Memories from Pakistan–Part Two

I started sharing some photo memories from our vacation and here are some more random memories from our time in Bahawalpur (a desert city in the southern part of Pakistan), the city where my husband grew up and where most of his family lives.





I still am getting used to roses that don’t have a fragrance, because the roses back in Pakistan, always smell like heaven.



The Pakistani Rikhshaw, that these cities would be incomplete without. These colorfully decorated ones are a popular mode of transport in Pakistani towns, mainly used for travelling short distances within cities.



Roadside fruit stalls that sell fruit so amazing in taste. Pakistani fruit, specially oranges and mangoes, is exported across the world and is famous for its rich flavor.







Probably what I miss most, after my family (of course), is the food. Notoriously many here attend some events only for the food! Haha. And it hardly ever disappoints!





The most beautiful glass bangles I have ever seen while shopping with my sister-in-law. These were from Hyderabad (The one in Pakistan)





Watching the sun go down in the Cholistan Desert nearby, with this lovely couple.



Here clothes are still line dried and freshly laundered clothes smell like grass and fresh air





Shopping with my sister-in-law (Top) The famous hand painted Multani blue pottery. Read more about it here. (Bottom) Beautifully carved wood furniture from Sargodha and Chiniot.

Exploring the new art bazaar in the city, where Bilal’s brother-in-law had just opened his own boutique.

Bahawalpur is famous for its exquisite hand embroideries.










After many years I was finally able to visit this treasure of a place (thanks to my sweet sister-in-law and her husband:) The exquisite Noor Mahal belonged to the Nawab of Bahawalpur during the British Rule.  It is believed that Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan IV got it built for his wife who spent just one night in this palace. It was a treat to walk inside this beautiful place and imagine what it must’ve been like.





I finally experienced the magic of rain in Bahawalpur. In Pakistan rainy days are a cause of celebration, done best with Pakoras and Tea.







Sunday Brunches are the best, specially when they consist of Halwa Puri (my most favorite menu ever) lovingly made by a sweet girl and enjoyed with family and followed by tea.



Chocolate Cheesecake cupcakes creatively decorated with flowers from the garden, made by my husband’s talented niece.










And this is how handmade cloth is woven. Taking a behind the scenes tour of this incredible project started by Bilal’s brother-in-law. Khadi or Khaddar is the name commonly used for handmade, handspun and hand-woven cotton fabric made by skilled artisans.

And that is all in this little taste of Bahawalpur.

For Part One in this series go here.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

FYI: I have linked up sources to names/places/words that might be hard to understand for some of you.