Lahore

Once the residence of great Mughal royals, the fort calls for a slow-paced examination of its grounds, believed to contain some of Lahore's most ancient relics. Taking a guided tour is highly recommended (prices and duration negotiable). On-site museums include an armoury and painting exhibitions, along with a Mughal Gallery containing artefacts dating back to the era.

The splendid Badshahi Mosque ranks among the world's largest, and the city of Lahore's finest attractions. Apart from elaborate decor and architectural detail, mosque grounds contain the Tomb of Allama Iqbal, a prominent Pakistani philosopher and poet. It's beautifully illuminated at night; look over from the top floor of a restaurant in nearby Food Street.

The only remaining example of Mughal-era planning, Shalimar Gardens were designed to create a perfect cohabiting space for humans and elements of nature. Centuries later, the gardens are one of the main tourist attractions in Pakistan.

The splendid Lahore Museum offers fascinating insight into the rich history of the Indian subcontinent. Artefacts and displays date back to the earliest findings of early prehistoric times all the way through to the late 20th century, including Gandharan, Mughal, Sikh and British relics.

Animal-lovers and those travelling with children should try and write the Lahore Zoo into their itinerary. Its variety of animal species is among the widest on the subcontinent, including tigers, lions, hippos, crocodiles, and a great many birds. The drive-through safari park on the southern edge of town provides a further glimpse of animal life.

The tomb of Mughal emperor Jahangir is a majestic work of architecture, commissioned by his son Shah Jahan in memory of his late father. The complex is known especially for its intricate detail which includes ornate frescoes, carved marble, and mosaics of semi-precious stone known as "pietra dura" style.

Completed in the middle of the 17th century, the Wazir Khan Mosque is ornately decorated with traditional architecture additions of the Mughal-era. Moreover, does the complex host several shops and is the resting place to Syed Muhammad Ishaq Gazruni, whose tomb is placed in the complex. The different creative expressions inside the mosque, will amaze you and make it hard to take your eyes of the colourful ceilings.