Until recent years, Lahore’s spellbinding Walled City was a regular stop on the tourist trail between Europe and Asia. Hippies, backpackers and a whole bunch of other travellers would wander through the atmospheric bazaars and laneways on their way from Iran through to India. Since the turn of the millennium, Pakistan’s image on the world stage has taken a beating, and many would-be visitors are skipping the country altogether. Through this photo series, we open up the historic old city once again for all to see. Come and take a walk along the fabled streets, meet the people, and experience Lahore at its most vibrant.
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The atmospheric Walled city oozes heavenly and squalid aromas from every corner
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Timber is weighed the old-fashioned way
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Hey there! Wanna invest in my business little guy?
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Most Pakistanis love greeting guests!
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Ghee (clarified butter) is an essential ingredient for many South Asian desserts
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Lahore is the capital of Punjab, the region often referred to as Pakistan's food bowl. This vendor proudly shows off his ears of corn.
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Just enough space for this autorickshaw to squeeze through
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Time is spent joining friends and neighbours at work, keeping them company while the long day passes by.
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Steam rises off shards of thick rich caramel
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Work doesn't happen unless there's an element of fun...
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A rickshaw weighed down with its cargo of clean water
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Freshly whipped lassi is the perfect cooler for a hot summer day
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This man seems content with just watching the world go by
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Age-old havelis in various states of charming disrepair make the Walled City a living and breathing museum
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With a flash of colour, this peacock struts his way around the streets
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"It's not whisky - it's petrol" I was assured!
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Mutton Karahi, anyone?
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Neighbourhood entertainment, Walled City-style
TheWalled City looks intriguing. Would love to explore it -maybe someday.
Good photos – a shame the tourism to Pakistan has changed over the years. Maybe it will pick up again one day when it appears to be a little more stable. Here’s hoping as I’m sure it has a lot to offer the traveller. But then again, for those who are adventurous enough to tour there, not having loads of tourists probably makes it even more special.
The Walled City is amazing – in many ways, it’s like it’s frozen in time! I hope more tourists get to see it – even a couple of hundred more each year wouldn’t spoil it, as tourism has dropped off so dramatically 🙁
Nyc clicks. . .
Thanks Heena, and thanks for visiting!
This is a very vivid and busy place Tim. It must have quickened your pulse!
It’s so exciting- I love old Lahore!! You must visit someday! Thanks for reading 🙂
Lahore is certainly intriguing. I’m sure it’s not obviously appealing, but when a traveller gives it some time, it is absolutely amazing. Your photos are endearing.
Awww thank you! I <3 Lahore!