Derawar Fort – The Timeless Guardian of the Cholistan Desert
Standing tall in the heart of the Cholistan Desert, Derawar Fort is one of the most remarkable historical landmarks in Pakistan. Its massive walls and commanding bastions tell stories of centuries gone by — of power, defense, and architectural brilliance.
Historical Background
The origins of Derawar Fort trace back to the 9th century AD. It was first built by a Hindu Rajput ruler named Rai Daija Bhatti, who governed Dera Sadda, also known as Deo Rawal. Over time, the name Deo Rawal evolved into Derawar.
The fort as it stands today was reconstructed in 1733 AD by Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan I, the Nawab of Bahawalpur. From that time onward, it remained under the supervision of the Bahawalpur rulers until 1966.
Recognizing its importance, the Archaeology Department of Pakistan declared it a preserved structure under the Archaeology Act in 2005. Later, in 2016, UNESCO included Derawar Fort in its International Heritage list, highlighting its cultural and historical value.
Architectural Design and Structure
Derawar Fort is a square-shaped masterpiece with 40 tall bastions built to defend against enemy attacks. The outer walls and bastions are made of small yet strong bricks, while a clay mixture was used for added strength.
The fort’s circumference measures around 1,500 meters, and its towering walls rise 100 feet above ground level. Legend says that during its construction, a human chain was formed to transport bricks from Uch Sharif — a remarkable feat of teamwork and engineering.
Today, the fort remains a striking landmark of the Cholistan Desert and a symbol of architectural excellence.
How to Reach Derawar Fort
Derawar Fort is located in Dera Nawab Sahib, about 100 kilometers from Bahawalpur. The route from Bahawalpur to Dera Nawab Sahib covers roughly 50 kilometers, and the fort lies another 50 kilometers ahead.
Before reaching Tehsil Ahmadpur, a road turns left toward Dera Nawab Sahib. The massive bastions of the fort can be seen from miles away, guiding travelers through the desert landscape.
Restoration and Preservation
After Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan Abbasi V’s death in 1966, the fort began to deteriorate due to neglect. In 2017–18, the Punjab Government’s Archaeology Department launched a restoration project to revive Derawar Fort. The work included repairs to the eastern bastions, outer walls, baradari, main gate, storerooms, and the royal mosque.
Main Features of Derawar Fort
Main Entrance Gate
The fort’s main gate was ingeniously designed to withstand enemy attacks. Iron spikes were fixed into the wooden doors to prevent elephants from breaking them during sieges. Visitors can enter for a nominal fee of Rs 20. The brick pathway inside leads along the thick bastion walls, each about 10 feet wide.
Nawabs’ Resting Rooms
Below the surface, cool basements served as summer rest quarters for the Nawabs. Due to Bahawalpur’s harsh heat, these underground rooms provided a comfortable retreat. Nawabs would descend using an iron cart system, though the rooms have now mostly fallen into ruin.
Bara Dari
The Bara Dari once offered breathtaking views of the Hakra River that flowed nearby. It was likely used by the Nawabs for royal gatherings and ceremonies. Of its twelve doors, eight remain standing today.
Royal Mosque and Graveyard
On the eastern side of the fort lies a Royal Mosque, constructed from white stone about 175 years ago. The mosque remains functional to this day, with prayers held five times daily. Close by is the royal graveyard, where around ten Nawabs of Bahawalpur rest eternally. Two additional graves remain reserved for future heirs.
Parade Lawn
The vast parade lawn once hosted royal ceremonies, military parades, and coronation events. It reflects the grandeur and military discipline of the Bahawalpur State.
Gallows and Prison Cells
High platforms were used to execute criminals, while nearby rooms served as prison cells for offenders and political rivals. These areas, now deteriorating, still echo the fort’s turbulent past.
Secret Underground Tunnels
Like many ancient forts, Derawar Fort was built with hidden passageways and underground rooms. These provided safe escape routes and protection from the desert heat. Most of them, however, have collapsed over time.
Cannons and Graves
Two cannons once stood guard at the fort — today, only one remains on site while the other has been relocated to Bahawalpur’s Farid Gate. Along one wall, three white-stone graves mark the resting place of Abbasi commanders who died defending the fort.
Residential Quarters
The Nawabs and their families once lived inside the fort. The residential section featured airy rooms and sunlit verandas, now largely in ruins but still hinting at their past elegance.
Derawar Fort and the Cholistan Jeep Rally
Every year, the Cholistan Jeep Rally attracts adventure enthusiasts from across the country. The rally takes place near Derawar Fort, making it a spectacular backdrop for the event and a major attraction for tourists and photographers.
Derawar Fort is more than just an ancient structure — it’s a living chapter of Pakistan’s rich history. Its massive walls, royal quarters, and the surrounding desert offer a glimpse into the glory of Bahawalpur’s past. Whether you’re passionate about history, architecture, or photography, this fort is a must-visit destination.
Contact Us to Visit Derawar Fort
Planning a trip to explore Derawar Fort and the surrounding Cholistan Desert?
Contact us today to book a guided tour and experience the grandeur of this historical marvel up close.