Top 13 Famous Picnic Points in Lahore That You Should Visit

Lahore, often called the heart of Pakistan, boasts a rich tapestry of culture and nature that beckons locals and tourists alike. Among its many attractions, the city offers an array of stunning picnic points that blend natural beauty with historical significance. Embark on a journey to uncover Lahore’s most famous picnic spots, each promising a unique and delightful experience for those seeking a break from the urban hustle and bustle. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, these destinations will captivate your senses and leave you with cherished memories.

List of 13 Most Famous Picnic Points in Lahore 

Here is the list of 13 most famous Picnic Points in Lahore.

  1. Lahore Zoo Safari
  2. Shalimar Gardens
  3. Jallo Park
  4. Sozo Water Park
  5. Jinnah Garden (also known as Bagh-e-Jinnah)
  6. Rana Safari and Luxury Resort
  7. Safari Park
  8. Jilani Park (also known as Race Course Park)
  9. Joyland Park Lahore
  10. Shalimar Gardens
  11. Minar-e-Pakistan
  12. Model Town Park
  13. Kamran’s Baradari

1. Lahore Zoo Safari

One of the city’s premier recreational destinations is the Lahore Wildlife Park, situated on Safari Road. Spanning over 242 acres, this expansive park attracts a steady stream of visitors. It offers a unique opportunity to witness Pakistan’s native wildlife up close, including blue bulls, lions, jaguars, and Bengal tigers, all thriving in their natural habitat. 

The park is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, featuring a diverse range of species such as mute swans, Indian peafowls, ostriches, silver pheasants, and the last surviving members of the Dromaius species. Kids, in particular, are enamored with Lahore Wildlife Park, thanks to its safari tracks, a sprawling walkthrough aviary, and a picturesque lake perfect for fishing and boating. To ensure the safety of both visitors and animals, the park boasts a well-equipped first aid station and a veterinary facility. 

  • Address: Safari Road, Lahore
  • Timings: 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: PKR 50 for adults and PKR 20 for children 
  • Additional Entry Fee for Vehicles: PKR 250

2. Shalimar Gardens

Located among Pakistan’s six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Shalimar Gardens are a prominent tourist attraction in Punjab. Constructed during the 17th century under the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, these gardens were inspired by the mesmerizing Shalimar Gardens in Kashmir, originally created by his father, Emperor Jahangir. 

Today, they stand as a cherished relic of that bygone era, nestled near the historic Walled City of Lahore. Renowned for their meticulously landscaped lawns and captivating fountains, Shalimar Gardens draw families from across the city on weekends, offering a serene retreat. Covering 16 hectares, the gardens consist of three tiers, each elevated 13 to 15 feet above the other. The highest terrace, known as Bagh-e-Farah Baksh, boasts 105 fountains, while the lower two collectively known as Bagh-e-Faiz Baksh feature 152 and 153 fountains, respectively. 

  • Address: Shalimar Chowk, G. T. Road, Shalimar Town, Lahore,
  • Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: PKR 20

3. Jallo Park

Jallo Park, established in 1978, is a standout destination in Lahore, especially for families with active children who relish outdoor adventures. Covering approximately 460 acres of land, it ranks as one of the city’s largest wildlife parks, alongside Changa Manga forest and Lahore Zoo Safari. Photography enthusiasts also find this park captivating, given its picturesque setting. The park offers a wide range of activities to cater to diverse visitors.

Key attractions include a captivating botanical garden, featuring a sizable aquarium, a tranquil lake offering boating and fishing, a well-equipped sports complex with tennis and basketball courts, an all-age-appropriate theme park, a public swimming pool, and a dedicated cycling track. Noteworthy features comprise the Wildlife Breeding Center, Forest Research Center, Zen Garden, Japanese Rock Garden, and a unique Butterfly House inhabited by vibrant butterflies. 

  • Address: Jallo Road, Lahore 
  • Timings: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: PKR 50 per person 

4. Sozo Water Park

Located in Lahore, Sozo Waterpark is a top-tier family destination, offering a welcome retreat from the sweltering summer heat. This premier waterpark is strategically positioned along Canal Bank Road, providing easy access to a wide array of amenities and attractions. Notably, Sozo Waterpark sets itself apart by dedicating a special area exclusively for women and children, a distinctive feature among waterparks in Pakistan. 

The park boasts an impressive lineup of exhilarating rides, including a serene lazy river, a thrilling bullet slide, a heart-pounding racer slide, an adrenaline-pumping free-fall slide, a high-speed slide, and a refreshing wave pool, among others. Safety is paramount here, as all rides undergo rigorous inspection and certification by experts from the University of Engineering and Technology (UET). 

Furthermore, Sozo Water Park takes water quality seriously, maintaining its own water filtration and chemical treatment facility to ensure pristine, germ-free pools. 

  • Address: Near Jallo Park
  • Timings: 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: PKR 350 for adults and PKR 250 for children

5. Jinnah Garden (also known as Bagh-e-Jinnah)

Located on Mall Road, Jinnah Garden, commonly known as Bagh-e-Jinnah, serves as one of Lahore’s top recreational spots. With its roots dating back to the late 1800s, this park originally bore the name of John Lawrence, the former Viceroy of India. However, after Pakistan’s inception, the park underwent a renaming to honor Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. 

Within its premises, you can find the exquisite Quaid-e-Azam Library, designed in Victorian style, and the splendid Dar-ul-Islam Library housed within a mosque. Bagh-e-Jinnah’s diverse offerings include a rich botanical garden housing approximately 150 tree varieties and 140 types of shrubs. It also boasts a century-old cricket ground, scenic walking tracks, tennis courts, designated picnic areas, bicycle tracks, a children’s playground, an open-air theater, and a restaurant for refreshments. 

  • Address: Jubilee Town, Lahore
  • Timings: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: PKR 50 for adults and PKR 20 for children 

6. Rana Safari and Luxury Resort

Affectionately referred to as Harmony Park, this idyllic picnic retreat was established in 2010 and spans approximately 150 acres of pristine woodland and 20 acres of verdant meadows. What distinguishes Harmony Haven as one of Lahore’s premier attractions is its unwavering commitment to delivering cutting-edge amenities and services while affording guests the opportunity to interact with various wildlife species, including deer, peacocks, and rabbits, within the sanctuary’s confines. 

Harmony Haven Picnic Park also boasts features like swimming pools, a picnic area, a barbecue zone, a mini-zoo, as well as paddle boating and pony-riding options. For those seeking an extended getaway, the park offers the possibility to reserve overnight accommodations, making it an ideal destination for a weekend retreat in Lahore’s serene landscape.

  • Address: Raiwind Bypass in Lahore
  • Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: PKR 150  

7. Safari Park

For wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers, Lahore Safari Park offers a thrilling experience. Located on Safari Road, this park spans a vast area and provides visitors with the opportunity to observe animals in a semi-natural habitat. From zebras and ostriches to antelopes and monkeys, the Safari Park houses a diverse range of species. 

  • Address: Safari Road, Lahore
  • Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: PKR 20 per person

8. Jilani Park (also known as Race Course Park)

For a classic and family-friendly picnic spot in the heart of Lahore, Jilani Park, commonly known as Race Course Park, is the perfect choice. This park offers sprawling green lawns, well-maintained jogging tracks, and recreational spaces, creating an inviting environment for picnickers. With its variety of flowers, a mini-zoo, and a large lake, Jilani Park provides a picturesque backdrop for picnics and leisurely walks. 

  • Address: Jail Road, Lahore
  • Timings: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: No

9. Joyland Park Lahore

For a dose of exhilarating fun and entertainment, Joyland Park in Lahore is the go-to destination. Located in Fortress Stadium, this amusement park offers a range of thrilling rides and attractions suitable for visitors of all ages. From roller coasters to bumper cars, Joyland guarantees a day filled with laughter and excitement. 

  • Address: Fortress Stadium Circular Rd, Lahore 
  • Timings: 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: Varies based on the chosen rides

10. Shalimar Gardens

Returning to the list for its timeless charm, the Shalimar Gardens remain a must-visit in Lahore. Recognized as one of Pakistan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, these gardens, constructed during the Mughal era, offer a serene retreat. With meticulously landscaped lawns, captivating fountains, and tiered terraces, the Shalimar Gardens provide a picturesque setting for families and history enthusiasts alike. 

  • Address: Grand Trunk Road, Lahore
  • Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: PKR 20

11. Minar-e-Pakistan

Standing tall in Iqbal Park, Lahore, Minar-e-Pakistan is a symbol of the nation’s struggle for independence. This iconic monument marks the site where the Lahore Resolution, a crucial step towards Pakistan’s creation, was passed in 1940. Visitors can ascend the tower for panoramic views of Lahore, and the surrounding park offers a serene environment for relaxation and reflection. People love to visit and take pictures.

  • Address: Circular Road, Shahrah-e-Quaid-e-Azam, Lahore
  • Timings: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: PKR 10 for adults and PKR 5 for children

12. Model Town Park

Situated in the heart of Model Town, Lahore, Model Town Park stands out as a favored destination among the locals, offering a perfect blend of lush greenery, a serene lake, and a variety of recreational facilities. This park, often regarded as a community treasure, provides an idyllic setting for picnics, family outings, and moments of relaxation.

The park’s expansive green lawns create a picturesque landscape, providing a refreshing retreat for individuals and families seeking respite from the urban hustle. A centerpiece of Model Town Park is its serene lake, enhancing the park’s charm and offering a peaceful spot for contemplation and relaxation.

  • Address: Model Town, Lahore
  • Timings: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: PKR 20

13. Kamran’s Baradari

Kamran’s Baradari is a historical pavilion that dates back to the Mughal era. This architectural gem, surrounded by lush greenery, served as a retreat for Mughal emperors. Visitors can explore the intricately designed pavilion and enjoy the serene ambiance of the surrounding gardens.

  • Address: Ravi Road, Lahore
  • Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: PKR 10

Conclusion

In the heart of Pakistan, Lahore unfolds a rich tapestry of culture and nature, inviting both locals and tourists to explore its captivating picnic spots. From the wildlife wonders of Lahore Zoo Safari to the historical charm of Shalimar Gardens, each destination weaves a unique tapestry of natural beauty and historical allure. Whether you seek adventure at Jallo Park or family fun at Sozo Water Park, Lahore’s picnic points promise a perfect escape from urban life. Journey through these diverse destinations, and let the tranquility and historical significance create cherished memories for a day of relaxation and enjoyment.

FAQs

Who stands out as the ideal picnic destination?

The most recommended picnic spot is Harmony Haven Picnic Park in Lahore. Its serene landscape, diverse wildlife, and recreational amenities make it a top choice for a delightful outing.

How can I make the most of my day in Lahore?

To maximize your day in Lahore, consider exploring the historical and picturesque Shalimar Gardens. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites offer tranquility, meticulously landscaped lawns, and captivating fountains for a memorable day out.

Where is the best place to visit in Lahore today?

For a day filled with adventure and wildlife, Jallo Park is an excellent choice. With its expansive wildlife park, botanical garden, and diverse activities, it caters to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

What makes Lahore special?

Lahore’s uniqueness lies in its rich cultural tapestry, historical landmarks, and vibrant attractions. The city seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, offering a captivating experience for those seeking both cultural and recreational delights.

Oleksandra Mamchii

Working as a academic lead at Best Diplomats.

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