Pakistan has a long and rich history and has been home to some of humanity’s oldest civilizations. In this post written by Traveler Trails, you will be introduce to some of the country’s most famous historical places and monuments. The following is a list of the top historical sites and Museums of Pakistan, collected for your interest and knowledge.
Fort Lahore
Lahore Fort is one of the many popular Forts in Pakistan. The famous stronghold was constructed in the 17th century, yet it’s been inhabited for centuries. Emperor Jahangir built some of the massive structure’s most beautiful and exceptionally well features, including the colorful Picture Wall. The 20+ acre Lahore Fort is located in Lahore’s Walled City.
Lahore Museum was created during the British time in Lahore (1849-1947). The structure is beautiful, with Mughal architecture and crimson bricks. Lahore Museum displays one of Pakistan’s oldest cultural, artistic, and historical collections. It exhibits ancient texts, Gandhara sculptures, tiny paintings, and antique coinage. This museum’s collections have drawn many academics, researchers, visitors, and students. So, if you haven’t already visited the Lahore Museum, you should do so soon.
Mohenjo-Daro
A detailed list of historical sites in Pakistan would be incomplete without including Mohenjo-Daro, one of the Indus Valley civilization’s greatest towns. The ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was established about 2500 BCE and went unreported for over 3700 years until archaeologists found it in the early 1920s.
According to historians, the size of Mohenjo-Daro (about 300 hectares) and the number of public structures indicate a high degree of social order. Isn’t it incredible? Though most individuals have no idea of the ancient city, it is one of Asia’s most exciting subjects.
Mohenjo-Daro is located near the city of Larkana in Pakistan’s Sindh Province and is readily available by auto rickshaw.
Though most are unaware, this is one of the most amazing archaeological sites in the world and should be visited on any Pakistani traveler’s wishlist.
Rohtas Fort
This example of military architectural perfection, located approximately 15 kilometers from the city of Jhelum, is one of the top historical destinations to visit in Punjab for a good reason!
The fort’s construction began in 1541 under the rule of Sher Shah Suri, an ethnic Pashtun who took control of the Mughal empire in 1538.
Rohtas Fort is one of South Asia’s largest and most imposing strongholds, covering an area of 70 hectares. It is around 2 hours from Islamabad and 4 hours from Lahore.
Wazir Khan Mosque
Lahore has so much history that it might easily have its list. However, the stunning Wazir Khan Mosque is a must-see. The mosque draws architectural cues from the Begum Shahi, and while the parallels are apparent, the Wazir Khan is noticeably more prominent and colorful.
Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned the mosque, which was finished in 1641. Almost every square inch of it is covered in beautiful Buon frescoes and complex tile work- you could spend hours admiring it all!
The Wazir Khan Mosque is located a few hundred meters after entering Lahore’s Walled City through the Delhi Gate.
Katasraj Temples
Hindu temples in Pakistan? Yes, you read it correctly- the Katasraj Temples are located in the village of Dulmial in Punjab and are claimed to date from the 7th century CE or before. The temples surround a lake that is said to have mystical properties!
The great Hindu epic Mahabharata also mentions them, and it is generally known that the founder of the Sikh Faith, Guru Nanak, frequently visited the location in more recent years.
Unfortunately, the temples fell into disarray after the partition and are still in poor condition today. Nonetheless, in terms of historical constructions in Pakistan, the Katasraj Temples speak to the Subcontinent’s intricate past in a manner few other structures can.
The temples are in Katas, around 2 hours from Islamabad and 3 hours from Lahore.
Pakistan Museum of Natural History
The Pakistan Museum of Natural History has a vast collection of natural history exhibits ranging from fossils to preserved animals, with over 600,000 pieces in its collection. It was founded in 1976 and is located in Islamabad. It provides information in various categories, including paleontology, geology, and ecology, and it also serves as a research facility. Pakistan Science Foundation manages the museum. This is a must-see attraction for passionate students about animals and science.
Taxila Museum
Taxila, the hub of Gandhara Civilization, is about 40 kilometers northwest of Islamabad. Gandhara is one of the most prominent civilizations that formerly existed in what is now Pakistan. Its heyday lasted over a millennium, ending in the 6th century AD with the Hun invasion. Under the influence of Greek culture, this civilization created a distinct art, culture, and architecture known for its beauty and grace.
Taxila Museum exhibits many unique art items and Buddha sculptures in its majestic structures. In addition, important archaeological sites associated with this civilization, such as Dharmarajika, Mohra Moradu, Julian, Pippin, and others, may be visited. Visiting Taxila and its archaeological sites is an excellent way to learn about this exciting historical period.
Altit and Baltit Forts
These majestic forts are in Hunza and are outstanding examples of Tibetan architecture. These forts were constructed hundreds of years ago to protect the valley. The forts’ position adds to their charm. These are the major tourist attractions in Hunza Valley, and great crowds go to these locations to experience the grandeur of these monuments and the stunningly lovely surroundings.
