10 world heritage sites of Pakistan

If you have a love for history, historical places, rich cultures, and heritage and want to explore ancient sites in Pakistan, then this piece of article is for you. In this article, we will list a few world heritage sites of Pakistan that everyone can explore.

Archaeological Ruins at Mohenjo-Daro (1980)

This site, Archaeological Ruins at Mohenjo-Daro is in Larkana, Sindh, Pakistan and it was originally built in the 2500 BC. It is said that this site is the oldest physical evidence of urban planning. It is one of the largest settlements from the Indus Valley Civilisation. The site was abandoned about 3000 years ago, but archaeologists rediscovered it in the 1920. However, experts warn it might completely vanish by the year 2030. This is a must visit place for anyone who loves exploring ancient places.

Buddhist Ruins of Takht-I-Bahi and Sahr-I-Bahlol (1980)

This site consists of the ruins of a Buddhist monastery and a Buddhist city. The site was rediscovered in the early 1900s. In this site one can find stupas, structures and chapels that go back to 1st century CE. A must visit place for everybody.

Lahore Fort and Shalimar Gardens

Lahore Fort and Shalimar Gardens are situated in the heart of Lahore. These two sites are the most important structures from the Mughal era. Thousands of visitors come to visit these places everyday. The Lahore Fort has about 21 monumental sites, the fort was built in the mid 16th century. While, Shalimar Gardens, is a Persian styled garden and has been around since 1641 AD.

The Archaeological City of Taxila (1980)

The archaeological City of Taxila is near Islamabad which is extremely popular among tourists. The ruins in Taxila include everything from ancient Buddhist monasteries to stupas to tombs and to mosques. It is an important historical site in Punjab, Pakistan and must visit place if you are in Islamabad.

Rohtas Fort

Rohtas Fort is in Jhelum, and it was constructed in 1541 by the Pashtun King, Sher Shah Suri who was the founder of the short-lived Suri dynasty. It took 7 years to build this fort. The reason behind the construction of Rohtas fort was to stop the Mughal forces from invading the region but thankfully, it was never stormed in so most of the fort’s structure remains intact. If you plan on taking a trip to Jhelum, don’t forget to visit Rohtas Fort.

Historical Monuments of Thatta

Thatta served as an ancient capital of Sindh and is home to the tombs of numerous emperors, governors, queens, philosophers and saints. As a matter of fact, historians believe that up-to 1 million people were buried on the hill between 14th to 18th century. It is one of the largest communal burial sites. However, it needs to be renovated as the old tombstones have begun to crumble.

Derawar Fort

Derawar Fort is a large fort based near Bahawalpur, Pakistan. It was built by Rai Jajja Solanki in the 9th century. Rai Jajja was a Hindu Rajput ruler. Derawar Fort is a famous hallmark of Bahawalpur which stands in the middle of Cholistan desert. Derawar Fort is surrounded by numerous archaeologists’ sites. Add this to your list of exploring ancient places.

Baltit Fort

Baltit fort is in the Hunza Valley, near Karimabad in Gilgit-Baltistan. The foundations of this fort dates to 700 years ago. Baltit Fort remains open all year round that too seven days a week, many people visit the fort. It has a three-story building; it also has a display of an ancient sword and weapon collection mostly brought in from China and Russia. The view from the Baltit Fort is breath taking. Everyone should visit the fort at least once.

Wazir Khan Mosque

Wazir Khan mosque is a 17th century mosque in Lahore near Delhi gate. The detailed designs and architecture of the mosque is so beautiful that it takes you back to the time when Muslims rules the subcontinent. The mosaic designs, intricate work on tiles, kashi kari, engraved stones add beauty to the mosque’s design. Do plan a visit to this magnificent mosque.

Hiran Minar

Hiran Minar located in Sheikhupura, it was built by Mughal Emperor, Jahangir in honour of his beloved pet antelope named Mansraj. Hiran Minar is divided into six tiers of different heights and its entire exterior has lime plaster. Hiran Minar is considered as the best attraction for tourists from all around the globe. Several people visit the Minar daily.