Pakistan Tourism

Multan

The City of Saints and Mangoes

Introduction – Multan: A City of Spirituality and Heritage

Multan, located in the heart of Punjab, Pakistan, is one of the oldest living cities in South Asia. Known as the “City of Saints”, Multan is famous for its Sufi shrines, mango orchards, handicrafts, and rich culture.

With a history spanning over 5,000 years, Multan has witnessed the rise and fall of many empires including the Greeks, Arabs, Mughals, and British. Today, Multan stands as a vibrant hub of religion, trade, and tourism.

At pakistanptpc, we highlight Multan’s spiritual significance, cultural treasures, and economic role, making it one of the most important cities in Pakistan.

History of Multan – A Journey Through Civilizations

Multan’s history is both fascinating and complex. It is believed to have existed since the Indus Valley Civilization and has been mentioned in ancient texts and legends.

  1. Ancient Era: Known as Mulasthana, a center of Hindu sun worship.
  2. Arab Invasion (712 AD): Muhammad bin Qasim conquered Multan and introduced Islam to the region.
  3. Sufi Influence: Saints like Bahauddin Zakariya and Shah Rukn-e-Alam made Multan a center of Islamic spirituality.
  4. Mughal & Sikh Rule: The city flourished under Mughal architecture and later came under Sikh dominance.
  5. British Period: Multan became an important garrison town for the British.
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Multan culture, City of Saints, Multan handicrafts, Multan blue pottery, Multan Urs festival

Culture of Multan – The Spirit of Sufism

Multan’s culture is deeply rooted in Sufism and spirituality. It is often called the City of Saints because of the large number of shrines that exist here.

  1. Language: Saraiki is the native tongue, alongside Punjabi and Urdu.
  2. Art and Handicrafts: Multan is famous for blue pottery, camel-skin lamps, handwoven carpets, and Ajrak.
  3. Festivals: Annual Urs celebrations of saints bring together thousands of devotees.
  4. Hospitality: The people of Multan are known for their warmth and respect.

At pakistanptpc, we emphasize Multan’s culture as a blend of spirituality, art, and tradition.

Tourist Attractions in Multan

Multan is a treasure trove of history, spirituality, and culture.

1. Shrine of Bahauddin Zakariya

  • A magnificent Sufi shrine attracting thousands of devotees.

2. Shrine of Shah Rukn-e-Alam

  • An architectural masterpiece of the Tughlaq era, built with blue glazed tiles.

3. Multan Fort (Qila Kohna Qasim Bagh)

  • Once a stronghold of rulers, it now offers a panoramic view of the city.

4. Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar)

  • A historic landmark built during British rule.

5. Hussain Agahi Bazaar

  • A bustling marketplace for handicrafts, embroidery, and local products.

6. Multan Museum

  • Preserves the city’s history with artifacts, coins, and manuscripts.

Multan’s Famous Food and Cuisine

Multan’s food culture is rich and diverse. From traditional Punjabi dishes to Saraiki specialties, food lovers find endless options here.

Must-Try Dishes in Multan:

  1. Multani Sohan Halwa – a world-famous sweet delicacy.
  2. Saraiki Sajji – slow-cooked meat with aromatic spices.
  3. Multani Mangoes – considered among the best in the world.
  4. Kabli Pulao – a rice dish with raisins, carrots, and mutton.
  5. Street Food: Gol gappay, dahi bhallay, and spicy chaats.

Tea stalls and food streets in Multan are popular gathering spots for locals and visitors.

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Multan Bazaars and Handicrafts

Multan is known for its colorful bazaars and handmade crafts.

  • Hussain Agahi Bazaar: Famous for traditional items.

  • Chowk Bazaar: Known for blue pottery and embroidery.

  • Shah Rukn-e-Alam Market: Famous for handicrafts and camel-skin lamps.

Handicrafts of Multan:

  • Blue Pottery – glazed ceramic art.

  • Camel Skin Lamps – beautifully handcrafted.

  • Ajrak & Embroidery – traditional designs.

  • Multani Carpets – handwoven and durable.

Multan – The Mango Capital of Pakistan

Multan is internationally famous for its mango orchards.

  • Popular Varieties: Chaunsa, Anwar Ratol, Dussehri, Langra, and White Chaunsa.

  • Exports: Multani mangoes are exported worldwide.

  • Seasonal Festivals: Mango festivals attract traders and tourists.

At pakistanptpc, we promote Multan’s mango industry as one of Pakistan’s biggest agricultural exports.

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