Discover the History and Architecture of Rohtas Fort in Jhelum, Pakistan
The fort covers an area of about 4 square kilometers and is surrounded by a double fortification wall with towers and bastions. It features numerous gateways, halls, baths, mosques, and residential quarters for soldiers. The fort was considered impregnable due to its massive walls, deep moats, and strategic location.
Rohtas Fort was not only a military stronghold, but also served as a center of administration, culture, and trade. The fort was designed to accommodate a large number of people, including soldiers, officials, and traders. It had provisions for water storage, agriculture, and animal husbandry, making it self-sufficient.
The fort also had several Hindu and Jain temples, indicating the presence of a diverse religious community within its walls. The temples were destroyed during the reign of Aurangzeb, the last of the great Mughal emperors, but the remains of these structures serve as a testament to the cultural and religious diversity that existed at Rohtas Fort.
After Sher Shah Suri's death, the fort passed through several hands, including the Mughals, the Sikhs, and the British. During the 1857 Indian Rebellion, Rohtas Fort was used as a military stronghold by the British and remained under their control until the creation of Pakistan in 1947.
Today, Rohtas Fort is a popular tourist attraction and is protected by the Archaeological Survey of Pakistan. It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is recognized as one of the best-preserved forts of the subcontinent. The fort serves as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Pakistan and is considered one of the country's national treasures.
One of the most distinctive features of the fort is its use of curved walls and bastions, which are said to have been inspired by the Hindu architectural style. This type of design made it more difficult for attackers to breach the fortification and allowed defenders to fire at the attackers from multiple angles.
The fort also features several gates, each with its own distinct design. The main gate is located at the southern end of the fort and was once used as a prison. It is a massive structure with a pointed arch and decorated with intricate carvings and calligraphic inscriptions.
Another notable feature of the fort is its water management system, which was crucial for the fort's self-sufficiency. The fort has several wells, cisterns, and underground water channels, which were used to store and distribute water to the residents of the fort.
The fort also features several buildings and monuments, including halls, baths, mosques, and residential quarters for soldiers. These structures were designed with an eye for aesthetics and practicality, and many of them feature intricate carvings, arches, and domes.
Rohtas Fort is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of its builders. The fort's unique blend of architectural styles and construction techniques, combined with its strategic location and massive fortification, make it one of the most impressive and well-preserved forts of the subcontinent.
Visitors to the fort can explore its numerous buildings and monuments, including the main gate, which was once used as a prison. They can also walk along the ramparts and admire the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The fort also features a museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to its history and architecture.
Rohtas Fort is a magnificent example of military architecture from the medieval period and is an important part of Pakistan's cultural heritage. It serves as a reminder of the rich history and diverse cultures that have shaped the region over the centuries and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Pakistan.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rohtas Fort in Jhelum (FAQs):
What is Rohtas Fort?
Rohtas Fort is a massive fortification located near the city of Jhelum, in the Punjab province of Pakistan. It was built in the 16th century and served as a military stronghold, center of administration, and cultural hub.
Why was Rohtas Fort built?
Rohtas Fort was built by the Pashtun king Sher Shah Suri to control the local Gakhars tribe, who were rebelling against Mughal rule at the time.
What is the significance of Rohtas Fort?
Rohtas Fort is considered one of the best-preserved forts of the subcontinent and serves as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Pakistan. It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is recognized as a national treasure.
What architectural features can be found at Rohtas Fort?
Rohtas Fort features a double fortification wall with towers and bastions, several gates with distinct designs, a water management system, halls, baths, mosques, and residential quarters. It also features a blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles.
Is Rohtas Fort open to visitors?
Yes, Rohtas Fort is open to visitors and is protected by the Archaeological Survey of Pakistan. It is a popular tourist attraction and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Pakistan.
What can visitors expect when visiting Rohtas Fort?
Visitors can expect to explore the fort's numerous buildings and monuments, walk along the ramparts, admire the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and visit the museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the fort's history and architecture.
How far is Rohtas Fort from Islamabad?
Rohtas Fort is approximately 180 km from Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan. It can be reached by road in around 3-4 hours.
How far is Rohtas Fort from Lahore?
Rohtas Fort is located about 130 km from Lahore, the second-largest city in Pakistan. It can be reached by road in around 2-3 hours.
How far is Rohtas Fort from Rawalpindi?
Rohtas Fort is approximately 135 km from Rawalpindi, a city located near Islamabad. It can be reached by road in around 2-3 hours.
How far is Rohtas Fort from Multan?
Rohtas Fort is approximately 365 km from Multan, a city located in the southern part of Pakistan. It can be reached by road in around 6-7 hours.
How far is Rohtas Fort from Karachi?
Rohtas Fort is located about 1,100 km from Karachi, the largest city and financial center of Pakistan. It can be reached by road in around 14-16 hours.
What is the closest airport to Rohtas Fort?
The closest airport to Rohtas Fort is the Benazir Bhutto International Airport in Islamabad, which is located about 180 km away.
