Multan: A City of Heritage and Tourism Potential
M Atif Ismail
Multan: Boasting a vibrant history that spans over 5,000 years, Multan stands tall as one of the world’s oldest living cities in South Punjab.
Known as the “City of Saints,” Multan’s rich cultural and architectural heritage is encapsulated within its Walled City, a 1.2 square kilometer area home to numerous historic buildings, each telling a unique story.
The ancient structures within the Walled City present immense potential for cultural events, positioning Multan as a hub for heritage tourism.
Monumental landmarks reflect the city’s significant spiritual and historical importance, including the Masjid Wali Muhammad, Masjid Hazrat Sakhi Yahya, Shrine of Hazrat Musa Pak Shaheed, Tarkhana Wali Masjid, Bohar Gate, Jain Mandar, and the Tomb of Shah Yousuf Gardez.
Other revered sites, such as the Shrines of Hazrat Bahauddin Zakariya and Hazrat Shah Rukn-e-Alam, attract visitors from across the globe.
Multan’s historical gates—Delhi Gate, Lohari Gate, Bohar Gate, Haram Gate, Daulat Gate, and Pak Gate—along with key streets like Mohalla Jatoo Shah, Mohalla Kamngrah, and Sabunwali Gali, further enrich the cultural landscape of the area.
Despite its architectural marvels and spiritual treasures, the Walled City currently attracts only about 100 foreign tourists and a limited number of local visitors each month. Experts believe that authorities can fully capitalize on Multan’s tourism potential by improving existing facilities and resolving jurisdictional complications involving multiple departments.
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These challenges, combined with inadequate funding, hinder the development and maintenance of the Walled City, slowing down restoration efforts and the promotion of the area’s unique assets.
A decade ago, the Italian government allocated $251 million for the restoration of key heritage sites, and the Walled City Authority successfully revitalized areas like Haram Gate, Sarafa Bazaar, and the Shrine of Musa Pak Shaheed, renewing their historic essence.
“Each street and every home in Walled City has a unique history,” said Umair Ghazanfar, Assistant Director of Walled City Multan. “It is one of the ancient cities and offers ample opportunities for culture and heritage lovers.” He expressed excitement about the city’s uplift and restoration, emphasizing the potential for increased tourism.
“Currently, we welcome an average of 100 foreign tourists monthly, and our tricycle tours provide an exciting way for visitors to explore these historic streets and buildings,” he added. “By uplifting and rekindling this heritage, we can attract more tourists and generate revenue.”
Local enthusiasts share this optimism.
Dr Sajid, a medical practitioner and lover of Multan’s ancient beauty, sees vast potential for tourism in the area. “We need to improve the infrastructure of the Walled City, including small hotels, cafés, and entertainment spots,” he suggested.
“By renovating and making it more attractive, we can turn it into a destination for both local and foreign tourists.”
Dr Muzzamal, another local tourist, advocates for regular cultural events in the Walled City to highlight its significance both locally and internationally.
“Cultural events and festivals should become a staple to celebrate the city’s history,” he said, confident that such initiatives would deepen connections between local residents and visitors.
He also emphasized the importance of training local residents as guides to promote hospitality and engage the community in preserving and promoting their heritage.
Beyond infrastructure improvements, fostering a culture of hospitality could play a pivotal role in making the Walled City a welcoming destination for tourists. The local community, known for its traditions of warmth and generosity, would help bridge cultural divides.
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“Professional guide training, hospitality workshops, and cultural education would empower local residents, enabling them to share the stories of their historic city with pride and authenticity,” Dr. Muzzamal stated.
The revitalization of Multan’s Walled City holds the promise of transforming it into a cultural tourism hotspot. With restored buildings, improved infrastructure, and a focus on hospitality, the area is poised to offer a blend of history, spirituality, and local charm.
Dr. Muzzamal noted, “Social gatherings and festivals would not only breathe new life into these old streets but also support small businesses like boutiques, hotels, and traditional eateries, providing tourists with an immersive experience.”
As Pakistan is home to remnants of ancient civilizations such as Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, as well as Buddha’s stupa in KPK, Multan’s Walled City is equally significant.
The city has vast potential for historical and religious tourism, and promoting its historic charm could help establish it as a must-visit destination and center of hospitality, ultimately providing local residents with opportunities to thrive in their businesses.
The feature was released by APP on October 20, 2024.
