Things To Do
in Gujrat

A spicy, tomato-based wok-style curry cooked in a karahi (iron pan); widely available in local restaurants and a must-try for a true Punjabi flavor.

Must-Try!

Slow-cooked beef or lamb stew typically eaten at breakfast or as a heavy meal; find it in traditional eateries and during early-morning hours.

Layered fried bread often served with pickles or curry; pair with a cold, creamy lassi from a roadside vendor or café.

Tangy street snacks—chaat is a mix of chickpeas, potatoes and chutneys; bun kebab is a spicy patty sandwich popular at stalls and food carts.

The bustling market where you can sample roadside chaat, kebabs and sweets while browsing textiles, utensils and furniture; ideal for evening street-food crawls.

Small temporary stalls near the river that sell fried fish (when in season), tea and snacks—pleasant for a scenic meal at sunset.

Dress conservatively—cover shoulders and knees, especially for women. Modest clothing shows respect in religious and rural areas.

Use 'As-salamu alaykum' with a slight nod; accept or offer tea as a sign of hospitality. Handshakes among men are common; some women may prefer not to shake hands with men.

Always ask permission before photographing people, particularly women. Avoid photographing military installations, government buildings or sensitive sites.

During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect. Remove shoes before entering mosques and dress modestly.

Tipping is appreciated but not always expected—10% in restaurants if service is good, small cash tips for porters and guides, and rounding up for taxis is common.

Cash (Pakistani rupee) is king in markets and for small purchases; ATMs and banks are available in the city. Credit/debit cards work at larger hotels and some restaurants, but many small vendors are cash-only—carry enough cash for street food and transport.

The majority population is Punjabi-speaking Muslims, with deep rural and agricultural roots and strong family networks.

Small Christian and other minority communities live in Gujrat, contributing to local trades and services.

A sizable population works in furniture, fan manufacturing, pottery and small industry—artisans and factory workers shape the city’s economy.

A relatively young population with many students commuting to colleges in Gujrat and nearby cities.

Vegetarian options exist (dal, sabzi/vegetable curries, paneer, parathas and chana chaat), but many restaurants center on meat; specify vegetarian (sabzi/vegetarian) and check that ghee or meat stock isn't used.

Vegan choices are more limited—stick to lentils, vegetable curries (ask about ghee), salads and fruit; communicate restrictions in Urdu/Hindi for clarity.

Most meat in Gujrat is halal; if you require specific certifications, ask at higher-end restaurants or supermarkets for packaged halal products.

Cross-contamination in street food is possible; carry medication for allergic reactions and communicate allergies clearly (in writing if needed).