Punjab Travel Guide (Pakistan/South Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Punjab

Located in South Asia, Punjab is a vast and vibrant region with a rich culture and history. Known as the land of five rivers, Punjab is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions. It is home to some of the most beautiful and historically significant sites in Pakistan, and visitors are sure to be enchanted by its natural beauty, delicious food, and warm hospitality.

List of Places to Visit in Punjab

Punjab is a region that offers something for everyone, from history buffs to nature lovers to adrenaline junkies. Here are some of the must-visit destinations in Punjab.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Lahore Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lahore Fort is a stunning Mughal-era fortress that houses numerous palaces, gardens, and mosques.
Badshahi Mosque: One of the largest mosques in the world, Badshahi Mosque is another iconic landmark in Lahore.
Pakistan Museum of Natural History: Located in Islamabad, this museum is a great place to learn about Pakistan’s natural history and diverse ecosystems.
National Museum of Pakistan: This museum in Karachi has an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the country’s history and culture.

Natural Attractions of Punjab: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Margalla Hills: If you are looking for adventure and scenic views, Margalla Hills in Islamabad offer plenty of hiking trails and picnic spots.
Khunjerab Pass: Nestled in the Karakoram Mountains, Khunjerab Pass is a scenic and popular spot for tourists.
Lake Saiful Muluk: Located in Kaghan Valley, this serene alpine lake is a popular tourist destination in summer.
Cholistan Desert: A vast and desolate region in Bahawalpur, Cholistan Desert is a great destination for off-road adventures and camel safaris.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Punjab

Murree to Patriata: This scenic 11km trail is perfect for adventure lovers who want to explore the beautiful Murree hills.
Lahore Canal Bank: This 8km trail is a popular destination for joggers, runners, and cyclists in Lahore.
Shogran to Siri Paye: This scenic 7km trail offers some breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges and surrounding valleys.

Best Things to Do in Punjab: Activities and Tours

Food Tours: Punjabi cuisine is renowned for its rich and savory flavors. You can explore the food scene in Lahore, Islamabad, and other cities with guided food tours.
Architecture Tours: With its rich history, Punjab has some of the most stunning architectural gems in Pakistan, including the famous Wazir Khan Mosque in Lahore.
Hot Air Balloon Rides: Experience the thrill of a hot air balloon ride over the scenic landscape of Punjab.
Handicraft Shopping: Punjab is famous for its intricate handicrafts and textile products. You can buy unique souvenirs and gifts from local markets in Lahore, Islamabad, and other cities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Punjab

Day 1: Explore Lahore - Visit Lahore Fort, Badshahi Mosque, and Wazir Khan Mosque. Day 2: Travel to Islamabad - Visit Pakistan Monument, Faisal Mosque, and Rawal Lake. Day 3: Margalla Hills - Hike in the scenic Margalla Hills and visit Monal Restaurant. Day 4: Cholistan Desert - Explore the rugged and desolate terrain of Cholistan Desert. Day 5: Kaghan Valley - Visit Lake Saiful Muluk and enjoy scenic drives in the valley. Day 6: Murree Hills - Visit Patriata and enjoy the scenic beauty of Murree hills. Day 7: Handicraft Shopping in Lahore

Food and Drink Scene of Punjab

Must-Try Dishes

Biryani: A flavorful rice dish made with meat and aromatic spices.
Chicken Karahi: A delicious and spicy chicken curry cooked in a wok-like karahi.
Nihari: A rich and meaty stew made with beef or lamb.

Local Beverages

Lassi: A refreshing yogurt-based drink that is perfect for hot summers.
Kashmiri Chai: A pink-colored tea made with special herbs and spices.
Sugarcane Juice: A sweet and healthy drink made from fresh sugarcane.

Where to Stay in Punjab: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Punjab has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and guesthouses. Some of the top-rated hotels in Punjab include:

Pearl Continental Lahore
Serena Hotel Islamabad
Marriott Hotel Islamabad
Best Western Hotel Islamabad

What to Buy in Punjab: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Textiles: Punjab is famous for its colorful and intricate textiles, including shawls, quilts, and carpets.
Pottery: The region has a long tradition of pottery, and you can find beautiful earthenware and ceramic products in local markets.
Handicrafts: Punjab has a rich tradition of handicrafts, including woodwork, metalwork, and embroidery.
Spices: Punjabi cuisine is famous for its rich and aromatic spices. You can buy fresh and high-quality spices from local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Punjab

Punjabis are known for their warm hospitality and love for food, music, and dance. The region has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of Hindu, Muslim, and Sikh traditions. Respect for elders and family values are an essential part of Punjabi culture.

Best Time to Visit Punjab

The best time to visit Punjab is from October to March when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be scorching, with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius.

Do’s and Don’ts of Punjab

Do:

Respect local customs and traditions.
Dress modestly while visiting mosques and religious sites.
Bargain while shopping in local markets.

Don’t:

Display public affection.
Eat or drink in public during the holy month of Ramadan.
Photograph people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Punjab

Punjab is a generally safe region, but travelers should take precautions to avoid petty theft, pickpocketing, and scams. It is also recommended to avoid public demonstrations and protests.

Health in Punjab

Travelers should take precautions to avoid waterborne diseases and food poisoning. It is advisable to drink only bottled or boiled water and eat from clean and hygienic places.

Getting to Punjab: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Punjab

Allama Iqbal International Airport (Lahore)
Benazir Bhutto International Airport (Islamabad)
Bacha Khan International Airport (Peshawar)

Bus Stations Near Punjab

Lahore Bus Station
Islamabad Bus Station
Multan Bus Station

Other Options

Trains: Punjab has a well-developed rail network, and travelers can choose from a range of trains, including the luxurious Green Line Express.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available in major cities like Lahore, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi.

How to Get Around in Punjab

Travelers can choose from a range of transportation options, including buses, taxis, and car rentals. Rickshaws and motorcycles are also popular modes of transport in cities and towns.

Where to Go Next from Punjab: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Swat Valley: Located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Swat Valley is a scenic and mountainous region that offers adventure and outdoor activities.
Kashmir: Known as the heaven on earth, the region of Kashmir is one of the most beautiful and scenic destinations in South Asia.
Hunza Valley: Nestled in the Karakoram Mountains, Hunza Valley is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Punjab is a fascinating region that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Lahore to the serene alpine lakes of Kaghan Valley, Punjab has something for every type of traveler. With this comprehensive tour guide, you can plan your trip to Punjab with ease and make the most of your experience in this beautiful region.