Lahore is Pakistan's second biggest city, provincial capital of Punjab and 16th most populous city in the world. It is considered to be Pakistan's most developed city with modern infrastructure. Apart from modern attractions, Lahore has a rich history dating back over a millennium. One of the most densely populated cities in the world, Lahore remains an economic, political, transportation, entertainment, and educational hub of Pakistan.
If you have never been to Lahore before and have plan to visit Lahore, following are the public places that you must visit to experience the essence of Lahore. This list includes modern as well as historical places of Lahore.
Badshahi Masjid
Badshahi Masjid was built by Aurangzeb, the sixth Mughal Emperor, in 1673. It is Pakistan's second largest mosque and fifth largest mosque in the world. It is part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1993.
Lahore Fort
Lahore Fort is locally known as Shahi Qila. It was constructured by Mughal Emperor Akbar between 1556-1605. The fort manifests the rich traditions of Mughal architecture. Some of the famous sites inside the fort include Sheesh Mahal, Alamgiri Gate, Naulakha Pavilion, and Moti Masjid. Akbar also called as Akbar the great.
Masjid Wazir Khan
Masjid Wazir Khan was developed between 1634–1635 in the reign of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan. It is name after then-governor of Lahore who was commonly known as Wazir Khan. This mosque is is famous for its extensive faience tile work.
Minar-e-Pakistan
Located in Iqbal Park, beside Badshahi Masjid, Minar-e-Pakistan is a public monument that was constructed between 1960-1968. It has historical importance that connects back to foundation of Pakistan.
Shalimar Gardens
Shalimar Gardens is another historical attraction in Lahore. It was constructed in 1641 during Shah Jehan's reign. These Gardens have 410 fountains, many buildings, chambers, pavilions and halls. Some of the varieties of trees that were/are planed include mango, cherry, jamun, almond, apple, apricot, peach, poplar among many others.
Walled City of Lahore
Basically, this used to be the old formation of Lahore. The whole city used to be a gated community that was designed to be within 12 gates of Lahore. You should visit the Walled City of Lahore to experience the essence of old Lahore.
Data Darbaar - Ali Hajvery's Tomb
Data Darbar is shrine of Sufi saint Hazrat Ali Hajvery (R.A.). He is said to be lived on the site in 11th century. It is visited by thousands of people daily. You should visit this place to feel an important aspect of Lahore.
Fortress Stadium
Upon visiting to Fortress Stadium, you will be having chance to visit many sites at ones as Fortress is an important entertainment and shopping hub. Joyland and Sindbaad are playlands that are fun places for kids. Fortress Squareis another attraction which is Lahore's finest shopping mall. Another place to go within Fortress is Hyperstar which is Pakistani version of Walmart.
Grand Jamia Mosque
Grand Jamia Mosque is a mosque located in Bahria Town, Lahore. It is 3rd largest mosque in Pakistan and fifth largest mosque in the world. Built in 2014, it is a beautiful combination of modern architectural style.
Replica of Eiffel Tower
Few hundred meters from Grand Jamia Mosque, there stands a replica of Eiffel Tower that has become another attraction in Lahore. Must visit it upon your visit to Grand Mosque.
Lahore Zoo
Established in 1872, Lahore Zoo is one of the largest zoos in South Asia. Today the zoo houses a collection of about 1380 animals of 136 species. Just beside Lahore Zoo, is, Jinnah Park and Quaid-e-Azam library that are also popular attractions of Lahore.
Lahore Museum
It was established in 1865. The current building of Lahore Museum was designed by the well-known architect Sir Ganga Ram. The Museum is the biggest museum of Pakistan.
Sozo Water Park
Sozo Water Park is a water park located in Lahore. It is one of the few water-themed amusement parks in the city. There are three pools in this park. One have same depth of water and other two have gradually increasing depth. Park has separate pool areas for males and females.
Safari Park
The species housed here include Indian peafowl, Bengal tiger, common pheasant, emu, lion, among many others. Boating and fishing facilities have been developed near a lake. There are also safari tracks in the lion and Bengal tiger areas. It has been recently renamed as Lahore Safari Zoo.
Wagah Border
Hundreds of people attend flag ceremony held at Pak-Indian border in Wagah Village. You might be interested to see the parade of Pakistani and Indian army.
PIA Planetarium
It was established after the establishment of PIA Planetarium, Karachi. It contains a dome building and a retired Boeing 720-047B (registration AP-AXL) standing in a park. Upon visiting this, you should also visit Choburji - a historical monument which is few meters away from this attraction.
Race Course
Within Jilani Park on Jail Road, there is Race Course that is popular place for horse riders as many competitions are held there. It is one of the most well-kept and most visited Parks in Lahore, so it is fun to be at such public place.
M.O.L
Mall of Lahore is one of the popular shopping malls in Lahore. Almost all local brands including many international brands have official stores in this Mall. Do pay a visit for shopping experience in Lahore.
CineStar
Lahore is also entertainment hub and has many cinemas and theaters. Among rest, Cinestar is the best and most advanced cinema in the city where you can experience 3D and IMAX movies at one place.
Some of other places include Gulshan Iqbal park, GC University building, GPO, Istanbul Chowk, Punjab Assembly,Wapda House, Tomb of Jahangir.
