Head Islam and Head Sulaimanki Sutlej River
Head Islam and Head Sulaimanki are historic 1920s Sutlej River headworks and eco-tourism wetlands serving as key irrigation centers and migratory bird sanctuaries in southern Punjab.
ExploreChanga Manga Forest Kasur
Chunian, Punjab
Overview
Situated approximately 80 kilometers southwest of Lahore in Kasur District Punjab Changa Manga Forest is one of the largest man-made planted forests in the world. Planted originally in 1870 during the British colonial era to supply timber fuel for the expanding North Western Railway steam locomotives the forest spans over 12000 acres of dense timberland dominated by Sheesham rosewood and Mulberry trees. Transformed into a premier eco-tourism park and wildlife sanctuary the forest features a famous narrow-gauge steam miniature railway scenic Mehtabi Lake with boating facilities a forest wildlife park housing deer and peafowl suspension bridges and shady timberland walking trails.
Highlights
- One of the largest hand-planted man-made forests in the world spanning over 12000 acres
- Established in 1870 during British rule to supply timber for North Western Railway locomotives
- Iconic narrow-gauge miniature steam train running through dense forest timberland routes
- Picturesque Mehtabi Lake featuring pedal boating motorboat rides and scenic waterfront gazebos
- Forest Wildlife Park home to spotted deer blue bulls wild boars and various bird species
- Located just 80 km from Lahore directly accessible via Raiwind-Pattoki Road and N-5 Highway
Things To Do
- Take a nostalgic journey aboard the historic narrow-gauge forest miniature steam train
- Enjoy peaceful pedal boating and motorboat rides across the calm waters of Mehtabi Lake
- Explore the Forest Wildlife Park to observe spotted deer blue bulls and peafowl
- Walk across the forest suspension bridge and shaded timberland nature walking trails
- Enjoy family picnics shaded forest lawns and TDCP tourist resort facilities
Local Transportation
Located near Chunian town in Kasur District. Accessible via the N-5 GT Road turning at Pattoki or via Lahore-Raiwind Road by private car sedan taxi or tourist coaster.
Accommodation
Eco-tourism day-trip destination from Lahore or Kasur. TDCP Changa Manga Tourist Resort forest rest houses and local hotels are available inside the park and nearby Chunian.
Food & Cuisine
TDCP resort restaurant canteens and snack stalls near Mehtabi Lake. Enjoy traditional local Punjabi Mutton Karahi fresh fish pakoras tandoori naan cold drinks and hot cardamom tea.
Safety Information
Family-friendly secure protected forest sanctuary managed by the Punjab Forest Department. Stay on marked forest trails, follow boating safety rules with life jackets, and supervise children near water edges and wildlife enclosures.
Travel Tips
Visit on weekends when the miniature steam train is fully operational, wear comfortable walking shoes, carry sun protection, bring insect repellent for forest walks, and book TDCP guest rooms in advance for overnight stays.