3-Day Tour Of Multan, Bahawalpur, Uch Sharif And Derawar Fort

A 3-Day Journey Through Pakistan’s Cultural Heartlands

Imagine wandering through three historical cities—Multan, Uch Sharif, and Bahawalpur—with a knowledgeable guide by your side, in an air-conditioned vehicle that keeps you comfortable as you soak in the sights. For $840 per person, this roughly three-day tour offers an exceptional blend of monument visits, desert safaris, and local flavor, all curated to give you an authentic experience.

What we particularly love about this tour is the chance to visit monuments and shrines that are often hidden or hard to access on your own. The guided camel safari in the Cholistan Desert adds a touch of adventure, and the inclusion of WiFi onboard helps you stay connected in the midst of historical immersion. Also, the tour’s focus on local stories and traditions, shared by guides who seem genuinely passionate, makes this more than just a sightseeing trip.

A possible consideration is the long travel times between locations, such as the 80-100 minutes driving from Multan to Uch Sharif and the excursion to Derawar Fort, which might be tiring for some. However, for those eager to explore off-the-beaten-path sites and explore regional history, this is a minor trade-off.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate history, spirituality, and local culture, especially those keen on experiencing Pakistani Sufi traditions, architecture, and desert landscapes. It’s perfect if you prefer a well-organized, informative experience with a small-group feel, ensuring personalized attention and in-depth stories.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Visiting significant shrines and mosques that embody Pakistan’s spiritual legacy.
• Expert Guides: Well-educated guides add depth and entertaining storytelling to each stop.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines monument visits, local markets, and desert adventure for a well-rounded experience.
• Value for Money: Includes all fees with a focus on discovering hidden gems, plus a camel safari.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle and WiFi onboard make long drives more enjoyable.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Opportunity to taste local sweets like Sohan Halva and explore bustling bazaars.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Multan – The City of Saints

We start our journey in Multan, a city renowned for its Sufi shrines and historic sites. Our guide, whose enthusiasm is contagious, meets us at the pickup point. First, we visit the Tomb of Shah Rukn-e-Alam, an impressive structure with intricate tile work that radiates a peaceful, spiritual aura. This tomb is one of Pakistan’s most revered shrines, offering a glimpse into the spiritual life that has thrived here for centuries.

Next, we explore the Tomb of Bahauddin Zakaria Multani, another important shrine. The guide shares stories of the Sufi saints, emphasizing the themes of love, peace, and humanity—values that still resonate in Multan’s culture today. History buffs will appreciate the nearby Fort Kohna Qasim and the small museum showcasing artifacts and stories of Multan’s past.

A highlight of the day is the Damdama viewpoint, giving us a bird’s-eye view of the city—perfect for photos and getting a sense of Multan’s sprawling urban landscape. The guide also points out the British monument and the old bazar with its wooden balconies and vibrant market stalls, giving us a feel for the city’s bustling life.

In the afternoon, we visit the Shrine of Shah Shams Sabzwari—a spiritual site with a fascinating history, including a playful local myth about his temperature during summer. The guide’s storytelling makes this stop lively and memorable. We also visit the Shrine of Shah Yusuf Gardezi, where we see the unique rectangular-shaped shrine and learn about his legendary connection to animals, with a lion and a snake buried at the entrance.

The day wraps up at Shah Ali Akbar’s shrine, a revered Sufi figure whose message of love and peace continues to inspire. Afterwards, we visit the Eidgah Mosque and the shrine of Ahmad Saerd Shah Kazmi. To round off our culture, we stroll through Hussain Agahi Bazar, a lively marketplace full of sights, sounds, and local treats like Sohan Halva, which the tour kindly gifts us.

Day 2: Uch Sharif and Bahawalpur – From Ancient City to Royal Splendor

We leave Multan early after breakfast, heading towards Uch Sharif, a city with roots dating back to Alexander the Great. The drive takes about 1.5 hours, providing a chance to enjoy the desert landscape and discuss local history with our guide. Our first stop is the Tomb of Jalal-ud-din Surkh-Posh Bukhari, a revered figure who spread Islam through his teachings. The tomb’s architecture and the graves of other saints surrounding it speak of spiritual devotion.

Next, we visit the Tomb of Bibi Jawindi, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its beautiful brickwork and intricate design. The tomb, along with nearby shrines like Ustad Ladla and Makhdoom Jahanian Jahan Gashat, offers a glimpse into the region’s religious history. These sites often attract pilgrims and offer a sense of spiritual serenity that’s hard to find elsewhere.

After exploring Uch Sharif, we head to Bahawalpur, known as the “City of Palaces”. Here, we enjoy a hearty lunch and visit the Fareed Gate, a historic entrance that once protected the Old Town. Wandering through the bazaars, you’ll see old wooden balconies and traditional architecture, alongside vibrant local life.

We also visit the Shahi Mosque, an architectural marvel, and in the evening, enjoy a luxurious dinner at Noor Mahal, a palace that epitomizes royal splendor. After dinner, we are transferred to our hotel for the night, feeling immersed in Bahawalpur’s regal aura.

Day 3: The Desert Fortress and Royal Heritage

Our final day begins with a drive to Derawar Fort, an iconic symbol of the Cholistan Desert’s history. Built by Raja Jajja Bhatti in the 9th century, the fort’s massive square-shaped walls and bastions are awe-inspiring. The guided tour provides insights into its strategic importance and the evolution of the structure over centuries, especially after the Abbasi family took control in 1733.

Following the exploration of Derawar Fort, we visit some of Bahawalpur’s other royal palaces including Sadiq Ghar Palace and the Noor Mahal, both representing the grandeur of the Nawabs. We learn about their architectural styles and the history behind their construction.

On our way back to Multan, we stop at a local workshop specializing in Blue Pottery, a traditional craft that showcases Pakistan’s artistic heritage. The craftsmanship involved in creating these earthenware pieces is impressive and offers a unique souvenir opportunity.

The tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Multan, where we are dropped off in the evening, filled with stories, images, and tastes of this vibrant region.

Why This Tour Offers Genuine Value

This tour’s strength lies in its carefully curated itinerary, blending monumental sites, spiritual shrines, and local markets into a comprehensive look at southern Pakistan. The inclusion of guides who are both educated and enthusiastic means you’ll learn stories that bring history to life—beyond what guidebooks can offer.

The transportation being air-conditioned ensures comfort during the long drives, especially on hot days. The WiFi onboard is a thoughtful touch, helping you share photos or look up details about what you’re seeing. The price of $840 covers all entrance fees, making it straightforward and transparent—you’re paying for convenience, guided insights, and access to places hard to visit independently.

Look at this tour as a gateway into Pakistan’s Sufi spirituality, desert landscapes, and royal history. It’s particularly valuable for travelers who enjoy history, culture, and authentic experiences rather than generic sightseeing. If you’re curious about hidden sites, local legends, and traditional crafts, this tour offers plenty to love.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

If you love exploring spiritual sites and shrines, the focus on Sufi saints’ tombs will resonate deeply. For those intrigued by historic architecture and royal palaces, the stops at Bahawalpur’s palaces and Derawar Fort are highlights. The camel safari and desert scenery add an adventurous touch for travelers seeking something beyond urban sightseeing.

This tour is suited for travelers who want a well-organized, immersive experience without the hassle of planning every detail. The group size and guided approach make it ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who enjoy learning from passionate guides.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle for all travel between sites and hotels, ensuring comfort along the long drives.

Are entrance fees included?
Absolutely. All fees for the monuments, shrines, and museums listed in the itinerary are covered in the price.

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, a well-educated guide accompanies you throughout, sharing stories and insights at each site.

How long are the travel times between locations?
Travel times vary; for example, from Multan to Uch Sharif it’s about 80-100 minutes. The longer stretches are planned to maximize sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, and perhaps a camera to capture the stunning architecture and desert views.

Is food included?
Meals are not included in the tour price, but the guide will recommend good local restaurants. A special gift of Sohan Halva, a famous Multan sweet, is included.

To sum it up, this 3-day tour offers a rich tapestry of history, spirituality, and desert adventure, ideal for curious travelers eager for an authentic Pakistani experience. With knowledgeable guides, access to hidden sites, and a well-balanced itinerary, it provides excellent value for those looking to understand the region’s soul. If you appreciate storytelling, local crafts, and exploring beyond the usual tourist paths, this tour will leave you with meaningful memories—and perhaps a new appreciation of Pakistan’s cultural depth.

Whether you’re a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or a curious explorer, this journey through Multan, Uch Sharif, and Bahawalpur promises genuine insights wrapped in vibrant local life and stunning landscapes.