Things To Do
in Bahawalpur
Bahawalpur is a historical city located in the Punjab province of Pakistan. Known for its rich cultural heritage, it is home to several architectural marvels such as the Derawar Fort and Noor Mahal. The city has a vibrant bazaar where visitors can shop for handicrafts and traditional clothes.
Bahawalpur is also famous for its delicious local cuisine, particularly its flavorful Sindhi biryani and Balochi Sajji.
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Kya haal hai?" - How are you?
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Maaf kijiye" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Khuda hafiz" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Noor Mahal, a majestic palace that showcases Mughal architecture. Don't forget to stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding the palace.
After lunch, head to the Bahawalpur Museum to learn about the rich heritage of the area. The museum features historical artifacts and exhibits that provide a glimpse into the past.
Conclude your day with a relaxing walk at the Sadiq Bhatti Park. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and the beautiful sunset.
Take an early drive to Derawar Fort, which is about 45 kilometers from Bahawalpur. The fort's impressive structure and historical significance make it a must-see.
Enjoy a picnic lunch near the fort while admiring the surrounding Cholistan Desert. Afterward, explore the fort's interior and take in the panoramic views.
Return to Bahawalpur and unwind at your hotel. Reflect on your adventurous day over dinner.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage with various historical landmarks, including the Bahawalpur Palace and Tombs of Nawabs.
- A peaceful environment with relatively low population density compared to major cities in Pakistan.
- Significant agricultural output, with fertile land and access to the Punjab canal system.
- A growing educational sector with several universities and institutions offering diverse programs.
- Strategically located near the Cholistan Desert, providing opportunities for tourism and adventure activities.
- Limited access to modern medical facilities compared to larger urban centers.
- Infrastructural challenges, including traffic congestion and inadequate public transport systems.
- Socio-economic disparities and poverty levels that affect various communities.
- Hot desert climate leading to extreme temperatures, especially in summers.
- Higher dependency on agriculture, which may be vulnerable to climatic fluctuations and economic changes.
Best Activities in Bahawalpur
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the ancient architecture of Derawar Fort, located in the Cholistan Desert.
Enjoy a thrilling desert safari in the Cholistan Desert, known for its breathtaking landscapes.
Visit the exquisite Noor Mahal, a beautiful palace built in the Italian style during the British Raj.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bahawalpur with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bahawalpur
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful palace with stunning architecture and picturesque gardens, offering great photo opportunities.
An ancient fort located in the Cholistan Desert, providing panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape.
A well-maintained zoo with beautiful landscaping, featuring diverse animal species and offering photo opportunities.
Food in Bahawalpur
Bahawalpur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delectable dish consisting of whole marinated lamb or chicken, roasted on skewers over open fire, and flavored with local spices. Best enjoyed at Rojhan Sajji House.
Must-Try!
A spicy and savory mutton curry cooked in a traditional earthenware pot, seasoned with a blend of local herbs and spices. Must-try at Al-Sheikh Restaurant.
A lusciously creamy rice pudding, infused with cardamom and garnished with almonds and pistachios. Savor the best Kheer at Mumtaz Sweets & Bakers.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bahawalpur better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant food street is a treasure trove of local delights, where you can sample everything from spicy chaats and kebabs to Pakistani sweets and refreshing lassis. Notable stalls include Dilbar Sweets and Haji Baba Kulfi Falooda.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bahawalpur, it is customary to greet people with the phrase 'Assalam-o-Alaikum' and respond with 'Wa-alaikum-assalam.' It is important to show respect to elders and use polite language when addressing others.
Modest clothing is appreciated in Bahawalpur, especially for women. It is respectful to dress conservatively, covering arms and legs, particularly when visiting religious sites or attending formal events.
Respecting local customs and traditions is essential. This includes seeking permission before taking photographs, refraining from public displays of affection, and being mindful of dietary restrictions, such as not consuming pork and being aware of halal food requirements.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bahawalpur with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bahawalpur
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bahawalpur, Pakistan, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated in the hospitality and service industry. It is common to leave a small amount of money as a tip for good service, usually around 5-10% of the bill.
Cash is the dominant form of payment in Bahawalpur, although some larger businesses may accept credit or debit cards. It's important to have cash on hand for most transactions, especially in smaller establishments and local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bahawalpur.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit due to pleasant weather and blooming gardens, expect colorful festivals and cultural events.
Another good time to visit with mild weather, expect clear skies and outdoor activities.
Hot and dry weather, expect high temperatures and fewer tourists.
Cool to cold weather, expect foggy mornings and the possibility of experiencing the Desert Festival.
Bahawalpur at Night
Hiking in Bahawalpur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
While technically a desert, the Cholistan Desert offers various terrains and tracks that can be explored by hiking. The natural scenery and wildlife add to the experience.
Located near Bahawalpur, this national park features several trails that allow for hiking amidst beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and lakes.
Hiking around Derawar Fort provides a unique experience with stunning views of the fort and the surrounding Cholistan Desert. The area offers rustic paths to explore.
Adjacent to the old Bahawalpur city, hiking around Sadiq Garh Palace gives a glimpse into the historical architecture set against natural beauty.
Following the path along the Rohi Canal offers a serene hiking experience with scenic water views and the chance to see local flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bahawalpur through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Bahawalpur by plane.
Located in Lahore, approximately 350 kilometers from Bahawalpur, this is one of the major international airports in Pakistan.
Located in the capital city, Islamabad, about 600 kilometers from Bahawalpur, this airport serves as a key international gateway to Pakistan.
Situated in Karachi, roughly 800 kilometers from Bahawalpur, it is the busiest airport in Pakistan and handles many international flights.
Located in Multan, around 100 kilometers from Bahawalpur, this airport offers both domestic and limited international flight services.
Approximately 250 kilometers from Bahawalpur, this is the first private airport in Pakistan and offers international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Bahawalpur, comprising a majority of the population, primarily speaking Punjabi.
Another significant group in the region, with many residents speaking the Saraiki language.
Descendants of Urdu-speaking migrants who moved to Pakistan from India during the partition.
A smaller but notable group, originally from the neighboring Balochistan province.
A minority group mainly involved in trade and business activities.
Includes various smaller communities and ethnic groups such as Brahuis and settlers from other regions.
The Soul of Bahawalpur
Discover the essence of Bahawalpur through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Bahawalpur, with many local clubs and schools promoting the game. The passion for cricket often brings communities together, especially during national and international matches.
Field hockey holds a significant place in Bahawalpur's sports culture, with various facilities supporting training and competitions. It has a dedicated following, and local teams often participate in inter-city tournaments.
Football is widely played and followed in Bahawalpur, especially among the youth. Local leagues and tournaments are organized frequently, fostering a strong community spirit.
Badminton is popular for both recreational and competitive play in Bahawalpur, with several courts available for the public and tournaments organized in schools and clubs.
Kabaddi has traditional significance and is played in various local competitions. It is particularly popular during cultural festivals and events, attracting large crowds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bahawalpur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Bahawalpur's cuisine primarily revolves around meat-based dishes, many restaurants and food stalls offer delicious vegetarian options such as Daal Makhani, Sabzi Karahi, and Aloo Gobi. Additionally, some establishments provide vegan-friendly dishes like Chana Masala and Baingan Bharta.
Individuals adhering to a gluten-free diet can relish dishes like Biryani (without the breaded layer), Tandoori Chicken, and various kebabs that are inherently gluten-free. It's advisable to communicate specific dietary requirements to ensure a seamless dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bahawalpur with these cultural adventures.
