Top 9 Places to Visit in Bahawalpur, Punjab Pakistan in 2025

Best Places to visit in Bahawalpur 2025

Bahawalpur District is a dream come to true for local and international tourists who are mesmerized by the flamboyance and grandeur of Mughal architecture. This district located in the south of Punjab, holds a rich historical anchor that dates back to 1802. One of these monuments enriched with the quintessential Mughal lavishness and elegance is the Darbar Mehal. The fort now under the control of Pakistan Army is an ace tourist attraction due to its unique fusion of East Indian and Arabic architecture.

1. Noor Mahal

Distance: ~5 km from Bahawalpur city center.
Overview: Built in 1872, this Italian-style palace was a royal residence for the Nawabs of Bahawalpur. The grand halls, chandeliers, and lush gardens offer a glimpse into royal life, while the on-site museum displays period artifacts and Nawabi relics.

2. Derawar Fort

Distance: ~100 km from Bahawalpur, situated in the Cholistan Desert.
Overview: Derawar Fort is a colossal 9th-century structure with 40 impressive bastions visible for miles. Originally built by the Rajputs and later owned by the Nawabs, it features tall walls and ancient defensive architecture. The nearby Abbasi Mosque, built in white marble, adds spiritual and architectural appeal to the area.

3. Lal Suhanra UNESCO Biosphere & National Park

Distance: ~35 km from Bahawalpur.
Overview: Pakistan’s only UNESCO Biosphere. One of the largest parks in Pakistan, covering forests, deserts, and lakes. Lal Suhanra offers wildlife like blackbucks, wild boar, and migratory birds. Visitors can go on safari tours, enjoy lakeside picnics, or camp in the park’s serene environment.

4. Darbar Mahal

Distance: ~5 km from the city center.
Overview: Built in 1905 by Nawab Bahawal Khan, Darbar Mahal combines Mughal and Gothic architecture, with lavish carvings and domed ceilings. Though primarily a military area, the palace’s grandeur can be admired from the outside, especially when illuminated at night.

5. Abbasi Mosque

Distance: Adjacent to Derawar Fort, ~100 km from Bahawalpur.
Overview: A stunning Mughal-inspired mosque constructed by Nawab Bahawal Khan in pristine white marble. It is an architectural delight amid the barren desert, adding spiritual significance to the historic site.

6. Bahawalpur Museum

Distance: ~3 km from the city center.
Overview: The museum houses extensive artifacts, including those from the Indus Valley Civilization, Islamic history, and the Nawabi era. With galleries featuring textiles, pottery, manuscripts, and weapons, it provides an insightful look into regional history.

7. Cholistan Desert

Distance: Starts ~30 km from Bahawalpur, stretching further into the region.
Overview: Known for its unique desert ecosystem and cultural significance, the Cholistan Desert hosts the annual Jeep Rally, which draws adventure-seekers from across the country. Camel rides, jeep safaris, and camping are popular activities in this captivating landscape.

8. Gulzar Mahal

Distance: ~3 km from the city center.
Overview: Built in the early 20th century with European-inspired architecture, Gulzar Mahal is one of Bahawalpur’s many Nawabi palaces. While not open to the public, its grand exterior and historical charm make it worth visiting.

9. Fauji Foundation Zoo

Distance: ~2 km from the city center.
Overview: A popular family attraction, this well-kept zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, deer, and a collection of exotic birds. It offers recreational spaces for children and picnic areas for families to enjoy.

More About Bahawalpur District

The district is a verse to royals brilliant in most of its monuments including Derawar Fort, Sadiq Garh Palace and Abbasi Mosque which is a duplication of Moti Mahal in Delhi. The tomb Bibi Jind Waddi in Uch is another attraction of Bahawalpur local and international tourist attraction as the crumbling monument proudly represents the deep seated religious influences of the district. Bahawalpur District, due to its history etched in royalty and Nawab culture, is also home to many exotic animals and birds. The Lal Suhanra National Park is a must visit for animal lovers as the national park gives tourists an opportunity to watch the rare Chinkara Gazelle in its natural habitat.