Punjab Targets Multan as International Tourism Hub
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has positioned the historic city of Multan at the center of a regional development strategy, declaring that the southern cultural hub holds immense potential to transform into a major tourism hub. Backed by a newly approved provincial framework, the administration is moving to elevate Multan’s heritage onto the global stage.
Restoring Qila Kohna Qasim Bagh
At the heart of the southern revitalization effort is the restoration of Multan’s Qila Kohna Qasim Bagh. Designated as a key Indus Valley heritage site under the tourism plan approved during a high-level provincial meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the site is slated for upgrades to welcome visitors.
By pairing physical preservation with modern amenities, the province aims to attract history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.
“We are laying the foundation for international tourism in Punjab,” stated CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to developing all tourist sites to world-class standards.
The ‘Magnificent Punjab’ App
To bridge the gap between history and modern travel demands, the Punjab government is rolling out the province’s first-ever comprehensive tourism application, titled “Magnificent Punjab.” The digital platform acts as an all-in-one concierge for travelers exploring cities like Lahore, Multan, Bahawalpur, Chakwal, and Jhelum.
The app offers virtual tours across 170 destinations, alongside travel bookings, hotel reservations, food delivery services, and chatbot assistance. By integrating digital accessibility with on-the-ground infrastructure, the province is aiming to attract travelers to cultural centers like Multan.
Institutional Reform and Heritage Trails
Long-term success requires administrative muscle, which the provincial government is securing through legislative and structural overhauls. The introduction of the Punjab Tourism & Heritage Authority Act 2025 paves the way for the establishment of Punjab’s first-ever Tourism & Heritage Authority, streamlining governance across historical sectors.
This governing body oversees a broader canvas that includes the promotion of religious, historical, and eco-tourism across the province. Alongside Multan’s revitalization, the initiative encompasses the development of Mughal Heritage Trails, Sikh tourism paths, the Gandhara Trail, and pilgrimage routes in Uch Sharif, creating a connected travel ecosystem across Punjab.
Economic Growth in Southern Punjab
Shifting focus toward southern Punjab carries economic implications for local trades and hospitality sectors. By elevating Multan into a recognized destination backed by digital infrastructure and institutional support, the provincial administration is betting on heritage-led growth.
As the restoration projects break ground and the digital ecosystem goes live, how will local businesses adapt to an influx of travelers? Share your thoughts on Multan’s tourism potential in the comments below.
