Rawat Fort
Rawat, Islamabad Capital Territory
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Fort
Location
Rawat, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
1 to 2 Hours
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Rawat Fort is an old fort located on the Grand Trunk Road in Rawat. It was built in the early 16th century by the Gakhars, a local tribe, to defend against Sher Shah Suri. The fort also served as a caravanserai, a resting place for traders and travelers. It has a mosque, a few small rooms, and a tomb of Sultan Sarang Khan Gakhar, a Gakhar chief who died fighting Sher Shah Suri's forces. The fort is an important historical site for understanding the region's past.
What To Do
- Walk around the fort walls and see the old structure.
- Visit the small mosque inside the fort.
- See the tomb of Sultan Sarang Khan Gakhar.
- Take photos of the ancient fort and its grounds.
- Learn about the history of the Gakhar tribe and their battles.
What To Buy
- Local Handicrafts: You can find simple handmade items from shops along the G.T. Road. Get Directions
- Pottery: Some local shops might sell traditional pottery items. Get Directions
- Traditional Clothing: Simple local clothes like kurtas and shawls are available in Rawat Bazaar. Get Directions
- Sweets and Snacks: Buy local sweets, biscuits, and pakoras from nearby bakeries and street vendors. Get Directions
- Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh produce can be bought from the local market if you are staying nearby. Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Please respect the historical site. Do not climb on fragile walls or structures.
- Do not litter. Use designated bins if available or take your trash with you.
- Photography is generally allowed for personal use.
- Dress respectfully, especially when visiting the mosque inside the fort.
Health & Safety
- Wear comfortable shoes as the ground can be uneven.
- Bring water, especially during warmer months, to stay hydrated.
- Be careful when walking near old walls or steps, as they can be broken.
- If traveling during summer, protect yourself from the sun with a hat and sunscreen.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: March to April. The weather is mild and pleasant. Good time to visit outdoor sites like the fort.
Summer: May to August. It gets very hot. Avoid visiting in the middle of the day. Mornings or late afternoons are better.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: July to September. Hot and humid with some rain. The fort might be muddy in places after rain.
Autumn: October to November. The weather is cool and comfortable. A good time for sightseeing.
Winter: December to February. It is cold, especially in the mornings and evenings. Days can be clear and sunny, which is good for exploring.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Islamabad International Airport (ISB). It is about 40-50 km from Rawat, taking roughly 45-60 minutes by car.
- By Road: Rawat Fort is directly on the Grand Trunk (GT) Road. It is easily reachable by car, taxi, or ride-sharing services from Islamabad or Rawalpindi.
- By Train: The nearest active railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station. It is about 20-25 km from Rawat, taking roughly 30-45 minutes by car.
- By Public Transport: You can take local vans, buses, or rickshaws from Rawalpindi or Islamabad that travel along the GT Road towards Rawat. Tell the driver you want to get off at Rawat Fort.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Al-Riyadh Hotel & Restaurant: GT Rd, Rawat. Contact: +92 312 5555123. Get Directions
- Mian Jee Restaurant: GT Rd, Rawat. Contact: +92 333 5866164. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Hotel Comfort Inn Rawat: GT Rd, Rawat. Contact: +92 51 2707255. Website: N/A. Get Directions
- Hotel One Rawat: GT Rd, Rawat. Contact: +92 51 2708300. Website: N/A. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- Social Security Hospital Rawat: GT Rd, Rawat. Phone: +92 51 2707641. Get Directions
- Ambulances: 1122
- Police Station:
- Police Station Rawat: Rawat, Islamabad Capital Territory. Phone: +92 51 9260052. Get Directions