Multan: City of Saints.
Multan is a city located in the Punjab province of Pakistan and is often referred to as the “City of Saints” or “Madinat-ul-Auliya”. The city has a rich history dating back to the Bronze Age and has been ruled by various dynasties including the Mauryas, Greeks, Arabs, Turks, and Mughals. Multan is situated on the banks of the Chenab River and is considered to be the fifth largest city in Pakistan.
Multan is known for its vibrant culture, delicious food, and historical landmarks. The city has a diverse population that includes Punjabis, Sindhis, Balochis, and Pakhtuns. The local language is Punjabi, which is spoken by the majority of the population. The city’s economy is primarily based on agriculture and trade.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Multan is the Multan Fort, which was built in the 12th century by the Ghaznavid dynasty. The fort was later reconstructed by the Mughals and served as a military stronghold during their rule. The fort has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts thousands of tourists every year. Another popular tourist attraction in Multan is the Shah Rukn-e-Alam Shrine, which is the final resting place of the famous Sufi saint, Hazrat Shah Rukn-e-Alam. The shrine is an important pilgrimage site for Muslims and is visited by millions of devotees every year.
Multan is also famous for its bazaars, which are known for their unique and colorful products. The Hussain Agahi Bazaar is one of the oldest bazaars in Multan and is known for its handicrafts, jewelry, and traditional clothing. The bazaar is also famous for its food stalls that serve traditional Pakistani dishes such as biryani, kebabs, and haleem.
The city is also famous for its sweetmeats, which are a popular delicacy in Pakistan. The most famous sweetmeat in Multan is Sohan Halwa, which is a sticky, chewy dessert made from sugar, semolina, and ghee. Sohan Halwa is sold in various shops and is a must-try for anyone visiting Multan.
Multan is home to several universities and colleges, including the Bahauddin Zakariya University, which is one of the largest universities in the country. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields such as engineering, business, and social sciences. Multan is also home to several other educational institutions such as the Nishtar Medical College and the Multan Medical and Dental College.
Multan is known for its rich literary tradition and has produced several famous poets and writers such as Baba Farid, Shah Hussain, and Ahmed Faraz. The city has a rich heritage of Sufism, which has influenced its literature, music, and art. The city’s Sufi shrines attract visitors from all over the world and are an important part of Multan’s cultural heritage.
Multan has a hot and dry climate, with temperatures reaching as high as 50°C during the summer months. The city experiences monsoon rains from July to September, which provide relief from the scorching heat. The best time to visit Multan is between October and March when the weather is cooler and more pleasant.
In conclusion, Multan is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage that is worth exploring. The city’s historical landmarks, vibrant bazaars, delicious food, and literary tradition make it a unique destination for tourists. Multan’s people are known for their hospitality and welcoming nature, making it a great place to experience Pakistani culture.
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