About Lahore
Lahore is the capital and largest city of the Pakistani province of Punjab. It is the second-largest city in Pakistan, after Karachi, and 27th largest in the world, with a population of over 14 million. Lahore is one of the country's major industrial, educational and economic hubs, and is considered the historic capital and cultural centre of the wider Punjab region.
Where to stay in Lahore
Popular hotels in Lahore, out of 3 properties you can book.
See all hotels in Lahore
Best time to visit Lahore
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Lahore is February to March and November to December, when average daytime highs are around 68–81°F and rain falls on about 4 days a month.
Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.
Lahore weather forecast
- Fri 23 Oct 85° 67° 18%
- Sat 24 Oct 80° 63° 22%
- Sun 25 Oct 83° 64° 0%
- Mon 26 Oct 84° 63° 0%
- Tue 27 Oct 85° 63° 0%
- Wed 28 Oct 85° 61° 0%
- Thu 29 Oct 87° 60° 2%
Know before you go
- Currency
- Pakistani rupee (PKR)1 US dollar ≈ ₨277
- Languages
- Urdu, English
- Calling code
- +92
- Driving
- On the left
- Time zone
- Asia/KarachiUTC+5
- Capital
- Islamabad
Getting to Lahore
These are the airports closest to central Lahore. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.
- LHE Allama Iqbal International Airport4 mi (6 km) from the city centre
Getting around Lahore
Lahore is a huge and sprawling city. In the old town, walking or a tuk-tuk are your only options. You get to see a lot more on foot, just remember to wear comfortable shoes if you are going to be walking a great distance. Other than in winter, it will be too hot to walk long distances during the day. Sunday mornings are quiet and are a good time to explore.
By auto-rickshaw
Auto-rickshaws/Qingqis are open rickshaws with (narrow) rear-facing seats, or with two seats facing forward and two backward. They are handy for moving around in the Inner City, since it's easier to see where you're going. Tourists used to average western road etiquette might be horrified by the chaos on the roads - but it almost seems to work. Qingqi drivers have an unbelievable sense of space, speed and angles and you may well learn to trust them (or not).
By taxi
Taxis are a rarity on the streets of Lahore - with auto-rickshaws having cornered the market - for a taxi you need to book one by phone. Most taxi drivers and, indeed, rickshaw drivers, carry mobile phones; it may be useful to take a number down if you find someone especially reliable. Do not take taxis in the Inner City, as the streets are narrow and very crowded. Either walk or take a qingqi. InDrive, Uber, and "Careem" are also available in the city.
By bus
Metro Bus is a separate bus rapid transit (BRT) line. Buses are air-conditioned, comfortable and have special sitting for the disabled and women. The price is very cheap (20 Rs). There are 27 stations starting from Gajjumata Terminal to Shahdara Terminal. Buses arrive every 3 minutes, but can become very crowded (especially in the men's section). Make sure to move to the door before your stop, as other passengers will come pushing in hard.
Lahore travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Lahore?
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Lahore is February to March and November to December, when average daytime highs are around 68–81°F and rain falls on about 4 days a month.
What is the weather like in Lahore?
June is usually the warmest month in Lahore, with average highs of 104°F (40°C). January is the coolest, with average lows of 43°F (6°C). The wettest month is typically August, with about 317 mm of rain.
Which airport is closest to Lahore?
Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE) is the closest airport, about 4 miles (6 km) from the centre of Lahore.
What currency is used in Lahore?
Lahore uses the Pakistani rupee (PKR). At the latest exchange rate, 1 US dollar ≈ ₨277.
What time zone is Lahore in?
Lahore uses the Asia/Karachi time zone (currently UTC+5). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.
How do I get around Lahore?
Lahore is a huge and sprawling city. In the old town, walking or a tuk-tuk are your only options. You get to see a lot more on foot, just remember to wear comfortable shoes if you are going to be walking a great distance. Other than in winter, it will be too hot to walk long distances during the day.
Where should I stay in Lahore?
Popular areas for hotels in Lahore include Lahore. Well-reviewed options include Ramada By Wyndham Lahore Gulberg II and Hotel Days Inn Two.
How many hotels can I book in Lahore?
Destina Holidays currently lists 3 properties in and around Lahore, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.
