Things To Do
in Lahore
Lahore is the cultural and historical heart of Pakistan, known for its grand Mughal architecture, vibrant bazaars, and rich culinary traditions. The city blends centuries-old monuments like the Badshahi Mosque and Lahore Fort with modern cafes and art galleries. Streets buzz with life from dawn markets to illuminated food streets at night.
Generations of poets, artists, and scholars have shaped Lahore’s reputation as the “City of Gardens” and a hub of hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin with a steaming cup of chai and paratha at Wake Up Cafe near Delhi Gate. Wander through the bustling alleys of the Walled City, browsing traditional crafts and street vendors. Pause at Lahori Gate to admire the centuries-old architecture before moving deeper into the old quarters.
Join a guided tour of Lahore Fort to marvel at its intricate marble work and frescoes. Step into the vast courtyard of the Badshahi Mosque and learn about its storied past under the Mughals. Enjoy local snacks from a nearby stall as you soak in the serene courtyard ambiance.
Stroll along the illuminated Shahi Guzargah, watching the sunset cast golden hues on the red sandstone walls. Sample spicy gol gappay and jalebi from a street-side vendor near Masti Gate. End the evening with traditional qawwali music echoing through the narrow lanes.
Start early at the Shalimar Gardens to experience the tranquil symmetry and cascading fountains. Capture the morning light glistening off the white marble pavilions and lotus ponds. Learn about the gardens' royal history as you stroll beneath shaded archways.
Return to the city center to explore the Sheesh Mahal within Lahore Fort, adorned with thousands of mirror mosaics. Walk through the Diwan-e-Aam and Diwan-e-Khas to appreciate the grandeur of Mughal court life. Stop at one of the fort's cafes for a cup of karela chai and a samosa.
Witness the Lahore Fort sound-and-light show that brings Mughal history to life with narration and music. Enjoy an authentic dinner of nihari and kulcha at a nearby dhaba. Conclude the night with a leisurely walk by the fort walls under starlight.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-5 |
| 🍕Fast-food combo | $4-6 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (5 km) | $2-4 |
| ☕Coffee at café | $2-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel (per night) | $20-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Mughal heritage and architecture
- World-class Punjabi cuisine
- Warm and hospitable locals
- Affordable travel costs
- Heavy traffic and air pollution
- Extreme summer heat
- Occasional power outages
- Crowded bazaars can be overwhelming
- "Assalamualaikum" - Peace be upon you (hello)
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Kitna hua?" - How much is it?
- "Khairiyat?" - How are you?
- "Meherbani" - Please
Places to Visit in Lahore
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour shots of the grand courtyard and towering minarets.
Symmetrical fountains and terraced water channels framed by Mughal pavilions.
Vibrant, action-packed flag-lowering ceremony between Pakistan and India.
Intricate mirror work reflecting sunlight inside Lahore Fort.
Food in Lahore
Lahore Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked beef stew traditionally eaten for breakfast—best at Waris Nihari near Regal Chowk.
Must-Try!
Spiced trotters soup simmered overnight, found at many roadside stalls in old Anarkali.
A thick, sweet or salty yogurt drink—order it in Old Lahore near Gawalmandi.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic street lined with vendors serving kebabs, fried fish, and jalebi.
One of South Asia’s oldest markets where you can sample gol gappay (crispy water balls) and chaat.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees, especially when visiting mosques and religious sites.
Use the right hand for eating, greeting, and exchanging money; the left hand is considered unclean.
Guests are treated with utmost respect—accepting chai or snacks is polite.
A warm “Assalamualaikum” with palms together is more common than a Western-style handshake.
Safety
Tipping in Lahore
Ensure a smooth experience
A 10% tip is common in restaurants; small change or 50–100 PKR for hotel porters and drivers is appreciated.
Cash (PKR) is king in markets. Credit cards work in upscale hotels and restaurants; ATMs are widely available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
April to June sees temperatures soaring up to 45°C; carry water, sunscreen, and plan indoor activities around midday.
July to September brings sporadic heavy rains—expect brief power outages and humid conditions but lush greenery.
October to November offers mild weather and clear skies—ideal for sightseeing and outdoor dining.
December to February can drop to 5°C at night; mornings are crisp, so pack a warm jacket.
Lahore at Night
Hiking in Lahore
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested paths and views in Pakistan’s beloved hill station, 60 km north of Lahore.
Offers scenic trails through pine forests and wildlife spotting, about a 4-hour drive away.
Airports
How to reach Lahore by plane.
Serves domestic and international flights; 20 km from city center with taxis and ride-hailing.
Major international hub 380 km north; accessible by road via a 4–5 hour motorway drive.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Constitute the majority, speaking Punjabi and Urdu.
Descendants of migrants from India in 1947; prominent in business and arts.
Christians, Hindus, and Sikhs form small, historic communities contributing to the city’s diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most beloved sport—catch local matches at Gaddafi Stadium or watch enthusiastic street games.
Pakistan’s national sport historically; local clubs and school teams train actively.
Played in nearby northern hills; occasional exhibition matches are held within the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lahore.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include daal chana, saag, paneer tikka, and vegetable biryanis—ask for no ghee or clarified butter if strictly vegan.