In Lahore, as in the rest of Pakistan, alcohol consumption is tightly regulated due to Islamic laws. For the majority Muslim population, the sale and consumption of alcohol are prohibited, and this has been the case since the 1970s. Non-Muslims, including tourists and foreign residents, are allowed to purchase and consume alcohol but under strict conditions. They need a special permit issued by the provincial government. Some high-end hotels in Lahore, such as the Pearl Continental, Avari Hotel, and Ambassador Hotel, have licences to serve alcohol to non-Muslim guests.
Evenings in Lahore offer a variety of entertainment options beyond bars and clubs. You can savour delicious food at Food Street in Gawalmandi or trendy eateries on MM Alam Road. Visit buzzing cafes like Cafe Aylanto and Peeru's Cafe for a lively atmosphere. Enjoy cultural performances at Alhamra Arts Council or shop at bustling markets such as Liberty Market and Anarkali Bazaar. Relax in the city's serene parks like Bagh-e-Jinnah and Racecourse Park, or catch the latest films at modern cinemas like Cinepax and Cinestar. For a dose of local culture, don't miss live music and poetry readings at venues like The Last Word.