Southern Punjab Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Southern Punjab with our comprehensive guide, which includes information on places to visit, food and drink, local culture, safety, and transportation options.


Introduction to Southern Punjab

Southern Punjab is a region in Pakistan known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. Located in South Asia, Southern Punjab is a must-visit destination for history buffs, adventure seekers, and those looking to experience the unique customs and traditions of Pakistan. From ancient archaeological sites to scenic landscapes and delicious local cuisine, Southern Punjab has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Southern Punjab

If you’re planning a trip to Southern Punjab, here are some of the top places to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bahawalpur Museum
  • Derawar Fort
  • Multan Fort
  • Harappa Museum
  • Tomb of Shah Rukn-e-Alam
  • Uch Sharif

Natural Attractions of Southern Punjab: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lal Suhanra National Park
  • Cholistan Desert
  • Sutlej River
  • Khabeki Lake
  • Head Balloki Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Khewra Salt Mines

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Punjab

For those looking to explore Southern Punjab’s natural beauty on foot or by bicycle, here are some of the best routes:

  • Lal Suhanra National Park Hiking Trail
  • Cholistan Jeep Safari
  • Fort Abbas to Channan Pir Biking Route
  • Multan to Uch Sharif Hiking Trail
  • Nawab of Bahawalpur Cycling Trail

Best Things to Do in Southern Punjab: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Bahawalpur Museum to learn more about the history and culture of Southern Punjab.
  • Take a jeep safari through the Cholistan Desert.
  • Explore the ancient city of Harappa and see the excavated remains of the Indus Valley Civilization.
  • Stroll through the Lal Suhanra National Park and see the wildlife and flora of the region.
  • Take a boat ride on the Sutlej River and enjoy the scenic views of Southern Punjab.
  • Visit the Khewra Salt Mines, one of the largest salt mines in the world.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Punjab

Day 1: Bahawalpur - Visit the Bahawalpur Museum and go on a cycling tour of the city.

Day 2: Cholistan Desert - Take a jeep safari through the desert and enjoy the scenic views and traditional music performances.

Day 3: Multan - Visit Multan Fort, the Tomb of Shah Rukn-e-Alam, and the Multan Bazaar.

Day 4: Lal Suhanra National Park - Explore the park on foot, and see the wildlife and flora of the region.

Day 5: Sutlej River - Take a boat ride on the river and enjoy the scenic views of Southern Punjab.

Day 6: Khabeki Lake - Go on a day trip to Khabeki Lake and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.

Day 7: Khewra Salt Mines - Visit the Khewra Salt Mines, one of the largest salt mines in the world.

Food and Drink Scene of Southern Punjab

When it comes to food and drink in Southern Punjab, there are several must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sajji - roasted lamb marinated in spices
  • Korma - a slow-cooked meat dish
  • Shahi Tukray - a dessert made with bread, milk, and sugar
  • Dal Channa - a spicy lentil and chickpea soup

Local Beverages

  • Lassi - a yogurt-based sweet or salty drink
  • Sugarcane Juice - a refreshing drink made from fresh sugarcane extract

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

Southern Punjab offers a variety of accommodation options for travelers on a budget and those looking for a more luxurious stay. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  • The Grand Regency Hotel, Bahawalpur
  • Ramada Multan
  • Oasis Guest House, Multan
  • Lal Suhanra National Park Rest House

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

When it comes to souvenirs and local products from Southern Punjab, here are some of the best options:

  • Camel skin products, such as bags and wallets
  • Multani Khussa shoes
  • Chikankari embroidered fabrics
  • Pottery and ceramics from Uch Sharif

Local Culture and Customs of Southern Punjab

Southern Punjab is a region with a strong cultural heritage and unique customs and traditions. Some of the customs and traditions you may encounter during your trip include:

  • Traditional music and dance performances, such as the Seraiki dance
  • Traditional clothing, such as the Multani Kurta and Lungi
  • Local festivals, such as the Cholistan Desert Rally and the Urs of Shah Rukn-e-Alam

Best Time to Visit Southern Punjab

The best time to visit Southern Punjab is between November and March, when the weather is cool and dry. The Cholistan Desert Rally, a popular event, takes place in February.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Punjab

Do:

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or other religious sites.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of people without their permission.
  • Eat food from street vendors without checking its quality.

Safety and Health

Safety in Southern Punjab

Southern Punjab is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always a good idea to take basic safety precautions, such as not carrying large amounts of cash and keeping an eye on your belongings.

Health in Southern Punjab

It’s important to take certain health precautions when traveling to Southern Punjab, such as drinking only bottled water and getting vaccinated against typhoid and hepatitis A.

Getting to Southern Punjab: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Southern Punjab is easy, with several transportation options available:

Airports Near Southern Punjab

  • Multan International Airport
  • Bahawalpur Airport

Bus Stations Near Southern Punjab

  • Daewoo Express
  • Niazi Express
  • Faisal Movers

Other Options

  • Private car or taxi
  • Train

How to Get Around in Southern Punjab

The best way to get around in Southern Punjab is by car or taxi, as public transportation can be unreliable. It’s also possible to rent a car or bike if you want more independence in your travel plans.

Where to Go Next from Southern Punjab: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to spend in the region, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Islamabad - the capital city of Pakistan
  • Lahore - the cultural capital of Pakistan
  • Islamabad Wildlife Park
  • Mangla Dam

Conclusion

Southern Punjab is a region of Pakistan that offers a wealth of history, culture, and natural beauty to travelers. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll have all the information you need to plan the perfect trip to Southern Punjab. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient archaeological sites, going on a jeep safari, or trying the local cuisine, Southern Punjab has something for everyone.



    Bahawalpur
    Changa Manga
    Muzaffargarh
    Okara
    Rahimyar Khan