Taxila Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Taxila with this comprehensive travel guide detailing its cultural and natural attractions, best things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Taxila

Located in the northern province of Punjab in Pakistan, Taxila is a city steeped in history and cultural significance. Known for its ancient ruins and artifacts, this UNESCO World Heritage site boasts a variety of attractions that appeal to both history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

List of Places to Visit in Taxila

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Taxila Museum: With a collection of over 4,000 artifacts from the Gandharan, Kushan, and Hindu Shahi periods, the Taxila Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the region.
  2. Jaulian Buddhist Monastery: This ancient monastery dates back to the 2nd century and is located on a hilltop offering fantastic views of the surrounding landscape.
  3. Sirkap: One of the four major cities of the Gandhara period, Sirkap is home to the ruins of an ancient city that flourished over 2,000 years ago.

Natural Attractions of Taxila: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Margalla Hills National Park: Just a short drive from Taxila, this park offers hiking and biking trails along with stunning views of the surrounding hills.
  2. Khanpur Lake: This picturesque lake is a popular destination for boating and fishing, and offers a peaceful escape from the city.
  3. Wah Gardens: These lush gardens provide a tranquil retreat and are home to a variety of plant species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Taxila

  1. Trail to Jaulian Buddhist Monastery: This hike offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape as you ascend the hill to the ancient monastery.
  2. Trail to Sirsukh: This hike takes you to the ruins of an ancient Hindu temple and offers a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the region.

Best Things to Do in Taxila: Activities and Tours

  1. Take a guided tour of the Taxila Museum and learn about the fascinating history of the region.
  2. Explore the ruins of Sirkap and marvel at the ancient architecture and engineering.
  3. Go boating or fishing at Khanpur Lake and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

Week-Long Itinerary for Taxila

Day Activities
1 Visit the Taxila Museum and explore the ancient artifacts on display.
2 Hike to the Jaulian Buddhist Monastery and enjoy the stunning views along the way.
3 Visit the ancient ruins of Sirkap and learn about the rich history of the region.
4 Take a guided tour of the Wah Gardens and enjoy the lush greenery.
5 Go boating or fishing at Khanpur Lake and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
6 Explore the Margalla Hills National Park and take a hike or bike ride.
7 Relax and soak in the local culture, try some traditional cuisine and explore local shops.

Food and Drink Scene of Taxila

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Tandoori Chicken: A popular dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a tandoor oven.
  2. Nihari: A spicy beef stew typically eaten for breakfast or lunch.
  3. Chapli Kabab: A flat, pan-fried kebab made with spicy minced meat.

Local Beverages

  1. Lassi: A refreshing yogurt-based drink mixed with sugar and spices.
  2. Sugarcane Juice: A sweet and refreshing drink made from freshly squeezed sugarcane.

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

  1. Hotel Grand Continental: One of the top-rated hotels in Taxila, this hotel offers well-appointed rooms and a variety of amenities.
  2. Oasis Guest House: This cozy guesthouse offers comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
  3. Backpacker’s Hostel: A budget-friendly option for travelers, this hostel offers dormitory-style rooms and is located in the heart of Taxila.

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

  1. Hand-carved Stone Figurines: These intricate figurines are crafted out of local stone and make great souvenirs or gifts.
  2. Embroidered Textiles: Taxila is known for its colorful embroidery work, and visitors can purchase everything from scarves to bedspreads.

Local Culture and Customs of Taxila

Taxila is a city with a rich cultural history, and visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions. Some traditional customs include:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Remove shoes before entering mosques or homes.
  • Use the right hand when eating or exchanging goods with locals.

Best Time to Visit Taxila

The best time to visit Taxila is during the cooler months of October to March, when temperatures are more pleasant for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Taxila

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and participate in cultural events.
  • Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites.

Don’t:

  • Engage in overt displays of affection in public.
  • Disrespect or damage ancient artifacts and ruins.
  • Ignore warnings about safety and security.

Safety and Health

Safety in Taxila

Taxila is generally a safe city for travelers, but visitors should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. Some tips for staying safe include:

  • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in secluded areas.
  • Keep valuables such as passports and money in a secure location.
  • Pay attention to local news and warnings about security threats.

Health in Taxila

Visitors to Taxila should take some basic health precautions to ensure a safe and healthy trip:

  • Drink only bottled or boiled water to avoid getting sick.
  • Get vaccinated for typhoid and hepatitis A before traveling.
  • Bring any necessary medications and a first-aid kit.

Getting to Taxila: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Taxila

The nearest airport to Taxila is the Islamabad International Airport, located approximately 34 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Taxila

Taxila is well-connected to other major cities in Pakistan by bus. The nearest bus station is the Rawalpindi bus station, located approximately 36 kilometers away.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Taxila by taking a taxi or renting a car.

How to Get Around in Taxila

The best way to explore Taxila is by hiring a taxi or renting a car from a local agency. Buses and tuk-tuks are also available, but may not be as reliable or convenient as other modes of transportation.

Where to Go Next from Taxila: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Islamabad: The capital city of Pakistan is located just a short distance from Taxila, and offers a variety of cultural experiences and outdoor activities.
  2. Lahore: This historic city is home to some of the most impressive architecture in Pakistan, including the Badshahi Mosque and the Lahore Fort.
  3. Peshawar: Located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, this city is known for its traditional bazaars and historic sites.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in ancient ruins or outdoor adventures, Taxila has something to offer everyone. With its rich history and stunning natural scenery, this city is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Pakistan.

Jaulian Buddha statue Jaulian Buddha statue Taxila was an important city in Alexander's time, 4th century BCE Taxila was an important city in Alexander's time, 4th century BCE Mohra Muradu Mohra Muradu Dharmarajika stupa Dharmarajika stupa Votive Stupa at Mohra Muradu site Votive Stupa at Mohra Muradu site Taxila Museum Taxila Museum Nicholson's Obelisk Nicholson's Obelisk Sirsukh Sirsukh A view of Sirkap city ruins A view of Sirkap city ruins Bhir Mound Bhir Mound