Dera Ghazi Khan, a city in the province of Punjab, Pakistan, is a place steeped in history and culture. The city, founded in 1530 by Ghazi Khan, is home to a large number of historical and cultural sites that are a testament to the rich heritage of the region.
In this blog, Graana.com explores the top 10 historical places to visit in Dera Ghazi Khan.
Fort Munro
Fort Munro is a historical and picturesque hill station located in the Dera Ghazi Khan District. This beautiful fort was named after a British officer, Captain Munro, who served in the British Army during the colonial era. It is situated at an altitude of 6,470 feet above sea level, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding areas. The fort served as a military post during the British Raj and has played a significant role in the region’s history.
Apart from its historical significance, Fort Munro is also a popular tourist destination due to its stunning natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities, such as hiking and trekking in the scenic surroundings.
In recent years, Fort Munro, one of the most famous forts in Pakistan, has undergone significant development, with several new facilities being added to attract more tourists. These include restaurants, guest houses, and camping sites, making it a popular spot for weekend getaways.
Fort Munro Steel Bridge
The Fort Munro Steel Bridge is a spectacular feat of engineering that spans a deep ravine, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Built in the early 1900s during British colonial rule, the bridge was designed to connect Fort Munro hill station with the rest of the region.
It is a popular spot for sightseeing and photography, and visitors can also enjoy the fresh mountain air and stunning scenery here. The Fort Munro Steel Bridge is a testament to the impressive engineering capabilities of the time, and is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Dera Ghazi Khan.
DG Khan Zoo
The DG Khan Zoo is a popular tourist destination in Dera Ghazi Khan and is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, and many more. Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the zoo’s beautiful botanical gardens, which are filled with a variety of flora and fauna. It also has a children’s playground and picnic areas, making it a great place for families to spend a day out.
One of the highlights of the DG Khan Zoo is the lion safari, where visitors can experience a guided tour through the lion enclosure and see these magnificent animals up close. There is also a bird aviary, where visitors can see different types of exotic birds from around the world.
The zoo also plays an important role in conservation efforts, with a focus on educating visitors about the importance of protecting wildlife and their natural habitats. It is involved in various breeding programs to help ensure the survival of endangered species, such as the Asiatic lion and the Bengal tiger.
Yakbai Hill Station
Yakbai Hill Station, a famous hill station in Pakistan, is a lesser-known hill station located in Dera Ghazi Khan. Visitors can expect to find scenic views of the surrounding areas, fresh mountain air, and opportunities for hiking and picnicking.
While it may not be as popular as some of the other historical sites in the area, Yakbai Hill Station is still worth a visit for those who want to explore the hidden gems of the region.
Damas Lake
Damas Lake is a man-made lake situated in Dera Ghazi Khan. It is one of the popular lakes in Pakistan, and known for its scenic beauty, peaceful surroundings, and abundance of fish. The lake is surrounded by hills, making it a popular spot for picnics and family outings.
Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming in the lake’s calm waters. The local government has developed the area around the lake, providing facilities such as a restaurant, a children’s playground, and a camping site for tourists. During the winter season, migratory birds flock to the lake, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.
Tomb of Hazrat Sakhi Sarwar
The tomb of Hazrat Sakhi Sarwar is not only a religious site but also an architectural masterpiece. Its intricate tile work and the elaborate design attract visitors from all over the world. It is surrounded by a beautiful garden, providing a peaceful and serene atmosphere for visitors to reflect and pray.
During special occasions and annual Urs, the tomb is visited by thousands of devotees who come to pay their respects to Hazrat Sakhi Sarwar. The atmosphere during these festivals is lively, and visitors can experience the local culture and customs of the region.
Tomb of Ghazi Khan
The tomb of Ghazi Khan is a significant historical site in Dera Ghazi Khan, and a popular tourist attraction. Ghazi Khan was a local ruler and warrior who lived in the 18th century. The tomb is an excellent example of Mughal architecture and features intricate tile work and calligraphy.
It is located in the centre of the city, and is easily accessible to visitors. Many people come to pay their respects to Ghazi Khan, who is considered a hero in the region for his bravery and leadership. The surrounding area of the tomb is also worth exploring, with several local markets and shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs.
Ghazi Park
Ghazi Park has multiple facilities for visitors to enjoy, such as jogging and walking tracks, picnic spots, and playgrounds. There are also multiple gardens featuring a variety of plants and trees, making it a great spot for nature lovers to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.
It is also a popular spot for events such as festivals and concerts, which attract visitors from all over the city. The park is well-maintained, and visitors can enjoy a clean and safe environment.
Pul Kaleri
Pul Kaleri is a bridge located in Dera Ghazi Khan that is known for its remarkable engineering and construction. Spanning over a deep ravine, it is a crucial part of the city’s transportation network, connecting the residents with the surrounding areas. The bridge is also a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from far and wide who come to admire its architectural design and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
It is believed that Pul Kaleri was built during the Mughal era and was named after a local saint, Hazrat Kaleri. Legend has it that the saint had helped the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan during the construction of the bridge. As a token of appreciation, the emperor had named the bridge after him.
The bridge has undergone several renovations over the years, with the latest development work done in 2017. It has been made safer and more accessible for pedestrians and vehicles alike.
Ghazi Ghat Bridge
The Ghazi Ghat Bridge is a magnificent feat of engineering that spans the mighty Indus River, connecting Dera Ghazi Khan with its neighboring districts. It is one of the region’s longest and most significant bridges, measuring 4,460 feet in length. It provides a critical link for the transportation of goods and people between the districts, facilitating trade and commerce.
The construction of the Ghazi Ghat Bridge was a challenging task, requiring careful planning and execution. The bridge’s foundation had to be built on an unstable and muddy riverbed, and its pillars had to be deep enough to withstand the strong currents and heavy loads. The construction team had to overcome numerous technical challenges, including building the bridge at a height that would not interfere with the river’s flow.
The design is aesthetically pleasing and functional, with a sleek and modern appearance that contrasts with the natural landscape. The Ghazi Ghat Bridge has become an iconic landmark of Dera Ghazi Khan, attracting visitors from all over the region to admire its grandeur and engineering marvel.
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