Sheikhupura
Pakistan · Asia
About Sheikhupura
Sheikhupura, also known as Qila Sheikhupura, is a city in the Pakistani province of Punjab. It was founded by the Mughal emperor Jahangir in 1607 as a citadel, west of Lahore. Sheikhupura is the 10th-largest city in Punjab, and 15th-largest in Pakistan by population, serving as the headquarters of Sheikhupura District. The city is an industrial centre and satellite town, and is located about 38 km northwest of Lahore. It also borders Sialkot, Gujranwala, Nankana Sahib and Kasur districts of Punjab, Pakistan.
In 1607, the Mughals constructed a new fort in the city. The city's first name is recorded in the Emperor Jahangir's autobiography, the Tuzk-e-Jahangiri, in which he refers to the town as Jehangir pura. The city then came to be known by its current name, which derives from Jehangir's nickname "Shekhu" that was given to him by his mother, wife of Akbar the Great.
It was previously known as Virkgarh, as the Virk Jats were the main rural tribe in the area before Jahangir. It would later briefly be called Singhpuria under Sikh rule, before being renamed back to Sheikhupura.
Mughal Emperor Jahangir laid the foundations...
Sheikhupura travel guide
Understand
Sheikhupura is an industrial city. It is famous for rice production. Nestle Pakistan is here.
Getting there
By bus Sheikhupura is connected with Lahore (the provincial capital), Gujranwala and Faisalabad other big cities by road.
By train Sheikhupura is connected with all big cities of the country by rail. The most comfortable and affordable trains connects Sheikhupura with Faisalabad and Karachi.
Getting around
By rickshaw Rickshaws are a common form of transport here as elsewhere in Pakistan.
By taxi Some taxis are available at the railway station and bus stand.
See
Hiran Minar (Minaret of Antelope) (3 km from city Centre). This masterpiece of Mughal architecture was constructed by Emperor Jahangir as a monument to Mansraj, one of his pet deer. It is listed as a Tentative World Heritage Site. Qila Sheikhupura. Mughal art depicting fort, constructed in 16th century by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir. Waris Shah DarbarWaris Shah was born in Jandiala Sher Khan neighborhood of Sheikhupura city.
Do
Boating- Pool near Hiran Minar is the best place for boating. Rented boats are easily available at Hiran Minar.
Buy
There are a couple of factory outlets of various shoe brands along GT Rd in Muridke. There are various outlets of shoes and sandals. Bata has the best variety. Shahzad super store (Jinnah erk) and (Lahore road), Haji super store (Lahore road) and such other shopping stores are available.
Eat
There are a variety of cakes, sandwiches, Puff's and ice cream (different flavours) available here, which are very delicious.
Dahi Bhale - Dahi Bhale shops are situated near Hiran Minar and in Main bazar. Gol Gappe - A number of gol gappay carts can be found, lined outside parks. Biryani & Pulao - Biryani & pulao is special dish. Dal Chawal - It's one of the favorite foods here.
Drink & nightlife
In summers there are variety of drinks are available but in winter season only tea and Qawa available.
Rabri - this is the most favourite drink of the people. Sugar cane rusk - is very famous drink which is healthy and sweetest in taste. Limo pani - is very tasty. It is made up with lemon juice & water. Lassi - Lassi is the traditional Punjabi drink. It is made using yogurt. The price of one glass or a Piala of Lassi is about Rs.25-35.
Sleep
Several hotels provide the facility to stay including Sultan Grand restaurant.
Overview adapted from Wikipedia, travel guide fromWikivoyage (CC BY-SA)。Photography via Wikimedia Commons.