Bahawalpur – The Royal City of Southern Punjab
Bahawalpur is one of Pakistan’s most elegant historic cities and served as the capital of the former Princely State of Bahawalpur for more than two centuries. Located in southern Punjab near the edge of the Cholistan Desert, the city is renowned for its magnificent palaces, museums, royal architecture, wildlife sanctuaries and desert landscapes.
Founded in 1748 by Nawab Bahawal Khan I, Bahawalpur flourished as an independent princely state under the Abbasi Nawabs. Their legacy can still be seen in the city’s grand palaces, wide boulevards, beautiful gardens and impressive public buildings.
Today Bahawalpur is the gateway to the legendary Derawar Fort, the Cholistan Desert, Lal Suhanra National Park and the historic city of Uch Sharif, making it one of Pakistan’s most rewarding cultural destinations.
Quick Facts
| Province | Punjab |
| Founded | 1748 |
| Founder | Nawab Bahawal Khan I |
| Elevation | 117 metres (384 ft) |
| Nearest Airport | Bahawalpur Airport |
| Distance from Islamabad | Approximately 620 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Famous For | Noor Mahal, Derawar Fort, Cholistan Desert, Royal Palaces, Wildlife |
History of Bahawalpur
Bahawalpur was established by Nawab Bahawal Khan I after the Abbasi family moved from Shikarpur. Over the following two centuries, the state developed into one of the wealthiest princely states in the Indian subcontinent.
The Nawabs maintained close relations with the British Empire while preserving considerable autonomy. They invested heavily in education, irrigation, architecture and public welfare. Following the creation of Pakistan in 1947, the State of Bahawalpur acceded to Pakistan and was later merged into Punjab Province.
The royal heritage of the Abbasi dynasty remains one of the city’s greatest attractions.
Top Attractions
Noor Mahal
Built in 1872, Noor Mahal is the finest palace in Bahawalpur. Designed in an Italian-inspired style with elements of Islamic architecture, it features magnificent halls, chandeliers, antique furniture and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Darbar Mahal
This impressive royal palace, completed in 1905, is known for its elegant architecture and towering domes. Although not always open to the public, it remains one of Bahawalpur’s iconic landmarks.
Gulzar Mahal
Built as a royal residence, Gulzar Mahal showcases the luxurious lifestyle of the former Nawabs.
Bahawalpur Museum
The museum houses archaeological collections, manuscripts, coins, textiles, royal artifacts and exhibits relating to the history of the former princely state.
Central Library
One of Pakistan’s oldest public libraries, it contains thousands of rare books and manuscripts.
Bahawal Victoria Hospital
An important colonial-era building reflecting the city’s architectural heritage.
Nearby Attractions
Derawar Fort
Approximately 100 kilometres south of Bahawalpur, the spectacular Derawar Fort rises dramatically from the Cholistan Desert with its forty massive bastions.
Cholistan Desert
The vast Cholistan Desert covers more than 26,000 square kilometres and is famous for camel safaris, desert festivals and ancient caravan routes.
Lal Suhanra National Park
One of South Asia’s largest national parks, it protects desert, forest and wetland ecosystems and is home to blackbuck, nilgai and numerous bird species.
Uch Sharif
The historic town of Uch Sharif is renowned for its beautifully decorated Sufi shrines and early Islamic architecture.
Things to Do
- Visit Noor Mahal
- Explore Royal Palaces
- Tour Bahawalpur Museum
- Take a Desert Safari
- Visit Derawar Fort
- Photograph Historic Buildings
- Shop for Traditional Handicrafts
- Attend the Cholistan Jeep Rally
- Visit Lal Suhanra National Park
- Explore Uch Sharif
How to Plan Your Tour from Islamabad
By Air
Regular domestic flights connect Islamabad with Bahawalpur in approximately one hour and fifteen minutes.
By Road
The drive via the motorway network takes around eight to nine hours.
Suggested 4-Day Tour
Day 1: Arrival and visit Noor Mahal and Bahawalpur Museum.
Day 2: Excursion to Derawar Fort and Cholistan Desert.
Day 3: Visit Lal Suhanra National Park and Uch Sharif.
Day 4: Explore local markets before departure.
Major Hotels in Bahawalpur
- Hotel One Bahawalpur
- Carlton Hotel
- Pak Continental Hotel
- Executive Lodges
- Several Boutique Hotels and Guest Houses
Local Specialties
- Traditional Saraiki Cuisine
- Sohan Halwa
- Desert Honey
- Handmade Embroidery
- Camel Leather Products
- Date Products
Best Time to Visit
- October-November: Pleasant weather for sightseeing.
- December-February: Ideal for desert excursions.
- March: Cholistan Jeep Rally season.
- April-September: Very hot temperatures.
Travel Tips
- Carry plenty of water during desert excursions.
- Wear light clothing and a hat.
- Visit Derawar Fort with a local guide or suitable vehicle.
- Book hotels in advance during the Cholistan Rally.
- Respect local customs when visiting shrines.
- Carry sunscreen and sunglasses.
Nearby Destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Bahawalpur famous?
Bahawalpur is famous for Noor Mahal, Derawar Fort, the Cholistan Desert, royal palaces and the heritage of the former princely state.
What is the most famous palace in Bahawalpur?
Noor Mahal is considered the city’s finest and most visited royal palace.
How far is Derawar Fort from Bahawalpur?
Derawar Fort is approximately 100 kilometres south of Bahawalpur.
When is the best time to visit Bahawalpur?
The best season is from October through March when the weather is pleasant.
How many days should I spend in Bahawalpur?
Three to four days allow visitors to explore the city and nearby attractions.
What is the Cholistan Jeep Rally?
It is Pakistan’s most famous desert motorsport event, held annually in the Cholistan Desert near Bahawalpur.