Lahore is loud. It’s fast. It rarely shuts up. As much as for the food and the chaos of the city, there are plenty of places in Lahore where you can reach in a couple of hours, spend the day, and come back without needing a hotel booking or a backup plan. Some of these are historical, some natural, and a few just weird enough to be interesting.
Here is a peek into one of the weekend gateways near Lahore.
Hiran Minar, Sheikhupura
Distance from Lahore: ~45 km
Hiran Minar is one of those oddly charming places that make you pause—partly because it’s quiet, and partly because there’s a 30-meter tower built for a dead pet antelope.
The main minaret sits beside a large man-made water tank, perfect for a walk, some idle birdwatching, or just staring at ducks until your brain resets. You can even rent a boat, if you’re into that. The nearby octagonal pavilion is great for a sit-down break with a view.
Go early in the morning or just before sunset to avoid the school field trips and family picnics. And if you’re already in day-tripping mode, this is also one of several historical places in Pakistan worth checking off your list.
Khewra Salt Mine
Distance from Lahore: ~195 km
Khewra, usually en route to Islamabad is a salt tunnel that still feels surreal when getting into. The cool air hits you instantly, and then you see it: a mosque made entirely out of pink salt bricks, lit up like someone’s 90s lava lamp fantasy.
This is one of the oldest and largest salt mines in the world, and the guided tours are worth doing at least once. You’ll pass through crystal formations, underground brine pools, and weird, otherworldly corners that look like they belong in a sci-fi movie.
It gets cold inside – bring a jacket. And if you’re already headed up towards the capital, you might want to bookmark these things to do in Islamabad to stretch the trip a little further.
Katas Raj Temples
Distance from Lahore: ~180 km
Katas Raj Temples are one of those spots that surprise you with how ancient it feels. This complex of Hindu temples, dating back to the 6th century, is nestled in the Potohar Plateau near Chakwal. It’s not just the architecture that’s impressive—it’s the stories and legends tied to this place. People say that the pond at Katas Raj was formed from the teardrops of Lord Shiva, which is why it’s so sacred to Hindus. The temples themselves are stunning, with intricate carvings and stonework that make you wonder how they built all this so long ago.
If you’re into photography, this is a dream spot. The old stone temples with the lush hills in the background make for some fantastic shots. Head there early in the day to avoid the crowds and really take in the peaceful vibe.
Rohtas Fort, Jhelum City
Distance from Lahore: ~180 km
Rohtas Fort is the second favourite fort in Pakistan, right after the forts in Hunza. Rohtas Fort feels like it was built to intimidate – and it still kind of does. The sheer scale of it is hard to grasp until you’re standing beneath one of its twelve massive gates, wondering how many invaders just turned around and went home.
Built by Sher Shah Suri in the 16th century, the fort is a blend of Afghan and Persian architecture. It’s more rugged than romantic, but that’s part of the appeal. The Sohail Gate is especially striking, and if you make it up to the ramparts, the view across the countryside is worth the mild sweat.
Bring good shoes, a bottle of water, and a willingness to wander. You’ll need a few hours to do it justice.
Harappa
Distance from Lahore: ~130 km
Harappa is the kind of place that makes you reconsider everything you learned about “ancient civilizations” in school. Located in Sahiwal, the ruins date back to around 2600 BCE and were once part of the Indus Valley Civilization. People of those times had grid systems and sewage, while most of the world was still figuring out farming.
It’s not flashy, but it doesn’t need to be. The remnants of streets, granaries, and drainage systems speak for themselves. The on-site museum helps fill in the gaps, with pottery, tools, and seals that bring the place to life—at least a little.
It’s a long-ish drive, but if you’re into archaeology, this one’s worth it. Just… keep your expectations realistic. There are no pyramids here. But there is quiet, space to think, and a weird sense of being watched by history.
Kartarpur
Distance from Lahore: ~130 km
Kartarpur is home to the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, one of the most significant religious sites for Sikhs. It’s where Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, spent the last 18 years of his life. The gurdwara itself is an architectural standout, with white domes and detailed carvings that immediately draw your attention. The Kartarpur Corridor, which allows visa-free border crossing for Indian pilgrims, is an important symbol of peace and unity between Pakistan and India.
If you’re planning a visit, make sure to dress respectfully and cover your head. It’s a place of great historical and spiritual importance, and it’s a humbling experience, regardless of your background.