“Jinnay Lahore nai whekhya, o jammia nai!”
(If you haven’t seen Lahore, you have not been born)
And I second this saying!
No doubt, Lahore is not only a city, but it is also an unforgettable experience and a long-lasting feeling. To see the true and beautiful colors of Pakistan, one has to visit Lahore.
Art, culture, desi food, and lively people define Lahore. Lahore is known for its Mughal architecture, beautiful gardens, farmhouses, and historic buildings. The vibrant culture and warm people make Lahore worth visiting. Also, Lahore has an ancient and fascinating history.
According to legends, Lahore was previously known as Lavapuri (City of Lava in Sanskrit). It was believed to be founded by Prince Lava, the son of Sita and Rama.
Lahore is also known as “the city of gardens” because of its beautiful and lush green gardens. The city is loaded with sites worth seeing ranging from gardens to tombs to markets to food streets and more.
شہر لاہور تیری رونقیں دائم آباد
تیری گلیوں کی ہوا کھینچ کے لائ مجھ کو
~ Nasir Kazmi
Visiting places in Lahore is quite easy, all due to the Speedo Bus Lahore. You can pay Rs. 30 and go to any of these places very quickly.
Today, we have gathered a list of the best places to visit in Lahore. All these places carry significant value and are worth your time. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Lahore. You won’t regret it for sure.
| Place to visit | Location |
| 1. Badshahi Mosque | Walled City of Lahore, Lahore. |
| 2. Lahore Fort | Fort Road, Walled City of Lahore, Lahore. |
| 3. The Emporium Mall | Abdul Haque Rd, adjacent to Lahore International Expo Centre, Trade Centre Commercial Area, Phase 2, Johar Town, Lahore. |
| 4. Lahore Museum | The Mall, Mall Rd, Anarkali Bazaar, Lahore. |
| 5. Minar e Pakistan | – |
| 6. Food Street Lahore | – |
| 7. Shalimar Bagh | Shalamar Chowk, GT Road, Shalimar Town, Lahore. |
| 8. Lahore Zoo | Mall Rd, Jubilee Town, Lahore. |
| 9. Anarkali Bazaar | Near Data Gunj Buksh Tehsil of Lahore. |
| 10. Wagah Border | Near Grand Trunk Road, Lahore. |
| 11. Masjid Wazir Khan | Shahi Guzargah، Dabbi Bazar, Chota Mufti Baqar Walled City of Lahore. |
| 12. Jahangir’s Tomb | Circular Walk، Shahdara Town, Shahdara, Lahore. |
| 13. Jinnah Park | Lawrence Road, Lahore. |
Badshahi Mosque, also known as Badshahi Masjid, is the second-largest mosque in Pakistan and the 8th largest mosque in the world in terms of its capacity. The mosque can accommodate roughly around 100,000 worshippers.
Aurangzeb Alamgir, the sixth Mughal emperor, constructed Badshahi Mosque in 1673 AD. The red bricks were brought from Jaipur, India. The red structure and extraordinary architecture make it majestic and an excellent visiting spot for tourists.
Lahore Fort is also known as Shahi Qila, Lahore. It is an ancient fortress on the north side of the Walled City of Lahore. No one knows who laid the foundation of Lahore Fort. Some people say it was founded in the time of Shahab ud Din Ghauri, and some say it is older than that.
The existing structure was constructed by Mughal emperor Akbar. The fort has thirteen gates, which shows the complexity and grandness of the fort. The site is also listed among the UNESCO World Heritage sites.
The fort also has some of the most famous historical sites of Lahore, including:
If you are a shopaholic and love shopping from multiple malls in Lahore, then Emporium is your best friend. The eleven-story mall is home to almost 200 local and international brands. It also has a vast food court to satisfy your hunger pangs.
Apart from that, there is a cinema as well. In short, you can shop, eat and watch a movie in the same place. The design, location, and management of the place are also excellent.
Did you know that the author of the book “ The Jungle Book,” Rudyard Kipling was the son of the earliest curator of the Lahore Museum? John Lockwood Kipling became the curator of the Lahore Museum in 1875. He was also responsible for the expansion of the Lahore Museum.
Lahore Museum is the oldest and largest museum in Lahore. It was established in 1965 under the British Raj. The museum is the house of many renowned artifacts, including collections from Gandhara, Buddhism, and Indo-Greek civilizations. Apart from these collections, the Lahore Museum also has an extensive collection from the Mughal era.
If you have a knack for artifacts and antique stuff, then you should visit the Lahore Museum. If you want a hassle-free and perfect trip with your loved ones, avail the services of any trusted travel agency in Pakistan.
Minar e Pakistan, the national monument of Pakistan, is located in the heart of Lahore. The construction period of the monument was from 1960 to 1968. The monument stands where the India Muslim League passed the Lahore Resolution on 23rd March 1940.
The estimated cost of Minar e Pakistan was around Rs 7,058,000. The money for the construction was generated from taxes on cinema houses and horse racing tickets.
Did you know that the base of Minar e Pakistan resembles the petals of a flower? Each petal has a different inscription on it, such as texts of Lahore Resolution in Urdu, English, and Bengali.
Food streets in Lahore are famous for their yummy and mouthwatering desi dishes. Paaye, nihari, falooda, halwa puri, and BBQ are amazing in Lahore. Lahore is also loaded with top-notch food streets and eateries. If you want to experience the taste of Lahore, then do visit Lakshmi Chowk, Gawalmandi, and Fort Food Street.
You can find innumerable desi street food in these places. These are among the best places to visit in Lahore at night. Rawalpindi is also famous for its food. Everything is available in the city, and that too at affordable rates.
The Shalimar Gardens are a gorgeous Mughal garden situated in Lahore. The architecture of the garden is inspired by Persian and Arabic culture. Shah Jahan, the Mughal emperor, laid the foundation of the garden for his beloved wife, Noor Jahan, in 1641.
Not to mention that Shalimar Gardens were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981. Interestingly, there are 410 water fountains in the garden, made up of high-quality marble. The whole water system and architectural structure are so complex that even today, architects cannot fully understand the blueprint of the structure.
Apart from fountains, there are five water cascades in the garden, which give extra beauty to the place. To unwind and relax with your friends and family, we suggest you visit water parks in Karachi.
The fountains are still functional and give a calm and soothing effect on its visitors. If you are a fan of Mughal architecture, then you should pay a visit to Shalimar Bagh.
“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” ~Unknown.
This quote is so accurate. If you want to look closely at different wild animals and exotic birds, then you must visit the Lahore Zoo. It was established in 1872, and it is one of the oldest zoos in the world. The Lahore Zoo is currently housing 1,378 animals.
Apart from that, Lahore Zoo has many attractions, such as fancy bird aviary, a lion house, an elephant house. You can also adopt an animal from the zoo. In this program, the interested people pay for the food of the animal.
The timings for Lahore Zoo are from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Anarkali Bazaar is among Lahore’s best places to visit. If you love shopping and that too on a budget, then Anarkali Bazaar will save your day. It is one of the oldest and largest markets in South Asia. Some people believe that it is approximately 200 years old.
The name “Anarkali” is derived from the legend of a courtesan girl named Anarkali, who had an affair with the son of the Mughal emperor Akbar. The emperor banished her as a punishment.
Anarkali Bazar has a variety of products, such as textiles, garments, decoration items, and jewelry. If you are looking for cheap and affordable goods, head towards Anarkali bazaar. Also, there is a huge selection of street food in Anarkali.
Over time, the market has also expanded. Now, it has two main sections: Old Anarkali and New Anarkali. You can find a vast array of desi food in the old Bazaar, and in the newer section, you can easily find hidden gems such as paintings, handicrafts, and embroidered goods. It is also famous for its Indian jewelry and clothes.
Wagah Border is the border between India and Pakistan near Grand Trunk Road. It is trendy because of the daily border ceremony. The closing ceremony, known as The Beating Retreat Ceremony, has occurred since 1959. The guards from both sides come to the border, remove their respective country flags and formally close the border.
Every Pakistani should see this ceremony at least once. It is free, and you do not have to pay any entrance fee. Every day hundreds of patriotic Pakistani come and see the ceremony.
If you are interested in Islamic architecture and heritage, visit Masjid Wazir Khan. This magnificent and grand structure was built by Shaikh Ilm-ud-din Ansari, the Viceroy of Punjab, in 1634.
Ansari was the personal physician of Prince Khurram, the future Mughal emperor. The competencies of Ansari so enamored the prince that he gave him the title of ‘Wazir Khan.’ Later on, Wazir Khan founded this mosque.
Apart from the mosque, there are Shahi Hammam and a commercial area in the vicinity. Its unique architectural design makes the mosque stand out from the rest. For the first time in Lahore, four minarets on each corner of the mosque were built in this mosque.
The mosque was constructed using cut and dressed bricks, tiles, and precious stones. Interestingly, there are 22 shops on the ground floor of the mosque. These shops form a commercial hub where people still come to shop. Masjid Wazir Khan should be on your list if you want to explore the true colors of Islamic heritage in Lahore.
Another epitome of Mughal architecture lies on the outskirts of Lahore. Here rests the great Mughal emperor, Jahangir. The place was very close to Jahangir and his wife, Noor Jahan. Initially, Jehangir was buried in Dil-sakoon Garden, but later on, his son, Shah Jahan built a tomb for his father.
Noor Jahan took charge of the design and architecture of the Tomb. It took around a decade to finish this masterpiece and its surrounding gardens. The tomb’s entrance is through two massive gates made of precious stones and tiles. The tomb is a one-floor building in a square shape. Previously, there were fountains at the tomb, which were also ruined a couple of years ago.
The structure also has a tall tower with a projecting entrance from all four corners. The towers give a spectacular view of the city as well. The Tomb of Jahangir is adjacent to the Akbari Sarai and Asif Khan’s Tomb, which is on the provisional list as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Jinnah Park, also known as Bagh-e-Jinnah, is a historical park located at the heart of Lahore. It was formerly known as Lawrence Gardens. The spectral park consists of a lush green space containing a botanical garden, Masjid Dar ul Salam and Quaid e Azam Library.
If you want to spend a peaceful evening in Lahore, visit this historic park in Lahore. The park also has entertainment facilities, a sports complex, jogging tracks, an open-air theatre, eateries, tennis courts, and a cricket ground. In short, it is a perfect space for families who want to spend some quality time.
So, this was a concise yet exciting list of places to see in Lahore. All these famous places in Lahore are worth your precious time. They remind you of local culture, traditions, and heritage. Unlike cliche parks, parks in the city of Lahore are an accurate depiction of the Mughal era.
Here are some other famous places in Lahore that you must vist to have a memorable journey!
| Place to Visit | Description | Location in Lahore |
|---|---|---|
| Aitchison College Lahore | Historic educational institution with splendid architecture | Mall Road |
| Jilani Park | Urban park offering recreational activities | Gulberg |
| Packages Mall | Shopping complex with various retail outlets | Gulberg |
| Food Street Fort Road | Culinary hub with traditional Lahore food | Walled City |
| Wazir Khan Hammam | Historical Turkish bathhouse | Walled City |
| Fortress Stadium | Sports and recreational venue | Cantt |
| Ali Hajvery’s Tomb | Mausoleum of a famous Sufi saint | Walled City |
| Sozo Water Park | Water-based amusement park | Canal Road |
| Grand Jamia Mosque | Grand mosque known for its architectural grandeur | Bahria Town Lahore |
| AL-Hammra Art Centre | Cultural center showcasing various art forms | Mall Road |
| Delhi Gate | Historic gate leading to the Walled City | Walled City |
| Gurudwara Dera Sahib | Sikh temple and historical site | Walled City |
| Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park | Public park offering recreational facilities | Allama Iqbal Town |
| Eiffel Tower Replica | Replica of the iconic Eiffel Tower | Bahria Town Lahore |
| Amanah Mall | Shopping mall with diverse retail options | Model Town |
| The Mall | Historical boulevard with colonial architecture | Walled City |
| Joyland | Amusement park with various rides and attractions | Fortress Stadium |
| The Lahore Canal | Historical canal offering serene views | Throughout Lahore |
| Tomb of Muhammad Iqbal | Mausoleum of renowned poet and philosopher | Walled City |
| Bedian Spins Cricket Ground | Cricket ground for sports enthusiasts | Bedian Road |
| Shahi Qila Lahore | Majestic Mughal fort showcasing architectural brilliance | Walled City |
| Fakir Khana Museum Lahore | Private museum with an extensive collection | Walled City |
| National History Museum | Showcases Pakistan’s history and culture | Greater Iqbal Park |
| The Mall of Lahore | Modern shopping destination | Cantt |
| Shahi Hammam | Historical public bathhouse | Walled City |
| Naqsh Art Gallery | Art gallery featuring local and international art | Jail Road |
| Governor House | Official residence of the Governor of Punjab | Mall Road |
| Convent of Jesus and Mary, Lahore | Historic educational institution | Mall Road |
| Alamgiri Gate | Historical gate leading to Lahore Fort | Walled City |
| Zamzama Gun | Historical cannon symbolizing Lahore’s history | Walled City |
| General Post Office Lahore | Historic postal building | Mall Road |
| Shahi Guzargah | Royal passage connecting Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque | Walled City |
| Nairang Art Gallery | Art gallery showcasing contemporary art | Jail Road |
| Hazuri Bagh | Enclosed garden area near Lahore Fort | Walled City |
| Yakki Gate | Historical gate leading to the Walled City | Walled City |
| Lahore Wildlife Park | Wildlife reserve featuring diverse species | Raiwind Road |
| Chauburji | Mughal-era monument with distinctive architecture | Multan Road |
| Tomb of Baba Shah Jamal | Sufi saint’s mausoleum | Walled City |
| Summit Minar | Landmark offering panoramic views of Lahore | Near Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park |
| Akbari Sarai | Historic inn and lodge | Walled City |
| Unicorn Gallery | Art gallery promoting emerging artists | Jail Road |
| Tollinton Market | Market offering various goods and services | Jail Road |
| Jallo Park | Recreational park with diverse facilities | Lahore-Kasur Road |
| Bhatti Gate | Historical gate leading to the Walled City | Walled City |
| Mochi Gate | Historical gate with cultural significance | Walled City |
| Lal Haveli | Iconic red-colored mansion with historical relevance | Walled City |
| Mosque of Mariyam Zamani Begum | Historical mosque associated with a Mughal empress | Walled City |
| Barood Khana Haveli, Lahore | Historical mansion showcasing craftsmanship | Walled City |
| Haveli Mian Sultan | Historical residence exhibiting architectural splendor | Walled City |
| Lohari Gate | Historical gate leading to the Walled City | Walled City |
| Roshnai Gate | Historical gate leading to the Walled City | Walled City |
| Sheranwala Gate Lahore | Historical gate leading to the Walled City of Lahore | Walled City |
| Zeb-un-Nisa Tomb | Mughal-era tomb with intricate craftsmanship | Walled City |
| Moti Mosque | Historical mosque showcasing Mughal architecture | Walled City |
| Qutub-ud-Din Aibak’s Tomb | Tomb of Delhi Sultanate’s founder | Walled City |
| Mori Gate | Historical gate leading to the Walled City | Walled City |
| Samadhi of Ranjit Singh | Memorial of the Sikh Empire’s founder | Walled City |
| PIA Planetarium | Space-themed educational facility | Lawrence Road |
| Shakir Ali Museum | Art museum dedicated to renowned artist Shakir Ali | Jail Road |
| Temple Of Lava | Hindu temple known for its spiritual significance | Outskirts of Lahore |
| Akbari Gate | Historical gate leading to the Walled City | Walled City |
| Haveli Alif Shah | Historical mansion displaying architectural brilliance | Walled City |
| Sacred Heart Cathedral | Historical Christian cathedral | Mall Road |
| Kasera Bazaar | Market area known for its variety of brassware | Walled City |
| Mochi Gate Park | Public park near Mochi Gate | Walled City |
| Taxali Gate | Historical gate leading to the Walled City | Walled City |
| Sonehri Masjid | Historic mosque with golden embellishments | Walled City |
| Mela Chiraghan | Festival celebrated at the shrine of a Sufi saint | Shalimar Gardens |
| Avenue Mall | Shopping mall catering to diverse needs | Gulberg |
| Kashmiri Gate | Historical gate leading to the Walled City | Walled City |
| Masti Gate | Historical gate symbolizing leisure and entertainment | Walled City |
| Wonder World | Amusement park offering various attractions | Mall Road |
| Mubarak Haveli | Historical mansion reflecting Mughal-era architecture | Walled City |
| Miani Sahib Graveyard | Historic burial ground | Walled City |
| Masjid Shab Bhar | Historical mosque | Walled City |
| Shrine of Said Mitha Sarkar | Shrine dedicated to a respected figure | Walled City |
| Gobind Ram Karan Chand Building | Historical structure with architectural prominence | Mall Road |
| Shrine of Billian Wali Sarkar | Shrine dedicated to a revered personality | Walled City |
| Haveli of Maharaja Naunihal Singh | Historical mansion showcasing architectural beauty | Walled City |
| Model Town Park | Recreational space within the Model Town area | Model Town |
| FunCo Air Park | Indoor amusement park | Gulberg |
| Masjid Tarro Moran | Historical mosque | Walled City |
| Shrine of Pir Bhola | Sufi shrine with spiritual significance | Walled City |
| Nasir Bagh | Historical garden area | The Mall Road |
| Fincera Pakistan | Entertainment and recreational venue | Gulberg |
| Gali Surjan Singh | Historical lane within the Walled City | Walled City |
| Place | Distance from Lahore | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Sheikhupura | 40 km | Historical city known for Sheikhupura Fort |
| Kasur | 50 km | Famous for Kasuri Methi and historical sites |
| Muridke | 44 km | Industrial town along the Grand Trunk Road |
| Faisalabad | 140 km | Major industrial and commercial city |
| Gujranwala | 68 km | Known for its manufacturing and commerce |
| Wagah Border | 29 km | Famous for the Wagah-Attari border ceremony |
| Shalimar Gardens | 8 km | UNESCO World Heritage Site |
If there are more places you love in Lahore that you want to add, please leave a comment below.
Here are some FAQs about Lahore places to visit:
Lahore Fort, Badshahi Mosque, Shalimar Gardens, Jahangir’s Tomb, and Wazir Khan Mosque are some famous historical places in Lahore.
Bagh-e-Jinnah, Jilani Park, Race Course Park, and Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park are some popular parks in Lahore.
Lahore Zoo, Joyland, Sozo Water Park, and the Lahore Museum are some fun places for families to visit in Lahore.
Yes, Lahore is famous for its bustling markets and bazaars, including Anarkali Bazaar, Liberty Market, and the Fortress Stadium Market.
The Wagah Border, Khewra Salt Mine, and Katas Raj Temple are some scenic places to visit near Lahore.
The Lahore Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Pakistan and is home to a variety of animals and birds. It is worth visiting, especially for families with children.
Lahore is known for its rich culture and heritage. Some cultural sites to visit in Lahore include the Lahore Museum, Wazir Khan Mosque, and the NCA Gallery.
Lahore is famous for its delicious food. Some popular food places to visit in Lahore include Butt Karahi, Lakshmi Chowk, and Food Street in Gawalmandi.
The Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort, and Minar-e-Pakistan are some of the architectural marvels to visit in Lahore. These structures are significant to the history and culture of Lahore.
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