Gates of Bahawalpur
Gates of Bahawalpur
Bahawalpur, the city which was the capital of the former princely state under Nawabs, is famous today for its historical and artistic glamour. Some of the marvelous architectural creations in the city include the 7 historical gates of Bahawalpur that were used for defensive purposes and as signs of successful development within this city. Built during the 19th century under the rule of the Nawabs, each gate holds a unique story of Bahawalpur’s past. Not all such gates exist, but their impact can still be seen in Pakistan, where some of them, like the Farid Gate, are still strong.
7 Gates of Bahawalpur
All gates of Bahawalpur represent the city’s rich history and architectural heritage, each serving as a symbol of the region’s past glory. These gates, once part of the Bahawalpur State’s fortifications, include iconic structures like the Derawari Gate, Ahmedpuri Gate, and Bikaneri Gate. All gates of Bahawalpur not only offer a glimpse into the city’s historical significance but also attract tourists interested in exploring the cultural landmarks of the region.
1. Farid Gate – A Monument to Bahawalpur’s Heritage (Built-in 1866)
Farid Gate, considered the giant gate of Bahawalpur, was constructed in 1866 under the rule of Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan IV. It was dedicated to the great revered Sufi saint Baba Farid and initially acted as a defence fortification and trade passage. Nowadays, it is an example of a modern city that is inextricably linked with history and surrounded by bazaars.
Notable Highlights:
- A bustling hub of activity with vibrant markets.
- Symbol of the old city’s resilience and importance.
- Architectural significance reflecting the city’s royal past.
| Detail | Description |
| Year Built | 1866 |
| Built By | Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan IV |
| Purpose | Defense and trade gateway |
| Current Status | Preserved and a popular marketplace |
2. Multani Gate – The Gateway to Trade (Mid-19th Century)
The Multani Gate was built in the mid-1800s during Nawab Bahawal Khan III’s rule to serve as the economic gateway for the merchants from Multan. Even though the gate has been dismantled today, the spot is essential to developing Bahawalpur’s economy.
Notable Highlights:
- Gateway for traders from Multan.
- Important historical site for commerce in the region.
- Key contributor to the city’s economic growth in the past.
| Detail | Description |
| Year Built | Mid-19th Century |
| Built By | Nawab Bahawal Khan III |
| Purpose | Trade route to Multan |
| Current Status | Original structure has faded |
3. Shikarpuri Gate – A Link to Sindh’s Trade (1857)
Shikarpuri Gate was constructed in 1857 by Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan IV, which links Bahawalpur to Shikarpur, a city in Sindh. This gate was a handy point that became the main link between the regions, significantly impacting Bahawalpur’s economic enrichment.
Notable Highlights:
- Historical trade route connection with Sindh.
- A reminder of the economic ties Bahawalpur shared with southern regions.
| Detail | Description |
| Year Built | 1857 |
| Built By | Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan IV |
| Purpose | Trade connection with Sindh |
| Current Status | No longer stands |
4. Ahmedpuri Gate – A Passage to Expansion (1849)
Ahmedpuri Gate, built in 1849, joined Bahawalpur with Ahmedpur East, an essential city in Bahawalpur province. Nawab Bahawal Khan III of the Kalhora dynasty constructed this gate to extend territory.
Notable Highlights:
- Key gateway to Ahmedpur East.
- Represents the Nawabs’ expansive rule and territorial reach.
- The gate’s location continues to hold historical significance.
| Detail | Description |
| Year Built | 1849 |
| Built By | Nawab Bahawal Khan III |
| Purpose | Route to Ahmedpur East |
| Current Status | Modified but historically recognized |
5. Derawari Gate – The Gateway to the Desert (1870s)
Derawari Gate was constructed in the early 1870s and was established in Derawar Fort, located in the Cholistan Desert, by Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan IV. This particular gate was important in relating the city to the desert and the fort, a strategic defense point.
Notable Highlights:
- Connected the city with Derawar Fort and the Cholistan Desert.
- A strategic military route for the Nawabs of Bahawalpur.
| Detail | Description |
| Year Built | Early 1870s |
| Built By | Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan IV |
| Purpose | Trade and military route to Derawar Fort |
| Current Status | Symbolic and historically significant |
6. Bikaneri Gate – Bridging Princely States (Mid-19th Century)
Bikaneri Gate, built in the mid-1800s under Nawab Bahawal Khan III, was built to connect Bahawalpur with Bikaner in Rajasthan, India. This gate used to act as a connection for commerce and intermittent relations between the different princely states.
Notable Highlights:
- A key connector between Bahawalpur and Bikaner.
- Important for trade and diplomatic relations between princely states.
| Detail | Description |
| Year Built | Mid-19th Century |
| Built By | Nawab Bahawal Khan III |
| Purpose | Trade and diplomatic route to Bikaner |
| Current Status | Original structure no longer exists |
7. Mohri Gate – A Historic Portal to Bahawalpur’s Heritage (Early 19th Century)
Mohri Gate, constructed in the early 19th century under the reign of Nawab Bahawal Khan III, served as a key defensive and ceremonial gateway to the walled city of Bahawalpur. It was strategically placed to protect the city and mark its northern boundary. Over the years, the gate became a significant point of entry for royal processions, symbolizing the city’s prosperity and importance during the rule of the Nawabs.
Notable Highlights:
- Built as a defensive gateway to fortify the northern boundary of Bahawalpur.
- Served as the main entrance for royal processions, showcasing the grandeur of the Nawabs.
| Details | Description |
| Built | Early 19th Century |
| Who Built It | Commissioned by Nawab Bahawal Khan III |
| Why Built | To serve as a defensive and ceremonial gateway into the walled city of Bahawalpur |
| Present Condition | Partially restored; serves as a historical landmark and cultural symbol in modern Bahawalpur |
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FAQ’S
7 gates of Bahawalpur location?
Here’s a list of the 7 prominent gates of Bahawalpur and their locations:
Khar Mosque Gate – Located in the old city area, near the Khar Mosque.
Bikaneri Gate – Positioned to the north of the city, connecting Bahawalpur to Bikaner.
Lal Sohanra Gate – Situated in the Lal Sohanra National Park region.
Noor Mahal Gate – Found at the entrance of the Noor Mahal palace.
Machi Gate – Located in the vicinity of Machi Park.
Ameer Sadiq Gate – Positioned near the historic Ameer Sadiq’s residence.
Mohri Gate – Situated in the northern part of the old city, it historically served as a critical defensive and ceremonial entrance.
7 gates of Bahawalpur history?
Here’s a brief overview of the 7 gates of Bahawalpur:
Khar Mosque Gate
Built in the late 19th century, serving as an entrance to the Khar Mosque.
Bikaneri Gate
Constructed in the mid-19th century, linking Bahawalpur to Bikaner for trade and travel.
Lal Sohanra Gate
Established in the early 20th century, providing access to Lal Sohanra National Park.
Noor Mahal Gate
Part of the Noor Mahal, built in the late 19th century, showcases royal elegance.
Machi Gate
Early 20th-century gate near Machi Park, facilitating access to the park area.
Ameer Sadiq Gate
Named after Ameer Sadiq, it was built in the early 20th century, leading to his residence.
Mohri Gate
Constructed in the early 19th century by Nawab Bahawal Khan III, it was later rebuilt in the 1920s.
How many gates of Bahawalpur?
Bahawalpur originally had 7 main gates, which were key entry points to the walled city. They were:
Fareed Gate
Multani Gate
Derawari Gate
Bikaneri Gate
Khar Mosque Gate
Noor Mahal Gate
Mohri Gate
What is the history of Fareed Gate Bahawalpur?
Fareed Gate is one of the historical gates of Bahawalpur with notable significance:
History of Fareed Gate
Construction: Built in the late 19th century during the rule of Nawab Bahawal Khan IV.
Purpose: Named in honor of the renowned Sufi saint, Baba Fareed, this gate served as a significant entrance to the city and was part of the fortifications surrounding Bahawalpur.
Architectural Style: The gate showcases traditional Indo-Islamic architecture, featuring ornate brickwork and arches.
Historical Role: Served as a key point for entry and exit in the walled city, playing a crucial role in the city’s defense and daily activities.
Present Condition: Although the gate has undergone changes over time, it remains an important historical landmark and a symbol of Bahawalpur’s rich cultural heritage.
Old name of Farid Gate Bahawalpur?
The old name of Fareed Gate in Bahawalpur was “Lari Gate”. It was renamed to honor the Sufi saint Baba Fareed.
