Best of Lahore and Islamabad 5 Days
Day 01: Lahore - A Cultural Odyssey
Embark on an extraordinary day in Lahore, not just the cultural epicenter of Punjab but often hailed as the cultural gem of all Pakistan. With a population of approximately 8.5 million, Lahore stands as Pakistan's second - largest metropolis. The Inner City, or Walled City, beats like the vibrant heart of this enchanting place. For millennia, Lahore has been a magnet for tourists, artists, and intellectuals, boasting a rich tapestry of Mughal and Sikh influences, alongside British colonial architecture. It's a city where modern malls and buildings co - exist harmoniously. As one of the country's most liberal cities, it offers a unique blend of tradition and progress. Our journey commences around 8 am, as we set out to explore as many archaeological and cultural treasures and hotspots as possible. The Lahore Fort, with its storied past, the majestic Badshahi Mosque, the iconic Minare Pakistan, the sacred Sikh Guradwara Dera Sahib, the opulent Shees Mahal, the regal Royal Hammam, the grand Deewan - e - Aam, the exclusive Deewan - e - Khas, and the tomb of Jahangir await our discovery. We'll ensure you're led to a top - notch eatery for lunch, and our day will conclude with the renowned Flag Ceremony at the India - Pakistan border. This captivating ceremony, held each evening before sunset, begins with a rousing parade by soldiers from both sides, followed by the solemn lowering of the two nations' flags. It ends with a symbolic handshake between the soldiers, and the closing of the gates.
Day 02: Chiniot and Bhera - A Quest for Artistry
After a delightful breakfast, we'll make our way to Chiniot, a town celebrated for its masterful woodworking and exquisite furniture. Here, several mosques dot the landscape, and the Omar Hamat Mahal stands tall - a five - story mansion erected in the 1920s, showcasing the finest examples of Chiniot's local woodworking prowess. Subsequently, we'll journey to Bhera, a city renowned for its woodcarving and textiles. Bhera's old city center beckons, with an Old Town encircled by a burgeoning new development. The Old Town is fortified by a large city wall with eight gates, and is divided into various neighborhoods, each historically associated with different castes.
Day 03: From Khewra Salt Mine to Islamabad
Post - breakfast, we'll head towards the Khewra Salt Mine, famous for producing the exquisite pink Khewra salt, often referred to as Himalayan salt. Standing as the world's second - largest, this mine was unearthed by Alexander The Great's army. It started its trading journey during the Mughal era and was further developed under British rule. With an annual production of over 350,000 tonnes of salt, it's a wonder of nature and industry. As night falls, we'll find our rest in Islamabad.
Day 04: Islamabad and Taxila - A Blend of Spirit and Scenery
Today, enjoy a leisurely morning. After lunch, we'll visit the Faisal Mosque, the sixth - largest mosque in the world, a testament to architectural grandeur. Then, embark on a hike in the Margalla Hills, part of the Margalla Hills National Park and the Himalayan foothills. The hike will reward us with breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings.
Day 05: Taxila - The Final Chapter
After breakfast, we'll make our way to Taxila, the final destination of our memorable journey.
