Faiza Tehseen

Located in the Sindh province of Pakistan, Kot Digi Fort offers a rich historical and cultural appeal that can significantly contribute to the tourism industry. Syed Fayaz Ali Shah, Managing Director of Sindh Tourism Development Corporation (STDC), said this while talking to WealthPK in an interview.

He said Kot Digi Fort was not just a historical site, but also a symbol of the country’s cultural heritage. He emphasized the fort's potential as a major tourist attraction, calling for its conservation and development. His comments reflect the importance of preserving and promoting such heritage sites at both domestic and international levels. Kot Digi is a prime example of South Asia’s pre-modern defensive architecture. Built atop a limestone hill, its strategic location and design are impressive, with strong walls and intricate masonry meant to withstand sieges. Despite its historical importance, the fort faces several challenges that hinder its potential as a top tourist destination.

These challenges include insufficient infrastructure, lack of awareness, limited accessibility, and the need for better amenities for visitors. To unlock the fort’s full potential as a tourist hotspot, Shah advocated several steps, including improving infrastructure, creating awareness through digital and print marketing, incorporating the fort into tourist itineraries, and ensuring its preservation. He also suggested leveraging international funding, such as from UNESCO, to support these initiatives. The involvement of local communities is also essential, as they can help conserve the site while benefiting from tourism-related opportunities.

Talking to WealthPK, Dr. Syed Shakir Ali, Director of Exploration and Excavation, Karachi, provided further historical context. He explained that the fort was constructed in 1785 by Mir Sohrab Khan, the first ruler of the Khairpur estate, as a military defence structure. The fort’s design is impressive, with three large wooden doors reinforced with nails, towers equipped with cannons, and other defensive features. The fort also has a royal pavilion and residential areas, which showcases the craftsmanship of local builders. Before becoming a prison in 1844, the fort was used by the ruling Talpur family.

Today, it stands as a significant reminder of the region’s past, attracting attention not only for its historical significance but also for the opportunities it offers to develop the area through tourism. The fort’s promotion is a potential catalyst for regional development, creating opportunities for local communities while preserving an important part of Pakistan’s history. With the right investments in infrastructure and awareness, the fort can become a major attraction for history enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and tourists from around the world.

Credit: INP-WealthPk