Things To Do
in Dera Ghazi Khan

Panoramic vantage points in the Sulaiman Range foothills offering dramatic landscape shots, especially at sunrise and sunset when light silhouettes the ridgeline.

Vibrant market scenes with colorful textiles, traders, food stalls and everyday life — great for candid street photography and portraits (ask permission first).

Wide-open agricultural landscapes, seasonal crops and irrigation channels provide pastoral photos of Punjab’s countryside and farming life.

Rugged terrain and sparse vegetation offer dramatic, moody compositions; best photographed early or late in the day to avoid harsh midday light.

Whole or skewered meats marinated simply and roasted; best at local roadside grills and dhabas that specialize in charcoal cooking.

Must-Try!

A staple homestyle dish found everywhere — nourishing, cheap and often flavored with ghee and local spices.

Flaky, pan-fried flatbread served for breakfast or as a snack; try it at morning stalls in the bazaar.

Popular desserts available at sweet shops and street vendors, especially during festivals.

Busy marketplace with tea stalls, paratha vendors, kebab shops and sweet sellers — ideal to sample quick local bites and street food specialties.

Ubiquitous small eateries serving hearty breakfasts, lunchtime meals and evening snacks; they are the best places to try authentic, inexpensive food.

Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees; women may prefer to carry a scarf to cover their head in conservative settings or mosques.

Remove shoes before entering mosques or homes, avoid public displays of affection, and be sensitive during prayer times and religious festivals.

Use formal greetings like 'As-salamu alaykum' when meeting people. Handshakes are common among men; avoid initiating handshakes with the opposite gender unless they extend a hand first.

Ask permission before photographing people, particularly women. Avoid photographing military installations, government buildings or anything that could be sensitive.

Tipping is modest and appreciated. In restaurants leave around 5–10% if service is good (check if service charge is included). Offer a small tip to hotel porters, drivers and guides; rounding up fares is common.

Cash (Pakistani rupees) is king, especially in smaller shops, markets and rural areas. Major hotels and some restaurants accept cards, but unreliable connectivity means cash backup is essential. Mobile wallets and bank transfers are growing but not universally accepted for tourists.

Extremely hot from April to June with daytime temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Travel early mornings and evenings, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous daytime activities.

July–September brings sporadic rains and occasional storms; humidity rises and localized flooding or road disruptions can occur — good for greener landscapes but plan extra travel time.

October–November is one of the best times to visit: cooler days, dry weather and clearer skies suitable for outdoor exploration and photography.

December–February are mild to cool with chilly nights in the plain and colder conditions in Fort Munro; comfortable daytime weather ideal for sightseeing.

The majority in the area; Saraiki cultural traditions, language and music are prominent in daily life.

Baloch communities and tribal groups are present, particularly in rural and foothill areas, contributing to local customs and hospitality patterns.

Small groups of Punjabi speakers, merchants and internal migrants contribute to the city’s commercial activity and diversity.

Large segment engaged in agriculture (wheat, cotton, sugarcane, dates) and seasonal labor, shaping the local economy.

Vegetarian options are widely available (dals, vegetable curries, parathas); ask for less oil and confirm no meat stock. In small shops, clarify ingredients and prefer vegetable dishes at vegetarian stalls.

More challenging due to frequent use of ghee and dairy; request oil instead of ghee and confirm ingredients. Fresh fruit, salads and plain rice/roti are safe choices.

Most meat in the region is halal; avoid imported or packaged items if you are unsure and eat at trusted local establishments.

Inform vendors about allergies; cross-contamination can occur. Rice-based dishes are a safer gluten-free option, but caution is advised at busy street stalls.