The Punjab government has officially launched the Double-Decker Tourism Bus Service Lahore, connecting the vibrant city of Lahore with the historic district of Sheikhupura. This new initiative, under the Punjab Tourism and Archaeology Department, aims to promote local tourism, highlight cultural landmarks, and boost the regional economy through weekend trips filled with heritage and entertainment.
The service will operate every Saturday and Sunday, offering round-trip excursions at an affordable fare of Rs. 1,200 per person. This new route is not just about travel it’s an experience designed to take visitors through the heart of Punjab’s glorious past.
This tourism project offers a refreshing opportunity for Lahore’s residents to escape the city’s hustle and experience Punjab’s deep-rooted history and natural beauty. The double-decker buses are comfortable, air-conditioned, and designed for panoramic sightseeing.
The weekend route connects travellers to some of the most popular cultural and historical landmarks of Sheikhupura, including the shrine of Punjabi poet Waris Shah and the majestic Hiran Minar. These destinations are not only important for their history but also serve as symbols of Punjab’s artistic and poetic soul.
During the inaugural run, tourists visited the shrine of Waris Shah, the celebrated author of the romantic epic Heer Ranjha. His work holds a timeless place in Punjabi literature, and visiting his resting place allows travellers to connect with Punjab’s cultural roots.
Visitors had the chance to listen to a traditional Heer recitation, organized by the authorities to revive the storytelling tradition of Punjab. The atmosphere, filled with the rhythm of folk poetry, created a memorable experience for tourists.
The next stop on the journey was the Hiran Minar, one of Sheikhupura’s most famous landmarks. Built by Emperor Jahangir in memory of his beloved deer, the site is an architectural wonder surrounded by water. Tourists enjoyed boating and cycling activities organized by the Tourism Department, allowing them to explore the monument and its serene surroundings.
The management made sure the area was clean and visitor-friendly, offering both scenic beauty and educational value. This perfect mix of history and leisure makes the destination appealing for families and young travellers alike.
The double-decker tourism initiative has been warmly welcomed by local residents, business owners, and travel enthusiasts. Many believe this project will revive Sheikhupura’s tourism sector and create new opportunities for local artisans, shop owners, and guides.
According to Deputy Commissioner Shahid Imran Marth, the administration’s goal is to develop Sheikhupura into a regional tourism hub, attracting not only locals but also visitors from across Pakistan. Similarly, Additional Secretary Tourism Sadaf Zafar emphasized that the initiative will stimulate the local economy and encourage sustainable tourism practices that protect cultural heritage while supporting livelihoods.
The introduction of the Double-Decker Tourism Bus Service Lahore marks a major step towards modernizing Punjab’s tourism infrastructure. It also demonstrates the government’s commitment to making travel both accessible and enjoyable for citizens.
By combining comfort, affordability, and cultural exploration, the service is expected to ignite renewed interest in domestic tourism, especially among young travellers and families seeking educational and recreational trips.
Officials have hinted that this is only the beginning. If the Lahore-Sheikhupura route gains consistent popularity, the Punjab Tourism Department plans to expand the double-decker service to other cities like Kasur, Multan, and Bahawalpur.
These routes could highlight more heritage sites, including forts, shrines, and historical gardens, ultimately creating a connected network of cultural tourism across Punjab.
The Double-Decker Tourism Bus Service Lahore is more than a weekend trip it’s a celebration of Punjab’s history, poetry, and scenic beauty. Whether it’s listening to Heer Ranjha under open skies or exploring the calm waters of Hiran Minar, this journey offers something for everyone.
With its focus on affordability, culture, and sustainability, this initiative is a significant step toward preserving Pakistan’s heritage and promoting responsible tourism. For anyone looking to explore the heart of Punjab, this weekend getaway is not to be missed.