Extraordinary historical sites in Pakistan that are sure to amaze you and captivate your camera.
Emperor Jahangir, in tribute to his mother, Mariam Zamani, constructed the Begum Shahi Mosque between 1611 and 1614.
This relatively modest mosque is located near the famous Lahore Fort and is among the oldest historical sites in Lahore. It is the city’s oldest surviving structure from the Mughal Era!
Wazir Khan Mosque was built, inspired by the architectural design of the Begum Shahi. The mosque is striking—featuring intricate frescoes dating back over 400 years and distinctive geometric decorations—but its inspiration is even more remarkable.
Mariam Zamani was not just any figure; the former Hindu princess was celebrated for promoting racial and religious tolerance in the Mughal kingdom after marrying Emperor Akbar.
Her prominence grew further under her son, as she became an influential trader in the kingdom and received numerous high-ranking responsibilities.
Additionally, since this mosque isn’t a popular tourist spot, you’re quite likely to enjoy it without the crowds!
Visiting Hours: 5 AM- 8 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
You cannot have a comprehensive list of historical places in Pakistan without mentioning Mohenjo-Daro—one of the largest settlements of the Indus Valley Civilization. This ancient city, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was established around 2500 BCE and remained undiscovered for more than 3700 years until it was found by archaeologists in the early 1920s.
The vastness of Mohenjo-Daro (spanning over 300 hectares) and its public buildings indicate a significant level of social organization, as suggested by historians. Isn’t that fascinating? While many may not be familiar with this ancient city, it is undoubtedly one of the most significant landmarks in Asia.
You can find Mohenjo-Daro close to the city of Larkana in Sindh Province, from where it is easily accessible by auto rickshaw.
Though it may not be widely known, this site is one of the world’s most incredible archaeological discoveries and should be a part of every visitor’s itinerary in Pakistan.
Visiting Hours: 8:30 AM- 7 PM in summer, 9 AM- 7 PM in winter
Entrance Fee: 600 rupees for foreigners, 20 rupees for locals
This exemplar of military architectural brilliance is about 15 kilometers from Jhelum city and is one of the premier historical sites to explore in Punjab!
The fort’s construction began in 1541 under the leadership of Sher Shah Suri, a Pashtun who seized control of the Mughal Empire in 1538.
Spanning an area of 70 hectares, Rohtas Fort is recognized as one of the largest and most formidable fortifications in South Asia. It’s conveniently located about two hours from Islamabad and four hours from Lahore.
Visiting Hours: 9 AM- 5 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
A multitude of historical sites in Pakistan originates from ancient civilizations, and the lost city of Taxila is among them! The city’s origins trace back to 1000 BCE, with certain ruins thought to date as far back as 3360 BCE. Incredible!
Due to its advantageous position just off the Grand Trunk Road, it has been controlled by various powers throughout its history.
Interestingly, the University of Ancient Taxila is considered one of the oldest in the world, although this claim is still debated among scholars. In 1980, the entire city was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It’s essential to note that Taxila comprises more than just a single location; it includes over a dozen ancient structures, such as caves, monasteries, stupas, and more, spread over a significant area.
Additionally, there is a museum near the ruins with an entry fee.
Given its proximity to Islamabad (32 km), Taxila has historically been one of the most favored historical destinations in Pakistan and can easily be visited as a day trip from the capital.
Visiting Hours: The museum is open from 9 AM-5 PM, while the ruins have more flexible visiting hours.
Entrance Fee: The ruins are free, while the museum charges 200 rupees for foreigners and 50 for Pakistanis
Lahore is rich with stunning historical treasures and could certainly have its dedicated list. However, the beautiful Wazir Khan Mosque deserves to be highlighted. This mosque took architectural elements from the Begum Shahi Mosque; although their similarities are apparent, the Wazir Khan is distinctly larger and more vibrant.
Commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan, the mosque was completed in 1641. Almost every inch of its surface is adorned with intricate buono frescoes and elaborate tile work, allowing you to spend hours admiring its beauty!
You’ll find the Wazir Khan Mosque just a few hundred meters after passing through the Delhi Gate in Lahore’s Walled City.
Visiting Hours: 5 AM- 8 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Hindu temples in Pakistan—surprising, right? Yes, the Katasraj Temples are situated near the village of Dulmial in Punjab and are believed to date back to the 7th Century CE or earlier. The temples are built around a lake that is said to possess magical properties! The renowned Hindu epic Mahabharata mentions them, and it’s well-documented that the founder of the Sikh Faith, Guru Nanak, frequently visited this site in more recent centuries.
Unfortunately, the temples fell into disrepair after Partition and remain in less-than-ideal condition today. Still, when it comes to historical edifices in Pakistan, the Katasraj Temples reflect the complex history of the Subcontinent like few other structures. The temples are located in Katas, approximately 2 hours from Islamabad and 3 hours from Lahore. Visiting Hours: 7 AM-8 PM Entrance Fee: Free
One of the most renowned landmarks in Pakistan, the Lahore Fort is a historical site that many are familiar with. The impressive fortress was completely reconstructed in the 17th century, though it is thought to have been occupied in some form for thousands of years. Some of the most intricate and famous features of this grand structure were added during Emperor Jahangir’s reign, including the remarkable Picture Wall adorned with a vibrant collection of mosaics, tiles, and frescoes.
The stunning “Picture Wall” of the Lahore Fort. The Sheesh Mahal, also known as the “Palace of Mirrors,” was commissioned later by Shah Jahan. This exquisite marble chamber is decorated with intricate mirrorwork and is a must-see when visiting the complex. The Lahore Fort, spanning more than 20 hectares, is located at the northern edge of Lahore’s famous Walled City. Visiting Hours: 8:30 AM-5 PM Entrance Fee: 30 rupees for locals, 500 for foreigners
As you may have noticed by now, forts are quite abundant in Pakistan! However, each possesses its distinct history and charm, leading us to Kot Diji. The Kot Diji Fort is perched on a hill in Kot Diji, Sindh, and while it isn’t particularly ancient, its foundation is! This fort was constructed between 1785 and 1795 by Mir Sohrab Khan Talpur, but it stands above the remnants of a prehistoric civilization that shares its name.
The remains are believed to date to around 3300 BCE, predating the Indus Valley/Harappan Civilization. Yes, it’s very old! Unlike other forts in this list, Kot Diji is more off-the-beaten-path and thus attracts fewer visitors! Both the fort and the ancient ruins are located about 24 km south of the city of Khairpur. Visiting Hours: Always open Entrance Fee: Free
There are impressive historical sites in KPK as well! Takht-i-Bhai is an archaeological site of a Buddhist Monastery found in Mardan. This site is regarded as exceptionally well-preserved and holds UNESCO World Heritage status. Established in the 1st century CE, Takht-i-Bhai was abandoned by the 7th century.
If you’re interested in exploring Pakistan’s ancient Buddhist heritage, this is an essential location. The ruins include a group of Stupas, monastic chambers, and even a Tantric monastic chamber. The site is situated on top of a hill and can be easily reached on a day trip from Mardan, Peshawar, or Islamabad. Visiting Hours: 9 AM-5 PM Entrance Fee: Free Entrance Fee: Free
The Hiran Minar is one of the most visited historical sites in Pakistan. However, this tomb is somewhat unique compared to others! While most tombs in Punjab and throughout Pakistan contain the remains of saints or royals, the Hiran Minar honors not Mughal Emperor Jahangir, but his beloved pet antelope. Yes, you read that correctly—Emperor Jahangir was renowned for his deep appreciation of nature, and the Hiran Minar beautifully reflects that.
It is also situated in a somewhat wild setting, providing the Mughals with a natural retreat from the busy city of Lahore. The complex features a minaret built over the antelope, a large pool, and a nearby pavilion. With it being only an hour away from Lahore, in Sheikhupura, the Hiran Minar makes for a convenient day trip. Visiting Hours: 8 AM-8 PM Entrance Fee: Free
The Ranikot Fort, another of the historical sites in Sindh, is believed to be the largest fort in the world. It is also referred to as the Great Wall of Sindh! Unlike many other forts in Pakistan, the exact origins and builders of The Great Wall of Sindh are unknown.
Historians speculate that its initial construction took place in the 17th century, with some restoration occurring in 1812 by the Talpur dynasty, which ruled Sindh at that time. The fort is located about 90 km from Hyderabad, although it is positioned closest to the Sindhi town of Sann. Visiting Hours: Always open Entrance Fee: Free
Nestled near Pakistan’s arid border with India are the Nagarparkar Jain Temples, a group of abandoned temples dating back to the 12th to 15th centuries. Jainism, an ancient religion of the Subcontinent, makes these temples some of the most distinctive historical locations in Pakistan, as Nagarparkar was a significant center of Jainism for several centuries.
The temples showcase a pinnacle of Jain architectural expression, and the surrounding area— which includes the nearby pink-granite Karoonjhar Mountains— was once regarded as one of the most magnificent in the country. Fourteen temples can be found here, including the Gori Temple, which features the oldest existing Jain frescoes in the world. However, it’s not just temples that can be explored here; the nearby Bhodesar Mosque (constructed in 1505 CE) can also be visited, featuring a central dome that resembles its Jain counterparts.
The mosque and temples have largely maintained their condition due to low (though increasing) tourist traffic. Unfortunately, foreigners have reported facing challenges when attempting to visit the temples due to their close vicinity to the Indian border. To access Nagarparkar via public transport, keep in mind that your starting point will be the town of Mithi, located about 150 km away. Visiting Hours: Always open Entrance Fee: Free
Harappa was another city of the Indus Valley Civilization and is thought to have over 23,000 people. It’s important to mention that the term Indus Valley Civilization is often used interchangeably with Harappan Civilization, although it encompassed more than just Harappa itself. At one time, the settlement covered 150 hectares between 2600 BC and 1900 BC, but it suffered significant damage during British Rule in Pakistan and is now considerably smaller.
The current archeological site is situated roughly 24 km from the city of Sahiwal in Punjab. And since it attracts fewer visitors compared to other historical sites in Pakistan, it’s ideal for those seeking a more unique travel experience. Visiting Hours: Always open Entrance Fee: Free
Here’s a notable site in Pakistan: the Makli Necropolis, one of the largest burial grounds in the world! This location, which contains over 500,000 graves, spans an area of 10km near the city of Thatta in Sindh. The tombs were constructed over a span of 400 years and belong to kings, Sufi saints, and esteemed scholars.
Makli originated when Sufi saint Shaikh Jamali set up a gathering place for Sufis and was ultimately buried there. In the 14th century, Trakhan ruler Jam Tamachi, who admired Shaikh Jamali, expressed his desire to be interred there as well, thus initiating the tradition.
The site’s significance grew during the Samma dynasty’s reign, and like numerous historical sites in Pakistan, the most architecturally notable tombs were built during the illustrious Mughal Era. Makli was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981 and is situated approximately two hours from both Karachi and Hyderabad.
Visiting Hours: Always accessible
Entrance Fee: No charge
On the fringes of Lahore, you’ll find one of Pakistan’s most stunning landmarks—the magnificent tomb of Mughal Emperor Jahangir. It took a decade to complete the tomb, which was finished in 1637.
The tomb’s walls are adorned with inlaid marble and beautiful floral frescoes, all surrounded by lush gardens. Although the site has experienced damage due to floods over the years, it remains in good condition today, close to 400 years old.
The tomb is about 30-40 minutes outside Lahore and is most easily reached via Careem or Uber if you lack personal transportation.
Visiting Hours: 9 AM – 7 PM
Entrance Fee: No charge
While many of Pakistan’s renowned monuments are concentrated in Punjab or Sindh, significant structures also exist in the mountainous regions! The Baltit Fort, situated in Karimabad within the picturesque Hunza Valley, was established in the 8th century CE and was inhabited by the Mirs of Hunza until 1945.
The fort, whose design reflects Tibetan architecture, is perched on a hill and boasts a breathtaking vista of the valley below. Historically, the Baltit Fort has been a popular destination for tourists in Hunza and is quite accessible—even on foot—within Karimabad.
Visiting Hours: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
Entrance Fee: 500 rupees for foreigners
