Lahore is all set to enhance its recreational offerings with the introduction of its first floating restaurant on the iconic Lahore Canal.
The Punjab government has officially announced the launch of an exciting new tourism project — the Lahore Ship Restaurant, which will be constructed on the Lahore Canal near Jallo.
The Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) has dedicated Rs 350 million to this ambitious project, which aims to combine dining with a scenic water-based experience.
Designed as a floating-style restaurant, the project aims to become one of Lahore’s most attractive recreational landmarks, blending modern dining with scenic canal-side beauty.
As per PHA Lahore, tenders for the project have already been invited, following formal approval from the provincial government. This initiative is considered to be an integral component of Punjab’s broader vision to
- Boost tourism
- Promote local recreation
- Enhance the city’s urban aesthetics
Features of the Floating Restaurant
- The project will center around a floating dining boat that promises a unique culinary experience amidst serene waters.
- The site will also include additional recreational amenities such as comfortable seating areas, cozy cafes, and designated play zones for children.
- These features are designed to transform the canal into an inviting leisure destination for families and tourists alike.
Completion Target and Project Features
PHA Director General Raja Mansoor confirmed that the Ship Restaurant project will be completed within the current fiscal year, reflecting the government’s commitment to fast-tracking tourism and leisure developments in the city.
Built to resemble a modern ship floating on the canal waters, the three-storey restaurant will feature elegant architecture and sustainable construction design. It will include:
• A fully equipped kitchen and food preparation area.
• Spacious indoor and outdoor dining zones overlooking the canal.
• A dedicated parking facility for visitors.
• Capacity to accommodate up to 200 guests at a time.
Entry to the Lahore Ship Restaurant will be completely free, allowing families and tourists to explore the venue without any admission fee — visitors will only pay for their meals.
Management and Quality Standards Of Lahore Ship Restaurant
To ensure top-tier dining experiences, the PHA plans to outsource management of the Ship Restaurant to a renowned food chain or hospitality brand. This move is expected to maintain high standards of service, hygiene, and cuisine, attracting both locals and tourists year-round.
Raja Mansoor emphasized that the restaurant will not just be a dining spot but also a landmark for Lahore’s tourism sector. “This will provide citizens with a new and scenic leisure venue along the Lahore Canal — one that is reflecting the growing dedication and zeal and zest of the city to recreational development and tourism innovation,” he said.
Read more: Punjab approves Pakistan’s first floating restaurant in Lahore Canal
Revamping the Canal Area
In addition to the floating restaurant, the PHA is set to revitalize an underused picnic site nearby. By enhancing its facilities, the authority aims to attract more visitors and turn the area into a thriving recreational hub.
To ensure a seamless transformation, the PHA’s engineering team has devised a detailed plan to beautify and optimize the canal space. This includes the integration of nature-friendly designs and accessible pathways, creating a vibrant atmosphere for visitors.
A Refreshing Experience for Lahore’s Residents
The floating restaurant is an unforgettable dining adventure. Diners will enjoy picturesque and panoramic views while savoring their meals in an open-air environment. The initiative is proven to be a refreshing alternative to traditional dining options, inculcating in man a deep connection with nature.
Locals have warmly welcomed the announcement, expressing excitement over this innovative addition to Lahore’s vibrant lifestyle. The floating restaurant is poised to become a popular destination, enriching the city’s cultural and recreational landscape.
This project not only promises to elevate Lahore’s appeal but also showcases its potential to blend modern development with the charm of nature.
Floating Restaurant: A Project to Boost Tourism and Local Economy
The Lahore Ship Restaurant is showing strong alignment with Punjab’s vision of creating eco-friendly entertainment and tourism destinations. Experts keep on believing the project will generate
- local employment opportunities
- attract domestic
- foreign tourists
- add a distinctive cultural lifestyle element to Lahore’s tourism landscape
With its combination of modern architecture, canal-side beauty, and family-friendly environment, the Ship Restaurant is expected to become one of Lahore’s most photographed and visited attractions once completed.