Are you a history buff?
Are you planning to visit some ancient and historical jewels of Pakistan?
Then, you landed on the right spot; in my today’s blogs, I will cover the ancient, historical, fascinating, mesmerizing, and giants’ forts of Pakistan that I visited.
So, let’s come with me if you want to see the fascinating topographical features of Pakistan. The list is long enough, and I have also tried to cover all the giant and tiny forts of this land.
It’s no doubt you can enjoy all four seasons in Pakistan but his land have some big desserts, giant mountains loaded with natural beauty, lush green fields, and ancient places.
First, I decided to visit the forts located in Punjab Province, then Balochistan, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir.
What’ll you people learn about these forts?
Get this:
- History of the Fort
- Location of the Fort
- Things that will attract the tourist
- Places to stay when you would like to visit
So, tight the laces of your shoes because there are no vehicle facilities beside the forts that will give the round of every fort we have to walk.
Punjab Forts Pakistan
1: Fort Munro – Punjab
So, first, I decided to explore the ‘Mini Muree.’ Yes, the ‘Mini Muree’ the locals named it. If you did not know this name that I stated above, you have to visit Pakistan’s northern areas there you’ll find this place. Okay, Fort Munro is the coolest place as well because this place experiences snowfall. That’s the reason locals call this ‘Mini Muree.’
A large number of tourists visited this place in summer, Although to escape the heat. Fort Munro is resting peacefully in the Mountain range of Koh – Suleiman.
How can you get to this Hill station?
Get this:
- Location:It’s 85km away from Dera Ghazi Khan. If you want to go to Fort Munro, then, first, you need to reach Dera Ghazi Khan. If you have your vehicle, you can reach further in roundabout one hour (less or more depends on your driving) or you can also take the available coach services that are much affordable.
Is this place attractive or safe for tourists?
Get this:
- Tourism:It has been considered as the “Jewel” of Southern Punjab because it is the highest point of Koh – Suleiman range. That’s why it’s significance in Tourism. So, I can say that must visit it.
Where can we stay Near Fort Munro?
Get this;
- The place to stay for a night or more:Since this place got tourists’ attraction because it is the place which is mostly visited in Pakistan and you can find different hotels in the area due to different travellers who reside there. They charged differently per night (for instance, start from PKR 1,000). Agosh Hotel, Royal Hotel, and Fort View Guest House are most popular.
2: Attock Fort – Punjab
This is one of the stunning ancient landmarks in Pakistan. This fort is located in Attock Punjab and is one of the country’s historical places. In recent times, tourists were not allowed to visit this ancient landmark because it was the base camp of Pakistan’s military forces.
Meanwhile, if you have an avid interest in exploring historical places or simply enjoying exploring new lands, don’t forget to add this to your destination list because of its charming and unrealistic beauty.
When was this fort established?
Get this:
- Background:It was built in 1581 during the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar. The construction was completed in almost two years. In 1812 Sikhs captured the fort, and eventually British took over the fort. After the partition of Pakistan and India, Pakistan’s army took control of the fort, so now it’s a part of Pakistan.
How can you reach this fort?
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- Location: It is 80km away from the city of Islamabad. It is located between Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
What are the main features of this place? And are tourists allow to come to this majestic place?
Get this:
- Features:The fort has four gates and a parameter wall that is 1600m long. Gates Called Delhi Gate, Lahori Gate, Mori Gate, and Kabul Gate
- Tourism:Now, the govt. of Pakistan provides lodging and boarding facilities to make this site most popular for tourists. It means you can visit this place in safe manners.
3: Lahore Fort – Punjab
One of the magnificent fort in Pakistan. Well, the city of Lahore is packed with many mesmerizing and beautiful structures and monuments. But no one can deny the beautiful art of Mughal Architectures. The structures are magnificent, and it’s a palace of fairy tales. Twin domes welcome you when you enter this mighty palace; I can say that the entrance is remarkable. You can see the decorations on the wall, then you can explore the precious stones because some eye-catching painted designs and decorations still exist even today.
When was this fort established?
Get this:
- Background:This fort was established in 1566 during the reign of Emperor Akbar. However, the fort is not like as it was when constructed.
How can you reach this place?
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- Location:The fort is located in the old walled city on the northern side of Lahore.
Remarkable Sites for Visit in Remarkable Royal Fort:
Get this:
- Sheesh Mahal: This place is a symbol of love between Shah Jahan and his beloved Queen Mumtaz. It’s right to say Mumtaz is not alive now, and she couldn’t be witnessing the realization of her dream. However, the place of Mirrors shall always be associated with her.
- Alamgiri Gate: This gate was designed for the entrance of elephants.
- Ath Darra: This place was used for the court proceeding by Maharaja Ranjeet Singh. You can see the beautiful paintings on the wall and the ceiling’s exquisite mirror.
- Bangla Naulakha: It’s a marble building located in the courtyard of Sheesh Mahal.
- Moti Masjid: A gigantic mosque built by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. It is also known as the Pearl Mosque.
- Royal Fort Museums: There are a lot of tiny museums located inside the fort. The museums are “Armory Museum,” Mughal Gallery” and “Sikh Gallery.”
4: Noor Mahal – Punjab
The hidden beauty of Bahawalpur Punjab Pakistan. One of the gorgeous hidden gems in Pakistan. Noor Mahal is one of the latest monuments in Pakistan, and I think you people want to see this magnificent man-made monument that gives their admirers reasons to be so happy and proud.
When was this Mahal constructed?
Get this:
- Background:Well, you can hear a lot of stories regarding the establishment of Noor Mahal. I heard this story; Nawab Adnan Abbas built this place for his beloved wife. She spent only one night in the palace.
Why she spent one night in this majestic Palace?
- Because she can see the graveyard from her balcony, that’s why she refused to live another night in the palace.
Things to see and explore in the Palace:
Get this:
- Massive Structure:The palace was built in the middle of a lush green Garden. The Palace has 32 rooms, a basement included. You can see the beautiful paintings and portraits on the wall made by western artists.
- On the other hand, there are many things to explore, such as old swords, old currency notes, coins, old piano, old furniture used by Nawab, etc.
Can tourists visit this hidden gem?
Get this:
- Tourism:The answer is Yes. The palace is open for local and foreign tourists.
How can you reach this palace?
- Location: The Noor Mahal is a Pakistan Army-owned palace in Bahawalpur, Punjab located at Bahawalpur.
Forts In Azad Kashmir Pakistan
5: Ramkot Fort – Azad Kashmir
The picturesque beauty and scenic panoramas make this fort “Heaven on Earth.” So, If you plan to visit the Azad Kashmir as a traveler, don’t forget to visit this paradise. It’s located on the Jhelum river’s edge.
When this Paradise constructed on Earth?
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- Background:The construction of this fort completed in the 16th to 17th century by the Muslim rulers of Kashmir. It was built on a high hill; you can see the mesmerizing waves of River Jhelum, with the fascinating and breath taking views of Mangla Dam Lake.
How can you get to Fort?
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- Location:As I stated before, the fort was built on a high hill. So, get to the fort, take a boat from the Mangla Dam, ride 30 to 40 minutes, and reach the reservoir’s northern extremity. Then, a little bit steep but short way takes to the fort.
What things can a tourist explore at the Ramkot fort?
Get this:
- Enjoyment of Boat Riding:You can take the boat from the Mangla Dam to Ramkot Fort and enjoy the scenic view of the water. You can take unique and mesmerizing photos with hills and greenery, and blue water of River Jhelum.
- Trekking:Not too long, but enjoyable trekking for thrill-seekers and advanced trekkers.
- Panoramic View from the fort:Once you reach the fort, you’ll enjoy the panoramic, mesmerizing, and glorious views of River Jhelum.
I have to say one thing here if you don’t like the crowded tourist destination, then left behind the picnic spot Mangla and head to the fort. You can get the peace of soul there.
Forts In Balochsitan, Pakistan
6: Punno Fort – Balochistan
I’ll call this the place of lovers. Yeah, because the fort’s name is Punno Fort, and Punno was the local prince’s name, who was the lover of Saassi. The romance of these lovers is quite popular in almost the entire world, even thousands of years have been passed, but the tales of their romance and popularity are the same. I visited this place when I was on my Balochistan trip, but I decided to write about this fort in my Pakistan blogs’ Forts.
When the fort took place on earth?
Get this:
- Background:Background: According to historiographic, this fort took place between 6000 and 8000 BC. According to his history, many rulers ruled this and possessed by uncountable kings from ancient times. You’ll see the wrecked building everywhere. This fort was built by some kind of mud.
The question raised here, if many kings had been ruled on this place, then why people call this Punno Fort?
- The thing is, this fort is thousands of years old, and no one knows the exact names of kings, but the Punno was the kings of romance during his time. As I stated above, he got fame because of his romance with Saassi, so the folks named this place Punno Fort for good.
How can you get around this fort?
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- Location:The fort is 15km away from Turbat city. Turbat is a city that is situated in the northern part of Balochistan.
Is this place worthy for Tourists?
Get this:
- Tourism:One of the reasons I visited this place due to the love story of Mr. Punno and lady Saassi that has been admired by many. Many tourists came to see this place every year and try to feel the ancient, chasle and true romance.
Forts In Sindh, Pakistan
7: Kot Diji Fort – Sindh
Sindh province is packed with fascinating historical places. When I reached this fort and saw this enigmatic fort, I could not stop myself without saying WOW! I remember my disbelief and excitement when I first saw this mammoth construction. I could not stop my feet and get closer to explore it properly.
When was this fort constructed?
Get this:
- Background:The construction of this place took place almost ten years, mean the construction of this incredible historical fort was started in 1785 and completed in 1795. It was built on Mir Sohrab Talpur, who was the prominent ruler of the Talpur dynasty. The fort has only one entrance. The gate’s name is Shahi Darwaza (the royal gate). The fort height is 110 feet from the ground. It is located on the southern end of Rohri hills.
What things can you explore here?
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- Things to explore: A unique and ancient structure will blow your mind. When you enter the fort from the main gate, you’ll learn about the many secret small passages used in case of any emergency. You will see the high walls on three sides. These walls provide climbing access to the fort.
Here, point to be noted; try to visit this place on a cloudy day because the Khairpur district’s weather stays hot for most of the year.
Is this place worthy for tourists?
Get this:
- Tourism:Almost every year, many toursits like to visit this magnificent and incredible fort. So, you have to put this in your bookmark.
Point to be noted here; the fort remains open only in the daytime.
How can you reach this fort?
- Location: The fort located in the town of Kot Diji in Khairpur District, Pakistan
8: Ranikot Fort – Sindh (Largest Fort of Pakistan)
A magnificent and sprawling Ranikot fort near Jamshoro in Sindh Province. You’ll see the impenetrable wall snaking up and down in several hills. This wall is the same as the excellent china wall. The difference that the wall is famous all the world and too long, though, on the other side, this wall is around the fort and not much famous. Local folks call this wall ‘The Great Wall of Sindh” because of this.
When was this fort constructed?
Get this:
- Background:A mysterious history of this wall means no one knows exactly why and when it was built in the first place. Historians believed that this giant fort was built during the Sasanian, Scythians, or the Parthian Empire. However, some archaeologists say that it was the seventeenth century when this fort was built for the very first time, archaeologists of Sindh agree that some of the present structures were reconstructed in 1812.
Well, I’ll say, it’s a mess, just let it be and enjoy the rhythm of your tour.
What things can you explore here?
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- Features:You’ll enjoy the awe-inspiring structure and serene location of this giant and magnificent fort. As you know, it is situated on the top of a hilly area and is surrounded by the walls on the three sides. This fort has four gates; some are in good condition while some are not. The fort has relatively more minor forts, which are “Shergah Kot, Mohan Kot, and Meeri Kot.” When you visit this site, you’ll enter through the Mohan Gate or Sann gate; after that will lead you to Meeri Kot. The rest gates are called Amri Gate and Shah Peeri Gate. The mesmerizing landscape view from the top of the walls is breathtaking. So, this fort is ideal for photographer and sightseers.
Is this place worthy for tourists?
Get this:
- Tourism:This is one of the renowned forts in Pakistan that draws many tourists, whether locals or foreigners. So, don’t forget to put this giant and iconic fort on your list.
How can you reach this fort?
- Location:Ranikot Fort is a historical fort near Sann, Jamshoro District, Sindh, Pakistan. Ranikot Fort is also known as The Great Wall of Sindh
9: Faiz Mahal – Sindh
Now time to explore the majestic Faiz Mahal. The province of Sindh is packed with many famous historical and tourist attractions. As I said, these types of sites are thousands of years old, according to archeologists. Faiz Mahal is one of the most well-known and fascinating masterpieces, which is located in the Khairpur District.
When was this magnificent palace constructed?
Get this:
- Background:It was built in 1798 by Mir Sohrab Khan. The construction purpose of this palace was to serve as the sovereign’s court. But later turned into the royal residence. Moreover, the fantastic and fascinating features of this palace make it one of the most famous historical sites in Sindh.
What things can you explore here?
Get this:
- Features of the Palace:When you’ll enter the palace from the main gate, a small and beautiful mosque with faded white paint will greet you. When you see the frontal view of the Palace, you’ll be stunned by its magnificence. You’ll explore the vast and lush green garden with flowers lining the edges. Besides this, You’ll see the deer heads mounted on the wall when you’ll lead towards the entrance. Inside the Mahal, there is a darbar (court hall) with the portraits of Talpur rulers. Besides this, You can also see some of the pictures of the royal wedding.
Is this place worthy for tourists?
Get this:
- Tourism:You can visit this palace with some special arrangements and reservations. You can get the information related to your visit from “Sindh Tourism Development (STDC).”
How can you reach this Mahal?
- Location: Faiz Mahal, located in the province’s Khairpur district.
10: Mohatta Palace – Sindh
A tale of love behind the construction of this beautiful palace. As like, Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal for his beloved wife when she passed away. Even though Mohatta built this palace to save his wife from dying.
When was this palace constructed?
Get this:
- Background: Shivratan Mohatta was built this palace in 1927 in the “Clifton” (posh area of Karachi). As I said before, the Mohatta built this palace to save his wife because Doctors said that your wife is suffering from a severe illness. Doctors said that the refreshing winds of the sea would cure his wife’s illness. That’s why he built this charming bungalow in the posh seaside locale, Clifton.
What can you explore here?
Get this:
- Features of the Palace:It’s a double-storeyed building that covers almost 18,000 square feet area. When you enter the palace, you’ll notice the fascinating colored windows on the exterior, arch and minarets, stone walls, and splendid view of the Palace. The rooms are luxurious on the first floor. Even though, when you go all the way to the rooftop, that could be possible, you can catch a view of the sea.
- Museum:You’ll see the different celebrities and well–known people statues in the museum. In 1999, this palace was turned into a museum.
Is this place worthy for tourists?
Get this:
- Tourism: Yes, you can visit it and explore the actual example of true love.
How can you reach this Palace?
- Location: The Mohatta Palace is located in Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan.
Forts In KPK (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa), Pakistan
11: Bala Hisar Fort – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
A hidden gem within the city of Peshawar. This is one of the most historical places in Peshawar. The word Bala is a Persian word that means “elevated or high fort.”
When was this fort constructed?
Get this:
- Background:After capturing the Peshawar, Babur built this first time in 1526. It was a royal residence for the Afghan Durrani before being trashed and captured. Sikhs rebuilt this in 1834 with mud; meanwhile, the British replaced this Palace with brick.
What things can you explore here?
Get this:
- Museum:There is a museum of the Frontier Corps in the fort. So, You’ll see the different uniforms of frontier corps and weapons used by the different local units.
Is this place worthy of tourists?
Get this:
- Tourism:For crazy and history lover tourists, this place is worth it. They can explore the architecture of the fort. The ancient history of the fort, unique layout of the fort.
Point to be noted here; you can visit the fort on Saturday or Sunday. Saturday is for families, while Sundays will be open for everyone. Locals must bring their CNIC along with them. While foreigners’ tourists are requested to bring their passports.
How can you reach this fort?
- Location: Fort Bala Hisar is situated in the heart of Peshawar city.
Forts In Gilgit baltistan, Pakistan
12: Baltit Fort – Gilgit Baltistan
This is one of the top-visited places in Pakistan. When you talk about the Hunza Valley, this is one prominent place that comes into mind. An excellent house built in very simple times. This is a human-made wonder constructed in a stunning valley and also blessed with spectacular scenery.
When was this fort established?
Get this:
- Background:This fort took place 700 years ago, and almost in every century, restoration work was carried out. The biggest and final restoration had been done in the 16th century. The restoration work was done as a part of the dowry of a princess who became Prince Hunza’s wife at that time.
What thing can you explore here?
Get this:
- Scenery:Enjoy the mesmerizing and fascinating scenery from the upper terrace of Baltit Fort. You can enjoy the sweeping view of Rakaposhi from the fort’s terrace.
- Museum:The fort became a museum in 1996. You’ll see the historical heritage and culture of Hunza and will see the belonging of Prince Hunza.
Is this place worthy for tourists?
Get this:
- Tourism:According to one report, every year almost 15000 local and foreign tourists visit this fort. So the answer is a big YES.
How can you reach this fort?
- Location:This fort is located in The Hunza valley , in the Gilgit Baltistan region, near the town of Karimabad in Northern Pakistan.
13: Altit Fort – Gilgit Baltistan
The beauty of heaven on earth. Another beautiful fort in front of the magnanimous Karakoram. Looking at this virtuoso architecture structure, that constructed on the top of a high cliff. I was struck when I saw this kind of effort and architectural genius that completed this beautiful fort.
When was this magnificent fort built?
Get this:
Background:The Huns people belong to the progressive agriculture Turkic tribe, came here in A.D 47. The first name of this village was Hunukushal, meaning the place of Huns. Then the Hunza ruling family that was called Mirs built this great Altit fort in the 11th century.
What things can you explore here?
Get this:
- Shikari Tower (hunter’s tower).This fort is 1000 feet above the Hunza River; that thing makes this fort unique. After that, they built a shikari tower for monitoring the entire land, especially during the war time. You can explore the mighty mountains, giant green trees, river streams, and especially watch the whole village from this tower. That will be a relaxing moment for you.
- Inside the Fort: When I strolled inside the fort, I learned that the traces of ancient life still exist here. I saw the vessels and utensils, skillfully crafted wooden doors, windows, and stairs that things were telling the centuries-old stories.
Is this place worthy for tourists?
Get this:
- Tourism:A big YES! This place is not just a worth but a paradise. If you do not add it to your list, then you’ll regret it.
How can you reach this fort?
- Location: Altit Fort is a fort in the Hunza valley, near the town of Karimabad, in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of northern Pakistan.
14: Khaplu Fort – Gilgit Baltistan
You can explore something more in the Town of Skardu than its breathtakingly picturesque views. Khaplu Fort is a restored symbol of Baltit royalty and aristocracy. It is located on the top side of Khaplu Town.
When was the Palace constructed?
Get this:
- Background:The Yabgo Raja Daulat Ali Khan built the fort in 1840.
What things to see in this Palace?
Get this:
- Building:The fort has a four-story building. The structure was strengthened with wood and mud adobes with clay and soil mortar—one of this building’s unique infrastructures. If you look closely, you’ll explore the swastikas and geometric designs as well as floral patterns. The folks believed that these designs were influenced by the Kashmiri, Tibetans, and some Persian styles.
Is this place worthy for Tourists?
Get this:
- The Govt. of Pakistan converted this place into a museum and guesthouse to sustain the fort’s legacy. It means you can visit this place and also spend some time in the ancient world.
How can you reach this fort?
- Location:Khaplu Palace locally known as Yabgo Khar is an old fort and palace located in Khaplu, in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of northern Pakistan.
15: Shigar Fort – Gilgit Baltistan
Another more understandable place in Skardu “The Shigar Fort.” The real name of this palace was Fong Khar (Palace on the Rock). Now it has been converted into a very Luxuries hotel, “The Shigar Fort Residence.”
When was this Palace constructed?
Get this:
- Background:In the 17th century, Raja (Prince)of Shigar built this building. The two more recent buildings take place of this “old house” and the “garden house.” Now the palace has been transformed into 13 rooms’ heritage guesthouse.
What things can you explore here?
Get this:
- Things to do: Every year, many visitors visit this place for its beauty and tranquility. You can also please yourself with a variety of activities in this area. For example, you can do the hiking to the old Shigar fort and do the trekking to K-2 base camp.
- Museum: The grand audience hall serves as a Balti culture museum, and you’ll find the featuring things, for example, woodcarving and then other heritage things.
Is this worthy for tourists?
Get this:
- Tourism: As I stated above, every year many travelers are local or foreigners visit this place. so, you should also have to visit this.
How can you reach this fort?
Location:The Fort is present in Shigar located in Baltistan and is an old fort of Pakistan.
Final Thoughts:
So, finally, Pakistan’s ancient and historical forts journey has been ended now. I shared every key thing that you people were expecting from me. So, it is the time to pack your bags and hit the roads that will never end…
Thank you for being with me!
See you soon.
