This cultural capital of Pakistan contains the 17th-century Badshahi Mosque, Mughal-era Lahore Fort, and Persian-style Shalimar Gardens, while serving as a major industrial hub.
In Lahore, Pakistan's second-largest city, you'll walk past the red sandstone walls of the 17th-century Badshahi Mosque, explore the mirror-lined halls of Sheesh Mahal palace, and wind through the narrow lanes of the 400-year-old Walled City. Stop at spice vendors near Delhi Gate, watch craftsmen work in centuries-old workshops, or spend time in the terraced pools of Shalimar Gardens. Museums and art galleries fill historic buildings throughout the city, while religious structures like the tile-covered Wazir Khan Mosque showcase intricate Mughal architecture.
Navigating the Walled City
The central district of Lahore spans one square kilometer, enclosed by 13 gates built between the 16th and 18th centuries. Small alleys called katrahs and galis weave between two-story houses with wooden balconies. Local food vendors cook in doorways, while metalworkers and woodcarvers continue their crafts in street-level workshops. Near Delhi Gate, hundreds of merchants sell spices, textiles, copper goods, and handicrafts in one of the city's largest market areas.
Major Mosques and Religious Sites
The Badshahi Mosque's white marble domes and four minarets dominate Lahore's skyline. Built in 1673, its prayer hall holds 100,000 worshippers. The Wazir Khan Mosque (1634) contains Persian-style tiles and Arabic calligraphy covering its interior walls, each section featuring distinct geometric patterns and floral designs. Prayer times occur five times daily - check posted schedules and dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees.
Getting Around Lahore
The Orange Line metro connects northeast and southwest Lahore across 27.1 kilometers, including underground stations in central areas. Auto-rickshaw rides within the Old City cost 100-300 rupees (confirm price before riding). Air-conditioned Lahore Transport Company buses run every 15-20 minutes on major routes from 6 AM to 10 PM. The narrow streets of the Walled City work best on foot, letting you browse small shops and food stalls at your own pace.
Food Scene
Food Street in the Old City comes alive after sunset with vendors cooking on outdoor grills. Try nihari (slow-cooked beef stew) at Haji Nihari on Jail Road (200-400 rupees per serving), or chicken paratha rolls at Karachi Silver Spoon in Liberty Market (150-250 rupees). Many restaurants around the Walled City maintain traditional Punjabi recipes - some families have run their establishments in the same locations for over 50 years.
Weather and Timing Your Visit
Summer temperatures reach 40°C (104°F), while winter drops to 5°C (41°F). September and October see temperatures between 20-30°C (68-86°F) with moderate humidity. December and January bring heavy smog, often limiting visibility to 200-300 meters. Visit outdoor sites before noon to avoid peak afternoon heat, particularly from May through August. Many indoor sites like museums maintain air conditioning year-round.
