TAXILA: The hot and sultry weather failed to dent the spirit of people as they thronged water spots in and around the city during the Eid holidays.

Thousands of families, youngsters and tourists visited recreational and historical sites in Taxila and adjoining areas to enjoy outdoor activities and traditional festivities on Eidul Azha.

As shopping malls and commercial centres largely remained closed during the holidays, citizens turned towards nearby picnic and recreational spots for leisure and entertainment.

Families, including women and children, were seen enjoying pleasant moments at parks, gardens, water resorts and archaeological sites across the region.

Among the major attractions, Khanpur Dam remained the most visited spot where tourists from Taxila, Wah Cantt, Rawalpindi and Islamabad flocked in large numbers to enjoy boating, swimming, water sports and family barbecue parties.

Visitors were seen setting up barbecue points along the water edges while children enjoyed swimming and recreational activities. Historical and recreational places including Taxila Museum, Wah Gardens, Aqua Fun, Sher Shah Suri Park, Muqbara Lala Rukh and various ancient archaeological sites also witnessed a heavy influx of visitors throughout the Eid holidays.

According to official figures, more than one thousand visitors explored the Taxila Museum during the first two days of Eidul Azha, while over 600 people visited the centuries-old Wah Gardens.

Sher Shah Suri Park attracted more than 700 visitors, whereas nearly 200 tourists visited the historic Muqbara Lala Rukh. Officials said that over one thousand tourists visited Khanpur Dam and its adjacent private water sports outlets, Wah garden during the two Eid holidays, including a significant number of visitors from the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

Talking to this correspondent, several visitors said that despite the scorching weather and humid conditions, Eid was not meant to be celebrated inside homes. “Eid is all about enjoyment, outings and spending memorable time with family and friends. syed Sadqat Ali from Hassanabdal enjoying barbecue with his family at Wah garden.

Jamshaid Khan, another tourist from Rawalpindi said that the cool breeze near the water and the festive environment made the trip worthwhile despite the intense heat. “We arranged a barbecue picnic with friends and children. The atmosphere here is lively and refreshing and everyone is enjoying the Eid holidays to the fullest,” he added. Families were also seen preparing traditional barbecue dishes including tikka, kebabs and grilled meat at various picnic points, adding to the festive mood at the recreational spots.

Visitors expressed satisfaction over the arrangements at various picnic spots and said that the festive spirit of Eid encouraged families to come out and spend quality time with their loved ones.

Children were seen enjoying rides, water activities and open-air entertainment while food stalls and refreshment points also remained crowded throughout the day. The festive rush at parks, historical landmarks and water resorts continued till late evening, presenting a lively and vibrant atmosphere across Taxila and adjoining areas during Eid celebrations.

Published in Dawn, May 30th, 2026