Multan
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Multan | The City of Saints | Attractions | Best Things to Do 2026

Multan, one of the oldest living cities in Pakistan, is a place where centuries of history unfold at every turn. From ancient shrines with gleaming blue-tiled domes to bustling bazaars scented with sweets and spices. Known across the country as the “City of Saints,” Multan is home to some of South Asia’s most revered Sufi shrines, drawing pilgrims and curious travelers alike to its narrow, winding streets.

But Multan is more than its spiritual landmarks. It’s a city of intense heat and warm hospitality, of mango orchards stretching to the horizon, of centuries-old handicraft traditions still practiced by local artisans, and of a cuisine that ranges from rich, spiced karahis to the city’s famous Sohan Halwa.

Whether you’re drawn by history, architecture, food, or simply the chance to experience a slower, more traditional side of Pakistan, Multan offers travelers an authentic and rewarding journey.

In this blog, we cover everything you need to plan your trip: the best time to visit, how to get there, top places to see, must-try local food, and a few practical tips before you go.

Table of Contents

1- Multan’s Name
2- History
3- Location
4- Population
5- Area
6- Geography
7- Best Time to Visit
8- Culture of Multan
9- Famous Food & Restaurants
10- Multan International Airport
11- Multan Railway
12- Tourist Attractions
13- Shrines in Multan
14- Multan Handicrafts
15- Multan Cricket Stadium
16- Practical Tips for Tourists
17- How to Reach Multan
18- Conclusion

1. Multan’s Name

The historian Al-Biruni, in his book Kitab-ul-Hind, mentioned several earlier names for Multan, including Hamsapura, Sobezadpur, Shambhapura, and Mulasthana, before it ultimately became widely known as Multan.

2. History of Multan

Multan faced many invasions throughout ancient history. Numerous conquerors attempted to seize control of the city, but Multan withstood these attacks time and again, and its historical significance endured.

Many writers noted that during the Islamic era, the city was given honorific titles such as Bait-al-Zhab, Dar-ul-Aman, Dar-ul-Islam, Qubit-ul-Islam, and Madina-tul-Islam.

  • Before Islam, the Sun Temple:

Multan is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in South Asia, with a history stretching back thousands of years to the era of the Indus Valley Civilization. Ancient Greek and Persian writers referred to the city by various names, including Kashyapapura, and it was long famed for its Sun Temple, which made it an important pilgrimage site for centuries before the arrival of Islam.

  • Alexander the Great:

In 326 BC, Alexander the Great led his army into the region during his campaign in the Indian subcontinent. Near present-day Multan, he encountered fierce resistance from the Malli (Malloi) tribe. During the siege of their stronghold, Alexander was struck by an arrow and severely wounded — an injury from which he eventually recovered, though it is said to have weakened him for the remainder of his life. He continued his campaign afterward and died in Babylon in 323 BC, roughly three years later.

  • The 7th century Era:

Multan changed hands many times over the following centuries, ruled successively by local dynasties, the Mauryan Empire under Chandragupta Maurya, and later Hindu and Buddhist kingdoms. The Chinese Buddhist monk Xuanzang, who traveled through the region in the 7th century AD, documented Multan as a thriving center of trade and worship.

  • After the Arrival of Islam:

With the arrival of Islam, Muhammad bin Qasim conquered Multan in 712 AD, bringing the city under Muslim rule for the first time. Over the next several centuries, it passed through the hands of the Ghaznavids, the Delhi Sultanate, and various local governors, while also facing repeated Mongol raids during the 13th and 14th centuries — a turbulent period during which the city was besieged and rebuilt many times over.

  • Sufi Mystics:

It was during the medieval period that Multan rose to prominence as one of South Asia’s most important centers of Sufism, earning it the enduring title “City of Saints.” Renowned Sufi mystics — including Bahauddin Zakariya, Shah Rukn-e-Alam, and Shams Tabriz — settled and taught in the city, and their shrines remain among Multan’s most visited landmarks today, drawing pilgrims and visitors from across the country.

  • Mughal Empire:

Under the Mughal Empire, established in 1526, Multan enjoyed a long period of relative stability and grew into a major center of trade, craftsmanship, and culture, particularly known for its textiles and pottery. This era of Mughal governance lasted until the mid-18th century, after which regional power shifted.

  • Sikh Ruler:

In 1818, Multan fell to the forces of Sikh ruler Ranjit Singh following a prolonged siege. Sikh rule over the city lasted roughly three decades until 1849, when the British East India Company annexed Punjab, bringing Multan under colonial administration for nearly a century.

  • Multan Independence:

Following the creation of Pakistan on August 14, 1947, Multan became part of the newly independent nation. In the decades since, it has grown into one of Pakistan’s largest and most historically significant cities — celebrated for its Sufi shrines, traditional blue pottery and handicrafts, mango orchards, and landmarks such as the historic Multan Fort (Qasim Bagh).

3. Location

Multan is located between north latitudes 29°22′ and 30°24′, and east longitudes 71°03′ and 72°28′. Lodhran and Khanewal districts border it to the east, Khanewal district lies to the north, Bahawalpur district lies to the south, and the River Chenab forms its western boundary. The River Sutlej separates it from Bahawalpur district, while the River Chenab separates Multan city from Muzaffargarh.

4. Population

In 1981, the population was 1,970,075. By the 1998 census, it had grown to 3,116,851. The population continued rising steadily: the 2017 census recorded 4,746,166 people, and the 2023 census recorded 5,362,305.

5. Area

The total area of Multan city is 3,721 square kilometers. Its built-up area ranges from approximately 47.8 to 141.12 square kilometers.

6. Geography of Multan:

  • Farming:

Multan is bordered by five well-known rivers, and the resulting fertile land makes it one of the most productive agricultural regions in Punjab. Multan is especially known for its abundant mango orchards; the city accounts for roughly 78% of mango orchards in the region and contributes about 40% of Pakistan’s total mango trade. The River Chenab is the primary source of irrigation water, supporting crops such as sugarcane, millet, wheat, mustard, rice, maize, and pulses.

Orchards of citrus, oranges, guava, and pomegranates are also common. Notable trees include Dalbergia sissoo (Sheesham), Morus alba (white mulberry), Morus nigra (black mulberry), Prosopis cineraria (jand), and Tamarix articulata (farash).

  • Ground Surface:

Multan’s land is divided into four major categories: water, agricultural land, built-up areas, and open soil. The soil is moderately calcareous, with a pH between 8.2 and 8.4, and relatively low organic content typically around 0.75%. The soil is predominantly grayish-brown to olive-brown in color and largely sandy in composition.

  • Annual Rainfall:

Annual rainfall in the southwestern part of the city averages around 125mm, while the northwestern side receives about 150mm per year. Between July and October, rainfall totals around 18mm.

7. Best Time to Visit

Multan has a harsh desert climate, with summer temperatures often exceeding 45°C (113°F) between May and August. Most travelers avoid visiting during this period. The best time to visit is between November and February, when daytime temperatures are mild and comfortable for sightseeing.

8. Culture of Multan

In 1975, the Punjab Council of Art, Lahore, established a branch known as the Multan Arts Council, located at Art Council Park Road, Al Rahim Colony, Multan.

  • Notable Festivals Held in Multan:

  1. Punjab Talent Hunt Festivals (2021 & 2022)
  2. Voice of South Punjab (2018)
  3. Saraiki Adab Festival (2015)
  4. Lok Mela
  5. Japanese Calendar Show
  6. International Women’s Day (2009)
  7. Textile Fashion Show (2011)
  8. Sculpture exhibition by Sadiq Ali Shehzad
  9. 1st Sufi Festival (2006)
  10. Spring Festival (held every March)
  11. Basant Festival (now banned)
  12. Urs of Hazrat Shah Rukn-e-Alam
  13. Urs of Hazrat Bahauddin Zakariya Multani
  14. Urs of Hazrat Shah Shams Sabzwari Tabrizi (held annually from July 1–3)

  • Language:

According to the 2023 census, 63.89% of the population speaks Saraiki, 17.72% speaks Urdu, 16.00% speaks Punjabi, and the remaining 2.39% speak Mewati and other languages.

  • Religion:

According to the 2017 census, Muslims made up 98.99% of the population, followed by small Hindu (0.09%) and Christian (0.86%) communities. The Sikh population was recorded at just 104 people.

9. Famous Food & Restaurants:

Hafiz ka Sohan Halwa:

Sohan Halwa is a rich, traditional sweet made with pure desi ghee, fresh milk, and high-quality peanuts. The word “halwa” comes from Persian but is now used universally. The dish became popular during the Mughal era and remains beloved across India and Pakistan today.

The story of Hafiz Ka Sohan Halwa spans three generations: Hafiz Ahmed Din first prepared it as a family dish in 1930, and in 1963 his son-in-law, Hafiz Habib-ul-Rehman, began selling it commercially from a shop on Hussain Agahi Road in Multan. The business has since expanded nationwide and internationally, and it received American International Quality Awards in 1993 and 1997.

  • Bundu Khan Restaurant:

Bundu Khan Restaurant, located at 64 Abdali Road near SP Chowk, Altaf Town, Multan, this restaurant chain was originally established in Karachi in 1957 and is known throughout Pakistan for its quality service and flavorful cooking. The restaurant is elegantly furnished, follows hygienic food preparation standards, and offers both buffet and à la carte dining.

  • Shah Jahan Grill:

Located in an upscale neighborhood on Gulistan Avenue, Shah Jahan Grill specializes in Mughlai cuisine and features interior décor inspired by Mughal architecture. The restaurant also offers free home delivery.

  • Shangrilla Chinese Restaurant:

Located at 117B Bohra Street, Saddar, in Multan Cantt’s commercial area, this restaurant serves authentic Chinese cuisine in a dining room styled to match and is easily accessible from the city center.

  •  London Courtyard:

London Courtyard, located at 35A Gulgasht Colony, has architecture inspired by classic English building styles. It’s known for its stuffed and beef steaks, along with dishes like Oxford Chicken and club sandwiches, and offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery.

  • Multan Dilmeer Pera House:

Located on Mall Road in Multan Cantt, this shop is known for its distinctive lassi, often served with makhan pera. It also offers barfi, gajrela, milk, and other traditional desserts, and has been operating since before Partition.

  • Haji Malik Allah Wasaya Fish Fry Shop:

Located at Khooni Burj Chowk, Mohalla Pir Kaloo Shah, this shop is well-known locally for its fish and BBQ dishes, prepared with hygienic methods. It offers family seating for a comfortable dining experience.

  • Doli Roti:

A Multan specialty, doli roti is a flatbread made from a dough of flour, yeast, black cardamom, fennel seeds, sugar, and chana dal, mixed with warm water. It’s traditionally served with spicy potatoes, mung bean lentils, chickpeas, and lotus root. It can be found on Kutchery Road, Mohalla Qadirabad.

  • Rewari Sweet Mart:

Located near Hussain Agahi Road and Qila Kuhna Qasim Bagh, this shop has been making traditional sweets since 1961, including Sohan Halwa, patisa, and barfi, and ships nationwide via cargo services.

  • Mehrab Restaurant Dumpukht:

Located along the Chenab River near Sher Shah, Multan, this restaurant spans over two acres and is known for its signature Mutton Dumpukht.

  • Bar. B. Q Tonight Restaurant Multan Cantt:

Located in the Cantt Food Court near Chamanzar Askari Lake, this restaurant opened on November 10, 1988, and is known for its BBQ dishes, scenic lakeside outdoor seating, and home delivery service. The restaurant also provides home delivery services. The fantastic and unforgettable view of the restaurant creates more splendor and enthusiasm. They provide the best outdoor and indoor, well-furnished seating areas. The outdoor seating area near the lake bank makes it more stunning and splendid.

10. Multan International Airport

Multan International Airport, officially the Muhammad Bin Qasim International Airport, operates under Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and is located about 4km west of the city. Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif inaugurated its new terminal building in 2015. Passenger traffic rose from 384,571 in 2014–15 to 904,865 in 2015–16 following the upgrade.

  • History:

The airport was originally laid out by the British and first used by the Royal Air Force in 1919. It began operating civilian flights in 1934, making it one of the earliest active airports in Punjab, and Imperial Airways ran flights through it from 1938 onward. Before Partition, flights connected Jacobabad to Karachi via Multan.

After independence, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) began operating from Multan using a Douglas DC-3, and the airport’s infrastructure was upgraded over the following decades. In 1971, PIA acquired Boeing aircraft, prompting the runway to be extended to 9,000 by 100 feet. A new terminal building was constructed in 1977 for Boeing 720 operations, and further capacity improvements followed with the introduction of Airbus A300 aircraft between 1980 and 1988. In 1999, private carriers began offering international flights from Multan alongside PIA, connecting the city to destinations including Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.

  • Airlines currently operating from Multan:

  1. PIA (Pakistan International Airlines)
  2. Emirates
  3. Qatar Airways
  4. Air Arabia Abu Dhabi
  5. Air Blue
  6. Fly Dubai
  7. Gulf Air

11. Multan Railway Station

Multan has three railway stations: Multan Cantonment, Multan City, and Multan New City. Multan Cantonment is the busiest and most important of the three, situated on the Karachi–Peshawar railway line. It connects Multan to major cities including Quetta, Peshawar, Karachi, and Lahore, as well as nearby cities like Lodhran, Muzaffargarh, and Khanewal.

  • Notable trains that stop at Multan Cantt:

  1. Tezgam Express
  2. Pakistan Express
  3. Shalimar Express
  4. Karachi Express
  5. Night Coach Express
  6. Khyber Mail
  7. Hazara Express
  8. Awam Express
  9. Jaffar Express

12. Tourist Attractions:

  • Multan Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar):

This landmark reflects the architecture of the British colonial era. It was built starting February 12, 1884, taking four years to complete, on the site of Ahmed Khan Sadozai’s haveli, which was destroyed during the Siege of Multan. The building was originally known as “Ripon Hall” or “Ripon Building,” named after the British viceroy Lord Ripon, and served as a municipal office. After independence, it became known as Jinnah Hall.

  • Qila Kuhna Qasim Bagh:

This historic fort holds deep religious, cultural, and historical significance for the city. It’s named after the Umayyad general Muhammad bin Qasim, who conquered Multan and established Muslim rule in the region. With a force of just 12,000 soldiers, he defeated the city’s defenders on 10 Ramadan-ul-Mubarak, 712 AD.

The fort itself was originally built on the banks of the River Chenab by the Katoch dynasty between roughly 800 and 1000 BCE, intended to protect the city from invaders, and it has witnessed numerous battles over the centuries. Following the killing of British officer Lieutenant Alexander Vans Agnew on orders from the Governor of Sindh, British forces attacked the fort in 1848–49 in retaliation, destroying part of the structure.

Excavations of the fort’s underground layers have uncovered metal coins, clay toys, bone bangles, bricks, and colorful vessels, and historical accounts suggest the caves were once used to hold prisoners. A museum on site now displays artifacts from multiple civilizations. Reconstruction of the fort began under the Multan Municipality in 1949 and was completed in 1953, with further restoration work carried out through 1996.

a- Notable gates of Qila Kuhna:

  1. Bab-e-Qasim Gate, the main entrance, and visible from the Shah Rukn-e-Alam shrine on the way to Ghanta Ghar.
  2. Khizri Gate, named after Khawaja Khizr, historically used by travelers arriving by river; later destroyed by the British and Sikhs.
  3. Sikh Gate, named for its proximity to Sikhi Village; also destroyed.
  4. Harari Gate, no longer standing.

  • 360 Zoo DHA:

Located on Main Jinnah Avenue, Sector B, Phase I, DHA Multan, this is a popular family attraction featuring a range of animal exhibits alongside a zoological and botanical garden, with activities for both children and adults.

  • Nigar Khana:

Located near Qila Kuhna Qasim Bagh, opposite the mausoleum of Shah Rukn-e-Alam, Nigar Khana was known during the British era as “Barood Khana,” used to store weapons. For over 45 years, it has served as a center for local handicrafts and artisan work, including mosaic art, naqashi (miniature painting), glasswork, blue pottery, camel bone jewelry, and decorative items like table lamps and flasks.

  • Chaman Zar Askari Lake:

Also known as Fort Park, this lake near Sher Shah Road in Multan Cantt is a popular recreational spot offering paddle boat rides, a small zoo, and various activities suited to visitors of all ages.

  • Rumanza Golf Course and Country Club:

Located in DHA on Bosan Road, this 270-acre facility features an 18-hole, internationally designed golf course by Sir Nick Faldo, along with mango, lemon, date, and lychee trees planted throughout the grounds. It’s considered a premier sporting and leisure destination in the city.

13. Shrines in Multan

Shrines mark the resting places of Sufi saints who devoted their lives to teaching and practicing Islam.

  • Hazrat Bahauddin Zakariya Multani:

Known by the honorific Baha-ul-Haq, Hazrat Bahauddin Zakariya Multani (1170–1262 AD) was a leading saint of the Suharwardiyya order. Born near Multan in Kot Kheror, he memorized the Quran by age 12 and later traveled to Bukhara to pursue religious scholarship. He was appointed spiritual representative of Baghdad by the renowned Sufi Abu Hafs Umar Suhrawardi and sent to preach in Multan, where he settled permanently in 1222 AD after 15 years of traveling and teaching across southern Punjab. His teachings led Multan to be dubbed “the Baghdad of the East.” He passed away in 1268 AD, and his mausoleum, roughly 51 feet 9 inches square, stands near the site of the former Prahladpuri Temple within Qila Kuhna Qasim Bagh.

  • Hazrat Shah Shamsuddin Sabzawari (Shams Tabriz):

Born in 1165 AD in Sabzwar, Iran, this revered saint traveled extensively through Central Asia and the Middle East before settling in Multan in 1260 AD, where he built a dargah and began preaching. He passed away in 1275 AD, and his grandson built his mausoleum in 1330 AD, decorating it with ornamental glazed tiles. The shrine, roughly 30 feet square, sits near Aam Khas Garden, east of the old fort site.

  • Hazrat Shah Rukn-e-Alam:

The grandson of Hazrat Bahauddin Zakariya, he was born on 26 November 1251 AD and passed away on 3 January 1335 AD. His mausoleum, given the title “Shah Rukn-e-Alam” (Pillar of the World), was built between 1320 and 1324 AD in the distinctive Tughlaq architectural style. The mausolem construction using burnt bricks, glazed tiles, and octagonal detailing. The Punjab Archaeology Department restored it in the 1970s. The octagonal structure stands roughly 100 feet tall, including its dome, and about 150 feet above road level since it sits on raised ground, making it visible from miles away. Its dome is widely regarded as the second-largest in the world, after the Gol Gumbaz in Bijapur, India.

  • Shrine of Hazrat Yousaf Shah Gardez:

Hazrat Yousaf Gardezi arrived in Multan in 1088 AD to spread Islamic teachings. Born in 1058 AD in Gardez and passing away in 1136 AD, his shrine near Bohar Gate in the Inner City is adorned with white and blue glazed tiles in traditional Multani style, with intricate mirror-work (ayina kari) decorating the interior.

  • Tomb of Peer Syed Hamid Shah Gillani:

Located in Gillani Mohalla, Inner City, this shrine was built in 1934 in a traditional style, with Mughal-inspired floral motifs decorating its interior.

14. Multan Handicrafts:

  • Camel Skin Lamps:

Multan is known for its distinctive camel-skin lamps, a craft dating back roughly a century. The tradition began in 1910 when Ustad Abdullah introduced naqashi (decorative painting) on camel-skin lamps; his grandson, Abdul-Rehman Naqash, continues the craft today. The work involves three specialized roles: the tanner (who prepares the skin), the naqash (who paints the design), and the dabgar (who shapes the lamp). Products include vases, table lamps, hanging lamps, and wall pieces in designs ranging from floral to jungle motifs, and are available for order online.

  • Multani Khussa:

Multani khussa are traditional handmade leather slippers, a craft closely associated with Multan and the wider Sindh and Punjab regions. Artisans hand-stitch each pair from vegetable-tanned leather, then embellish the uppers with embroidery, mirrors, beads, and brass nails. Today, Multani khussa are sold both locally and internationally, prized for their durability and distinctive craftsmanship.

15. Multan Cricket Stadium

Officially known as the Ibn-e-Qasim Cricket Stadium since its 2001 inauguration, this stadium is located on Vehari Road and has a seating capacity of 35,000. It’s equipped with floodlights for day/night matches.

  • Notable Matches organized here:

  1. The stadium’s first Test match, played between Pakistan and Bangladesh in 2001
  2. Its first ODI, played between Pakistan and Bangladesh on 9 September 2003
  3. A day/night ODI between Pakistan and India on 16 February 2006
  4. Pakistan Super League matches, beginning in 2018, including a 26 February 2020 fixture between Peshawar Zalmi and Multan Sultans
  5. Three ODIs between Pakistan and the West Indies in May- June 2022
  6. A Test series between Pakistan and England in August 2022
  7. The opening match of the Asia Cup 2023, between Pakistan and Nepal

16. Practical Tips for Tourists

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting shrines.
  • Carry water and sun protection if visiting between March and October, when temperatures are extremely high.
  • Local rickshaws and ride-hailing apps (Careem, InDrive) are the easiest way to get around the city.
  • Friday afternoons can be crowded at major shrines due to weekly prayers; plan visits accordingly.

17. How to Reach Multan:

  • By air:

Multan International Airport connects the city to major domestic hubs (Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad) and select international destinations.

  • By road:

Multan sits on the National Highway (N-5) and Motorway (M-5), roughly 4–5 hours from Lahore and 6–7 hours from Islamabad by car or bus.

  • By train:

Multan Cantt railway station is a major stop on Pakistan Railways’ main line, with regular service from Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.

18. Conclusion

Despite its intense summer heat, Multan more than makes up for it with the beauty of its shrine architecture, its rich cultural heritage, and its centuries-deep history. From ancient forts and Sufi shrines to mango orchards and handicraft traditions, the city offers visitors a rewarding, immersive glimpse into a slower, more traditional side of Pakistan. Anyone who visits Multan is unlikely to leave unimpressed by its architecture and well-preserved heritage.

FAQs

1- Was Multan a significant part of the Indus Valley Civilization?

Yes, Multan is considered a major center linked to the Indus Valley Civilization and remains an important economic hub in western Punjab today.

2- Why is Multan known as the “City of Saints”?

Multan earned this title because of the large number of revered Sufi saints who settled, taught, and are buried there, with their shrines remaining major pilgrimage sites.

3-  What sweet is Multan famous for?

Sohan Halwa is Multan’s most famous sweet, renowned throughout Pakistan for its rich, traditional flavor.

Muhammad Rizwan is a passionate travel writer and the founder of Travel Point Guide. With a deep love for exploring new destinations, he has spent years researching and writing detailed travel guides covering Pakistan, the Middle East, Turkey, and beyond. His mission is to help travelers discover the world's most beautiful places with honest, practical and up to date information.

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