1. Wazir Khan Mosque|2. Walled City of Lahore|3. Lahore Fort|4. Badshahi Mosque|5. Kamran’s Baradari|6. Anarkali Bazaar|7. Eat your way through the real Food Street|8. Data Darbar|9. Madho lal Hussain Shrine|10. Begum Shahi Mosque|11. Mian Mir Shrine|12. Bagh e Jinnah AKA Lawrence Gardens|13. Tomb of Nadira Begum|14. Ashraf Fresh Tikka|15. Wagah Border|16. Minar e Pakistan|17. Lahore Zoo|18. Tomb of Jahangir|19. Sheesh Mahal|20. Shalimar Gardens”]
Lahore is a city I initially presumed would be like any other in South Asia, yet it unexpectedly captured my heart. It is a locale steeped in centuries of history, known for its incredibly hospitable residents and some of the finest cuisine in Pakistan.
Although the city is not as large as others, there seems to be an endless array of attractions to see in Lahore, and just when you think you have explored them all, you will realize there is still much more to uncover.
Few cities can rival Lahore’s food culture.
Vendors selling corn and delightful cups of chai are found at almost every corner. Lesser-known tombs and dazzling shrines stand out amidst otherwise ordinary streets.
Centuries-old havelis in various conditions are often concealed in plain sight.
Goats of varying sizes roam around the walls of their owners’ yards, often accompanied by cows and camels during Eid al Azha.
While many tourists visit Lahore for just a weekend, even a week wouldn’t be enough to fully appreciate what it has to offer.
Every nook and cranny holds something new to find, and regardless of how many historical sites in Lahore you have visited, the city always seems to have yet another one waiting for you.
There is a popular saying among Lahoris: “If you have not seen Lahore, you have not truly lived”. I consider myself fortunate to have experienced a bit of that after inadvertently spending over a month there while backpacking through Pakistan.
Yes, this city has that magnetic pull, despite my self-identification as someone who usually dislikes cities!
If you’re planning to visit Pakistan’s cultural heart, continue reading for a guide to the best spots to explore in Lahore, including some of its most renowned attractions as well as some deliberately offbeat choices!
Finished in 1642, this 17th-century mosque located within Lahore’s Walled City is truly stunning. I genuinely believe it should be included in every travel itinerary for Pakistan. Its vibrant colors and stunning frescoes have remarkably been preserved thanks to restoration efforts.
Shah Jahan, the Mughal Emperor responsible for the construction of the Taj Mahal, commissioned Wazir Khan Masjid. I suppose that highlights its grandeur!
Despite being one of the most visually appealing mosques I’ve encountered in Pakistan thus far, Wazir Khan was relatively quiet during each of my three visits. While it might not be the largest mosque in the city, it undeniably ranks among the top attractions in Lahore—make sure not to miss it!
🕓 Visiting hours: 5 AM-8 PM daily
💵 Entrance fee: Free
The Walled City of Lahore is not just a singular monument; it is a lively and historic relic of both past and present. Dating back to 1000 BCE, the Walled City has witnessed numerous rulers and periods. In its prime, 13 gates provided entry, but today only 6 are still standing.
Entering through the Lohari Gate on one of the most festive evenings in the city—Eid Milad un Nabi!
Although the Delhi Gate, closest to the Wazir Khan Mosque, is among the most famous surviving gates, each 6 has its charm… and there’s no need to rush to see them all in a single day!
You can focus on tracking down the well-known attractions in the Walled City of Lahore, but to truly experience the enchantment of the Walls, get lost within them without a specific goal.
Old havelis are scattered throughout the Walled City.
Take a morning (or afternoon) to wander through any gate and let the hours guide you. Unmarked food stalls, magnificent Havelis, narrow alleys, and hidden shrines are sure to welcome you.
For photographers, few places in Lahore are as picturesque as this one!
🕓 Visiting hours: Whenever, though it’s preferable to explore before dark
💵 Entrance fee: Free
The Lahore Fort may be the most visited of all Lahore’s attractions, but it remains worth your time despite being well-known. The fortress and its grounds have been remarkably well-preserved despite their age—visiting this site will surely transport you back in time.
Originally constructed in 1566 under Emperor Akbar, the fort was later modified by subsequent rulers. Featuring stairs designed for elephants, beautiful gardens, ancient art, and views of the Badshahi Mosque and Minar e Pakistan, it’s hard to find anywhere in Lahore that radiates as much history!
To avoid crowds (of course), steer clear of visiting on weekends and during known school holidays. August also presents challenges due to the sweltering 40°C temperatures.
🕓 Visiting hours: 8:30 AM-5:00 PM daily
💵 Entrance fee: 30 rupees for locals, 500 rupees for foreigners.
Since the Badshahi Mosque is located right next to the Lahore Fort, it makes sense to explore them together. The Badshahi Mosque is marvelous and MASSIVE.
This mosque from the Mughal Era—finished in 1673—has a capacity of up to 100,000 individuals and features minarets that soar over 176 feet (53 meters) into the sky! Honestly, the scale of this stunning structure is no exaggeration; it can be seen from quite a distance if you’re in the right location.
The mosque’s interior boasts intricately carved marble, and the building itself is made from red sandstone, which contributes to its distinctive and remarkable hue.
I visited at night, which allowed for a sense of tranquility; however, a daytime visit is preferable for appreciating all of Badshahi’s details.
Fridays (Jummah Prayer), Saturdays, and Sundays are peak visiting days, with most people arriving in the mornings—therefore, afternoons and evenings are the ideal times to visit.
🕓 Visiting hours: 8 AM-8 PM daily
💵 Entrance fee: Free
If you are looking to stray from Lahore’s popular tourist destinations, make your way to Kamran’s Baradari! This baradari (summer palace) was constructed in 1540 and is thought to be the most ancient Mughal building in the city.
The palace can be reached via a short boat ride across the Ravi River, located on the outskirts of Lahore. Even on a lovely Sunday afternoon, the number of visitors was considerably lower compared to other attractions!
The Mughal artistry is similar to that found in Wazir Khan
The palace is situated on a small island across from the riverbank and consists of two stories and twelve doors designed to allow air to flow through.
Unlike many other historical sites in Lahore, this one lacks guards—visitors can freely climb the stairways that lead to the roof! A beautifully maintained garden surrounds the structure, making it an ideal spot for a picnic or even a game of cricket.
Sunsets in Lahore are almost always stunning.
If you venture out here (around an hour from Lahore’s “center”), I highly suggest coordinating your visit with sunset—the reflection on the Ravi River is breathtaking.
🕓 Visiting hours: Dawn- Dusk
💵 Entrance fee: Free
The Anarkali Bazaar is among the top spots to visit in Lahore, ideal for shopping, dining, or simply people-watching; there is always something new to discover in this bustling marketplace.
This bazaar is located in the historic area of Anarkali, and while it may not be as intricate as the Walled City, it is very easy to get lost in its vibrant streets.
The bazaar comes alive at night, and many shops remain open quite late
Additionally, it is one of the oldest bazaars in South Asia—pretty cool, right? It also hosts a tomb with a fascinating history.
The name Anarkali refers to a woman who worked as an escort and is said to have had a romance with Crown Prince Jahangir, the son of the Mughal Emperor Akbar at that time.
Anarkali was interred in the neighborhood, so when you explore the bazaar, a visit to her ornate tomb is a must.
Food alert: I strongly recommend trying some Chole Bhature at the place mentioned earlier—they indeed serve some of the finest puri in Lahore!
You can find the best Chole Bhature in Lahore right here… literally!
Though visiting on weekends or holidays will undoubtedly be lively, the motorcycles that insist on weaving through pedestrian crowds can be a bit irritating in Anarkali (at least in my opinion).
Avoid rush hour (4:00-7:00 PM) and consider going on a weekday to wander around more comfortably.
🕓 Visiting hours: Most shops open around 6 AM and close by midnight
💵 Entrance fee: Free
When someone refers to Food Street in Lahore, they could be talking about a variety of places since Lahore is one of Pakistan’s most foodie-friendly cities.
On our first evening in the city, we found ourselves directed to a rather upscale version that is located next to the Badshahi Mosque.
Although other lists of attractions in Lahore may rave about this area, I’ll be honest—it has lost its authenticity, is excessively priced, and feels more like a theme park than a traditionally delicious food street.
(… although I must admit that the Haveli Restaurant offers some fantastic views can enjoy as long as you’re willing to splurge on at least a cup of chai.)
If you ask me, the best tawa chicken in the city is found here
Regardless, the genuine food street (or at least one of them) is located just a block away from the commercialized one. Here, you can discover long-established restaurants and shops offering a range of dishes from delicious tawa chicken to Paaye and mutton brains!
Gawalmandi is another well-known food street situated near Mall Road—and while it’s superior to the upscale one I mentioned earlier, it has become a bit overpriced and less appealing, especially in comparison to other options around Lahore.
Check out both (or even all three if you’re up for it) and form your opinion!
🕓 Visiting hours: Both food streets open around midday and stay open until 2:00 AM on a regular day
💵 Entrance fee: Food costs
Located in a bustling area of Lahore’s Walled City, there is a mosque that is often overlooked in lists of must-see places in Lahore…but it definitely deserves recognition!
While many people think of Wazir Khan or Badshahi as the oldest Mughal-era mosques in Lahore, it is actually Begum Shahi that holds that title.
Incredible details remain intact even after 400 years!
Finished in 1614, this mosque inspired the design of Wazir Khan! Though smaller than its counterpart, the mosque compensates with stunning frescoes and intricate embellishments.
Despite its significant historical value, relatively few visitors to Lahore make their way to Begum Shahi.
Partial views of Lahore Fort can be seen from the top.
If you visit (which you absolutely should, as it’s gorgeous!), see if one of the caretakers can guide you up the stairs to the domes.
The Lahore Fort can be glimpsed from above, despite some illegal shops partly obstructing the view.
🕓 Visiting hours: Dawn-Dusk
💵 Entrance fee: None
Spanning a vast area on Lahore’s Mall Road, Bagh e Jinnah is not just a nice spot to relax. It also features a botanical garden, a mosque, and the Quaid-e-Azam Library, which is housed in a Victorian-style building from the 19th century.
Bagh e Jinnah is widely regarded as one of the best parks in Lahore for unwinding, and many locals agree—come Sunday afternoon, the park is bustling with visitors! A walking trail, street food vendors (including *bhang papad*), and numerous benches are scattered throughout the gardens.
However, if you’re in Lahore from May to August, it might not be the most comfortable place to spend time—trust me, I speak from a bittersweet experience.
The ideal time to visit the park is from October to April, although it remains open year-round.
🕓 Visiting hours: Dawn-Dusk
💵 Entrance fee: Free
Tip: If you enjoy *bhang papad* (for those who don’t know, it’s essentially a special version of papad—a tasty chip), you can find it near the entrance of the gardens. Casually ask the vendor about it—he’s usually there daily! Just be cautious, as they are potent—start with just half and wait. It may take some time, but you’ll eventually feel the effects.
Another lesser-known gem among the best attractions in Lahore, the tomb of Nadira Begum isn’t frequently visited—you’re more likely to encounter young cricketers on its grounds than fellow tourists!
Regrettably, the tomb is not in pristine condition—graffiti can be found on the walls. Still, it represents another Mughal relic that deserves your attention.
Conservation efforts may be lacking, but fortunately, the tomb continues to stand.
A bit of historical context: Nadira Begum was a princess and the wife of Dara Shikoh, the son of Emperor Shah Jahan. Nadira passed away during her journey to Iran, where she and Dara were fleeing in 1659.
The tomb is within walking distance of the Mian Mir shrine—an intentional placement! Dara Shikoh insisted on her being buried close to the tomb of his spiritual guide.
The second floor of the tomb is locked, but the first level is accessible for admiration and paying respects to Nadira Begum. The area is typically busiest on weekends, so consider visiting on a weekday for a more peaceful experience.
🕓 Visiting hours: Technically 24/7, but nothing is visible at night!
💵 Entrance fee: Free
The Wagah Border usually ranks among the top attractions on most people’s lists for Lahore…and it certainly is one-of-a-kind. This border between India and Pakistan serves not only as a crossing point.
Every evening around sunset, a uniquely entertaining “border closing ceremony” is held. This mostly theatrical display of aggression draws hundreds of spectators from both sides of the Subcontinent.
The Wagah Border is about 30 minutes to an hour from Lahore, depending on your starting point. Inform the driver of your intended destination, and they should charge between 500-700 rupees, or roughly 1200 for a round-trip back to Lahore (which I recommend).
Some have mentioned that a bus may operate, but if it does, it’s not very frequent. (Let me know if you have more information about this!)
In the summer, the ceremony starts at around 4:45 PM, while in winter it begins around 4:00 PM. It’s best to arrive at least an hour early if you want a good seat!
🕓 Visiting hours: Starts at either 4 PM or 4:45 PM
The Minar e Pakistan is far more than a mere monument; it signifies where the Lahore Resolution was enacted in 1940, which ultimately contributed to the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947. This tower embodies freedom and the pride of Pakistan, making it extremely popular among locals and tourists! Standing 70 meters tall, it is situated in Iqbal Park, close to the Badshahi Mosque and Lahore Fort, both of which are top attractions in Lahore. Although visitors once had the opportunity to take an elevator to the top, it seems that service is no longer available. For now, enjoying the view from the expansive park below will suffice! The area surrounding the Minar e Pakistan also features fountains and the tomb of Ranjit Singh, which, regrettably, is currently inaccessible to foreign visitors. The site tends to get crowded on weekends (as with many attractions in Lahore) but can be quiet during weekdays.
🕓 Visiting hours: Essentially 24/7
💵 Entrance fee: Free
Tip: You can also catch a fantastic view of the Minar from within the Lahore Fort!
I have a personal fondness for hippos, so discovering that the Lahore Zoo houses some made it an essential stop for me. The zoo is located right next to Bagh e Jinnah on Mall Road and is worth a visit, given its impressive 148 years of history and its collection of about 1,400 animals! Recognized as the oldest zoo in Pakistan, it is one of the most enjoyable places to take kids in Lahore or to visit if you have a favorite animal like I do.
🕓 Visiting hours: 8:30 AM – 5 PM daily
💵 Entrance fee: 30 PKR
The tomb of Jahangir is located a bit away from the clamor of Lahore, but the journey is worthwhile. This site was constructed for Mughal Emperor Jahangir and is lavishly adorned with frescoes, marble, and other stunning art forms. If you appreciate architecture, this is among the finest places to experience in Lahore! The tomb is approximately an hour’s drive from the city and can be easily accessed by Careem or Uber, though it might be a little expensive (around 500 rupees). Surrounding the tomb are vast, Persian-inspired gardens, perfect for unwinding after exploring the tomb itself.
🕓 Visiting hours: 9 AM- 7 PM daily
💵 Entrance fee: Free
The Sheesh Mahal, or the “Palace of Mirrors,” is located within the Lahore Fort but deserves special mention! Its exquisite mirror work is unparalleled and arguably makes it one of the most beautiful spots in Lahore! Built in 1631, the mirrored walls of the palace create a dazzling effect. (If only visitors could admire it during the night!) It resides within the King’s Pavilion section of the fort and was ordered to be constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan, the same figure behind the Taj Mahal. Conservation efforts have kept this timeless gem in remarkable condition—let’s hope it remains that way!
🕓 Visiting hours: 8:30 AM – 5 PM
💵 Entrance fee: The fort charges 30 rupees for locals and 500 rupees for foreigners. The Sheesh Mahal now incurs an additional fee of 100 rupees for entry, although this may not always be enforced.
Lahore is known as the city of the Mughals, and Shalimar Gardens is yet another testament to that glorious history. Widely recognized as one of the top attractions in Lahore—and a UNESCO World Heritage Site—it certainly deserves recognition. The gardens were established in the mid-1600s with the objective of harmonizing various elements of nature. The grounds boast 410 fountains, marble pools, multiple tree varieties, and numerous pavilions for visitors. Residents of Lahore travel from afar to relish its tranquil atmosphere during pleasant weather.
🕓 Visiting hours: 8 AM – 6 PM daily
💵 Entrance fee: 20 rupees for locals, 400 rupees for foreigners
Before visiting the must-see attractions in Lahore, there are some vital points to consider regarding this iconic city. Let’s dive into them!
The ideal period to explore Lahore is from October to early March. Any other time can result in scorching heat, making it very uncomfortable for outdoor activities. My first visit to the city occurred in August, and I highly recommend choosing a different month if you genuinely want to experience Lahore’s beautiful sights. August in Lahore feels uncomfortably hot. If you’re after pleasant weather, aim for late February to early March (20 °C – 28 °C) or mid-October to November (23 °C – 30 °C). If you’re tolerant of cooler temperatures, December to early February in Lahore offers wintry vibes without snow. However, be cautious as December often experiences poor air quality due to crop burning and seasonal fog.
Visiting Lahore from April to September is NOT advisable due to the potential for temperatures to reach 40 °C, along with oppressive humidity. During my August visit, I never wanted to leave the cool comfort of the AC. However, I thoroughly enjoyed exploring Lahore during my return in October/November.
Lahore is a paradise for food lovers – the culinary offerings in this city are undeniably among the most incredible and affordable in Pakistan! Arrive with an appetite, as what awaits you will be astonishing!
Here are some essential dishes in Lahore that you need to sample while visiting the city!
A quintessential Pakistani dish, karahi is a savory preparation typically made with mutton or chicken, tomatoes, and a generous mix of spices!
A rich, yogurt-based beverage often garnished with milk butter, Lahore is renowned for its enormous lassis.
One of the more unique dishes you can try in Lahore, paye consists of goat hoof simmered in a flavorful stew. It’s commonly enjoyed alongside naan for soaking up the sauce.
This stew features thin, tender slices of mainly beef and is topped with garnishes including lemon juice, coriander, and fried onions. It’s a cherished favorite among Lahoris.
Halwa is a rich, sweet mixture that when served with puri (my favorite type of Pakistani bread!) creates a breakfast experience that resembles dessert. Puri is also frequently served with Channay for a more savory snack.
If any Pakistani dish reminds me of Mexican cuisine, it’s this one! Tawa chicken is essentially minced, roasted chicken prepared with an assortment of delectable spices. It’s typically paired with a thin, tortilla-like chapati and raita (yogurt) to mellow the flavors.
The time required to explore each attraction varies. On average, you should allocate approximately:
Lahore can be bustling and hot at times, but it remains one of the most incredible cities globally. I feel fortunate to have spent over a month (so far) exploring its stunning streets, and I hope you’re now better equipped to discover the most beautiful locations in Lahore!
I trust this detailed travel guide on Lahore’s top tourist attractions provides you with a clearer perspective on what to anticipate, not only in Lahore but throughout Pakistan as a whole!
