People rave about the East Coast to West Coast trip in the states but we completely overlook the fact that Pakistan itself has a number of tourism opportunities.
There are many locations in each province of the country which are relatively unknown.
Why not do something different and exciting besides the usual northern trips we take? We have compiled a list of stunning and majestic historical forts you should have on your great Pakistani fort tour list.
1.Rohtas Fort
This is a 16th-century fortress located near Jhelum. It was built during the rule of Sher Shah Suri between 1541 and 1548 to ward off rebellious tribes of the Potohar region. What is most interesting about this fort is that being the largest fort in the subcontinent, it was never stormed by force.
2.Red Fort Muzaffarabad
Also known as the Muzaffarabad Fort, this fortress was built by the Chak rulers of Kashmir in the 16th century.
3.Baltit Fort
Located in the scenic Hunza Valley, Baltit Fort was built in he 8th CE, it has been on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative list since 2004.
4.Bala Hissar Castle
This fort which was once used as a royal winter residence for the Duranni Empire is located in Peshawar. It has completely been renovated and is currently in use by the Pakistan Frontier Corps.
5.Derawar Fort
Qilla Derawar is a magnificent beauty in the Cholistan Desert. It is located 130 km south of the city of Bahawalpur. The best time to see it is in Febuary during the famous jeep rally. Its forty bastions are visible for miles in the desert.
6.Lahore Fort
This is a citadel in the city of Lahore, located at the northern end of the famous walled city. It is spread more than 20 hectares and is a remarkable reminder of the glory and downfall of the Mughal empire.
7.Ranikot Fort
Sindh too has its own share of fort glory in the form of Ranikot Fort which is located near Sann in Jamshoro District. Given the uncanny resemblance, it is unsurprisingly known as The Great Wall of Sindh and is believed to be the largest fort in the whole world.
8.Ramkot Fort
Ramkot Fort is an ancient fort in Azad Kashmir providing stunning views of the Mangla Dam. It is accessible through boat only. The exact location is 13 kilometres away from Dina and 79 kilometres from Mirpur.
9. Shigar Fort
The Shigar Fort might not be as majestic as other forts on this list, however, it is its location in a peaceful quiet village, its quaint garden and sitting spots such as the one in the picture below that make it special. The fort, which was built in the 17th century by the Raja of Amacha Dynasty of Shigar, has been fully renovated and is used a hotel.
