Sufi Shrines
Explore significant shrines associated with Sufi scholars and spiritual traditions that have shaped the city's history.
Southern Punjab · The City of Saints
Discover the Spiritual and Historic City of Multan.
Explore remarkable Sufi shrines, historic architecture, colourful tilework, bustling bazaars and the flavours and crafts of southern Punjab.
A destination guide by Explore Pakistan
Province
Punjab
City Character
Heritage & Spirituality
Suggested Visit
1–2 Days
Known For
Shrines & Blue Pottery
Get to Know Multan
A City of Saints, Heritage and Craftsmanship
Multan is one of southern Punjab's best-known historic cities. Often called the City of Saints, it is associated with a long tradition of Sufi scholarship, pilgrimage, regional crafts, and trade.
The city's architectural heritage includes the celebrated mausoleum of Shah Rukn-e-Alam, the shrine of Bahauddin Zakariya, the historic Multan Fort area and many other religious and cultural sites. Their distinctive brickwork, domes and decorative tilework form an important part of Multan's identity.
Beyond its shrines, Multan is known for traditional blue pottery, kashi-kari tilework, embroidered textiles, local markets, mangoes and regional food. Visitors can learn a great deal by making time for both the main monuments and the working bazaars.
Explore centuries of culture through architecture and craft.
The Multan Experience
What Makes Multan Special?
Multan combines religious heritage, historic architecture, traditional craftsmanship, active bazaars and the distinctive food traditions of southern Punjab.
Distinctive Architecture
Discover domed mausoleums, historic brickwork, carved details, and decorative blue and turquoise tilework.
Blue Pottery and Tilework
Learn about traditional Multani pottery, kashi-kari and the craft traditions represented in local workshops and markets.
Historic Bazaars
Experience the city's traditional markets, textile shops, craft sellers and longstanding commercial streets.
Regional Food
Sample local dishes, traditional sweets, seasonal fruit and familiar Punjabi specialities.
Living Cultural Heritage
Visit respectfully, learn about local traditions and discover how heritage continues to shape everyday life in Multan.
Explore the City
Best Places to Visit in Multan
Use these landmarks as a starting point for exploring Multan's heritage. Shrines and religious sites remain active places of worship, so follow local instructions and verify visitor access before travelling.
Shah Rukn-e-Alam Shrine
One of Multan's most recognisable monuments, this historic Sufi mausoleum is known for its monumental dome, substantial brick structure and glazed decorative tilework. Its architecture makes it an important destination for visitors interested in Sufi heritage and regional design. Respect worshippers and follow shrine etiquette.
Bahauddin Zakariya Shrine
Dedicated to the Sufi scholar Sheikh Bahauddin Zakariya, this shrine is an important spiritual and historical site in Multan. Visitors can appreciate its cultural significance while being mindful that it remains a place of worship.
Multan Fort and Qila Kohna Qasim Bagh
The historic fort area is closely associated with Multan's long urban history and includes important heritage landmarks nearby. Although much of the old fort was damaged over time, the site remains a useful starting point for learning about the city's historic defences and monuments.
Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower)
Ghanta Ghar is a familiar city landmark and a useful point of reference when exploring Multan's central areas. The surrounding streets connect visitors with local commerce and the city's urban atmosphere.
Hussain Agahi Bazaar
One of Multan's well-known traditional markets, Hussain Agahi is a place to explore textiles, handicrafts, everyday goods, and the activity of the old city's commercial streets. Expect busy lanes, crowds and a lively shopping environment.
Shah Shams Sabzwari Shrine
This shrine is associated with Multan's wider Sufi heritage and is visited by devotees and visitors. Explore it respectfully and check local arrangements if you plan to visit during religious gatherings.
Eidgah Mosque
Eidgah Mosque is a notable religious landmark in Multan. As with other active places of worship, access and visitor etiquette should be checked locally. Dress respectfully and avoid disrupting prayer.
Multan's Blue Pottery and Craft Shops
Multan is associated with traditional blue pottery and kashi-kari decorative tilework. Craft shops and workshops can offer an introduction to these distinctive techniques. Ask about the materials and making process and consider buying directly from local craftspeople.
Multan Museum
A museum visit can add context to the city's archaeological, artistic and cultural heritage. Confirm current museum opening arrangements, available collections and visitor access before including it in your itinerary.
Langay Khan Garden and Other Historic Areas
Multan has several historic places and green spaces that may be worth exploring depending on your schedule. Check their current condition, accessibility and local visitor information before setting out.
Explore Multan's Spiritual Heritage Respectfully
Shrines are living religious sites, not simply tourist attractions. Respect local customs, photography rules, dress expectations and requests from site staff.
Make Time to Explore
A Suggested 2-Day Multan Itinerary
This itinerary groups heritage sites, shrines and markets into two flexible days. Adjust it to local conditions, prayer schedules, opening hours, weather and your personal interests.
Shrines, Fort Heritage and Old Multan
Begin with Shah Rukn-e-Alam Shrine and, where access and timing permit, visit Bahauddin Zakariya Shrine. Explore the Qila Kohna Qasim Bagh area and learn about the city's historic fort. In the afternoon, explore selected old-city streets and local craft shops. Allow time for rest and meals, especially during hot weather.
Bazaars, Crafts and Regional Food
Start with Hussain Agahi Bazaar or another traditional market, taking time to explore crafts, textiles and local goods. If available, visit a museum or blue pottery workshop. Later, try regional dishes and sweets while allowing sufficient time for transport between areas.
Explore More of Multan's Local Life
Use additional time for another shrine, cultural site, craft shop, or an unhurried walk through traditional market streets. Confirm opening arrangements and any special local restrictions before visiting.
Seasons and Weather
When Should You Visit Multan?
Multan can experience very hot weather, particularly in summer. Your visit will be more comfortable when you plan outdoor activities around local conditions.
Explore Heritage on Foot
Cooler conditions may make it more comfortable to walk around shrines, historic neighbourhoods and bazaars. Check the forecast and opening arrangements before your visit.
Plan Around the Heat
High temperatures can make outdoor sightseeing tiring. Consider early starts, shade, regular water breaks, suitable clothing, and rest periods during the hottest hours of the day.
Check Local Arrangements
Religious gatherings and annual shrine events may affect crowds, traffic, accommodation availability and access. Check local arrangements before travelling.
Actual weather varies year to year. Consult current forecasts and take precautions for heat, including drinking water and limiting strenuous outdoor activity during extreme conditions.
Before You Go
Practical Travel Tips for Multan
A few simple preparations can help you explore shrines, markets, and historic places with greater comfort and respect for local traditions.
01. Check Site Access
Verify opening hours and visitor arrangements for shrines, museums, mosques and historic buildings before your visit.
02. Prepare for Hot Weather
Carry drinking water, wear suitable clothing, use sun protection and schedule outdoor walks during more comfortable parts of the day.
03. Dress Respectfully
Choose modest clothing for religious sites and follow any local instructions about footwear, entry and visitor conduct.
04. Plan Your Transport
Research local transport options and group nearby attractions to reduce unnecessary journeys across the city.
05. Explore Markets Considerately
Traditional bazaars can be crowded and busy. Keep belongings secure, respect shopkeepers' working space and ask permission before taking photographs of people.
06. Support Local Craftspeople
When buying pottery, textiles, or decorative crafts, ask about their materials and making process. Handle fragile pieces with care.
07. Carry Cash and Essential Items
Some small shops and local services may not accept cards. Carry suitable payment options and any medication you require.
08. Respect Religious Observances
Shrines and mosques are active places of worship. Be mindful of prayer times, worshippers, photography restrictions and local requests.
Local Craftsmanship
Discover Multan's Blue Pottery and Tilework
Multan is associated with blue pottery and kashi-kari, a decorative tilework tradition that gives many historic buildings their distinctive patterns and colours.
Depending on local availability, visitors may find ceramic bowls, vases, decorative pieces, tiles, textiles and other handmade goods in market shops and workshops. Ask sellers about how items are made and whether the work is locally produced.
When visiting a working workshop, respect the artisans' space and ask before taking photographs. Buying directly from local craftspeople can help sustain traditional skills and livelihoods.
Explore More
Discover More Destinations
Continue exploring northern Pakistan or plan a broader journey through the country.
Historic City
Peshawar
Find information about traditional bazaars, regional food and the city's long-standing cultural heritage.
Explore Peshawar
Mountain Getaway
Murree
Plan a hill-station escape with scenic drives, forest landscapes and nearby places to explore.
Explore Murree
Lakes & Mountain Roads
Naran & Kaghan
Research seasonal road conditions, mountain scenery and route options before planning your trip.
Explore Naran & KaghanUseful Resources
Continue Planning Your Visit
Use official regional resources to research local heritage, shrines and other attractions before travelling.
Multan Fort and Heritage
Read the Multan district administration's information about Multan Fort and associated historic sites.
View Official Information ↗Punjab Shrine Information
Consult the Punjab Auqaf Department's shrine listings for information about religious heritage sites.
Explore Shrine Listings ↗Multan Tourism Brochure
Explore a published Multan tourism brochure containing destination and visitor information for the city.
Open Tourism Brochure ↗Your Pakistan Journey
Make Multan Part of Your Pakistan Adventure
Discover historic shrines, explore traditional crafts, taste regional flavours and learn about the heritage of southern Punjab.