Lahore Fort, also known as Shahi Qila, is a majestic Mughal era attraction located in the heart of Lahore, Pakistan. The fort houses several smaller buildings, such as the Naulakha Pavilion and Sheesh Mahal, making for a fascinating visit.
Badshahi Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world, with a capacity to accommodate around 100,000 worshippers. The mosque is a stunning display of Mughal architecture, adorned with intricate calligraphy and design work on the walls and ceiling.
The Lahore Museum is a cultural treasure trove, with a vast collection of art, artefacts, and crafts from various periods of Pakistani history. The museum's collection includes an extensive collection of Gandhara art, manuscripts, jewellery, and textiles, amongst others.
Taxila Museum is a UNESCO World Heritage site, situated near the ancient city of Taxila. The museum houses an extensive collection of ancient artefacts, sculptures, coins, and pottery, dating back to the 5th century BCE.
The Islamabad Monument is a tribute to Pakistan's history and scenic beauty. The monument's architecture represents the four provinces of Pakistan and Islamabad's importance as the capital city. The site also has a museum showcasing Pakistani culture and heritage.
Faisal Mosque is the largest mosque in Pakistan, known for its modern Islamic architecture. Its unique design features eight sides and a slanted roof, resembling a Bedouin tent. The mosque's stunning white marble facade and interior make it well worth a visit.
Rohtas Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site, situated near Jhelum. The fort was built in the 16th century by Sher Shah Suri to repel the Mughal emperor Humayun. The fort's grand gates, walls, and bastions are still remarkably well-preserved.
Wazir Khan Mosque is a stunning Mughal era mosque located in the heart of the walled city of Lahore. This famed mosque's intricate tile work and calligraphy took seven years to complete, making it an excellent representation of Mughal architecture.
The Shalimar Gardens, also known as the "Gardens of Love," is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Pakistan's most beautiful gardens. The gardens' highlights include the terraces, fountains, and flowerbeds, all adding up to create an enchanting ambiance.
The Mohatta Palace Museum, located in Karachi, is a perfect example of late British colonial-era architecture in Pakistan. The palace's impressive façade blends Rajasthani and Mughal architectural elements, and the museum inside showcases Pakistan's arts, heritage and culture.
While in Pakistan, you can use local taxis, Uber or Careem to get around, especially in the larger cities. Alternatively, you can rent a car, although be aware that traffic can be overwhelming. Intercity travel can be done via bus or train, but trains are generally considered more comfortable and efficient. Expect to pay between PKR 500-600 for a three-hour bus journey or PKR 1500-2000 for a five-hour train journey (prices may vary).
If you have more time, consider visiting Multan's famous shrines or the coastal city of Gwadar. But if you have less time, skip Rohtas Fort and the Mohatta Palace Museum. Respect local customs, particularly dress codes when visiting mosques and religious sites. Lastly, always use trusted transport services and carry cash, as card payments are not widely accepted.
The major airports in Pakistan are Jinnah International Airport (KHI) in Karachi, Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE) in Lahore, and Islamabad International Airport (ISB) in Islamabad. All three airports are located approximately 30-40 minutes from their respective city centers.