Model Town was established in the 1920s. It is considered one of Lahore’s most prestigious and well-planned residential neighbourhoods, with sprawling houses complemented by manicured lawns, wide roads shaded by century-old neem and deodar trees and adequate dining, shopping and recreational options.

A walk in the park… The Model Town Park is spread over 125 acres and is located in the heart of the neighbourhood. It is frequented by health conscious residents thanks to its walking track and gym. In Ramazan, the Park attracts people from across Lahore who lounge on one of the many benches overlooking the Park’s lake, take a leisurely stroll, or a nap under one of the countless trees before digging into their iftar at the Park’s well known canteen. The fare on offer there includes iftar staples such as cholay, dahi baray and kararay chaat. Other people bring their own iftar and picnic under a tree.

For the love of sport… Sports are an important part of life in Model Town, which is home to several sports clubs. Tennis star Aisam Ul Haq is a frequent visitor at the Model Town Club, which offers excellent tennis facilities; several football pitches are also located there. However, cricket is the star sport during Ramazan; all-night cricket tournaments are held at the sport centres and are eagerly awaited by the younger residents.

Iftar specials and more… Model Town’s dining venues adopt a new avatar during Ramazan. The famed Fancy Samosay Wala sees a seasonal spike in business during the month due to its iftar favourites which include glistening jalebis, plump dahi bhalays, and of course, crisp samosas. Restaurants Goshi and Sholay attract the young, thanks to their iftar buffets; Bhaiya Kabab Shop and Siddiq Barbeque serve killer kababs and khameeri rotis that will melt in your mouth, and piquant soda pani to Lahoris from all walks of life. For the trendier lot, there’s coffee and dessert at Gloria Jean’s.

Shopping and much, much more… Each one of the eight blocks in Model Town has a small commercial pocket where residents’ basic grocery and shopping requirements are met. Blocks A and C have larger markets where one can find supermarkets, banks, and more elaborate shopping options. And in addition to some very good schools, Model Town has a well-stocked library for its residents.

In a nutshell… Model Town is charming mix of old and new; this quiet community offers modern amenities and recreation while retaining its old world charm and stately character, which make it one of the most sought after residential areas
in Lahore.

– Maheen Hassan
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First published in the Real Estate Section of The DAWN National Weekend Advertiser on July 15, 2012.