At COTHM, the College of Tourism and Hotel Management, we believe that learning happens beyond the classroom. To support our mission of providing new students with an immersive, practical experience, we recently organized an exciting sightseeing bus tour of Lahore. This tour gave them a great chance to explore the vibrant hospitality and tourism culture, historical landmarks, and rich cultural heritage of one of Pakistan’s most famous cities.
Lahore, with its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, is a prime example of what makes Pakistan an exciting destination for tourists. For students starting their journey in hospitality and tourism, this tour was the perfect way to introduce them to the city’s lively environment and the thriving industry they are about to join.
The sightseeing tour started with visits to some of Lahore’s most famous historical sites. Students explored the stunning Badshahi Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world and a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. They also traveled back in time to appreciate the beauty of Lahore’s royal history at the magnificent Lahore Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
These famous landmarks not only gave students a glimpse into the city’s past but also highlighted Lahore’s importance as a top tourist destination in Pakistan. For hospitality students, understanding the historical significance of these sites is crucial, as it helps them recognize the cultural and historical experiences that international visitors seek when exploring the country.
The bus tour also took students to the bustling markets, beautiful parks, and lively streets of Lahore, beyond the historical landmarks. They visited Shalimar Gardens, a stunning example of Mughal garden design that reflects the technical skill and artistic vision of the era. The lush gardens provided a peaceful contrast to the busy city, helping students appreciate the variety of experiences Lahore has to offer.
During their visit to the Lahore Museum, students were introduced to the city’s vast cultural heritage, art, and history. This experience reinforced the idea that tourism is not just about hotels and restaurants, but about sharing a city’s story, art, and way of life with visitors from around the world a valuable lesson for hospitality students.
A major highlight of the tour was giving students a firsthand experience of Lahore’s renowned hospitality. Known for its warmth and generosity, Lahore boasts a vibrant culinary scene that reflects the city’s diverse influences and rich traditions. During the tour, students had the chance to enjoy some of Lahore’s famous dishes, such as Lahori Karahi, Nihari, and Halwa Puri, at popular local restaurants.
This culinary journey was more than just about tasting food; it highlighted the vital role food plays in defining a destination’s identity. For students pursuing careers in hospitality, understanding local cuisine and how it attracts tourists is an essential part of their learning. Lahore’s food scene is a major draw for tourists, and by experiencing it firsthand, students gained a deeper appreciation for the city’s status as a culinary hub.
The sightseeing tour was a carefully designed educational experience aimed at giving students a well-rounded understanding of the city they will be working in and promoting, rather than just a fun outing. At COTHM, we highly value hands-on learning, and this visit was a great example of how we combine classroom teaching with real-world practice.
By exploring historical landmarks, local attractions, and Lahore’s vibrant hospitality culture, our students gained valuable insights into the elements that make a city an attractive travel destination. They also learned how these factors come together to create memorable experiences for visitors—an important lesson that will benefit them as they move forward in their academic and professional careers.
The Lahore sightseeing bus tour was a great way to introduce our new students to COTHM and the hospitality and tourism industry. They gained a well-rounded understanding of the city’s lively hospitality scene, rich cultural heritage, and the important role tourism plays in defining Lahore’s identity.
At COTHM, we are committed to giving our students opportunities to engage meaningfully with the industry and their surroundings. This tour is just the beginning of their journey with us, and we look forward to helping them explore more of what Pakistan’s hospitality and tourism sectors have to offer.
We are excited to see how our students will continue the legacy of Lahore—a city full of stories, history, and hospitality, as they embark on their academic journeys.
