Known historically as the Mughal City of Gardens,
Lahore is today one of the most densely populated cities in the
world. Serving as a regional capital since the 11th century, Lahore
is considered the cultural heart of Pakistan and hosts the majority
of the nation's arts and cultural festivals.
Lahore is home to many British colonial structures
built in the Indo-Saracenic style, such as the Lahore Museum, the
General Post Office, the High Court, Lahore Railway Station, and
many older universities and colleges including the University of
the Punjab, Government College, and King Edward Medical
College.
Several prominent Mughal structures are also major
tourist attractions, including the Shalimar Gardens, the Mausolea
of Jehangir and Nur Jehan, and Chauburji Gate. The Walled Inner
City is one of the oldest cities in the world, and includes
prominent sites like the Lahore Fort, the Badshahi Mosque, and the
Imperial Baths. The 13 gates of the city themselves make an
interesting tour.
Another popular tourist centre is Mall Road, which
offers museums, art galleries, restaurants, parks, and the Lahore
Zoo. As an important cultural capital, Lahore hosts many festivals
during the year; it is a city that loves to celebrate! Some of the
most popular include the Festival of Lights, the World Performing
Arts Festival, Basant (which includes city-wide kite-flying
competitions), and the National Horse and Cattle Show.
Lahore is very near the border to India, which makes
a great excursion. The evening ceremonies at the border crossing
itself are fun to watch, and it is just a 20-mile (32km) trip to
the Amritsar to see the famous Golden Temple.