Lahore

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.