Last checked: October 2026. Opening hours, fees, road status and event dates change, so confirm locally before you travel.
Bahawalpur, in southern Punjab, is a former princely capital known for Italianate palaces, the Cholistan Desert and Derawar Fort. This Bahawalpur travel guide covers what to see, how to reach it, the desert forts and practical tips.
Quick answer: why visit Bahawalpur?
Bahawalpur combines palace architecture in the city with desert scenery and forts nearby. Noor Mahal, built in the 1870s, is the best-known sight, and Derawar Fort in the Cholistan Desert is the main excursion. Plan two to three days, and visit between November and March when the desert is cooler.
Bahawalpur quick facts
| Detail | Bahawalpur |
|---|---|
| Province | Punjab (south) |
| Founded | 1748, capital of the Bahawalpur princely state |
| From Lahore | About 410 to 420 km by road |
| From Multan | About 100 km, roughly 1.5 to 2 hours |
| Derawar Fort | Reported about 95 to 130 km south of the city |
| Best months | November to March |
| Suggested stay | 2 to 3 days |
History of Bahawalpur
The city was founded in 1748 and became the capital of the princely state ruled by the Abbasi Nawabs. The Nawabs built palaces, mosques and gardens, which is why Bahawalpur is often called a city of palaces. The state joined Pakistan in 1947.
How to reach Bahawalpur
Nearest airport
Bahawalpur has an airport with limited flights, and Multan is the larger alternative. See our airports guide.
Nearest railway station
Bahawalpur is on the main Pakistan Railways line between Karachi and Lahore and Peshawar. Check current timetables.
Road access
From Lahore, use the motorway and highway network towards Multan, then continue to Bahawalpur, a drive of roughly five to six hours. From Multan it is under two hours.
Best time to visit
November to March is comfortable. Summers are extremely hot, and the desert is best avoided from May to August.
Places to visit in Bahawalpur
Noor Mahal
An Italianate palace built between 1872 and 1875 for the Nawab of Bahawalpur. It is lit at night and reported to be open from about 9 am to 10 pm, with a small entry fee. It is managed by the military but open to visitors, so carry ID and confirm hours.
Sadiq Garh Palace and Darbar Mahal
Other Nawab-era palaces. Access can be limited, so ask locally. See our guide to heritage sites for the wider region.
Bahawalpur Museum and old bazaars
The museum covers the princely state and local culture. Explore Farid Gate and the old town bazaars.
Derawar Fort, Cholistan
A large desert fort in Ahmedpur East tehsil. The drive takes two to four hours depending on the route, and a 4×4 and guide are advisable. Entry has reportedly required permission from the family that owns the fort, so arrange access in advance. See our Derawar Fort guide.
Lal Suhanra National Park
A park about 36 km north-east of the city, known for desert and wildlife. Hire a guide for entry.
Uch Sharif
A historic complex of shrines and tombs about one to two hours away, important for pilgrims.
Things to do
- See Noor Mahal at night.
- Take a desert excursion to Derawar with a guide.
- Visit Uch Sharif and the museum.
Adventure activities
Jeep drives and desert camping are the main options. The Cholistan Jeep Rally has been held in winter in some years. See our Cholistan Jeep Rally guide and winter desert tourism guide.
Photography spots
Noor Mahal at dusk, Derawar Fort walls at sunrise and the desert dunes at golden hour. Ask permission near military or private property.
Where to stay and eat
Bahawalpur has hotels for most budgets. Local food includes Punjabi and Seraiki dishes and sweets. Confirm availability and prices directly.
Estimated costs
Costs depend mostly on lodging and a desert vehicle with a guide. Entry to Noor Mahal has been reported at about PKR 100, but check at the gate. See our travel cost guide.
Packing checklist
- Light cotton, a hat and sun protection
- Warm layers for desert nights in winter
- Water, snacks and offline maps for desert trips
Travel tips
- Hire a local guide and a 4×4 for Derawar.
- Carry ID for checkpoints and military-managed sites.
- Carry cash, since cards are not widely accepted.
Safety tips
Desert heat is the main hazard, so carry plenty of water and avoid midday travel. Tell someone your route. See our safety guide.
Responsible tourism
- Respect shrines and dress modestly.
- Do not climb on fort walls or leave rubbish in the desert.
Emergency contacts
Police: 15. Rescue 1122 operates in many districts. Ask your hotel for the nearest hospital and confirm numbers locally.
Attractions near Bahawalpur
Bahawalpur travel guide FAQs
How far is Bahawalpur from Lahore?
About 410 to 420 km, roughly five to six hours by road.
How far is Derawar Fort from Bahawalpur?
Reported at about 95 to 130 km, with a two to four hour drive.
Can I enter Derawar Fort?
Access has reportedly required permission, so arrange it in advance through a guide.
What is the best time to visit?
November to March.
Is Noor Mahal open to the public?
Yes, at reported hours of about 9 am to 10 pm, with a small fee.
Final thoughts on this Bahawalpur travel guide
Spend a day in the city and a day in the desert. Go in winter, arrange Derawar access and a guide in advance, and confirm hours and fees locally.
See also: Exploring Rawalpindi the Historical city of Pakistan.
Traveler Notes
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