Faisalabad Travel Guide

A complete guide to Faisalabad, Pakistan including places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food scene, where to stay, local culture, safety, and transportation options.


Introduction to Faisalabad

Faisalabad, also known as the Manchester of Pakistan, is the third largest city in the country situated in the northern Punjab province. The city is famous for its textile industry and serves as a hub for trade and commerce. Faisalabad is surrounded by beautiful landscapes with lush green fields, gardens, and parks. The city offers a blend of modernity and ancient culture which makes it a unique destination for local and international tourists.

List of Places to Visit in Faisalabad

Faisalabad boasts a range of culturally and naturally significant attractions. Here are some of the top places to visit in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Clock Tower: Built in 1905 during the British era, the Clock Tower is an iconic landmark of Faisalabad. It is located at the center of the city and is surrounded by various markets and bazaars.
  • Gatwala Wildlife Park: It is a wildlife reserve which is situated on the outskirts of Faisalabad. The park has a variety of flora and fauna which provides an opportunity to get closer to nature.
  • Lyallpur Museum: The museum displays the ancient culture and traditions of Faisalabad. It showcases traditional clothing, agricultural tools, and historical artifacts.
  • Qaisery Gate: It is also known as the royal gate which was built by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in the 17th century. It is one of the historical gates that lead to the old city of Faisalabad.
  • Jinnah Garden: The garden is named after the founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. It is a peaceful and serene place for nature lovers with beautiful landscapes, fountains, and flowers.

Natural Attractions of Faisalabad: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chenab River: It is a major river of Pakistan which flows through Faisalabad. The river provides a picturesque view and offers a range of water activities such as boating and fishing.
  • Ghummanwala Farm: It is a farm that is situated on the outskirts of Faisalabad. The farm offers a peaceful environment surrounded by green fields and offers activities such as horse riding, picnic spots, and camping.
  • Jhang Bahtar Canal: It is a natural canal located near Faisalabad which offers a scenic view and a relaxing environment for visitors.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Faisalabad

Faisalabad offers various hiking and biking routes to explore its natural beauty. Here are some of the popular routes:

  • Ghora Gali: It is a hill station situated in the mountain range of Murree Hills. The route offers a challenging trek with beautiful views of the surrounding areas.
  • Hiran Minar: It is a historical monument located near Lahore. The route offers a scenic view and a refreshing environment for hikers and bikers.
  • Liaquat Pur: It is a town located near Bahawalpur. The route offers a peaceful and quaint environment for hikers and bikers with stunning views of the countryside.

Best Things to Do in Faisalabad: Activities and Tours

Apart from its attractions, Faisalabad offers several activities and tours for its visitors. Here are some of the best things to do in Faisalabad:

  • Visit Markets: Faisalabad is famous for its textile industry, and there are several markets and bazaars where you can buy traditional clothing and accessories.
  • Food Tours: Faisalabad is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are several food tours which offer an opportunity to taste the local delicacies.
  • Heritage Tours: Faisalabad has a rich history and culture, and there are several tours which take you to the historical sites and heritage buildings.
  • Water Activities: The Chenab River offers a range of water activities such as boating and fishing, which are popular among tourists.

Week-Long Itinerary for Faisalabad

Here’s a week-long itinerary for Faisalabad:

Day Activity
1 Visit Clock Tower, Qaisery Gate, and Lyallpur Museum
2 Explore Jinnah Garden and Gatwala Wildlife Park
3 Visit Chenab River and enjoy water activities
4 Trek to Ghora Gali
5 Visit Hiran Minar and Liaquat Pur
6 Enjoy traditional cuisine and visit local markets
7 Relax and unwind at Ghummanwala Farm

Food and Drink Scene of Faisalabad

Faisalabad is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a blend of traditional Pakistani and Punjabi dishes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Samosas: It is a famous snack made with minced meat, vegetables, and spices wrapped in a crispy pastry.
  • Chapli Kebab: It is a spicy Pakistani patty made with minced meat and various spices.
  • Nihari: It is a slow-cooked meat stew with tender meat and spices.
  • Lassi: It is a refreshing drink made with yogurt, sugar, and water.

Local Beverages

  • Tea: Pakistani tea is famous for its strong flavor and is often served with milk and sugar.
  • Sharbat: It is a sweet and refreshing drink made with fruit extracts, sugar, and water.

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

Faisalabad has various options for accommodation ranging from budget-friendly to luxury hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Faisalabad:

  • Serena Hotel: It is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Faisalabad, which offers comfortable and luxurious rooms with all modern amenities.
  • Faisalabad Serena Inn: It is a budget-friendly option located near the city center and offers comfortable rooms with all basic amenities.
  • Hotel One: It is a mid-range hotel chain located in various parts of Faisalabad, offering hassle-free accommodation with basic amenities.
  • Guest Houses: There are several guest houses located throughout Faisalabad, which provide budget-friendly accommodation with all basic amenities.

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

Faisalabad is famous for its textile industry and offers a range of traditional clothing and accessories. Here are some of the best products to buy in Faisalabad:

  • Katha: It is a traditional embroidered cloth used for bedding and can be used as a wall hanging or tablecloth.
  • Khussa Shoes: They are traditional leather shoes with intricate embroidery and colorful designs.
  • Clothing: Faisalabad is famous for its textile industry and offers a range of traditional clothing such as shalwar kameez, dupattas, and sarees.

Local Culture and Customs of Faisalabad

Faisalabad has a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its traditional clothing, cuisine, music, and dances. The local population is warm and hospitable, and visitors are expected to show respect for the local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Faisalabad

The best time to visit Faisalabad is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant. The temperatures are comparatively high in the summer months, making it uncomfortable to explore the city during the day.

Do’s and Don’ts of Faisalabad

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Faisalabad:

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Bargain while shopping in local markets.
  • Try the traditional cuisine and beverages.
  • Carry a scarf or shawl to cover your head while visiting religious sites.

Don’t:

  • Display public affection.
  • Carry illegal substances.
  • Visit shady areas alone, especially after dark.
  • Wear revealing clothing.

Safety and Health

Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy in Faisalabad:

Safety in Faisalabad

  • Avoid staying out late at night and avoid visiting shady areas.
  • Be aware of petty theft and pickpocketing in crowded areas.
  • Do not travel alone, especially after dark.
  • Be cautious while using public transportation.

Health in Faisalabad

  • Drink bottled water and avoid drinking tap water.
  • Avoid street food and prefer eating at clean and hygienic restaurants.
  • Carry basic first-aid kit while traveling.

Getting to Faisalabad: Transportation Options and Logistics

Faisalabad can be easily accessed by various modes of transportation. Here are some of the options available:

Airports Near Faisalabad

  • Faisalabad International Airport: It is the main airport of Faisalabad, which serves both domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Faisalabad

  • Faisalabad Bus Stand: It is located in the city center and serves both local and intercity buses.

Other Options

  • Taxis: Taxis are available throughout the city and can be hired for local sightseeing and airport pickups.

How to Get Around in Faisalabad

Faisalabad offers several options for getting around the city. Here are some of the popular modes of transportation:

  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available throughout the city and can be hired for local sightseeing, shopping, and airport transfers.
  • Rickshaws: Rickshaws are a popular and budget-friendly mode of transportation for short distances.
  • Local Buses: Local buses are also available for commuting within the city.
  • Car Rentals: Car rentals are available with or without a driver for exploring the city at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Faisalabad: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions from Faisalabad:

  • Lahore: Lahore is a historical city situated 150 km from Faisalabad, famous for its Mughal-era monuments and delicious cuisine.
  • Murree Hills: Murree Hills is a hill station located 400 km from Faisalabad, famous for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities.
  • Chiniot: It is a historical city located 30 km from Faisalabad, famous for its wooden furniture and handicrafts.

Conclusion

Faisalabad is a unique and exciting destination for travelers looking for a blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. The city offers a range of attractions and activities for everyone, which makes it a perfect destination for families, couples, and solo travelers. With this comprehensive guide, you can plan your trip to Faisalabad and experience the warm hospitality and magnificent beauty of this vibrant city.

Skyline of Faisalabad Skyline of Faisalabad Clock tower Clock tower Metro Cash & Carry, first foreign supermarket in Faisalabad. Metro Cash & Carry, first foreign supermarket in Faisalabad.