ZAHA-HOMES | 11/8/2024 | 4 min read
Pakistan possesses a very rich historical and cultural heritage. It is home to many historical sites that tell stories of the past, from the earliest human societies to magnificent Mughal Era architecture.
These top historical places in Pakistan are not only delicate buildings but have long resisted the ruthless passage of time and carry unique histories behind them. It is like you have gone back in time to these places.
These top historical places in Pakistan will amaze you, regardless of your interest in history. So pack your bags, gear up for adventure, and discover these historic gems.
Mohenjo Daro
Taxila City
Harappa
Badshahi Mosque
Makli Necropolis
Katas Raj Temple
Noor Mahal
Takht i Bahi
Baltit Fort
Hiran Minar
Mohenjo Daro came from the Sindhi language, which translates to "Mound of the Dead." This historic city in the Indus Valley thrived between 2600 and 1900 BCE before its decline. Additionally, it was once one of two principal cities serving as the capital of an ancient civilization.
Additionally, this forgotten city of Indus Valley was home to some of the best craftsmen and civil engineers. According to historians, this city had a deliberate layout, sophisticated irrigation, and an advanced water supply, making it a very modern and advanced city. They built the city in such a way that they could heat the air for the steamy baths. Thus, all these factors make it one of the top historical places in Pakistan to visit.
Harappa is another top historical place in Pakistan, better known as the second-largest city of the Indus River Valley. Along with Mohenjo Daro, Harappa used to be the capital of the ancient civilization. Not only was it the capital, but it was also a center of archaic society because it had cultural and political structures.
Moreover, Harappa still contains things dating back to the Bronze Age that have been kept in a museum. Besides, the society of this city was modern as it had a writing system, urban centers, and a diversified social and economic system.
Thatta is not far from Makli Necropolis, one of the largest cemeteries in the world. It contains almost a million tombs spread across a surface area of 10 square kilometers. This area is significant as a famous historical place of Pakistan since it exhibits a range of rich architectural styles from the fourteenth to the eighteenth centuries.
Taxila City is one of the oldest historical places in Pakistan. Near Islamabad, it was once a famous center of learning of Gandhara civilization. You can see old Buddhist temples, stupas, and ruins there. It's a must-see for anyone interested in the rich history of Pakistan.
With the Mughals entering into the subcontinent, they brought their culture, arts, history, and most importantly, architecture. In 1671, one of the last Mughal kings, Aurangzeb Alamgir, constructed a mosque known as Badshahi Masjid, which still reminds us today how architecture can reach such heights.
Moreover, the Badshahi Masjid has become central part of Lahore. In addition, the mosque has a 276,000 square foot courtyard capable of holding up to 100,000 worshippers. No trip to Lahore can be truly completed without a visit to this historical place in Pakistan.
The Katas Raj Temple, a historic Hindu temple complex, is in Punjab's Chakwal district. This temple is essential to Hindus according to their mythology. Besides, Katas Raj temple is surrounded by a holy pond and connected by walkways. The pond is said to have been created by Lord Shiva's tears.
Located and built in 1872 by Nawab Muhammad Khan V n Bahawalpur, Pakistan, Noor Mahal is a peace of art. He constructed it as a family home, but his wife only stayed one night after discovering a graveyard nearby. The palace, which cost Rs. 1.2 million, showcases both Corinthian and Islamic architectural styles. Not only today it has become one of the top historical places in Pakistan, but it also serves as a state guest house and tourist attraction.
As stated above, Pakistan is rich culturally, so it is also home to a medieval Buddhist Sanctuary called Takht-i-Bahi, which means throne of spring water. Situated in Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Takht-i-Bahi is one the best places to visit in Pakistan with family. Furthermore, this site has stupa courts, monastic rooms, and a tantric complex.
The eighth-century Baltit Fort was constructed to oversee the town and trade routes of Karimabad, Hunza Valley. Wars and power struggles are the two utmost things that the fort saw over the years which changed its architectural design.
Moreover, it is a significant monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Besides, today, it has become one of the most famous historical buildings in Pakistan that offers breathtaking views of Hunza Valley.
Visiting historical places in Pakistan lets you step back in time and feel the rich heritage. Don’t just read about these wonders; experience them yourself. Let Zaha Home Vacations help you turn this journey into a memorable adventure.
Religious & Cultural Festivals of Pakistan: Helpful Insights
Hill Stations In Pakistan: Exploring The Country's Nature