Visit Cholistan Desert
Cholistan is a desert in southern Punjab, PakistanCholistan Desert, locally known as Rohi, unfolds across the southern stretch of Punjab and forms an ancient extension of the mighty Thar Desert. This vast wilderness blends sweeping sand dunes with raw, arid plains, creating a landscape shaped by centuries of wind, sun, and timeless desert culture. Travelers find themselves stepping into a region where echoes of the Indus Valley Civilization linger, and where legendary desert strongholds such as the majestic Derawar Fort stand as guardians of history.
The desert thrives as a living cultural corridor. Nomadic tribes wander across its golden terrain, guided by seasonal movement and ancient traditions. Their rich craftsmanship—Cholistani embroidery, hand-woven textiles, camel ornaments, and vibrant desert art—adds color to this stark yet mesmerizing ecosystem. Amid towering dunes rising nearly 100–150 meters, scattered shrubs, and seasonal rainwater basins known as tobas, Cholistan reveals a unique eco-zone where flora and fauna adapt ingeniously to the challenging environment.
This journey invites you to explore the untouched beauty of Rohi, experience authentic desert life, and witness the cultural soul of Pakistan’s southern frontier.
Located 100 km south of Bahawalpur in Punjab, Derawar Fort represents one of the grand historical sites of the Cholistan Desert, first erected by the Hindu Rajput Bhati dynasty in the 9th century before being rebuilt by Nawab Sadeq Mohammad Khan I in 100.
The Derawar Mosque, also known as Abbasi Mosque, is a stunning white marble structure from the 18th century that draws its architectural inspiration from Delhi’s Jama Masjid.
Unforgettable Highlights of the Cholistan Desert Experience
- 1. Explore the Timeless Grandeur of Derawar Fort Walk through the colossal white-brick walls of Derawar Fort, a medieval desert fortress that rises dramatically from the sands of Rohi. Its commanding presence, historic chambers, and panoramic desert views create an unforgettable encounter with Cholistan’s royal past.
- 2. Journey Across Majestic 100–150m Sand Dunes Experience the thrill of traversing towering golden dunes, shaped by centuries of desert winds. As sunlight spills across the ridges, the shifting textures and vast horizons reveal the raw, untouched beauty of the southern Punjab wilderness.
- 3. Meet the Nomadic Tribes of Rohi Engage with the desert’s ancient nomadic communities, known for their warm hospitality, camel herding traditions, and vibrant Cholistani handicrafts. From intricate embroidery to traditional weaving, their cultural richness brings the desert to life.
- 4. Discover Rare Desert Wildlife and Seasonal Tobas Witness Cholistan’s unique eco-system, where hardy desert flora, adapted wildlife, and seasonal rainwater ponds called tobas create small pockets of life in an otherwise harsh environment. These natural oases offer serene moments and exceptional opportunities for photography and exploration.
