The capital of Punjab province and Pakistan's second largest city (pop. more than 19 million) is popular for its variety of attractions, from seeing priceless artifacts to historical sites to stimulating shopping and dining, the options are nearly endless. But here are my top ten sites not to miss:
Food Street and M Alam Road
The fact that some of the greatest restaurants in Lahore are located on this beautifully designed road is one of the major reasons for visiting this area. The gorgeously lit Food Street is also another place to enjoy the smell and taste of all the delicious dishes that Lahore has to offer.
Lahore Fort
Covering more than 20 hectares, the Shahi Qila (top) is a wondeful, one-of-a-kind and wonderful Mughal structure dating back to 1566 during the reign of Emperor Akbar and greatly embelleshed during the 17th century, when the empire was at the height of its wealth and splendor. It contains nearly two dozen superb monuments, and one of the most visited is the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors), elaborately decorated with reflective glass tiles.
Badshahi Mosque
For those visiting Lahore, the Badshahi Mosque is a real treat. This mosque is one of the most famous in the world and was built in the year 1674 by Aurangzeb, the Mughal emperor.
SA Gardens
It's not a garden or such place, it's a society with a location and surroundings that are eye catching. I myself have visited it twice in a month and will be going again with family here. You can find more details about SA Gardens here.
Anarkali Bazaar and Liberty Market
For many, a great shopping experience is one of the best things that a vistor can look forward to when exploring a new city, and Lahore can quite easily provide that. From jewelry to embroidered items to leather wear to silk to footwear, the best of Lahore can be found in these markets.
Wazir Khan Mosque
The Qashani tile work of the Masjid Wazir Khan seems like a direct contrast to the majesty of the Lahore Fort. For photographers, this place is a dream come true, as they can enjoy a kaleidoscopic dream by witnessing the glazed colorful tile mosaics.
Shalamar Gardens
For those who love nature, a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle. The gardens were built in 1641 under the great Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, and are also notable for their many white marble fountains and buildings.
Lahore Museum
One of the best places to learn about the fascinating history of Pakistan, it was built in the 18th century, and contains artifacts from the times of the civilization of Mohenjodaro and Harrapa to the present day. It has about 20 galleries which exhibit different priceless Qurans, paintings, Gandharan sculpture, carpets, manuscripts, Islamic artworks and many other artifacts.
Bahria Town
The gorgeously lit food street here is also another place to enjoy the smell and taste of all the delicious dishes that Lahore has to offer. Plus this recently built housing society is a unique place in Lahore; here among other things you'll find replicas of the Eiffel Tower and the Egyptian pyramids.
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