Lahore, Pakistan

Despite being over looked by many travelers, Lahore is an exciting and vibrant city in Pakistan. Lahore has great historical significance, even with the ancient Moghul Empire which inhabited much of the Pakistani region. It does have a large Muslim population, as do most locations in the middle-east; however, the people are quite liberal in comparison to other Pakistani destinations. Some of the sites in the city are spectacular and carry quite a lot of history along with them. You can tour one of the biggest mosques in the world, or spend an afternoon roaming around the famous gardens in Lahore. Whatever you desire, Lahore is ready to deliver.

When to go

Temperatures never reach the freezing point or the boiling point in Lahore, but it can get chilly, and it definitely can get hot; very hot. In early summer the mercury rises over 100F on a consistent basis, and in winter it drops to the 60s. Visit Lahore during the spring and youll be fine. Theres not much rainfall during the early months of the year; the skies are clear, the air is warm, and everything is open and bustling with traffic. Autumn, on the other hand, receives the most rainfall of the year, so youd best avoid traveling during this time unless youd like a soaking.

Getting there and around

Lahore recently had a complete overhaul done to its international airport, and we like it. Lahore Allama Iqbal International Airport is now shiny and new, and has fast service from arrival to departure. Both domestic and international flights arrive here, as the great number of terminals can support a great deal of airlines. Though direct flights from places inside North America are hard to come by, many European carriers offer this option. At your arrival, youll find great transportation services to the city. Taxis and Buses are the most popular, with some travelers opting for car rentals. Car rentals are not necessary, however, and youll be pleased with Lahores public transit services.

Getting around the city is a breeze, and among your choices for transportation, you have: taxis, buses, rickshaws, and more. Taxis and buses are abundant, but whenever you get the chance, take a rickshaw ride around the downtown area to see the city in a completely different perspective. Walking is always an option, and in some areas of the city, it is mandatory.

Attractions

The Badshahi Masjid (Mosque) should be at the top of your list. Its fantastic architecture makes it one of the most visited in the country. It is also the second largest in Pakistan, and is home to an extraordinary array of both historical and architectural accoutrements. Some mosques just awe you, and the Badshahi Masjid is among the best at doing just that.

The Tomb of Emperor Jahangir is another sought after site by travelers, and is beautifully surrounded by lush greenery and gardens. Jahangir was one of the most influential in the Moghul Empires history, and even today, many in Pakistan hold him to great esteem.

Lahores Royal Fort is architecturally marvelous for its age, and it holds the famed Bara Dari Pavilion and Shish Mahal (Palace of Mirrors). The Royal Fort received quite a bit of traffic throughout the year, and is also host to sound and light shows three nights a week.

Be sure to check out the Shalimar Gardens (designed by the architect of the Taj Mahal), Bagh-e-Jinnah Park (city park), and Lahore Museum. Lahore Museum is home to historic hand-woven carpets, a great collection of ancient Korans, and unique mini-paintings. All are fantastic places within the city to spend your afternoons.