grill parties.
Furthermore, the park features attractively designed canopies and comfortable benches around the lake. These provide ideal spots for relaxation, allowing visitors to savour a warm cup of tea while witnessing the sun’s gradual descent into the lake.
Adding to the allure, the forest accommodates hilltop huts, catering to visitors seeking an overnight stay. Moreover, some adventurers elevate their experience by setting up camps and opting to sleep under the open sky. Kharian isn’t just a haven for nature enthusiasts with its forests and woodlands; it also offers abundant opportunities for water activities.
Those who are fond of swimming and boating can make their way to the Jhelum River, a significant watercourse in Pakistan. Whether it’s taking a refreshing dip in the cool waters during the summer or simply enjoying the scenic views of the streams, the river, located approximately 30 minutes from Kharian, is easily reachable from Sarai Alamgir, a nearby village.
Industries
Kharian proudly contributes to two of Pakistan’s largest industries, specialising in the production of handcrafted Punjabi fans, cane furniture, and crockeries, particularly knives. Additionally, the city is known for its food industry in Pakistan and is a major supplier of essential agricultural products, including rice, wheat, sugarcane, tobacco, and various seasonal vegetables and fruits. So, when relishing the juiciest melon of the season, it’s quite likely that it hails from Kharian.
For those planning a visit to Kharian, be sure to acquire a souvenir that encapsulates the beauty of this “mini Norway of Pakistan.” Numerous bazaars, cottages, and small industries offer a diverse array of tokens and gifts, perfect for preserving the memories of your time in the region. Consider hand-printed fabrics, glass bangles, hand-fans, handicrafts, and embroidery work as delightful keepsakes.
Kharian Postal Code
Following table provides the postal information for Kharian City.
| Information | Details |
| City | Kharian City |
| Postcode | 50090 |
| Post Office Type | Delivery |
| Post Office Name | Kharian City Post Office |
| Post Office Address | General Post Office, Opposite District Council Rehman Shaheed Rd, Gharibpura, Gujurat, Gujrat, Punjab |
| Tehsil | Gujrat |
| District | Gujrat |
| City Code | GRT |
| Latitude | 32.571144 |
| Longitude | 74.075005 |
| Province | Punjab |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Following are some of the most common questions and their answers for Kharian.
How do I reach Kharian from Islamabad?
Kharian is approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Islamabad via Grand Trunk Road.
What are the main attractions in Kharian?
Key attractions include Pabbi Forest, the Jhelum River for watersports, and the fusion of urban and rural life.
Can I find accommodations in Kharian?
Yes, various hotels and guesthouses cater to different budget ranges in Kharian.
What industries are famous in Kharian?
Kharian is renowned for handcrafted Punjabi fans, cane furniture, and crockeries, and is a major supplier of rice, wheat, sugarcane, tobacco, and seasonal vegetables and fruits.
How can I report a lost or stolen passport in Kharian?
Contact the German Consulate in Karachi, as Kharian falls under its consular jurisdiction.
Are there opportunities for watersports in Kharian?
Yes, you can experience watersports at the Jhelum River, located about 30 minutes away from Kharian.
What souvenirs can I get in Kharian?
Consider hand-printed fabrics, glass bangles, hand-fans, handicrafts, and embroidery work as souvenirs.
Is there a specific village known as “Little Norway” in Kharian?
Yes, Aalam Pur Gondlan village in Kharian is often referred to as “Little Norway”.
What is the population of Aalam Pur Gondlan, and why did people migrate to Norway from there?
The village has a population of 2,000, with 400 residents having migrated to Norway for better opportunities and economic stability.
How far is Kharian from Lahore, and how can I get there?
The distance from Lahore to Kharian is around 3 hours by road. You can reach Kharian via Grand Trunk Road or other connecting routes.
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