Cannt
Gujranwala, Punjab
Quick Info
Attraction Type
City Landmark
Location
, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
1 to 2 Hours
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa for Pakistan. Foreigners may need special permission (NOC) to enter specific restricted military areas within the Cantonment.
Wheelchair Support
Accessible
Description
Rahwali Cantonment, often simply called 'Cannt' by locals, is a large military area in Gujranwala. It is known for its well-maintained infrastructure, clean streets, and green spaces. This area serves as a significant administrative and residential zone for military personnel and their families. It stands as a planned and orderly part of the city.
What To Do
- Drive or walk along the main roads to see the organized layout and clean environment.
- Observe the well-kept green areas and public spaces from accessible points.
- Visit local shops or small markets located on the periphery or within publicly accessible sections.
- Appreciate the disciplined and peaceful atmosphere of the area.
- Take photographs of the general surroundings from public roads, keeping security considerations in mind.
What To Buy
- Local Sweets & Desi Ghee: Look for these at Trust Plaza or nearby Ghanta Ghar Market, known for traditional Pakistani items. Get Directions
- Ceramics & Pottery: Gujranwala is known for its pottery. Find good pieces at markets in Satellite Town. Get Directions
- Leather Goods: Good quality leather items like wallets and belts can be found in Rail Bazaar. Get Directions
- Traditional Clothing: Shops in Model Town Market offer a variety of local fabrics and ready-to-wear outfits. Get Directions
- Gujranwala's Famous Food Items: Take home local spices or snacks from smaller shops near the Cantonment area or main markets.
Policies & Info
- Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting any public area.
- Photography is allowed from public roads, but avoid taking pictures of military personnel, installations, or sensitive areas.
- Follow any instructions given by security personnel within or around the Cantonment.
- Littering is strictly prohibited, keep the area clean.
Health & Safety
- Stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings safe, as in any city area.
- If walking, use sidewalks and be cautious of road traffic.
- Do not try to enter restricted areas.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: (March to April) Weather is mild and pleasant, around 20-30°C. Best time to visit for outdoor activities and comfortable sightseeing beforeSummer: heat. The cantonment's green spaces are fresh.
Summer: (May to August) Very hot, temperatures can go over 40°C. Best to visit early mornings or late evenings if you must. Stay hydrated and avoid direct sun.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: (July to September) Hot and humid with heavy rainfall. Can be tricky for travel due to potential flooding. Roads might get wet, but the rain can make the greenery look fresh.
Autumn: (October to November) Mild and comfortable, around 25-35°C. Good for visits as the humidity drops and the heat is less intense than summer.
Winter: (December to February) Cool to cold, temperatures range from 5-20°C. Fog can be an issue in January. Comfortable for daytime visits, bring warm clothes for evenings.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE) in Lahore. It is about 70-80 km from Gujranwala. From there, you can take a taxi or bus.
- By Road: Gujranwala is well-connected by the National Highway N-5 (GT Road) and the M-2 Motorway. Rahwali Cantonment is directly on the GT Road passing through Gujranwala.
- By Train: Gujranwala Railway Station is active and serves many major cities in Pakistan. From the station, you can take a rickshaw or taxi to Rahwali Cantonment.
- By Public Transport: Local rickshaws, taxis, and public vans/wagons frequently run on the GT Road and can drop you off near Rahwali Cantonment.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Shahbaz Tikka: Grand Trunk Rd, Gujranwala. Local phone numbers vary. Get Directions
- Savour Foods: Main Bypass Rd, Adjacent to PSO Petrol Pump, Gujranwala. Local phone numbers vary. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Rachna Pearl Hotel: G.T Road, Gujranwala. Phone: +92 55 3858000. Website: Not publicly available for direct booking. Get Directions
- Hotel Global Inn: Sialkot Bypass, Gujranwala. Phone: +92 345 5555551. Website: Not publicly available for direct booking. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- DHQ Hospital Gujranwala: Grand Trunk Rd, Gujranwala. Phone: +92 55 9200388. Get Directions
- Ambulances: 1122 (Rescue 1122 - National Emergency Service of Pakistan)
- Police Station:
- Rahwali Police Station: Near Rahwali Cantonment, Gujranwala. Phone: +92 55 3810100. Get Directions
