Fort Munro

Fort Munro, formerly known as Tuman Leghari, Loilaresir, and Anari Mool in Balochi language, is a hill station in Dera Ghazi Khan District, Punjab, Pakistan, at an elevation of 6,470 feet (1,970 m) above sea level. It was developed by the British in the late nineteenth century as a summer hill town due to its location and natural beauty.

During the hot summer months, it draws a large number of visitors but only for a brief stay. Located in the Sulaiman Mountain range, it is around 85 kilometers from Dera Ghazi Khan city in the Punjab province of Pakistan and approximately 185 kilometers from Multan.

The majority of the population consists of nomads, particularly members of the Leghari tribe. There are two ways to get there: from Loralai Balochistan or from Multan (Punjab). It begins at Rakhni, which serves as a border post between Balochistan and Punjab when the mountain range begins to rise from the Punjab province. Fort Munro is the best place for vacations in South Punjab.

Fort Munro Travel Guide

It is situated at a height of 6470 feet above sea level, and is about 185 km from Multan and around 85 km from Dera Ghazi Khan in Suleiman Range. The term “Fort” appears somewhat overstated since the town appears more like a calm hill resort with gardens and orchards rather than a military station. The town was recognized by Sir Robert Sandeman in the later part of the 19th century and named Fort Munro after Colonel Munro who was commissioner of the Derajat Division.
It magnetizes a large number of tourists each year, mainly those who wish to run away from hot plains of Southern Punjab to take pleasure in kind and enjoyable weather for a day or two.

How to Reach Fort Munro

One can reach there either from Loralai (Balochistan) or from Dera Ghazi Khan (Punjab). From Punjab, the mountain range sets up near Rakhni, which is a border-post among Balochistan and Punjab.
One can see the marks of both the provinces in the shops. From Rakhni onwards the flatland provides a way to the hills and the climb starts towards Fort Munro. The road is in fine shape and the climb is at a contented slope.

Tourists Attractions in Fort Munro/ Things to Watch

Followings are the famous places of this tourist destination.

Sandeman Lodge

The top of the hill is actually a wide platform where the colonial-era residence of political assistant, Sandeman Lodge, is situated Besides Sandeman lodge there are other buildings including the Commissioner House and DCO House.

Dames Lake

Another beautiful place to visit is Dames Lake. This is a small lake surrounded by orchards with boating facilities. With a TDCP hotel and restaurant at the banks of the lake, it is the best place for having dinner and especially the traditional Balochi Sajji.

There are a few places to look around. There are numerous pine trees all around with hillocks limited only by the horizon. The landscape here is not very green rather it is somewhat semi-arid with shrub vegetation. The nights at there can be made worthwhile by enjoying a bone fire. Just outside the PA House, the edge of the hill overlooking the valley is a 1950 monument commemorating the union of Baloch tribes with Pakistan. An interesting walk can be to the British cemetery situated just around the DCO House.
Having several government guest houses as well as some private hotels at Fort Munro, the Punjab Government has planned a cable car system and allied services project, which is likely to kick off soon.