Where is Derawar Fort?

Derawar Fort, an imposing structure located in the heart of the Cholistan Desert, stands as a symbol of the region’s rich history and architectural brilliance.

Situated about 130 kilometers south of Bahawalpur in the Punjab province, Derawar Fort Pakistan is a massive square fort with towering bastions and solid walls, making it visible from miles away.

Once a crucial defensive site, Fort Derawar played a key role in guarding the important trade routes that passed through the Fort Desert, adding to its historical significance and allure for visitors today.

Derawar Fort History

Derawar Fort was first constructed about one thousand years back by Rai Jajja Bhatti, a Hindu Rajput of the Bhatti clan. It then passed over to the Nawabs of Bahawalpur in the later part of the eighteenth century.

The existing structure, with a total of forty bastions, was refurbished by Nawab Sadiq Mohammad Khan around 1733. Nawabs have comfortably made this fort as a military as well as a dwelling place and thus topped its significance in the area.

Derawar Fort Architecture

The fort Derawar has a good structure with a height of 30 meters having a circumference of 1. 5 kilometers.

For has thirty-six bastions, and these are easily discernable from a distance, which provides a rather imposing picture, more so when viewed against the background of the Cholistan desert.

The fort is of brickwork, and several carvings depicting the period architecture are seen on the walls of the fort.

Geographical Significance
Derawar Fort Weather

Derawar Fort experiences a range of weather conditions due to its location in the Cholistan Desert:

• Summer (April to June): Sweltering, often exceeding 40°C (104°F).
• Winter (December to February): Cooler, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F).
• Monsoon (July to September): Limited rainfall, temperatures remain warm but slightly cooler than summer.

The best time to visit is typically from October to March when the weather is more moderate and pleasant.

Inside Derawar Fort

Inside Fort Desert, you’ll find several interesting features and elements that reflect its historical and architectural significance:

Vast Courtyards

Fort has expansive courtyards that offer stunning views and space for exploration. These open areas were used for various activities and ceremonies.

Inner Buildings

Fort Desert contains several inner buildings, including living quarters, storage rooms, and administrative spaces. These buildings showcase traditional architectural styles and provide insight into historical living conditions.

Bastions and Towers

Derawar Fort Pakistan is known for its large bastions and towers built for defense. These structures provide a commanding view of the surrounding desert landscape.

Historical Artifacts

Within Fort, you might find historical artifacts and remnants that reflect its past, including old furniture, weapons, and manuscripts.

Water Reservoirs

The fort features ancient water reservoirs and wells, crucial for survival in the arid desert environment. These reservoirs highlight the fort’s adaptation to its surroundings.

Royal Chambers

The fort houses royal chambers that once served as living quarters for the Nawabs. These rooms are decorated with intricate designs and offer a glimpse into royal life.

Defensive Walls

The massive defensive walls of Derawar Fort are an architectural marvel. They are made of baked bricks and testify to the fort’s strategic importance.

Storage Areas

There are storage areas for provisions and supplies, essential for sustaining the fort’s inhabitants and defense operations.

Hidden Passages

The fort includes hidden passages and tunnels used for defense and escape during sieges.

Derawar Fort Travel Guide

• Best Time to Visit:
  Winter Months (October to March): The best time to visit this place is in the months of autumn or spring because, in summer, the temperature of the Cholistan desert can be very high. Winters, in general, are relatively mild and, hence, a perfect time to go exploring.
• Getting There:
  Private Vehicle: This Fort is about 100 kilometers far from Bahawalpur city, and it is preferable to travel by car. Twelve to thirty-six hours is taken in traveling depending on the mode of transport, with much of the track covered passing through the desert-like landscape.
  Guided Tours: It is thus advisable to employ the services of a guided tour as these normally encompass transport, a guide, as well as other side trips such as desert tours or camel back riding.
• What to Wear:
  Comfortable Clothing: The suggested dress is light and INVESTMENT and loose clothing for movement and breathability during the day time, even in winter.
  Footwear: Choose shoes that are strong and comfortable for any kind of terrain, especially rocky, sandy ground.
  Sun Protection: Take along a hat with an extensive rim and sunglasses and pack on the sunscreen so the shall be sun-kissed.
• What to Bring:
  Water and Snacks: Take enough bottled water since there are few points at the Fort for purchasing water. Speaking of sweets, it can also be helpful to take snacks with you if you are going to spend some time wandering and there can always be if needed.
  Camera: You would definitely do well getting some photos; the Fort and its settings make for great shots, so carry along your camera or batteries for the camera phone.
  Abbasi Mosque: Do not also leave the LITTLE KNOWN BUT EXQUISITE ABBASI MOSQUE right next to the fort, which Nawab Bahawal Khan also constructed.

FAQ’S