Multan City Guide

General Information / Guide

Multan, one of the oldest cities in the Asian subcontinent, is located in the Punjab province of Pakistan. Famous for its Sufi shrines, Multan is often referred to as the City of Saints. Its rich history, combined with vibrant bazaars and a strong cultural heritage, makes it a fascinating destination for travelers.

Climate / Weather / When to Go

Multan experiences a hot desert climate, with extremely hot summers and mild winters. The most pleasant time to visit is between November and March, when the weather is cooler and more conducive to exploring the city's outdoor attractions.

How to Get There

Multan International Airport connects the city with major Pakistani cities and several international destinations. The city is also accessible by rail and road, with good connections to other parts of Pakistan.

Food / Restaurants / What to Eat and Drink

Multan is renowned for its culinary delights, particularly its sweet treats like Sohan Halwa and Multani Khoya. Traditional dishes such as Mutton Karahi and Tawa Fish reflect the rich flavors of Punjabi cuisine. The old city bazaars are the best places to experience authentic local food, while various restaurants around the city offer a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes. The culinary experiences in Multan are a true reflection of its cultural diversity and historical depth.

Important Places / Places to Visit

• Shah Rukn-e-Alam Tomb: A masterpiece of Islamic architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its majestic dome and intricate tile work.
• Bahauddin Zakariya Tomb: Dedicated to the Sufi saint Bahauddin Zakariya, this shrine is a place of spiritual significance and architectural beauty.
• Multan Fort: Though largely in ruins, the fort offers insights into Multan's rich history with stunning views of the city and several preserved monuments within its walls.
• Ghanta Ghar: The iconic clock tower stands as a central landmark in Multan, surrounded by lively bazaars and historical sites.
• Ibn-e-Qasim Bagh Stadium: A historical park that has been converted into a public garden and stadium, offering a space for sports and recreational activities amidst historical surroundings.
• Shrine of Shams Tabrizi: Celebrating the renowned Sufi mystic, this shrine attracts visitors for its spiritual ambiance and the stories of the saint's teachings and miracles.
• Damdama: The elevated platform within the Multan Fort provides a panoramic view of the city, highlighting Multan's landscape and its sprawling urban spread.
• Multan Arts Council: A hub for cultural and artistic activities, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region through exhibitions, performances, and workshops.

What to Do

Multan, known as the City of Saints, is rich in spiritual heritage and Sufi culture. Visit the stunning shrines of Bahauddin Zakariya, Shah Rukn-e-Alam, and Shah Shams Tabrizi, marveling at their architectural beauty and experiencing the peace and spirituality that permeates the city. Explore the vibrant bazaars like Hussain Agahi for traditional crafts, Multani khussas (leather shoes), and the famous blue pottery. Don't miss the Multan Fort for a journey through history and breathtaking views of the city. Enjoy the local cuisine, especially the sweet, delectable Sohan Halwa, a regional specialty. Multan offers a unique blend of spiritual, historical, and culinary experiences that reflect the heart and soul of Pakistan.

Nightlife / Bars / Entertainment

Multan, known for its spiritual and cultural richness, offers a serene nightlife focused on traditional entertainment and dining. The city's restaurants and cafes, especially around the Ghanta Ghar and Cantt areas, become lively at night with families and friends enjoying local cuisines and street food. Traditional Sufi music performances at various shrines provide a soulful experience, reflecting the city's Sufi heritage. While Multan does not have the conventional nightlife of bars and clubs, the local bazaars stay open late, offering a chance to shop and explore in the cooler evening temperatures. The serene ambiance of the city at night, combined with its cultural and culinary offerings, provides a unique and enriching experience for visitors and locals alike.

Shopping / What to Buy

Multan, known as the City of Saints, offers visitors a rich shopping experience with its famous blue pottery, intricately designed and a perfect gift or souvenir. The Hussain Agahi Bazaar is a hub for those looking to buy traditional Pakistani handicrafts, including handmade carpets, embroidery, and wooden items. Multan is also renowned for its Sohan halwa, a traditional dessert that visitors often take home. For a blend of traditional and modern shopping, the Cantonment area of Multan features malls and markets where one can find both local and international brands. Shopping in Multan is an exploration of Pakistan’s rich cultural and artisanal heritage.

Festivals/ Events

March: Spring Festival (Jashn-e-Baharaan)
Dates Vary: Urs Shah Rukn-e-Alam (religious observance)
Dates Vary: Urs Bahauddin Zakariya (religious observance)
Dates Vary: Urs Shah Shams Tabrizi (religious observance)

Holidays / Festivals / Important Days

5 February: Kashmir Solidarity Day
23 March: Pakistan Day
1 May: Labour Day
14 August: Independence Day of Pakistan
15-16 September: 
9 November: Iqbal Day
25 December: Quaid-e-Azam's Birthday 
Eid al-Fitr (varies)
Eid al-Adha (varies)
Ashura (varies)
Eid-e-Milad un-Nabi (varies)

Things to Pay Attention to / Important Information

Saraiki is the local language, with Punjabi, Urdu, and English also in use.

Dress conservatively, particularly when visiting religious or rural areas.

Be aware of seasonal weather; the city experiences extreme heat in summer.

Enjoy the local handicrafts markets but be ready to negotiate prices.

Transportation

Multan, known for its historical sites, is served by a variety of transport methods. Local buses are the backbone of public transport, with services from dawn till dusk, and fares ranging from PKR 20 to 70, making them a popular choice for both short and long distances. Rickshaws, both cycle and auto, are a common sight, offering an economical means to travel short distances; fares should be discussed beforehand.

For more comfortable travel, taxis are available with base fares starting at PKR 50 plus PKR 20 per kilometer. These can be hailed directly on the streets or booked through various ride-hailing apps, providing convenience and safety for travelers. Multan also offers special tour services for exploring its rich cultural and historical landmarks.