Bahawalpur – The Royal City of Palaces

Bahawalpur, often called the “City of Nawabs”, is one of Pakistan’s most fascinating tourist destinations. Located in Southern Punjab, this city is a unique blend of history, culture, royal palaces, deserts, and spiritual heritage. From the grandeur of its Nawabi past to the endless sand dunes of the Cholistan Desert, Bahawalpur offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking history, adventure, and natural beauty.


🕌 A Reminder of a Glorious Past

  • The princely state of Bahawalpur was founded in 1748 by Nawab Bahawal Khan Abbasi.
  • The city still retains its royal charm with palaces, mosques, shrines, and bustling bazaars.
  • Surrounded by lush green fields in the north and sandy desert in the south, Bahawalpur reflects both tranquility and adventure.
  • Bahawalpur is also the gateway to the Cholistan Desert, making it a perfect stop for cultural and adventure tourism.

🏰 Must-Visit Attractions in Bahawalpur

1. Noor Mahal

  • Built in 1872, this palace is known as the “Palace of Lights.”
  • Italian-style architecture mixed with Islamic designs.
  • Visitors can explore its royal halls, antique furniture, and Nawabi artifacts.

2. Darbar Mahal

  • Another royal palace showcasing red-brick elegance and Mughal-Islamic style.
  • Surrounded by gardens, once used as a residence and court of the Nawabs.

3. Derawar Fort

  • An iconic 9th-century fort rebuilt by the Nawabs in the 18th century.
  • Located deep in the Cholistan Desert, with 40 massive bastions visible for miles.
  • Hosts the annual Cholistan Jeep Rally – a thrill for adventure lovers.

4. Abbasi Mosque, Derawar

  • A beautiful white marble mosque built in 1849 by Nawab Bahawal Khan.
  • Inspired by Mughal architecture, resembling Delhi’s Moti Masjid.

5. Bahawalpur Museum

  • Preserves the rich heritage of the Nawabs, Islamic art, and archaeological treasures.
  • Exhibits Gandharan art, relics of the Abbasi rulers, and manuscripts.

6. Central Library Bahawalpur

  • Established in 1924, one of Pakistan’s most significant libraries.
  • Houses more than 100,000 rare books and manuscripts.

🌴 Nature & Wildlife

Lal Sohanra National Park

  • 50 km east of Bahawalpur, this is one of South Asia’s largest parks.
  • Spread across 162,000 acres, featuring forest, desert, and wetland ecosystems.
  • Home to blackbuck, blue bull, wildcats, jackals, and migratory birds.
  • TDCP operates a small motel and restaurant inside the park.

🏜️ Cholistan Desert – The Jewel of Bahawalpur

  • Covering 26,000 sq. km, the desert is a land of nomads, camels, and forts.
  • Historically, it was part of the Indus Valley trade route.
  • Activities include camel rides, jeep safaris, desert camping, and stargazing.
  • The annual Cholistan Jeep Rally is one of Pakistan’s biggest motorsport events.

🕌 Spiritual Heritage & Shrines

Uch Sharif

  • Located 50 km west of Bahawalpur, Uch Sharif is an ancient town with a mystical aura.
  • Famous for its blue mosaic tombs and Sufi shrines, especially the 15th-century tomb of Bibi Jawindi.
  • A major spiritual and cultural hub during the 13th century.

Bhong Mosque

  • About 200 km southwest of Bahawalpur.
  • Took 50 years to complete and is one of the most ornate mosques in Pakistan.
  • Designed in a blend of local, Mughal, and Islamic architectural styles.

🌟 Why Visit Bahawalpur?

  • A city that combines royal history, architectural marvels, and desert adventures.
  • Perfect for heritage lovers, adventurers, and spiritual seekers.
  • Offers a unique chance to explore palaces, forts, mosques, shrines, museums, deserts, and national parks in one region.

Bahawalpur is not just a destination—it’s an experience where history, nature, and culture come together.

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