The Cost of Living in Gujranwala: A Detailed Breakdown

Gujranwala, located in the Punjab province of Pakistan, is considered to be one of the fastest growing industrial cities in the country. The city boasts a rich cultural heritage and is well-known for its food, festivals, and sports. If you are planning to move to Gujranwala or exploring the possibility of living there, calculating the cost of living can be a crucial factor in your decision-making process. In this blog post, we will provide an in-depth analysis of the cost of living in Gujranwala, covering all essential aspects such as transportation, housing, healthcare, education, and other miscellaneous expenses.

Housing

When it comes to housing, the cost mainly depends on the locality and the type of accommodation you are looking for. If you are searching for luxury flats, then you can expect to spend PKR 30,000 to 40,000 per month, while the rental cost of a standard 2-bedroom apartment ranges from PKR 12,000 to 20,000 per month. If you plan to purchase a house, the cost is comparatively lower than other major cities in Pakistan. The average price of a 1 Kanal (500 square yards) house in a good locality is approximately PKR 2.5 crore, while the cost of a 10 Marla (250 square yards) house ranges between PKR 80 lacs to 1.5 crore.

Transportation

Transportation expenses in Gujranwala are generally low. The city has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, rickshaws, and taxis. The average bus fare in Gujranwala is PKR 20, while rickshaw fares range from PKR 40 to PKR 100 for short distances. Taxis are also available, and they charge PKR 800-1000 for a 10 km ride.

Food

Gujranwala is renowned for its rich food culture, and the cost of food and dining out is quite reasonable. A single meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around PKR 150-200, while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant for two people costs approximately PKR 1,500. If you prefer cooking at home, a monthly grocery bill for a family of four would cost around PKR 25,000 on average.

Healthcare

Gujranwala has a good healthcare system with numerous public and private hospitals and clinics. The cost of healthcare services varies based on the type of facility and treatment required. A standard visit to a doctor typically costs around PKR 500-1,000, while the cost of a basic hospital room can range from PKR 2,000-5,000 per day. However, the cost can be significantly higher if you opt for private hospitals or specialized treatments.

Education

Gujranwala has a vast variety of educational institutions, including public and private schools, colleges, and universities. The cost of education varies based on the institute and level of education. Private schools and colleges generally have higher fee structures than public institutions. On average, the monthly fee of private schools ranges from PKR 5,000 to PKR 20,000, while the cost of higher education at a reputable university can vary between PKR 50,000 to PKR 100,000 per semester.

Miscellaneous Expenses

Other miscellaneous expenses in Gujranwala, such as clothing, entertainment, and personal hygiene items, are relatively affordable. The cost of a pair of jeans ranges from PKR 1,500 to PKR 2,500, while the price of a cinema ticket is around PKR 500. Monthly expenses for personal hygiene items, including toiletries and cleaning products, would average around PKR 3,000 for a family of four.

Conclusion

Overall, Gujranwala is a reasonably affordable city to live in compared to other major cities in Pakistan. If you plan to move to Gujranwala, housing and transportation expenses would likely be your biggest expenses. However, the city offers a rich culture, good healthcare, and variety of educational institutions, all at a reasonable cost. By estimating your budget for each of the expenses covered in this blog post, you can plan your finances and make an informed decision about living in Gujranwala.

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Gujranwala

Gujranwala is a city full of surprises and hidden gems that only the locals know. Here’s a comprehensive insider’s guide to the city which will help you explore Gujranwala like never before.

Local Attractions: The Hidden Gems

While Gujranwala is famous for its food and industry, there are some hidden gems that are worth exploring. Start off at the ‘Ghanta Ghar’ clock tower, which is a historical landmark in the city. Then explore the Gujranwala Chamber of Commerce and Industry – a modern building that reflects the city’s business mindset.

Visiting the Gujranwala Museum is also a good way to learn about Gujranwala’s history. It is a small museum that displays, among other things, the old currencies of the sub-continent and some fossils found in the area. Another great place to visit is Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park, which is the largest park in Gujranwala offering a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Food: The Soul of Gujranwala

Gujranwala is known for its traditional cuisine, which includes karahi and nihari. However, the city’s food scene has evolved over the years, and you can now find a range of options. Start your day with a traditional breakfast at the iconic ‘Kashmir Morning Foods’ that offers mouth-watering halwa-puri. Then head over to ‘Al-Nakhal’ for authentic Arabic cuisine, or have a ‘Desi Burger’ at ‘Burger Lab’.

One must-try dish is ‘Siri Paye’, which is a popular breakfast choice in Gujranwala. There are several restaurants that serve this dish, but the best one is ‘Malik Siri Paye’. Lastly, don’t forget to try the locally famous ‘Gujranwala Ice Cream’, a speciality that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Cultural Experiences: Embracing Tradition and Modernity

Gujranwala is home to many festivals and traditions that celebrate the city’s cultural heritage. ‘Basant’, a festival of kites, and ‘Bakra Eid’, which celebrates the end of Hajj, are the two most popular festivals celebrated in Gujranwala.

The city is also known for its vibrant music scene. ‘Mauseeqi House’ is a popular music school that has been producing some of the most talented musicians in Pakistan. You can also witness live qawwali performances at ‘Data Darbar’ or ‘Perhaad Auliyaa Darbar’.

Local History: Stories from the Past

Gujranwala has a rich cultural and historical heritage and is home to several historical sites. The city was founded by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century and has since gone through several changes during the British era. The city was an important British military center, and its cantonment area is still intact.

One of the city’s most fascinating stories is that of ‘Raja Dina Nath’, a Hindu businessman who earned a lot of wealth in the city and went on to establish his own princely state. The Dina Nath Palace is now a public library that still bears the testimony of the wealth that once existed in the city.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences

For an offbeat experience, try visiting the ‘Masjid Naimat Ullah’ located near Gujranwala’s railway station. This mosque is unique because it is made entirely out of clay, and the architecture is similar to that of ancient mosques found in Sindh. You can also visit the Pakasia Studios, which is an offbeat experience in itself.

Lastly, if you want to experience how locals spend their evenings, head over to ‘Rail Bazar’ – a market that comes alive after sunset. You can find local street food, jewelry, and clothes, and also witness the city’s hustle and bustle.

In conclusion, Gujranwala is a city that is a true representation of Pakistan’s diverse culture and history. This insider’s guide will help you explore the city from a different perspective and immerse yourself in the city’s soul, making your visit an unforgettable one.