Rohtas Fort is one of Pakistan’s magnificent architectural marvels. It stands as a sentinel of history. It is situated near the city of Jhelum in Punjab. Its massive structure with its towering walls and grand gateways reminds us of the bygone era.
It was built by the Afghan king Sher Shah Suri in the 16th century. Rohtas Fort was designed to protect the region from Mughal expansion, thus serving as a symbol of power and resistance.
Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort draws the attention of a large number of visitors from all over the world. Whether you are a history enthusiast or an adventure-seeker. Same as Lahore’s momuments, this is also a great historical monumnet of Pakistan. Rohtas Fort is the best destination to explore.
Through this guide, I will take you to the wonders of Rohtas Fort, from the best activities to do there to the most delicious local foods, and explore why this historic citadel remains such a significant destination in Pakistan’s tourism landscape.
Why is Rohtas fort famous?
Here are the reasons of the fame of the Rohtas fort:
A masterpiece of military architecture
Rohtas Fort is primarily renowned for its unmatched military architecture. It is built as a defensive stronghold. Moreover, it showcases a combination of Afghan, Persian, and Indian architectural styles.
The fort was designed to withstand sieges and invasions, with robust walls, watchtowers, and gates that exemplify strategic brilliance. It is considered one of the largest and most formidable fortifications in South Asia, with walls that stretch over 4 kilometres and gates that rise 18 metres high.
The functional design of Rohtas Fort including features like fortified bastions, network of tunnels, secret passages, and false doorways to confuse invaders, captures the visitor’s attention.
The secret passages in the Rohtas Fort allowed for swift movement during battles. These features made the fort an impenetrable fortress for decades and remain key attractions for modern-day visitors.
Historical significance and cultural legacy
The fort’s history is tied to the rise of Sher Shah Suri, a brilliant ruler known for his administrative reforms and military prowess. Rohtas Fort was built to secure the northern frontiers of his empire and protect against the Mughal Emperor Humayun.
The fort later served as a garrison for various rulers, including the Mughals and the Sikhs, who left their mark on the fort’s structures.
In 1997, Rohtas Fort was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its cultural significance and exceptional representation of Islamic military architecture. This designation has further boosted its status as a must-see destination for history lovers and tourists.
Where is Rohtas Fort located?
Rohtas Fort is located in the Jhelum District of Punjab. It is approximately 16 kilometres northwest of Jhelum city and 100 kilometres from Islamabad.
It can be easily reached via the Grand Trunk Road (GT Road), a historic trade route that connects Pakistan with India. It is located on the hilltop that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, with the Jhelum River flowing nearby.
Due to its strategic location, the fort served as a key military outpost for centuries. Today, its proximity to other major tourist sites like Khewra Salt Mine and the scenic Chenab River makes it an ideal stop on a broader exploration of the Punjab region.
What to do in Rohtas Fort?
You can do the following activites when you visit the Rohtas Fort:
Explore the magnificent Gates and Walls
The towering gates of the Rohtas Fort make it remarkable.There are a total of 12 gates, each with its own unique design and historical significance.
The Sohail Gate is the most famous gate. It serves as the main entrance to the fort. This colossal structure, adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions, is an excellent starting point for your exploration.
The Kabuli Gate and Langar Khani Gate are also noteworthy, offering insight into the architectural ingenuity that made the fort so impregnable.
Walking along the 4-kilometre perimeter of the fort, you can admire the massive walls and bastions, which still evoke a sense of strength and invincibility.
For adventure lovers, hiking along these walls provides both a historical and scenic experience, with panoramic views of the landscape below.
Discover the hidden tunnels and chambers
During battles, secret tunnels and underground chambers were used for communication and movement. Rohtas Fort has a number of such tunnels and chambers.
Exploring these dark and winding pathways is a thrilling experience, allowing visitors to imagine the fort’s strategic role during wartime. Visitors must take a flashlight to explore these pathways as some passages can be quite dark and mysterious.
Visit the Sheesh Mahal
The Sheesh Mahal is one of the most enchanting structures within the fort. Though its grandeur has faded over the centuries, remnants of the mirrored walls and ornate decorations can still be seen.
Sheesh Mahal is the best fusion of Persian and Indian architectural styles. It is a perfect spot for those interested in history and art. The palace offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the fort’s inhabitants.
Communicate with the Guided Tours
If you want to know the historical details embedded within each corner of the Rohtas Fort then you should take help from the guided tour. A guided tour is highly recommended to fully appreciate the historical significance and hidden details of Rohtas Fort.
Knowledgeable local guides can narrate fascinating stories of battles, rebellions, and the day-to-day life of soldiers and royals within the fort. The duration of these tours typically last between 1-2 hours.
These tours cover the major sections of the fort, providing an immersive experience that brings history to life.
Do photography
Rohtas Fort is best for photography enthusiasts. It offers endless opportunities to capture its majestic beauty. The combination of grand architectural elements, scenic landscapes, and the soft, golden light of the Punjab countryside makes this fort an ideal subject for stunning photographs.
The fort’s massive gates, arches, and walls provide the perfect backdrop for both landscape and portrait photography.
Best food to try near Rohtas Fort
You can enjoy the following food items near Rohtas Fort:
Traditional Punjabi Cuisine
After a day of exploring, indulge in the rich flavours of traditional Punjabi cuisine at local eateries near the fort. The region is famous for its hearty, flavorful dishes, perfect for replenishing your energy. Must-try dishes include Nihari, Chana Pulao and Seekh Kebabs.
Samosas and Pakoras
If you’re in the mood for a quick snack, the local street vendors offer a variety of deep-fried treats like samosas and pakoras. These crispy snacks, filled with spiced potatoes or meat, are perfect for a quick bite between exploring the fort’s many wonders.
Lassi
Don’t forget to try the famous lassi. It is a traditional yogurt-based drink that comes in sweet or salty varieties. This refreshing beverage is the perfect way to cool down after a day of sightseeing under the warm Punjab sun.
Best spots to explore in Rohtas Fort
Here are some famous spots, you must explore while visiting Rohtas Fort:
Sohail Gate
The Sohail Gate is one of the most iconic entrances to Rohtas Fort. It is a grand structure with intricate stone carvings and an imposing façade. Walking through this gate is like stepping back in time, as it leads you into the heart of the fort.
Haveli Man Singh
One of the most well-preserved buildings within the fort is the Haveli Man Singh. It is said that Haveli Man Singh was built by Raja Man Singh, a trusted general of Emperor Akbar.
The haveli’s architecture is a blend of Persian and Hindu styles, reflecting the multicultural influences that shaped the region. You can climb to the top of the haveli for stunning views of the fort and surrounding countryside.
The Baoli
The Baoli, or stepwell, is another fascinating structure within Rohtas Fort. It served as a crucial water source for the soldiers and inhabitants of the fort. The stepwell’s intricate steps and symmetrical design are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. It’s a unique piece of engineering that showcases the ingenuity of the builders.
Bastions and Watchtowers
The fort’s numerous bastions and watchtowers offer excellent vantage points for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Years back, these towers were used to monitor enemy movements.
Now they are popular spots for photography and relaxation. The views from these towers are especially breathtaking during sunset, when the golden light casts a magical glow over the fort.
Underground chambers
Rohtas Fort’s underground chambers and tunnels were once used for storage, escape routes, and strategic planning. Today, they offer an exciting exploration opportunity for visitors. These hidden chambers provide a sense of adventure and mystery, allowing you to discover the fort’s secretive past.
Conclusion
To conclude, Rohtas Fort is much more than just a historical monument. It’s a gateway to a world of ancient tales, military might, and architectural splendour.
Whether you are wandering through its colossal gates, uncovering hidden chambers, or enjoying the serene views from its bastions, Rohtas Fort promises an educational and awe-inspiring experience.
This majestic fort, with its rich history and grand design, continues to captivate visitors from around the world. Rohtas Fort is a must-visit place to unlock the mysteries of a timeless fortress.
