Lahore, "the city of gardens" is the capital of the Punjab. It is an ancient town, rich in historical monuments, including some of the finest specimen of Muslim architecture like the Badshahi Masjid of Emperor Aurangzeb, the Wazir Khan Masjid, the Shalimar Garden of Emperor Shahjahan, Emperor Jehangirs Mausoleum and the Royal Fort of Akbar with its fabulous Hall of Mirrors. Lahore is considered to be the cultural capital of Pakistan because of its numerous colleges, places of learning, sports activities and frequent stage plays etc. The museum in Lahore is considered to be the best in the sub-continent. It houses the statue of fasting Buddha besides a host of priceless relics.
The Horse and Cattle Show is an annual event of Lahore held at the Fortress Stadium every spring. It is a pageant of equestrian sports, folk dances, music and tattoo parades. Lahore is at its best in spring and autumn.
Places of Interest in Lahore
Badshahi Masjid (Built in 1673)
It is considered the World’s largest, living, historical Masjid. This Islamic centre was constructed using an attractive blend of white marble and red sand stone. The poet, philosopher “Iqbal” is buried at its footsteps.
Jehangir’s Tomb (Built in 1637)
Presenting a matchless display of mosaics and inlays, the tomb of the fourth Mughal emperor is set magnificently in the calm surroundings of symmetrical gardens. An old traveller’s motel leads to the stately entrance of the tomb.
Shahi Hammam (Royal Bath)
Built during the period of Emperor Shah Jahan, it was used as a public bath containing cold and hot water and steam baths.
Wazir Khan’s Masjid
Hidden within the old city, this beautiful Masjid is called “the Architectural Ornaments of Lahore”. It was built in 1634 A.D and is decorated with mosaics and frescoes of infinite variety and colours.
Anarkali Bazaar
Anarkali bazaar is located on Mall Road, Lahore. It is one of the oldest surviving markets in South Asia, dating back at least 200 years.Anarkali Bazar is a famous and popular market in Lahore, Pakistan. Parts of the old Anarkali Bazar have been converted to "Food Street" and "New Anarkali" as shopping market. The market derives its name from a nearby mausoleum, thought to be that of a slave girl named Anarkali, buried alive by orders of the Mugal Emperor Akbar for having an illicit relationship with the Emperor’s son, Prince Salim, later to become Emperor Jahangir.
Food Street
A traditional bazar of old Lahore named Gawalmandi and old Anarkali bazar has been converted into "Food Street". Here tourists can enjoy the real Lahori food like Nihari, Haleem, Fish, Sri Payay, Taka Tak and much more.
Places to Visit in Pakistan