Rawat Fort is located 17 km east of Rawalpindi, on the Grand Trunk (G.T.
Road) leading to Lahore. The fort was built by Gakkhars, a fiercely
independent tribe of the Potohar Plateau, in early 16th century. The
grave of a Gakkhar Chief, Sultan Sarang Khan is located inside the fort.
He died in 1546 AD fighting against the forces of Sher Shah Suri. If one
dares to climb the broken steps inside the tomb, one may get a panoramic
view of the plateau and the Mankiala Stupa.
Pharwala Fort
This fort is about 40 km from Rawalpindi beyond Lehtrar road. It was
built 15th century by a Gakkhar ruler, Sultan Kai Gohar, on the ruins of
a 10th century Hindi Shahi Fort. Emperor Babar conquered the fort in
1519 AD. Later, in 1825, Gakkars were expelled by Sikhs from this fort.
Though the fort is in a crumbling state, it is still an attraction for
castle lovers. The fort being situated in prohibited area, is only open
for Pakistani visitors.
Rohtas Fort
Rohtas Fort is 109 km from Rawalpindi. It is located about 6 km
south-west of Dina Town. Going from Rawalpindi/Islamabad, you have to
turn right from G.T. Road to a narrow road just before Dina Police
Station and then go left until you find the city bed of Kahan River. The
fort is visible from this point. However, you have to cross the river to
reach it. During rainy season, you need a four-wheel-drive to cross the
river. The fort is one of the most impressive historical monument in
Pakistan. It was built by Afghan ruler Sher Shah Suri, between 1540 and
1547 AD. It served as a huge fortified base for military operations
against Gakkhars by Sher Shah Suri. It was later used by Mughal emperor
Akbar and Sikhs. Within the huge terraced rampart walls with robust
bastions and twelve gates, are located a fortress, palaces and ancillary
buildings.
Attock Fort
It is situated about 101 km west of Islamabad on the left bank of Indus
River. The fort was completed 1583 under the supervision of Khawaja
Shamsuddin Khawafi, a minister of emperor Akbar. The Mughal caravan
sarai outside the fort, on the G.T. Road, was also built during this
period.
Giri Fort
The glen of Giri is located 8 km north-east of Taxila, at the foot of
Margalla. It is approached through a rough torrent bed near two villages
named Khurram Gujar and Khurram Paracha, there are remains of two
monasteries and stupas, one on the top of the hill and other below it.
The ramains of Giri fort are perched on the hill top, with spring water
falling within it. The fort was built in 5th century by the Buddhist
monks. Later, it was used by Sultan Masud, son of Sultan Mahmud of Gazni.
