A rare Historical Place

 Exploring Derawar Fort: A Hidden Gem in Pakistan’s Cholistan Desert

Tucked away in the expansive Cholistan Desert in Pakistan’s Punjab province, Derawar Fort is one of the country's most awe-inspiring yet lesser-known historical landmarks. Its immense structure and striking silhouette have stood the test of time for over a thousand years, but despite its grandeur, the fort remains largely unknown to the wider world. For history buffs and adventure seekers alike, Derawar Fort offers a glimpse into a forgotten era of South Asia.

A Fortress with a Storied Past

Derawar Fort’s origins trace back to the 9th century when it was originally built by the Bhatti Rajput rulers of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, India. However, the fort as it stands today was rebuilt in the 18th century by Nawab Sadeq Mohammad Khan I, the ruler of Bahawalpur. The fortress remained under the control of the Nawabs of Bahawalpur until Pakistan's independence, playing a vital role in the region’s defense and administration.

The Fort's Significance: Beyond its role as a military stronghold, Derawar was a symbol of power and influence, controlling trade routes across the desert. The Nawabs used it as a residence and also to protect their land from invaders. However, after the decline of the Bahawalpur State, the fort was largely abandoned, which has contributed to its obscurity today.

Architectural Marvel in the Desert

The first thing that strikes any visitor is the imposing size of Derawar Fort. Its towering 40 bastions dominate the otherwise flat desert landscape, visible from miles away. Each bastion stands approximately 30 meters (100 feet) tall, forming a perfect square around the fort's perimeter. The walls, built from large bricks, encase a fortress that measures over 1,500 meters in circumference.

While much of the interior has succumbed to the ravages of time, you can still see the remnants of halls, storage rooms, and old structures that evoke a sense of its historical past. The exterior remains well-preserved, and the scale of the fort is overwhelming—it’s hard to believe such a structure exists in the middle of the desert, with no city in sight.

An Eerie Sense of Isolation

One of the most fascinating aspects of visiting Derawar Fort is its sense of isolation. Located about 100 kilometers from the city of Bahawalpur, the fort seems to rise out of nowhere in the vast emptiness of the

Cholistan Desert. The journey to the fort, which takes you through rolling sand dunes and barren landscapes, is an adventure in itself.

This isolation has protected the fort from mass tourism, but it also means that few people venture here, even from within Pakistan. As you walk around the fort’s massive walls, you can almost feel the weight of history in the silence that envelops the area.

Exploring Derawar Today

Though not officially a tourist hotspot, Derawar Fort is accessible to those willing to venture off the beaten path. It’s best to visit during the cooler months between November and February, as the desert heat can be punishing during the summer. The fort is also part of the larger Cholistan Desert Jeep Rally, which attracts adventure enthusiasts from around the country every year.

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Nearby, you can also find the Derawar Mosque, a beautiful structure built in the same style as the Moti Masjid in Delhi’s Red Fort. The mosque, with its intricate designs, offers a stunning contrast to the imposing fort walls. For those interested in history, the Royal Cemetery of the Nawabs lies not far from the fort, where the rulers of Bahawalpur are buried in grand tombs that reflect their once-glorious rule.

Challenges of Preservation

Unfortunately, Derawar Fort has not been immune to the effects of neglect. While the exterior remains largely intact, parts of the interior have fallen into disrepair. Without proper conservation efforts, there is a danger that this historical gem may continue to deteriorate.

Local authorities have started to recognize the fort's importance, and there have been discussions about preservation efforts, but concrete actions are still limited. For now, those who visit Derawar can appreciate it in its raw and rugged state, untouched by commercial tourism.

A Hidden Treasure

Derawar Fort may not be as famous as other historical landmarks in Pakistan, but its beauty and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the country’s rich heritage. The fort’s isolation in the Cholistan Desert only adds to its mystique, making it a rare and hidden gem waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers.

Tips for Visiting:

• Best time to visit: November to February (cooler months
• Nearest city: Bahawalpur (100 km away)
• How to get there: By jeep or private vehicle from Bahawalpur
• What to bring: Sun protection, water, and sturdy shoes for walking
• Nearby attractions: Derawar Mosque, Royal Cemetery of the Nawabs

If you’re looking for an unforgettable journey into Pakistan’s past, Derawar Fort offers a breathtaking experience that combines adventure, history, and the allure of the unknown.