Are you looking for the best places to visit in Lahore Pakistan? Look no further! I have written down all the best places to visit in Lahore. As a bonus, I have also thrown in some travel tips, you may want to continue reading till the end. If you are traveling to Lahore, you will find this post covered with information to prepare you for an adventure that you won’t forget!
Pakistan is one of the least traveled countries out there and you can go for days without seeing a single foreign tourist. Having said that though, the country is opening its doors more and more, and with such beautiful nature, history, culture, and friendly people, there is no better time to visit the country than now.
Last month when I traveled for a month in Pakistan, Lahore was my last stop. So, I had a couple of extra days to roam around and get to know the city better.
Lahore is the capital of the north-eastern Punjab province and the second-largest city in Pakistan after Karachi. It is well known for its centuries-old historical background and beautiful places in and around the city. Not only I am sharing the best places to visit in Lahore but also each location!
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But before I start sharing all of that, I have put together some important things to make your Lahore, Pakistan travels easier and more enjoyable.
1. Install the Uber App
First thing first, download the Uber app for going around in Sydney. Better than waiting for taxis and trains, get the reliable and fast door-to-door Uber service. For my readers, I’m giving you $10 off your first ride on the Uber app. To accept, use code ‘k7zapn’ to sign up. Enjoy! Details: https://www.uber.com/invite/k7zapn
2. Accommodation
No matter which area you stay, I recommend using booking.com and sorting with price, then consider the ones with the highest reviews plus within 1km of the center/old town in order to be between all the actions. For tours, I recommend using get your guide and walking tours available in most places.
3. Book Cheap Flights
And lastly, find the cheapest flights through the most trusted sites such as Skyscanner or Momodo.
I have detailed travel resources right here. Save money, learn what and how.
Few handy Urdu words
Hello – Salaam walekum
Thank you – Shukeriya
Okay – Theek Hai
Yes/No – Jee Han/ Jee Nahi
How are you – Aap kaise (for male)/ kaisi (for female) hou?
I want to go to______ (place) – Muje _ (place) jana hai.
Pardon me/ Excuse me/ Sorry – Maaf Kijea
Good Bye- Khuda Hafiz
Find out about the most beautiful places in Pakistan! You won’t regret opening this one.
16 exciting places to visit in Lahore
Click on the name of the places and it should take you straight to the google maps.
1. Replica of Eiffel Tower
I have been to Paris 4 years ago and visited the Eiffel Tower there. However, these days one does not need to go all the way to Paris just to see the Eiffel Tower. Researchers claim that there are 130 reproductions exist all over the world! One of them is this one in Lahore, a replica built by Bahria Town.
This replica is a little out of town so, I am mentioning it first as the rest of the places are next to each other and easier for you to plan.
Well I mean it isn’t the real Eiffel Tower but it’s the third-largest copy of the Eiffel Tower monument in the world. One of the perfect places for picnics in Lahore and if not, visiting alone is one of the top 5 things to do in Lahore for Pakistanis and visitors. Its height is 80 meters (262 feet) and it offers L’Eiffel Coffee Shop on the 1st floor, Fine Dine Restaurant on the 2nd, and a beautiful Viewing Deck on the top. When I found out about it, I had to go see it for myself!
The ticket to use the lift is a bit expensive but worth using once. I recommend going on a clear day to see the Bahria Town and South West of Lahore. There is also parking available and it is open 7 days a week 7 am – 12 am
How about the most beautiful places in Pakistan? You won’t regret opening this one.
2. Badshahi Mosque – One of the must see places to visit in Lahore
The Badshahi Mosque or “Emperor’s Mosque” was built in 1673 by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. It is one of the city’s best-known landmarks and a major tourist attraction epitomizing the beauty and grandeur of the Mughal era. The building, a shining example of Mughal-era architecture, is made of red stone.
When I was there in August, the main square inside the first wall was blistering hot despite the carpets they put for people to walk. Not sure if water was sprayed on the carpet to make it cool but it was wet which didn’t help as I was still wearing socks! (you have to leave your shoes outside before entering the Mosque) But once you are inside the Mosque it is quiet and inspiring. Wall art and tile work are beautiful and carry a long history. You could sit there for hours just admiring the craftsmanship. Hence it is one of the top places to visit in Lahore. While there you can also visit the Tomb of Iqbal beside the Mosque.
Pro travel tip: The view from the Haveli Restaurant rooftop across the road is out of this world!
3. Lahore Fort
As you step out of the Badshahi mosque, right at the front you will see the Lahore fort. Take a left and go around the wall and exist to enter Lahore Fort. If you don’t want to walk around the fort, you can pay for the golf cart. (it’s an easy walk so unless it’s pouring down or too hot, I would suggest walking the fort)
Inside the Lahore Fort are royal palaces, gardens, fountains, baths, and many great pieces of art and architecture from the Mughal period. The fort was the capital of the Mughal Emporer Akbar in the 1580s. The area itself has been occupied since the 1100s. You can also hire government-registered guides who give you proper information and interesting narratives. Just bring plenty of water and wear comfortable footwear.
Lahore Fort in Pakistan is open 7 days a week 8:30 am – 5 pm.
4. Minar-e-Pakistan
Minar-e-Pakistan used to be called Manto Park and it stands 70m tall in the middle of what looks like a Park garden. It is situated on the opposite side of the famous Badshahi Mosque, which is a modern ‘Eiffel Tower’ on the spot where on 23 March 1940 the Muslim League Party Of British India passed the resolution for the creation of the Independent Muslim country of Pakistan.
You can climb or take the lift to the top for an excellent view of the Lahore Fort, and Badshahi Mosque. the Tomb of Ranjit Singh etc. It is worth seeing. However, now a days there is no permission to go up and is banned by the government. The dancing fountains are exceptional, there are golf cart rides, a Pakistan History museum, and a good place to just sit around and enjoy the scenery. It is easy to reach and with Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort, and the Walled City of Lahore in the vicinity it is one of the places to visit in Lahore.
5. National History Museum
2 minutes walk from the Minar e Pakistan, passing through the garden you can arrive at the National History Museum which is in Iqbal Park (one of the most visited parks in Lahore) The exhibits are well displayed and interactive, which is one thing that I believe very few museums in Pakistan have. You can learn about the history of Pakistan through audio and visuals. I enjoyed watching and listening to the history of Pakistani passports. \
I also took a virtual reality trip through the Partition and listened to various stories of Pakistani leading women and there are other videos as well. Truly wonderful and highly recommended!
No food and drink are allowed (not even water). Bags are also not allowed. However, they can be kept with the security guards outside of the museum.
It is closed on Monday but open Tuesday to Sunday 10 am – 4:30 pm
6. The Delhi Gate
It was originally built during the Mughal period, and now it is a historical landmark. Most known for the small market around it. Dehli Gate Market is one of the oldest bazaars in Lahore. The original structure of the old gate is also renovated and maintained. You can find all sorts of shops there. The road is small inside the gate. So cars cannot enter beyond the gate. It is best to venture on foot beyond the gate.
As you walk around inside the gate, check out the dark narrow streets with interlinked houses.
Pro travel tip: There is a very narrow street called Patli Gali (tiny alley), in this street, only one person can walk at one time which is one of the best and secret attractions in Lahore, Pakistan.
7. Wazir Khan Bath (Shahi Hammam)
Shahi Hammam is aka Royal Bath, which is located on your left as you enter the Delhi Gate. It was fully destroyed during war times but there is a continuous restoration with attractive Fresco work. It was also recently recognized by UNESCO as an international world heritage site, and since then many efforts have been made and are still being made to keep it intact and preserved.
Although it was souring hot inside, I recommend watching the documentary they play there to understand how the restoration work was carried out. Then enjoy a nice cafe right outside.
Pro travel tip- Try speaking facing one corner of the wall, another person can actually hear what you say from another corner! It reminds me of my childhood days when I and my brother used to make a telephone with matchboxes and thread and speak to each other from different rooms! ha I mean it’s nothing like that but it is still funny how this works!
It is open every day from 9-5 pm and the entrance fee for foreigners is 400 Rs. and a local visitor is 50 Rs.
Once out of the gate, you can find the biggest wholesale clothes market and Delhi gate market.
8. Masjid Wazir Khan
Little further from the Shahi Hammam, you can see the Wazir Khan Mosque which is a 17th-century mosque. The journey there adds to its charm as entering the walled city from Delhi gate takes you slightly back in time.
Foreigners are not allowed to stay during prayer times. But before prayers, you’ll see families sitting in the prayer hall and lots of interesting architectural features. You need someone with the knowledge to point them out. There were many guides in the area telling stories. So not a problem to hire one.
It is truly a work of art inside out. Hence it is on this list of places to visit in Lahore.
Unlike other attractions, this mosque is open every day from 5 am – 8 pm. Pro travel tip: The guy watching the shoes will let you up the minaret for a small fee if you ask.
9. Anarkali Bazaar
Anarkali Bazaar is named after a slave girl who, according to legend, was immured by Mogul Emperor Akbar for having an affair with his son Salim. The bazaar is located in central Lahore and has its own distinct character. and is renowned for its architectural heritage from the Mogul and British colonial eras.
The bazaar has two parts: Old Anarkali and New Anarkali. Old Anarkali is well known for its traditional foods but you will find the shops in New Anarkali are more interesting. They sell a variety of items, including traditional dresses. If you’re looking to buy some traditional stuff and have bargaining skills, then Anarkali Bazar is the place for you. It has a wide variety of formal embroidered and embellished stuff, and you can also find cool casual clothes for everyday wear. They are also selling shoes, jewelry, bangles, sweets, sports goods, and handicrafts. Within New Anarkali, there are individual market areas such as Bano Bazaar, Dhoni Ram Lane, and Paan Gali.
Most things to buy in Lahore can be found in this market. It is also one of the best places in Lahore for photography, especially street and portraits.
10. Tomb of Anarkali
If you like love stories, this is a must-visit place in Lahore. According to legend Anarkali was accused of having an illicit love affair with Prince Salim and was executed in 1599! The history portrays the tomb was built by the Mughal Emperor Jehangir at the time known as Price Sallim for his love Anarkali, who was caught by Emperor Akbar for exchanging glances with Jehangir!
It is considered to be one of the earliest Mughal tombs still in existence and is known to be one of the most significant buildings of the early Mughal period. The building is currently used as the Punjab Archives, and public access is limited.
The tomb of Anarkali is octagonal in shape and is one of the interesting places to visit in Lahore Pakistan.
11. Lahore museum
Lahore Museum is the largest museum in Lahore and one of Pakistan’s most visited and highly regarded museums. It was founded in 1865 during the British colonial period. You can see a detailed insight into the historical perspective of Pakistan, from the war era to the freedom revolution to currency to stamps to honor medals. The visit to Lahore is incomplete without the visit to this Museum.
Note: You have to pay a certain fee to take the professional camera inside the museum.
It is open except Friday, Monday to Thursday from 9 am – 4:30 pm.
12. Fort Food Street
You can’t come to Lahore and not try the Pakistani street food. Fort Food Street is one of the locals’ favorite spots to eat and is also considered one of the best places to eat in Lahore. Whether it be late at night or the wee hours of the morning. You will find hundreds of variety and mouth-watering dishes from different vendors just waiting for you to come and eat.
I recommend trying out Pani Poori, Bhel Poori, different types of chat, and Gulab Jamun for dessert. There is a reason why locals call it the city of food! Food ranges in different prices but is affordable and the ambiance, as well as the view, is worth experiencing. The area is well lit and security arrangements are adequately adding up to make this place a great point for hangout, for family, friends, and visitors.
13. Sheesh Mahal
The Sheesh Mahal is located within the Shah Burj block in the north-west corner of Lahore Fort. Do you know the reason behind why this mahal was made of glass? Legends say in ancient days the queen was not allowed to sleep in the open air but she loved to see the stars while sleeping. So the king ordered his architects to make that kind of mahal which could solve the problem. The architects built Sheesh Mahal which was built with stones and glass and in the night the reflection of two candles in the glass looks like stars in the whole room. Relationship goals!
Another reason locals told me is, that since there was no electricity in those ancient days, mirrors were used to reflect light. Also, Sheesh Mahal bedrooms wherein no direct light so, the mirror reflections created a heavenly ambiance.
It is magical and well worth a look.
It is open every day 10 am – 12 am.
14. Shalimar Gardens
Shalimar Garden is a historical landmark in the city of Lahore, built around the Mughal Empire. The artwork, the layout of the garden, fountains, are all great to look at. But the best part I liked was the daily walk and Jogging path. Many locals also visit Shalimar Gardens as it is considered one of the family entertainment places in Lahore.
There were men selling water and some snacks. so if you forget to bring it, easy to buy it here. Good spot to relax in between the greenery and on the way to our next stop Wagah Border. (See below)
It is also considered one of the best places to visit in Lahore, Pakistan. It is open every day 8 am – 10 pm
15. Wagah border
The Wagah border, located in Lahore, Punjab, is often called the “Berlin Wall of Asia”. It is a border crossing on the India–Pakistan Border where each evening there is a retreat ceremony called ‘lowering of the flags’.
You can feel and see the incredible power of patriotism and the whole show lasts for 45 minutes.
And Wahga is a village located in the Wahga Zone of Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. This is where the famous Wagah border ceremony happens. The parade and flag-lowering ceremony run daily with soldiers taking part in each side of the India/Pakistan border! During summertime, the parade starts at 5:15 PM while during winter it starts at 4:15 PM. The whole show lasts for 45 minutes. However, the Wagah Attari border entrance is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, so it’s best to visit the place at least 1 hour before the parade starts.
The Wagah border ceremony is considered one of the top Lahore attractions and even though it is a little bit out of town, the ceremony makes it worth visiting at least once.
16. Walled City of Lahore
The walled city of Lahore, a heritage city is almost 4000 years old. It is a popular tourist destination having International Heritage Sites and other Landmarks of the Mughal, Sikh, and British Era.
You enter the Delhi Gate and Shahi Hamman and walk through the Lahore Fort and the Badshahi Mosque in the old city. The restoration of the city after the war is very impressive. Recommend to allocate at least the good part of a day to wandering this part of the city on your visit!
I hope this article makes you want to visit Lahore and helps you plan your travels.
Let me know in the comments-
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Lahore would be an interesting place to visit. The architecture is amazing.
wow, what a great place!
the pics are awesome and your writing is great! Thanks for sharing
Lahore Pakistani sounds like an exciting place to visit. I love how colourful and the intricate designs of the buildings are in this place.
Oh my goodness, this place looks beautiful! Although I’ve never been to Lahore before myself, I would love to make my way over in the near future. Thanks for sharing all of this! 🙂
I didn’t know there were so many replicas of the Eiffel Tower. That is interesting to know. 🙂
I haven’t been to Lahore, Pakistan but I really want to visit soon. I love the replica of the Eiffel Tower. So nice!
The architecture is impressive! Those buildings are massive but the details on their facade is intricately beautiful. Lahore is an interesting place so visit!
I’ve to admit, Pakistan isn’t a destination I ever thought of visiting. Still, it’s great to read about lesser traveled places like Lahore. You’ve listed some interesting things to do like Badshahi Mosque and Lahore Museum. It’s definitely opened my eyes.
The architecture in Lahore is stunning. I would love to see the Sheesh Mahal and the Badshahi Mosque. I love the story about the bedroom being built to looks like a night full of stars that is very romantic and beautiful!
You’ve made Pakistan sounds like an interesting travel destination. I really like that you started this post with tips to make a trip to Lahore easier. Personally, I enjoy visiting tourist attractions, so I’d be very interested to visit their replica of the Eiffel Tower and check out the Badshahi Mosque because I love a good rooftop restaurant! UNESCO world heritage sites are also a big interest of mine, was the Shahi Hammam recognized or the Delhi Gate itself?
Thank you for sharing the beauty of Lahore. I haven’t been to Pakistan and I only rely on may travel blogs like yours to somehow virtually explore each cities in that continent.
If I there now, maybe you will spot me in their local market… those items and colorful shops are hard to resists.
Did you end up paying to take your camera into the Lahore Museum? I was totally waiting for those photos because I love Museums. I was hoping to get a sneak peek. This is not a place I have considered visiting before. In your opinion is it safe for young families?
Well written post. I have been to Wagah Border from India side and never had much knowledge about all the beautiful places to visit in Lahore before reading this article. The dried tree barks are called as ‘Datoon’, used to brush your teeth in many villages before the invention of the actual tooth brush.
Nice informative article on Lahore with so many things to see. I loved the colourful markets of Anarkali bazar. That toothbrush which you are talking about is quite common in Indian villages and during the ancient time too and if very effective to clear away all dental problems. Wagah Border really fills us with patriotism and I would definitely visit this place but from India side. You have taken stunning shots of all the monuments.
I’ve never really had Lahore on the radar but it looks like there are lots of great things to see. The history seems very abundant in the sights you’ve listed here. I’d definitely love to learn more at the history museum and the royal baths look so amazing.
I haven’t come across many write-ups on Lahore , so this piece is a breath of fresh air. I would not have thought there were so many replicas of the Eiffel Tower around the world and least of all that Pakistan would have one of them. I think the Minar-e-Pakistan could hold its own compared to the Eiffel tower replica. The buildings here with its architecture is spell-binding especially when accompanied with the many historical stories to tell.
This is a very interesting post. We don’t get to read many posts about Pakistan in general. Lahore sounds really fascinating. Never knew that there is a replica of the Eiffel tower in Lahore. The nearest to Lahore that we have been is the Wagah border on the Indian side. The colourful Anarkali street had my attention riveted and the Museum seems really fascinating.
I had no idea that there were so many places to go in Pakistan. Honestly, I don’t know or read any blogger travelling to Pakistan. Lahore seems the really interesting place to visit, I really liked the Anarkali Bazaar it resembles a lot with Delhi.
My grandmother told me that they came to India from Pakistan during partition. She told us many stories about their living in Pakistan. So, I always wanted to visit there. Whenever I will visit Pakistan then I must go to the places you mentioned in your post.
Your blog gives me life! You’re so brave to travel alone to so many different places. Saving these tips for sure so i can visit one day too!
Wah re wah!!! Lajawab!! That’s a very well written article on Lahore, Anna! Visiting Pakistan has been my dream since long. However with the political situation between India & Pakistan, it isn’t really easy for me. So I’m super happy to read your experience.
Shahi Hammam is interesting. Good to know its been recognized by UNESCO as well. The Masjid Wasir Khan has a fascinating architecture. I didn’t know Anarkali Tomb exists in Pakistan. That’s intriguing.
Let’s see if I get a chance in future to visit here. Khuda Hafiz.
I think that food fort place looks really cool and it’s also really cool that they have a replica of the eifel tower! I know i’d race to the natural history museum! I love going to history museums in different places! It’s always so interesting! This sounds like it was such a great experience!
I had no idea how ornate the architecture in Pakistan was! I would love to make it one day in the near future! Thank you for sharing your best tips 🙂
I never knew there was an Eiffel tower replica in Pakistan! I would have never guessed that. I would love to visit the Bazaar, although my bargaining skills could use some refinement!
Somehow, bazaars and markets are the things that dragged my attention. I never buy much, but love the atmosphere. They tell so much about the culture.
Lahore is not only a city, but it is also an unforgettable experience and a long-lasting feeling. To see the true and beautiful colours 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, and historic buildings. The vibrant culture and warm people make Lahore worth visiting. Also, Lahore has a very old and interesting history. Visiting places in Lahore is quite easy, all due to the metro bus stations. You can pay Rs. 30 and go to any of these places very easily.
What a treat to read about your adventure in beautiful Lahore, its very informative and detailed…it is an amazing and diverse country with so much to offer in terms of culture, food, hospitality and landscapes and above all quite untouched by travelers. It has so much more to offer. Will look forward to seeing future vlogs…best wishes
Thank you for stopping by. Although I don’t vblog but I do daily stories on my Instagram if you are interested! @annasherchand
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.
WOW! Thank you, you are showing a beautiful picture of our Pakistan. Pakistan due to its tourism potential ranked no 1 for the tourism in 2020. A province of Pakistan has so many places to visit that you can not cover all in a single trip. Lahore is the heart of Punjab the history, culture and architecture of this city is so unique. I am so happy that you enjoyed the trip to my city.
This is an amazing blog. You describe 16 famous places and details about accommodation and cheap flight details which will very helpful our tourists to visit Lahore. You are showing interesting pictures of our Pakistan to attract them. It will unforgettable experience for all.
I absolutely love your article. I know how much effort it takes to create interesting content and I’m glad you did it. I appreciate good writing, and this is really good.
Hi! your post is very helpful for me. your post gives me a lot of information and some tips thank you for posting
Glad it was handy, hope you’d fun Mindi