Hotels, Things to do, Places to visit, Restaurants, Attractions, Car Rental in Sahiwal

Sahiwal

Sahiwal, formerly known as Montgomery, is a thriving city in Punjab, Pakistan, and the administrative capital of both the Sahiwal Division and District. The city ranks as the 21st largest city in Pakistan by population. Located approximately 100 km from Faisalabad and 180 km from Lahore, Sahiwal is strategically positioned between the Ravi and Sutlej rivers, contributing to its fertile agricultural land.

The region is known for its rich history, with the ancient Harappa civilization once thriving in the area. The archaeological site of Harappa, situated 15 miles southwest of the city, is one of the most significant remnants of the Indus Valley Civilization. Sahiwal’s agricultural landscape is renowned for the production of buffalo milk, which is a major contributor to the local economy. The city also grows a variety of crops, including rice, wheat, and sugarcane. Sahiwal is famous for its kinnow (a variety of citrus fruit), which is exported across the country and abroad. The city’s historical significance, combined with its agricultural output, has established it as an important economic and cultural center in Punjab. The growth of local industries and the development of infrastructure continue to boost Sahiwal’s economy and population.

Harappa Museum

The Harappa Museum, established in 1926 and later revamped in 1966, showcases artifacts from the ancient Indus Valley Civilization.

Visitors can marvel at items such as etched beads, pottery, stone tools, seals with mysterious inscriptions, and figurines. A highlight is the display of skeletons, including a female burial adorned with ornaments, illustrating Harappan burial customs. The museum is a gateway to understanding the advanced culture and craftsmanship of this ancient civilization.

Suri Mosque

The ruined mosque at Dhawa Sharma, located around 30 kilometers from Chichawatni in Sahiwal, dates back to the Suri period (1540-1545).

This Suri Mosque is believed to have been built during the time of Sher Shah Suri, the great warrior who rose to power and founded the Suri Empire after overthrowing the Mughal Empire. Sher Shah's reign, which lasted from 1540 to 1545, was marked by significant reforms in administration and infrastructure. He passed away in 1545 due to a gunpowder explosion while preparing for a military campaign. The mosque at Dhawa Sharma is a testament to his empire's architectural style and influence.

Yadgar-e-Sahiwal

Yadgar Monument in Sahiwal is located near the railway road in the Sahiwal District of Punjab, Pakistan

The monument is named "Yadgar" (which means "memorial" in Urdu), and it holds historical significance, as mentioned by MA Ashraf in his book on the history of Sahiwal. The monument is round-shaped and painted white, symbolizing purity, cleanliness, and peace. It has become a popular destination for locals and visitors, many of whom visit with their families to enjoy the tranquil surroundings and scenic beauty. The monument serves as a peaceful spot for picnics and relaxation.

Zafar Ali Stadium

Zafar Ali Stadium, located in the heart of Sahiwal, Punjab, Pakistan, is one of the city's oldest and most significant sports venues.

Originally known as Sahiwal Stadium, it was renamed in honor of Sheikh Zafar Ali Khan, the founder of the Pakistan Olympic Association. The stadium, with a seating capacity of 10,000, hosted first-class and List A cricket matches from 1955 to 1995 and also accommodated some international matches. Although the stadium holds historical importance, its condition has deteriorated over time due to a lack of government attention. There is a growing need for restoration to bring back its former glory and ensure its continued use for sports and events.

Kanaan Park

Kanaan Park, located near the Yadgar monument and next to the canal in Sahiwal, Pakistan, is one of the most popular recreational spots in the city.

The Kanaan Park features a well-maintained zoo with a variety of animals and birds, including monkeys, bears, lions, deer, rabbits, parrots, and ostriches. The park is regularly watered twice a day to keep its greenery vibrant and appealing. Known for its serene atmosphere, Kanaan Park is an ideal destination for families looking for a peaceful picnic spot. It offers a great environment to relax, enjoy nature, and observe wildlife in a well-maintained setting.

Ravi River Bridge

The Sahiwal Ravi River Bridge, located at Chak Azam Sahu in Pakistan, offers a picturesque view of the Ravi River, which flows through the city of Sahiwal.

This Sahiwal Ravi River Bridge, officially named the Qutab Shahana Bridge, was inaugurated by Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif on March 13, 2013. It was constructed to improve connectivity between Sahiwal and Faisalabad, reducing the distance between the two cities by 33 kilometers, thus saving time, money, and fuel. The bridge spans 1,650 feet in length and is 24 feet wide, making it an essential infrastructure project for the region. The bridge not only serves as a transportation link but also offers a scenic spot for visitors to enjoy the river's beauty.

Masjid-e-Shuhada

Masjid-e-Shuhada, located about one and a half kilometers from College Chowk in Farid Town, Sahiwal, is a mosque built in memory of the soldiers martyred during the 1971 war.

The Masjid-e-Shuhada mosque is an iconic landmark in Sahiwal and is designed in the Turkish style, which makes it stand out in the region. It features a stunning combination of sandstone and white marble inlay, deviating from the traditional Turkish mosque design that often uses intricate tile work for decoration. This mosque serves as both a place of worship and a tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country, making it a significant cultural and historical site in Sahiwal.

Nightlife

Culture and Heritage

Sahiwal, historically an agricultural region with woodlands during the Indus Valley Civilization, has evolved over centuries to become a key area in Pakistan's Punjab province. The region’s cultural roots trace back to the Vedic period, where Indo-Aryan influences took shape. Today, the majority of the population is Muslim, accounting for 97.51%, while Christians make up a small portion, around 2.36%. The literacy rate in Sahiwal is relatively high, at 61.14%, reflecting the growing educational awareness in the region.

Punjabi is the dominant language spoken by residents, with 98.03% of the population using it as their first language, followed by Urdu and a smaller percentage of English speakers. Ethnically, the region is home to various groups, including Gujar, Jatt, Rajput, Awan, and Arain. Social mobility and changing attitudes have led to a more fluid caste system, with greater interactions and marriages across caste lines. Agriculture remains the primary economic activity in Sahiwal, with the cultivation of wheat, cotton, sugarcane, rice, and other crops. The livestock sector, including poultry farming, is also a significant contributor to the local economy. Culturally, Sahiwal is known for its warm and friendly people, who are very welcoming, especially during Eid celebrations. While traditionally conservative, societal changes have brought more women into public life, with increasing participation in driving and educational pursuits.