Pakpattan, Pakistan
Region: Punjab
Geographic Coordinates: 30.350000, 73.400000
Temperature Range: 15.0°C to 40.0°C (59°F to 104°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 139525
Language: Urdu
Pakpattan is a city located in the Punjab province of Pakistan, Approximately 200 km south-west of Lahore. The city has a population of around 250, 000 people and covers an area of approximately 3, 000 square kilometers. The name Pakpattan means pure land in Urdu. The city was founded by the Sufi saint Hazrat Baba Fariduddin Ganjshakar in the 12th century. His shrine located in Pakpattan attracts millions of devotees every year from all over Pakistan as well as other countries. Apart from being a holy site for Muslims, Pakpattan is also known for its agricultural activities.
The fertile land surrounding the city produces crops such as wheat, Cotton, Sugarcane, And rice which are exported to different parts of Pakistan and other countries. One of the most famous landmarks in Pakpattan is the shrine complex of Hazrat Baba Fariduddin Ganjshakar which includes several buildings such as mosques, Tombs, Hujras (guesthouses), Langars (community kitchens) and a library containing rare Islamic manuscripts. The shrine complex also hosts an annual Urs festival which lasts for three days during which thousands of devotees gather to pay homage to their beloved saint.
Another notable attraction in Pakpattan is the Harappa archaeological site located about 25 km east of the city. This ancient Indus Valley Civilization site dates back to around 2600 BCE and contains ruins that provide insights into one world’s oldest civilizations. Pakpattan has produced many famous personalities including poets like Khawaja Ghulam Farid who wrote extensively on Sufi themes; politicians like Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain who served as Prime Minister; and cricketers like Aamer Sohail and Fakhar Zaman who have represented Pakistan internationally.
In terms of education, Pakpattan has several well-known institutions including Government College University, Pakpattan Campus which offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields. The city also has a number of schools and colleges providing education to students from primary to higher secondary levels. Overall, Pakpattan is a city steeped in history, Culture, And spirituality. It is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the rich heritage of South Asia.
- Shrine of Baba Farid: It is the most famous landmark in Pakpattan and attracts a large number of visitors every year.
- Pakpattan Fort: This ancient fort is another popular attraction that showcases the rich history and culture of the region.
- Harappa Museum: The museum displays artifacts from the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, which was one of the earliest civilizations in South Asia.
- Tomb of Hazrat Pir Haji Rattan: This tomb is dedicated to a Sufi saint who lived in Pakpattan during the 18th century.
- Eidgah Mosque: This mosque is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate design work.
- Shadiwal Chowk: It is a bustling market area where visitors can experience local culture and buy traditional handicrafts, clothes, and food items.
- Chak No 14/SP Agricultural Farm: Visitors can explore this agricultural farm to learn about farming practices and see various crops grown in the region.
- Ghaziabad Fort: Another ancient fort located near Pakpattan that offers stunning views of surrounding landscapes.
- Baba Fariduddin Ganjshakar: Pakpattan is most famous for being the final resting place of Baba Fariduddin Ganjshakar, a renowned Sufi saint and poet who lived in the 12th century.
- Mughal Empire: During the Mughal Empire, Pakpattan was an important center of trade and commerce due to its location on the River Sutlej.
- British Raj: In 1849, Pakpattan became part of British India after the annexation of Punjab.
- Partition of India: During partition in 1947, many refugees from India migrated to Pakpattan district.
- Allama Iqbal: The famous poet and philosopher Allama Iqbal had close ties with Pakpattan as his family hailed from this area.
- Chaudhry Zahoor Elahi Stadium: This stadium located in Pakpattan has hosted several cricket matches at both national and international levels.
- Darbar Mahal: A historical palace built during the reign of Nawab Muhammad Bahawal Khan V in 1908 is a notable landmark in Pakpattan city.
- Dargah Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid-ud-din Masood Gunj Shakar (RA): Another prominent Sufi shrine located within the city limits that attracts thousands of devotees every year during Urs celebrations.
Overall, Pakpattan has a rich history that spans several centuries and has been influenced by various cultures and religions over time.
- Shrine of Baba Farid: This is the most important landmark in Pakpattan and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
- Darbar Hazrat Baba Zakariya: A popular shrine dedicated to a Sufi saint.
- Pakpattan Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of Pakpattan and its surrounding regions.
- Satghara: A historic site that dates back to the Mughal era, Satghara is a must-visit for history buffs.
- Chistia Mosque: One of the largest mosques in Pakpattan, Chistia Mosque is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
- Kali Devi Temple: Located on the outskirts of Pakpattan, this temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali and attracts devotees from all over Pakistan.
- Baha ud Din Zakariya University: This university has a beautiful campus with lush gardens, fountains, and modern buildings.
- Dargah Pir Ratan Nathar Shah Bukhari: Another popular shrine in Pakpattan that attracts devotees from all over Pakistan.
- Qutubuddin Aibak’s Tomb: The tomb of Qutubuddin Aibak, who was one of the first Muslim rulers in India, is located near Satghara.
- Haveli Khawaja Hakim Nizamuddin (Nizami Haveli): This historic mansion was built by Khawaja Hakim Nizamuddin during the Mughal era and features beautiful architecture and design elements from that time period.
- Pakpattan is a small city located in the Punjab province of Pakistan, and it’s mainly known for its agricultural production.
- Although sports aren’t a significant focus in the city, there are several local teams and clubs that participate in various sports.
- Cricket is the most popular sport in Pakistan, and Pakpattan has several cricket clubs and teams.
- The city has produced some talented cricketers who have played at national and international levels.
- Football is also played in Pakpattan, with several local teams participating in tournaments organized by the Punjab Football Association.
- Locals also enjoy playing other sports like volleyball, basketball, and hockey recreationally.
- In summary, while Pakpattan doesn’t have any notable professional sports teams or significant sporting history to speak of it still has many locals who enjoy playing different types of games recreationally.
- Urs of Baba Farid: This is the most famous festival in Pakpattan, celebrated annually in memory of Sufi saint Baba Farid. The Urs lasts for three days and attracts thousands of devotees from all over Pakistan.
- Basant Festival: Basant is a kite-flying festival that marks the arrival of spring. It’s celebrated with great enthusiasm in Pakpattan, with people flying colorful kites and enjoying traditional food.
- Eid ul Fitr: This is one of the biggest festivals in Pakistan, marking the end of Ramadan and fasting month. People celebrate this day by wearing new clothes, visiting family and friends, and feasting on delicious food.
- Independence Day: August 14th marks Pakistan’s independence from British rule in 1947. This day is celebrated with flag hoisting ceremonies, parades, cultural programs, and fireworks displays.
- Mela Chiraghan: Also known as the Festival of Lights celebrates the life & teachings of Sufi saint Shah Hussain at his shrine every year on a full moon night during March or April.
- National Horse & Cattle Show: This annual event showcases Pakistan’s rich agricultural heritage through livestock exhibitions,horse races,folk dances performances etc.,held annually at Lahore but many people from Pakpattan also participate there.
- Lohri Festival : Lohri is a Punjabi winter folk festival celebrated primarily in Punjab region by Sikhs,Punjabi Hindus every year on January 13th or sometimes on 14th too.The significance & rituals vary depending upon region but it involves lighting up bonfires,singing songs,dancing around fire & sharing sweets etc.This festival has become popular among many communities across India too including some parts of Pakpattan where Punjabis reside predominantly.
- Chappal Kabab: This is a famous street food in Pakpattan, made with minced beef or mutton, spices, and served with naan bread.
- Lahori Chargha House: This restaurant is well-known for its delicious chargha (roasted chicken) which is marinated in spices and cooked over charcoal.
- Al-Hassan Hotel & Restaurant: This restaurant serves traditional Pakistani dishes such as biryani, karahi, and kebabs.
- Sufi Biryani House: As the name suggests, this restaurant specializes in biryani which is a popular rice dish cooked with meat or vegetables.
- Chaman Ice Cream: One of the oldest ice cream shops in Pakpattan that offers a variety of flavors including mango, chocolate, strawberry and more.
- Shahi Qila Restaurant: A fine dining restaurant that serves Pakistani cuisine along with Chinese dishes such as sweet & sour chicken and chow mein.
- Haji Nihari Wala: A small eatery famous for its nihari (slow-cooked meat stew) which is served with naan bread or rice.
- Pizza Point Pakpattan: A fast-food chain that offers pizza along with burgers and fries to satisfy your cravings for western food options while you are visiting Pakistan’s cultural city!
- Jinnah Park
- Ghanta Ghar Park
- Al-Madina Park
- Shahi Bagh Park
- Quaid-e-Azam Stadium Grounds (for sports activities)
- Pakpattan Sailing Club (for boating and water sports)
- Pakpattan Golf Club (for golf enthusiasts)
- Chishtian Wildlife Sanctuary (for nature lovers and bird watching)
