You can’t imagine how many Forts you will find in Pakistan. Castles and forts are a symbol of a country’s way of life. Each fortress is unique in its criticality, which connects the past and the present. It offers both the sacrifice of its forefathers as well as the rich history of its king through its fortresses.
Pakistan has some of the most stunning and picturesque travel destinations in the world, as well as some amazing historical monuments. These architectural treasures include the many forts and castles found throughout Pakistan. Some of these palaces and forts from thousands of years ago in Pakistan offer a glimpse into the lives and armies of those who once occupied these castles and forts.
Here’s a list of the top nine forts in Pakistan. These historical landmarks are great for taking photos. They also offer stunning views and allow you to admire their size, vitality, or scenic location.
Pakistan is a South Asian nation with a rich history. A million documented places in Pakistan link you to record and tell a very different story. In addition to the beauty of the Northern Areas, Pakistan has its share of famous fortress structures. From south to north, every nook and corner of Pakistan is filled with color.
For example, the famous Skardu and Khaplu Forts are found in Pakistan’s north Forts. Rani Kot is a remarkable feat of engineering in the Kirthar Range. These huge fortresses were constructed to protect the rich and their subjects. These massive thick walls act as a barrier to the enemy’s attack.
1.Baltit Fort
Baltit Fort overlooking Karimabad, a charming town in the Hunza Valley was built as part of the dowry for a Baltistan princess who married a local prince.
Histories of Baltit Fort
Baltit Fort in Gilgit-Baltistan was built in the 16th century. It is influenced Tibetan architectural styles.
Over the years, the impressive building has seen an increase in its size and amenities. The historical fort was home to the Mirs of Hunza from 1945 until today. They moved to another fortress higher up the hill, fearing that the defense was deteriorating.
Baltit Fort was reconstructed and turned into a heritage museum in 1996 under the direction of the Baltit Heritage Trust. It is now one of the most visited tourist spots in Pakistan.
Baltit Fort is made of stone and wood and features beautiful carvings and brickwork. Most of the rooms are spacious and well-ventilated, with a single story. Stairwells are also made of stone.
Visitors can view antique, handcrafted cooking tools in the curving royal kitchen. The outer courtyard houses wall-mounted heads from many species, including the Marco Polo Sheep, ibex, and the rare Marco Polo Sheep.
Baltit Fort’s entrance can be reached via a steep stone path. It is situated on a hilltop. The breathtaking view from the fort makes the trek worthwhile, even though it can be tiring.
2.Fort Lahore
You’ve probably seen the stunning Lahore Fort if you’ve been to Lahore. It is located in the Walled City. This historic fort, also known in Pakistan as Shahi Qila is the most well-known historical site in Punjab.
The Fort of Lahore is a place with a rich and long history.
The modern Lahore Fort was constructed in 1566 AD under the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar. However, historians believe that the site had been occupied by a fortified structure for more than 500 years. The fort was actually described by Al-Biruni, an Iranian scholar and polymath, in his writings in the 11th Century.
According to historical records, the Mongol invaders destroyed the structure in the middle of the 13th century. It was then restored by Sultan of Delhi Ghiyas Ud Din Balban. After the destruction caused by the army under Persian Conqueror Amir Timur’s army, Sultan Mubarak Shah from the Sayyid Dynasty rebuilt the castle with red mud 150 years later.
King Akbar designed the Lahore Fort in the form we know today. However, his predecessors made many changes to the fortress. After the fall of the Mughal Empire in India, Maharaja Ranjit Singh (father of the Sikh Empire) made the fort his home. The region was then taken over by British forces.
Lahore Fort was in dire need of renovation when Pakistan was founded.
In 1981, the United Nations designated this ancient fort in Pakistan as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This famous Pakistani fort is also known for its unique architecture and style that incorporates Hindu and Islamic motifs. It covers over 400 Kanal and is one of the most iconic images of the Mughal empire.
One of the most important structures in Shahi Qila, Lahore, is the Naulakha Pavilion made from white marble. It was once Emperor Shah Jahan’s chambers.
3.Rohtas Fort
General Sher Shah Suri was the father of the short-lived Suri Dynasty in India. He founded Rohtas Fort which is one of the most important forts in Pakistan.
This castle is located near the city of Dina, Jhelum District. It was built between 1541-1548.
Rohtas Fort’s History
Sher Shah Suri, a Pashtun ruler, built the fortress following the Battle of Chausa. If you visit Jhelum, Punjab, make sure to include Rohtas Fort on your travel itinerary.
You might be curious about what makes Rohtas Fort unique. It has never been occupied nor taken by force. It is the highest-ranking military fortification in South Asia. Suri chose an elevated spot on the Pothohar Plateau for the construction of this castle. This was to ensure that his forces could watch the entrance to the city. It could also accommodate up to 35,000 soldiers. This fortress was constructed to protect the region from the Mughal army and the Ghakkar tribe.
In terms of defense mechanisms, Rohtas Fort is surrounded by nearly four kilometers of defensive walls. The structure has 68 bastion towers as well as 12 gates. One small settlement was once part of the inner complex, which is still in existence today.
This impregnable fortress was added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites in Pakistan in 1997. According to the organization, Rohtas Fort represents an “exceptional example” of Muslim military architecture in Central Asia and South Asia.
It is a good idea to hire a local guide to make your visit to one of the most historical forts in Pakistan. There are many legends associated with the castle, which will make your experience more memorable.
4.Ranikot Fort (The Largest Fort of Pakistan)
Ranikot Fort, which is also known as ‘The Great Wall of Sindh,’ is one of the largest historical forts in Sindh. Ranikot Fort is also known as “The Great Wall of Sindh” and can be found near San in Jamshoro. It measures approximately 32 kilometers in diameter.
For those who are traveling from Karachi, the National Highway makes it easy to reach the fort. From Karachi, it will take approximately an hour to reach Sann and another 30-40 minutes to reach the ancient fort of Pakistan. One of the many tour operators that offer trips to Ranikot Fort from Karachi can arrange a trip for you.
Ranikot Fort’s History
Ranikot Fort is slowly becoming one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pakistan. It was constructed at the beginning of the nineteenth century. It is located on hilly terrain and has many gates, some still functioning. If you enter the San Gate, you can climb the lime and stone wall to get a great view of the entire city.
Meeri is a small, castle-like structure that visitors will see within the Ranikot Fort that once housed the royal Mir family.
You can also visit the Shergah fortress, but it is best to reserve a full day so you can ride up the mountains.
While you are there, take a detour to Meeri and walk to Mohan Gate.
The Ranikot complex has watchtowers, collapsing bastions, and smaller fortresses. In addition to the intricate carvings and floral designs on the stones, visitors can also see the Ranikot complex’s watchtowers. Three cemeteries are located in the town. Locals claim that these slopes contain many ancient fossils and animal bones.
5. Derawar Fort
It is a must that the Derawar Fort be included in any list of historical forts within Pakistan. This impressive landmark is located in the Cholistan desert, about 100 km south of Bahawalpur (in Ahmedpur East).
Histories of Derawar Fort
Derawar Fort was constructed by a Hindu ruler of Rajasthan, India, as a tribute for Rawal Deoraj Bhatti (the sovereign king in Jaisalmer, Bahawalpur) district. According to historians, the huge square fortress was originally known as Dera Rawal, Dera Rawar, and Derawar.
In 1733, Nawab of Bahawalpur Sadeq Mohammad Khan assumed control and restored the fort’s current condition. Fast 15 years ago, the Nawab lost Derawar Fortress. It was rediscovered by Nawab Mubarak Khan, however, in 1804 just before British troops invaded and occupied it.
It is surrounded by red-bricked bastions that rise to 30 meters high and 1.5-kilometers long walls. Numerous archaeological sites are also located near the fort. They date back to the Indus Valley Civilization. Locals claim that one of the tunneled paths leading to the fort leads to an underground railway tunnel connecting Bahawalpur’s stunning Sadiq Garh Palace with Derawar.
In recent years, adventure seekers have been increasingly interested in camping in the Cholistan. This has given the fort a new lease of life. These trips allow you to not only enjoy the starry night near Derawar Fort but also experience the local culture and cuisine.
6.Altit Fort
Altit Fort, Hunza Valley, is famous for its bird’s-eye view of the Shahra-e-Resham. The location is in Karimabad. It is believed to be approximately 900 years old. This makes it the oldest monument in Gilgit-Baltistan. Altit Fort’s appeal is enhanced by its royal garden, prominent walks, and apricot- and orchard tree trees. The Altit Fort has been a popular tourist attraction since 2007. This fort was once in disrepair. However, with the help of Japan and Norway, the Agha Khan Trust saved it and made it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hunza Valley.
Altit Fort’s History
Altit is “this side down,” and the Burusho live in the area around the fort. Altit’s residents are believed to be White Huns. However, little research has been done.
Although there are many legends about their origins, the majority of people believe that they have local ancestral roots. Burushaski is the current language. It was introduced by the White Huns to this area in 47 A.D. However, there is no connection between Burushaski with any other modern language. According to tradition, the Altit village was originally called Hunukushal. The Huns were born in China’s Huang-Ho Valley.
Later, his name was changed to Broshal which means “a village with Bruchiski speakers.” These spirit worshippers practiced Shamanism, Buddhism, and Hinduism. Islam was first introduced in the 15th Century. Around 1830, many people converted to Ismailism.
The Altit Fort was in disrepair and was recently restored by the Government of Norway and the Aga Khan Trust for Culture Historic Cities Support Programme. It is distinguished by its small rooms and low portals decorated with intricate wood carvings. Altit Fort, a tourist attraction for the public, has been open since 2007.
7.Red Fort
Another great archaeological site is the red fort in Kashmir. It can be found alongside the Neelum River. Another name for Red Fort is Muzaffarabad Fort. It was constructed in 1646 and is one of Pakistan’s oldest forts. Its impressive architecture is a testament to the craftsmanship of its builders. Red Fort is an iconic feature of the landscape when viewed from all three sides. The Neelum River surrounds it beautifully.
Red Port’s History
According to the Chak rulers in Kashmir, the Mughals were a threat to capital. The strategic location was where the construction began in 1559. The Mughal Empire invaded Kashmir in 1587 and the fort’s significance was lost. In 1646, Sultan Muzaffar Khan, the Bomba Dynasty’s father, finished the fort.
Its architecture shows that the fort was designed by great architects. It is surrounded by the Neelum River on three sides. In the northern section of the fort, you may find terraces leading to the river bank. Although the city was protected from floodwaters on its eastern side, some areas of its north side were damaged. Although there was once an inn at Fort’s Entry, only a few remains are still available today.
8.Bala Hisar Fort
One of the most visited tourist spots in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is Bala Hisar Fort in Peshawar. It was home to Afghan kings in the early 19th century. Bala Hisar means “highly elevated castle” and its imaginative vision of stunning architecture delights tourists.
History of Bala Hisar Fort
Ahmad Hasan Dani, a historian, and Chinese Buddhist monk, claims that Xuanzang discovered a “royal home” in Peshawar around 630 AD. He named it Kung Shing which means “fortified, walled area of the town where the royal palace is located.”
Hiuen Tsang mentions the settlement separately, even though it was not fortified. This suggests that the royal residence was used as the base for a Citadel. It was probably surrounded by a moat. Dani says that Inder Shahr and Bala Hissar are found in the channel of the Bara River, which is surrounded by a high point.
Bala Hissar’s citadel may have been at a higher elevation. Babur, Mughal Emperor, first called the fort Bagram Fort. The outer walls of Bala Hissar were rebuilt by the British East India Company in 1849, during the First Anglo-Sikh War (1845-46). The fort is now occupied by the Frontier Corps, a paramilitary force belonging to the Pakistan Army.
9.Khaplu Fort
To defend Skardu’s kingdom, a local Raja built Fort of Khaplu and the Royal Palace in 14th-century Khaplu. The Royal family will not retreat from an attack, and the Khaplu Royal Palace Fort has a reserve fort at the summit of the mountain. An ancient Royal burial ground can be found at the top of the peak.
Khaplu is a starting point for treks to the Hushe Valley, which leads up to the high peaks at Masherbrum (K6, K7, and Chogolisa). Chaqchan is a 700-year old mosque that Ameer Kabeer Syed Ali Hamadani (R.A.) built-in Khaplu. Other tourist attractions include Hanjour, ThoqsiKhar, and Kaldaq.
History of Khaplu Fort
Mirza Haidar’s 1499-1551 popular Tarikh-Rashidi mentions the former small kingdom in Khapula for the first time. According to the author, it is located in Khaplu (stan). Khaplu’s strong political and family relations with Ladakh, a neighboring state, was well-known in the 17th and 18th century.
The Chaqchan Mosque and the Khanqa prayer hall are two of the most important religious monuments in Khaplu. The Chaqchan Mosque was built in 1712 by Sayyed Mohammad (an Islamic Nrbkahshya Saint whose Astana tomb monument is nearby). The Astana monument has been saved from total disintegration by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture Pakistan. The Chaqchan Mosque, Baltistan’s most famous traditional mosque, is the largest.
It is believed that Sayyed Ali Shah Hamadani, an Islamic missionary (14th century), established it as the Amburiq Mosque of Shigar. This Mosque was not traditionally protected.
Conclusion
These historical forts are a great place to start exploring the world if you’re interested in archaeology and history. These forts include the Ranikot Fort, which is the largest in Pakistan.