Pakistan is a country of diverse cultures and religions, and the presence of numerous shrines and tombs makes it a popular destination for religious tourism. Each shrine has its history, significance, and uniqueness that attracts millions of visitors from around the world. In this article, we will explore the top most visited shrines in Pakistan.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Data on Religious Tourism in Pakistan
- The Significance of Shrines in Pakistan
- Top Most Visited Shrines in Pakistan
- Data Darbar
- Shrine of Hazrat Ali Hajveri (Lahore)
- Lal Shahbaz Qalandar Shrine (Sehwan Sharif)
- Abdullah Shah Ghazi Shrine (Karachi)
- Bari Imam Shrine (Islamabad)
- Data Ganj Bakhsh Ali Hajveri (Lahore)
- Shrine of Bibi Pak Daman (Lahore)
- Shrine of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai (Sindh)
- Shrine of Baba Farid (Pakpattan)
- Shrine of Bahauddin Zakariya (Multan)
- Shrine of Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari (Karachi)
- Reasons Behind the Popularity of these Shrines
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Data on Religious Tourism in Pakistan
Religious tourism has always been an integral part of Pakistan’s tourism industry. According to a report by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), religious tourism contributed to 3.3% of Pakistan’s total GDP in 2019. The report also highlights that Pakistan ranks fourth among the top ten countries in the world for the fastest-growing religious tourism.
The Significance of Shrines in Pakistan
Shrines hold a significant place in the hearts of the people of Pakistan. People from different religions visit these shrines to pay their respects to the saints and seek blessings. These shrines also play an essential role in promoting interfaith harmony and peace in the country.
Top Most Visited Shrines in Pakistan
Here are the top most visited shrines in Pakistan:
Data Darbar
Located in Lahore, Data Darbar is the largest Sufi shrine in South Asia. It is the final resting place of the renowned Sufi saint, Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh. The shrine’s grandeur and historical significance attract millions of visitors from around the world.
Shrine of Hazrat Ali Hajveri (Lahore)
Also known as the Data Ganj Bakhsh Shrine, it is one of the oldest and most popular shrines in Lahore. Hazrat Ali Hajveri, also known as Data Ganj Bakhsh, was a prominent Sufi saint and a Persian writer. The shrine is a symbol of the city’s cultural heritage, and its annual Urs festival is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm.
Lal Shahbaz Qalandar Shrine (Sehwan Sharif)
Located in Sehwan Sharif, Sindh, the shrine of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar is one of the most popular shrines in Pakistan. It is the final resting place of the renowned Sufi saint, Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, and is considered a symbol of religious harmony.
Abdullah Shah Ghazi Shrine (Karachi)
The shrine of Abdullah Shah Ghazi is a famous Sufi shrine located in Karachi. It is the final resting place of the 8th-century Sufi saint, Abdullah Shah Ghazi. The shrine’s beautiful architecture the serene atmosphere attracts a large number of visitors from all over Pakistan and beyond.
Bari Imam Shrine (Islamabad)
Located in Islamabad, the Bari Imam Shrine is one of the most significant shrines in Pakistan. It is the final resting place of the 17th-century Sufi saint, Shah Abdul Latif Kazmi, also known as Bari Imam. The shrine’s annual Urs festival is celebrated with great fervor and devotion, attracting a large number of visitors.
Data Ganj Bakhsh Ali Hajveri (Lahore)
Another popular shrine in Lahore is the Data Ganj Bakhsh Ali Hajveri shrine. It is the final resting place of the 11th-century Sufi saint, Hazrat Ali Hajveri, also known as Data Ganj Bakhsh. The shrine’s unique architecture and historical significance attract a large number of visitors, especially during its annual Urs festival.
Shrine of Bibi Pak Daman (Lahore)
The Shrine of Bibi Pak Daman is located in Lahore and is considered a sacred site for Muslims. It is believed to be the final resting place of seven female companions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The shrine’s tranquil ambiance and beautiful architecture attract a large number of visitors, especially women.
Shrine of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai (Sindh)
Located in Bhit Shah, Sindh, the shrine of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai is a popular shrine in Pakistan. It is the final resting place of the 18th-century Sufi saint, Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai, and is considered a symbol of Sindhi culture and literature.
Shrine of Baba Farid (Pakpattan)
The Shrine of Baba Farid is located in Pakpattan, Punjab, and is one of the most popular shrines in Pakistan. It is the final resting place of the 12th-century Sufi saint, Baba Farid, and is considered a symbol of Punjabi culture and heritage.
Shrine of Bahauddin Zakariya (Multan)
The Shrine of Bahauddin Zakariya is located in Multan, Punjab, and is one of the most revered shrines in Pakistan. It is the final resting place of the 13th-century Sufi saint, Bahauddin Zakariya, and is considered a symbol of the city’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
Shrine of Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari (Karachi)
Located in Karachi, the Shrine of Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari is one of the most popular shrines in Pakistan. It is the final resting place of the 19th-century Sufi saint, Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, and is considered a symbol of Karachi’s cultural and religious heritage.
Reasons Behind the Popularity of these Shrines
The popularity of these shrines can be attributed to various factors, such as their historical significance, unique architecture, cultural importance, and the presence of the saints’ graves. Many of these shrines are also known for their annual Urs festivals, which attract a large number of visitors from around the world.
Moreover, these shrines are not only religious sites but also serve as cultural and historical landmarks, promoting interfaith harmony and peace in the country.
Conclusion
Pakistan is home to numerous shrines and tombs, each with its history, significance, and uniqueness. These shrines attract millions of visitors from around the world, promoting religious tourism and cultural exchange. The popularity of these shrines can be attributed to their historical significance, unique architecture, cultural importance, and the presence of the saints’ graves. Moreover, these shrines serve as symbols of interfaith harmony and peace in the country.
FAQs
What is a shrine?
- A shrine is a religious site where people come to pay their respects and offer prayers to a saint or a holy person.
Are these shrines open to people of all faiths?
- Yes, these shrines are open to people of all faiths and promote interfaith harmony and peace.
Are these shrines only popular in Pakistan?
- No, these shrines are popular among people from around the world, including Muslims and non-Muslims.
Are there any restrictions for visitors to these shrines?
- Visitors are expected to dress modestly and respectfully and remove their shoes before entering the shrine’s premises. Some shrines may also have restrictions on photography or other activities.
Are these shrines safe for visitors?
- Yes, these shrines are generally safe for visitors, but it is advisable to take necessary precautions and follow local customs and traditions. It is also recommended to visit these shrines with a reputable guide or tour operator.
