Things to Do in Multan, پاکستان

Multan, known as the 'City of Saints' and 'City of Sufis,' is one of Pakistan's oldest cities with a history spanning over 5,000 years. Located in southern Punjab along the banks of the Chenab River, this ancient metropolis is renowned for its magnificent Sufi shrines, stunning medieval architecture, and rich cultural heritage. The city has been a major center of Islamic mysticism for centuries, attracting pilgrims from across the subcontinent who come to pay homage at the tombs of revered saints. Today's Multan seamlessly blends its spiritual legacy with modern urban life, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Pakistan's Islamic heritage. The city is famous for its blue-tiled mosques, bustling bazaars filled with traditional handicrafts, and the distinctive Multani pottery and textiles. Beyond its religious significance, Multan serves as an important agricultural and commercial hub, known for its mangoes, cotton, and as a center for traditional crafts that have been passed down through generations.

Top Things to Do in Multan

Shrine of Shah Rukn-e-Alam

Visit this magnificent 14th-century mausoleum, considered one of the finest examples of pre-Mughal Islamic architecture in the subcontinent. The shrine features stunning blue and white glazed tiles and an impressive dome that dominates Multan's skyline. The spiritual atmosphere and architectural beauty make this the city's most important landmark.

Booking Tip: Entry is free, but dress modestly and remove shoes before entering. Best visited early morning (6-8 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) to avoid crowds. Consider hiring a local guide for PKR 500-1000 to learn about the shrine's history and significance.

Multan Fort and Archaeological Sites

Explore the ancient Multan Fort, which houses several important shrines and offers panoramic views of the city. The fort complex contains multiple historical layers dating back over 2,000 years. Within the fort walls, you'll find several saints' tombs and the remains of ancient structures that tell the story of Multan's long history.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is around PKR 20 for locals, PKR 200 for foreigners. Visit during cooler hours (early morning or late afternoon) as the fort area can get very hot. Allow 2-3 hours for a thorough exploration of the complex.

Traditional Handicrafts Shopping

Browse the famous bazaars of Multan to discover exquisite blue pottery, traditional textiles, and intricate camel skin work. The city is renowned for its distinctive Multani pottery with characteristic blue glaze, handwoven textiles, and leather goods. The old bazaar areas offer an authentic shopping experience with items crafted using centuries-old techniques.

Booking Tip: Best shopping areas include Hussain Agahi Bazaar and areas around the shrines. Bargaining is expected - start at 30-40% of the asking price. Quality pottery pieces range from PKR 200-5000 depending on size and intricacy. Shop during morning hours when selections are best.

Sufi Cultural Experience

Attend qawwali performances and witness Sufi rituals at various shrines throughout the city, particularly during Thursday evening gatherings. These spiritual music sessions offer insight into Multan's deep-rooted Sufi traditions and provide a moving cultural experience. The passionate devotional singing and spiritual atmosphere create unforgettable memories.

Booking Tip: Thursday evenings are most active for qawwali sessions, typically starting after Maghrib prayer (sunset). No entry fee required, but small donations (PKR 100-500) are appreciated. Dress conservatively and maintain respectful silence during prayers and performances.

Clock Tower and City Center

Visit the iconic Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower), a British colonial-era landmark that serves as the heart of modern Multan. The surrounding area features bustling markets, traditional food stalls, and provides excellent people-watching opportunities. This central location offers a perfect blend of colonial architecture and contemporary Pakistani city life.

Booking Tip: Free to visit and photograph. Best experienced in the evening (5-7 PM) when the area comes alive with local activity. Nearby food stalls offer authentic local snacks for PKR 50-200 per item. Be cautious of traffic and keep valuables secure in crowded areas.

Getting There

Multan is well-connected by air, rail, and road. Multan International Airport receives daily flights from major Pakistani cities including Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, with flight times ranging from 1-2 hours. The airport also offers international connections to Middle Eastern destinations. By train, Multan is served by Pakistan Railways with regular services from major cities - the journey from Lahore takes about 6-7 hours, while from Karachi it's approximately 12-14 hours. Road connections are excellent via the M4 and M5 motorways, making it easily accessible by car or bus from other Punjab cities, with Lahore being about 5-6 hours away by road.

Getting Around

Getting around Multan is relatively easy with various transportation options available. Auto-rickshaws are the most popular and convenient mode of transport for short distances, typically charging PKR 100-300 per ride within the city. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Careem and Uber operate in the city, offering comfortable air-conditioned travel. For budget travelers, local buses and wagons connect different parts of the city for minimal fares (PKR 20-50). Many of the main attractions are located within the old city area and can be explored on foot, though the heat during summer months makes walking challenging during midday hours. Renting a car with driver is also an option for day-long sightseeing, typically costing PKR 3000-5000 per day.

Where to Stay

Cantonment Area

Shah Rukn-e-Alam vicinity

Gulgasht Colony

New Multan

Bosan Road area

Clock Tower district

Food & Dining

Multan's food scene is a delightful blend of traditional Punjabi cuisine with distinct local flavors. The city is famous for its sohan halwa, a traditional sweet made with milk, sugar, and nuts that makes an excellent souvenir. Street food is abundant around the Clock Tower area and shrine vicinities, offering specialties like seekh kebabs, karahi, and fresh naan from tandoor ovens. For formal dining, several restaurants serve authentic Pakistani cuisine, with many located in the Cantonment area and newer parts of the city. Don't miss trying the local mangoes when in season (May-July), as Multan is renowned for producing some of Pakistan's finest varieties. Traditional dhabas (roadside restaurants) offer the most authentic flavors at budget-friendly prices, typically ranging from PKR 200-800 per person for a full meal.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Multan is during the cooler months from November to March, when temperatures are more comfortable for sightseeing, ranging from 10-25°C (50-77°F). This period offers pleasant weather for exploring outdoor attractions and walking through the bazaars. Summer months (April to September) can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 45°C (113°F), making outdoor activities challenging during midday hours. However, if you do visit during summer, plan activities for early morning and late evening hours. The monsoon season (July-September) brings some relief from the heat but can also cause occasional flooding and travel disruptions. Winter mornings can be foggy, which may affect flight schedules, but the overall weather remains ideal for tourism.

Insider Tips

Visit shrines during Thursday evenings for the most authentic spiritual experience with qawwali performances and increased devotional activity

Bargain respectfully in bazaars but remember that many vendors are artisans whose crafts support their families - fair pricing benefits the local community

Carry cash as many local vendors and smaller restaurants don't accept cards, and dress modestly especially when visiting religious sites to show respect for local customs

Things to Do in Multan