Abstract
This research presents the art and architecture of the Pharwala fort which is lying in
oblivion, mourning its glorious past. Detailed study of the art and architecture of the fort
has been undertaken recently on emergency basis, keeping in view its present highly
dilapidated state of preservation. The art and architecture of the fort is mostly damaged
but the remains and ruins are good enough to explain the story of its hey-days and still
needed to be documented. The researcher visited the Gakhar Period sites and forts in
the region, with focus on the Pharwala Fort. The fort is of great significance not only for
its architectural glory and ornamentation, but on account of its greatly important role in
shaping the history of the region. It is also viewed in comparison with other forts of the
Potohar region, because it is very rarely discussed topic. Only general and historical
background of the fort was discussed since colonial era but no archaeological
documentation was undertaken before this work. This research focuses on architectural
and artistic aspects of the monument as well as draws attention towards its rapidly
deteriorating situation and determines its dire state of conservation and preservation.
(All the photos and plans are prepared by researchers). The fort was handed over to
Federal Department of Archaeology on 28-09-1980 under the Antiquity Act of 1975 by
the Col Zahur Sultan Akhtar who is the chief of the Gakhars tribe.
