Introducing Punjab (Pakistan)
Sprawled across the heart of Pakistan, the vibrant state of Punjab (Persian for ‘Five Waters’) is named after the five rivers of the region – the Sutlej, Ravi, Beas, Jhelum and Chenab. Punjab is Pakistan’s most verdant province and home to more than half of the nation’s population.
For the visitor Punjab is a treasure trove of experiences, and should be more than a stop on the road to or from India. Stepping off in Lahore you will encounter awesome Sufism (Islamic mysticism) and qawwali (Islamic devotional singing), the Old City and the outlandish border-closing ceremony. Beyond Lahore, there are sublime shrines and tombs in Multan and Uch Sharif, ancient forts, the deserts of Cholistan and the Khewra salt mines.
And then, of course, there are the people. Punjabis are a life-loving lot with a long tradition of warm hospitality that comes straight from the heart. Few travellers leave here without a bundle of precious memories, an address book filled with new friends, and oodles of food for thought.
Activities in Punjab (Pakistan)
Lahore
Although Lahore may not be Pakistan’s capital city, it wins hands down as its cultural, intellectual and artistic hub.
Southern Punjab
To the south of Lahore, the sublime shrines and tombs of Multan and Uch Sharif, ancient forts and the deserts of Cholistan are some of the experiences that await.
Punjab (Pakistan) destination guides
Multan
The largest town of lower Punjab and the centre of Pakistan’s main cotton-growing area, Multan is noted for its remarkable shrines and mosques.
Hotels in Punjab (Pakistan)
Budget Hotels & Hostels in Punjab (Pakistan)
Bahawalpur
Modest in size and a world away from the rat race, Bahawalpur has limited tourist sights but is a good jumping-off point to nearby attractions such as Uch Sharif.
Need to know
Entertainment in Punjab (Pakistan)
Lahore to Islamabad
The Grand Trunk (GT) Rd and the Lahore–Islamabad Motorway (M2) provide a choice of routes between the two cities and, if you have time to jump off the bus, access to an ancient region boasting one of the world’s largest salt mines, an awesome...
Shopping in Punjab (Pakistan)