Bahawalpur is a large city in the Punjab province of Pakistan. With a population of 762,111 people, it is the 11th largest city in the country. It is also the largest city in terms of area. If you are looking for places to visit in Bahawalpur, there are many options to choose from.
Derawar Fort
Derawar Fort is an old fort in Bahawalpur, Pakistan. It has a long history dating back to the 9th century. However, its current look only dates back to the 18th century. It was constructed by Rai Jajja Bhatti, the Rajput ruler of the Bhatti clan. Throughout its history, the fort has changed hands a few times. The Nawab of Bahawalpur claimed it in 1733 and again took control of it in 1747. The fort remained in the hands of the Nawab of Bahawalpur until 1970. The constant occupation allowed it to remain in a good condition.
Derawar Fort is one of the most popular landmarks of Bahawalpur. It sits on the Cholistan Desert, just a few hours’ drive from Bahawalpur City. As it is set against the vast desert, the fort is surrounded by dust.
The fort was built by Rai Jajja Bhati in the ninth century. It was initially called Dera Rawal, but was renamed Derawar during the 18th century. The Muslim Nawabs of Bahawalpur later took possession of it. In 1732, Nawab Sadeq Muhammad rebuilt the fort. However, it slipped from Bahawal Khan’s hands a few years later.
The fort is a huge square structure, and its walls rise 30 meters high. The walls are decorated with fresco and tile work. Near the fort is a mosque named Moti, and you can also see the cemetery of the Nawabs of Bahawalpur.
The Derawar Fort is part of the Cholistan Desert fort network. The other forts in this network include Khangarh Fort and Marotgarh Fort. Some of them are still standing, while others have fallen into ruins. But Derawar Fort is the best of the surviving desert forts.
The fort is surrounded by 30 metre-high bastions. The walls extend for 1.5 km, and are visible for miles. The fort’s dungeons were once accessible via tunneled pathways. The fort was once connected to the Sadiq Ghar Palace.
Nishat Mahal
The Gulzar Mahal, Nishat Mahal and Bahawalpur Central Library are among the historical places in Bahawalpur. These historical places in Bahawalpur are known for their rich culture and awe-inspiring architecture. They are well-preserved monuments that you should not miss visiting.
The Nishat Mahal is a grand palace located in Bahawalpur. It is a large structure that comprises four square minarets and a huge rectangular structure in the center. The Nishat Mahal is surrounded by beautiful gardens and massive lawns.
The Noor Mahal is another magnificent palace in Bahawalpur. It was built by the Nawabs in the nineteenth century. It is now owned by the Pakistan Army, which has taken care of its property. Inside the palace, you can see some artifacts that belong to the Nawabs and their court.
The Darbar Mahal is another regal palace in Bahawalpur. It was built by Bahawal Khan V and was originally called Mubarak Mahal. It was completed in 1905. It sits in a 75 acre garden. While it is not open to the public, it is still worth a visit.
Derawar Fort is another magnificent structure in Bahawalpur. It is a neo-classical and Islamic structure. The architecture was influenced by the Badshahi Masjid in Lahore and features all of these.
Noor Mahal is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bahawalpur. The 19th-century monument is especially stunning at night. The palace is home to a sound and light show that is held every Saturday and Sunday at 7:30 PM. The show explains the history and architecture of the monument.
The Gulzar Mahal is another historic place in Bahawalpur that has been a favorite for tourists. It was constructed between 1906 and 1909 and was the first building in Bahawalpur to be equipped with hidden electricity wires. It is situated in the Bahawalgarh Palace Complex and is close to the Nishat Mahal and Darbar Mahal. It cost Rs 1.2 million to build and has 32 rooms. There are six verandas and five domes.
Bahawalpur is a rich historical city in the Punjab province and is home to many historical sites. The city’s rich culture and architecture make it one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan.
Bahawalpur Palace
Bahawalpur Palace was built in 1875 AD at a cost of Rs 12 Lacs by state architect Mr. Hanin. It has double storey rooms with octagonal corners and stair cases leading to the roof terrace. Most of the artwork was produced by Western artists but there is a collection of antique swords and muskets.
The Gulzar Mahal is another important building in Bahawalpur. It was built around the same time as Darbar Mahal and is similar in architecture and purpose. It is one of the best tourist attractions in Bahawalpur. It was once the residence of the Royal Family of Bahawalpur.
The palace was used for state functions, cabinet meetings and the State Court. It was adorned with portraits of nawabs and biographical details. The palace also had a natural cooling system wherein cold water was stored in the basement. This vapor was then released into the rooms through small windows.
The Bahawalpur Palace has 32 rooms including a basement and a mosque. It was built during the Mughal era and features paintings by western artists. In 1906, Nawab Muhammad Bahawal Khan added a mosque to the palace. In 1971, the palace was leased to the army.
The palace is open to the public from nine to 10 PM, and it is an interesting place to spend an afternoon or evening. It also features a museum and a well-kept public park. It is a hidden gem in Punjab and a place that’s worth visiting. The city’s Noor Mahal is another must-see attraction.
The palace has a long history. The former royal residence of the Abbasi family is no longer in use and has fallen victim to neglect. The building, though, remains an important part of the city’s heritage. It should be preserved and protected as long as it is safe. Its future is uncertain due to the lack of funds for its conservation.
The Bahawalpur Palace is a great place to visit if you love architecture. It is not only an important place of historical importance, but also an important tourist destination. The city’s cultural diversity makes it a true tourist’s paradise.
Shalimar Garden
The UNESCO-listed Shalimar Garden was constructed by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It features geometric pools, pavilions, fountains, almond trees, grassy lawns, flower beds, and frescoes. Once reserved for the royal family, the gardens have been open to the public for over 150 years. Today, the gardens provide a tranquil, relaxing experience.
The Shalimar Garden is divided into three sections, each named after a god. The upper garden is known as the ‘provider of life’ while the lower garden is named after the goddess of love and beauty. The gardens are divided by streams and springs. These streams flow into pools that are made of marble.
A visit to the Noor Mahal is another popular attraction. This Italian-style palace is one of the most beautiful reminders of the former affluence of the Nawabs in Bahawalpur. It’s located about a 3-hour drive from Lahore and is a significant cultural heritage site.
UNESCO has designated the Shalimar Garden as a World Heritage Site. It was built under the Mughal Empire and is home to an ornate garden. It was designed by Jahangir’s wife, Nur Jahan. She was a master of influence. According to legend, the UNESCO-listed mausoleum contains 500,000-1 million burial sites.
The Lahore Fort is also a World Heritage property and protected by the Antiquities Act (1975). It was once completely surrounded by a wall and centered on a citadel. The fort was the key to controlling the city. In 1509, the Mughal Emperor Babar reinforced the fort and added the Shalimar Gardens. However, the fort was destroyed by Ranjit Sing. After that, the British rebuilt the fort using bricks instead of mud. Today, the fort is closed to the public and is occupied by the Frontier Corps.
Derawar Fort is another historic place to visit in Bahawalpur. Built in the 9th century, the fort is surrounded by the Cholistan Desert and features massive bastions. The fort is one of the most famous landmarks of the city.
