Urdu Report Editorial Team
Four important historical sites associated with the Ghakhar era in the Potohar region near Islamabad and Rawalpindi have been opened to the public following restoration and renovation work.
Located around the banks of the Soan River, the sites include Mai Qamro Mosque, the Tomb of Sultan Muqarab Khan, Pharwala Tomb and Rawat Fort. Some of these heritage sites are several hundred years old, while the heritage associated with Pharwala is believed to date back nearly a thousand years.
Honourable Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Division , Mr. Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, inaugurated the historical Mai Qamro Mosque and the Tomb of Sultan Muqarab Khan at Bagh Jogian Islamabad, enlisted on tentative list of world Heritage Sites UNESCO. pic.twitter.com/u0t70HLRtp
— National Heritage and Culture Division (@DivisionCulture) August 24, 2026
Restoration of Historical Heritage
According to officials, the sites had remained neglected for a long period and access for tourists was limited. A project costing approximately Rs54 million was launched for their preservation and restoration. Work began in 2022 and continued for nearly three years.
The restoration project included repairs to the historic structures as well as improvements to the surrounding areas. Around 48 kanals of land were recovered and secured, fencing was installed, and gardens, seating areas and other basic facilities were developed for visitors.
Security and Tourist Facilities
Security cameras have been installed at the historical sites, while security guards have also been deployed. Officials said arrangements for cleanliness, landscaping and other facilities have been completed to improve the visitor experience.
The government aims to develop these locations into important destinations for local and international tourists, researchers, history students and people interested in archaeology.
Sites Included in UNESCO Tentative List
The four historical sites have been included in UNESCO’s Tentative List of World Heritage Sites. Officials describe the development as an important step toward highlighting the historical and cultural heritage of the Ghakhar era in Potohar at the international level.
Authorities hope that after completing the necessary requirements and procedures, efforts to secure permanent World Heritage status for these sites can be taken forward.
Pharwala Fort: A Major Centre of Ghakhar History
Historical evidence suggests that the Ghakhar tribe maintained political and military influence across the Potohar region for centuries. Pharwala Fort was one of the major centres of Ghakhar rule and has strong historical links with present-day Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Jhelum and surrounding areas.
The forts, mosques and tombs associated with the Ghakhar period remain prominent symbols of the historical identity and cultural heritage of Potohar.
Plans to Improve Access for Tourists
Officials said the approximately two-kilometre road leading to the historical sites requires further improvement. Efforts will be made to work with relevant institutions to upgrade and pave the route so that local and international tourists can reach the sites more easily.
The government believes that promoting Potohar’s historical sites on the tourism map will not only showcase Pakistan’s ancient heritage to the world but also help promote cultural tourism and economic activity in the region.
