Okara Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Okara with this detailed travel guide featuring top attractions, best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, local culture, and more.


Introduction to Okara

Okara, located in Southern Punjab, Pakistan, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Known for its vast agricultural land and cultural richness, this city offers breathtaking natural landscapes and historic monuments that are sure to impress any traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Okara

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Darbar Baba Nau Ganj is a beautiful shrine of a great saint in Okara. The holy shrine attracts millions of visitors every year from all over Pakistan.
  2. The Okara Fort, which dates back to the 19th century during the rule of the British Raj, is a significant landmark in the city, hosting a museum and beautiful gardens.
  3. The Toba Tek Singh District Museum showcases the cultural heritage of the region with artefacts, manuscripts, and photographs.

Natural Attractions of Okara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. The Haveli Lakhan Singh is a majestic building surrounded by beautiful gardens and a peaceful atmosphere. Built by the Sikh ruler Lakhan Singh, the Haveli is a prime example of Mughal-era architecture.
  2. The Bhaipheru Wildlife Park is a beautiful natural reserve located near Depalpur, Okara. The park is home to a variety of animals and birds such as peacocks, deer, and rabbits.
  3. The historic Satghara is a beautiful seven-story palace, which was built by the local landlord and now is a prime tourist attraction.

Hiking/Biking Route of Okara

  1. The Depalpur canals provide an extensive network of channels for biking enthusiasts.
  2. The Anwar Canal, located in the heart of Okara, is perfect for a peaceful and picturesque hike.

Best Things to Do in Okara: Activities and Tours

  1. Take a guided tour of the Okara Fort and browse through its extensive collection of artefacts and exhibits.
  2. Visit the Darbar Baba Nau Ganj and experience the local culture and customs of the region.
  3. Take a day trip to the Bhaipheru Wildlife Park or the Haveli Lakhan Singh for an adventurous and peaceful outing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Okara

Day Activities
1 Visit the Okara Fort and explore its artifacts and exhibits
2 Take a guided tour of the Darbar Baba Nau Ganj and experience the local culture
3 Take a day trip to the Bhaipheru Wildlife Park or the Haveli Lakhan Singh
4 Go on a hike or bike ride in the Anwar Canal
5 Explore the historic Satghara
6 Take a guided tour of the Toba Tek Singh District Museum
7 Relax and enjoy the local cuisine and culture before your departure

Food and Drink Scene of Okara

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Chana Batata, a dish of chickpeas and boiled potatoes, is a staple meal that will keep you full for hours.
  2. Nihari, a slow-cooked meat dish, is another must-try local delicacy that will tantalize your taste buds.
  3. Okara’s famous Lassi is a sweet and delicious yogurt-based drink that is perfect for hot summer days.

Local Beverages

  1. A traditional ‘Chai’ (tea) is the most popular beverage in Okara.
  2. The ‘Pakola’ is a local soft drink that is well-loved by both locals and tourists.

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

  1. Pearl Continental Hotel is a premium option for an exquisite stay.
  2. Hotel Royal Palace and Tourist Lodge are budget-friendly options for tourists.
  3. Eco Lodge Okara is an eco-friendly stay option that provides unique experiences and a comfortable stay for tourists.

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

  1. A traditional Punjabi ‘Khussa’ (shoe) is a perfect souvenir for tourists to take back home.
  2. The ‘Phulkari’ textile is a beautifully hand-embroidered cloth that stands out for its intricate designs and bright colors.
  3. The ‘Jutti’ (footwear) is another popular local product that is a must-buy for footwear fans and souvenir collectors alike.

Local Culture and Customs of Okara

The people of Okara are very welcoming and friendly, and the city is known for its vibrant and lively culture. The culture boasts of impressively beautiful music and dance, which the locals perform to celebrate all kinds of events and milestones.

Best Time to Visit Okara

The best time to visit Okara is during the winter season, between November and February, when the weather is pleasant and more enjoyable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Okara

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Carry light clothing during summers.
  • Visit the local marketplaces to take a feel of the local lifestyle.

Don’t:

  • Dispose of trash anywhere but in dustbins and avoid littering public places.
  • Take photographs without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Okara

Okara is a relatively safe city, and violence here is rare. However, tourists should remain aware of their surroundings and avoid isolated areas to ensure their safety.

Health in Okara

Visitors should drink bottled water or boiled water, especially when eating street food or drinking tap water.

Getting to Okara: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Okara

The nearest international airport is Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore, which is about 127 kilometers away from the city. Taxis and buses are available from the airport to Okara.

Bus Stations Near Okara

The Okara Bus Station in Main Bazaar Okara is the city’s primary bus station, with regular buses to different cities of Pakistan.

Other Options

Visitors can also take the train to Okara, which connects the city with major cities like Lahore and Karachi.

How to Get Around in Okara

The best way to get around in Okara is by hiring a taxi or using public transport like buses and rickshaws.

Where to Go Next from Okara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. The historic city of Lahore, known for its rich Mughal-era architecture, is just a few hours away. Take a day trip to explore the city and its local markets.
  2. The city of Faisalabad, known for its cotton and silk industry, is less than two hours’ drive from Okara and is a great place to explore the local handicrafts and textile industry.

Conclusion

Okara is a beautiful city with a wealth of cultural and natural attractions to offer. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip to Okara and make the most of your stay in this hidden gem of Pakistan.

Field near Okara Field near Okara