15D 14N Cultural And Heritage Expedition Across Civilizations in Pakistan

Rohtas

Rohtas Fort, near Jhelum in Punjab, is a massive 16th-century fortress built by Sher Shah Suri and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Its walls run for more than four kilometres, with 68 bastions and 12 gates, and it makes an excellent day trip from Islamabad or a stop on the road to Lahore.

Why visit Rohtas Fort

Rohtas is one of the largest and best-preserved forts in South Asia, yet it rarely feels busy. UNESCO describes it as an exceptional example of Muslim military architecture in Central and South Asia. It was never taken by storm, so its walls, gateways and bastions survive much as they were built nearly five hundred years ago.

The site covers about 70 hectares. The fort stands on a hillock in a gorge where the small Kahan river meets a seasonal stream. You can walk along the ramparts, climb the gateways and look out across the surrounding countryside.

Rohtas Fort history

Rohtas Fort was built by Sher Shah Suri, the Afghan ruler who drove the Mughal emperor Humayun out of India. Work began in 1541 under his minister Todar Mal. The fort was meant to hold the Potohar region and to control the Gakhar clans, who had stayed loyal to Humayun. Later, Raja Man Singh, a general of the Mughal emperor Akbar, added a haveli in a Hindu style that contrasts with the Afghan and Persian design of the fort.

Things to see at Rohtas

  • Sohail Gate: the grandest entrance, about 21 metres high, with carved balconies on either side of its arch.
  • Kabuli Gate: named for the road to Kabul, beside the small Shahi Masjid, whose stairs lead straight up to the gate.
  • Haveli Man Singh: the Mughal-era residence on the highest point inside the walls.
  • The ramparts: massive stone walls 10 to 18 metres high, lined with bastions.

Where is Rohtas Fort and how to get there from Islamabad

Rohtas Fort is in Jhelum district, a few kilometres off the Grand Trunk Road near the town of Dina. From Islamabad it is roughly 110 km, around two to two and a half hours by road. It pairs well with the Khewra Salt Mine and the Katas Raj temples in the Salt Range, or with a drive on to Lahore.

Best time to visit

October to March is the most comfortable season, since the fort involves plenty of walking in the open. In summer, start early to avoid the midday heat.

Plan your Rohtas Fort trip

Rohtas is part of our 15D 14N Cultural And Heritage Expedition Across Civilizations in Pakistan, and it combines well with Taxila and other Punjab heritage sites. Choose a tour above, or tell us your dates and we will arrange a private day trip with a driver and guide.