5 Famous Sufi Shrines in Pakistan

Pakistan is among those few countries that are blessed in various departments. Apart from the sheer natural beauty that Pakistan possesses, the country also has a diverse yet rich heritage and culture. This can be contributed to the various dynasties and civilizations that have resided, over the course of history, in this part of the South Asia.

The diversity that the country possesses in the form of various tourist sites, pertaining to different facets of history, religion, culture etc, is phenomenal. One aspect of this diversity can be seen through a large number of Sufi shrines that are spread all over the country. Keeping in mind the large number of devotees that these shrines attract, Jovago brings you an exclusive article on the 5 famous Sufi Shrines in Pakistan.

1.    Data Darbar, Lahore

Situated in the city considered to be the heart of Pakistan, Data Darbar is the shrine of the famous Sufi saint Hazrat Abul Hassan Ali Hajvery, who is commonly known as Data Ganj Baksh. The Sufi mausoleum is one of the oldest Muslim shrines in South Asia. It was built in 11th century by Sultan Zakiruddin Ibrahim, one of the rulers of the Ghaznavi Dynasty, and is located near the Bhatti gate.

     2.   Shrine of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, Sehwan Sharif

Syed Muhammad Usman Marwandi, popularly known as Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, was a 12th century Sufi. He traveled to various parts of the subcontinent and then finally resided in the area which is known today as Sehwan. The saint is adorned not only by Muslims but Hindus as well.

     3.   Shrine of Abdullah Shah Ghazi, Karachi

The largest Sufi shrine in the largest city of Pakistan is that of the shrine of Abdullah Shah Ghazi. The shrine was built, almost 10 centuries ago, on a sandy hill on the coastal area of Karachi. It is believed that the saint protects the city from the cyclones.

   4.  Mausoleum of Hazrat Baha-ud-Din Zakaria, Multan

Multan, which is known as the city of saints, is the resting place for the famous Sufi saint Hazrat Baha-ud-Din Zakaria. The mausoleum was built in 1267 and is made from red bricks. It suffered during the British Rule but was restored by people belonging to different faiths.

 

   5. Shrine of Ghulam Farid Shakar Ganj, Pakpatan

Fareeduddin Masood Ganjshakar, popularly known as Baba Farid, is a Sufi saint belonging to the Chishti clan of the Muslims. The white mausoleum made of marble in Pakpattan, Punjab is said to have a Bahishtī Darwāza, or 'Gate of Paradise' .