Department of Archaeology & Museums, Government of Pakistan

𝗗𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘄𝗮𝗿 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘁 & 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗢𝗳 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻 # 8
Bijnot Fort, located around 165 km south of Bahawalpur (28.089530 N, 71.681984 E), is among the most architecturally sophisticated forts in the desert with its double fortification system. The outer enclosure, a massive square wall 90 meters per side, is strengthened by 12 circular bastions and has its main entrance on the western side. This outer wall was designed to absorb initial assaults and protect the inner precinct.
The inner fort, also square in plan and measuring 50 meters per side, is accessed from the east and features its own complete defensive circuit. Both enclosures are constructed from limestone blocks, giving the fort exceptional durability compared to mud-brick structures in the region. The meticulous stone masonry and dual-layer design indicate that Bijnot served as a major frontier fort controlling movement between Cholistan and the adjoining territories of Rajasthan.

𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗺-𝗲-𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗯𝗲𝗲𝗿 — 𝟮𝟴 𝗠𝗮𝘆
On this historic day, we proudly commemorate Youm-e-Takbeer , a defining moment in Pakistan’s journey towards strength, sovereignty, and national dignity. The successful nuclear tests conducted on 28 May 1998 stand as a symbol of the nation’s unwavering resolve, unity, and determination to safeguard its independence and territorial integrity.

Today, we pay tribute to the visionary leadership, dedicated scientists, engineers, and brave armed forces whose commitment and sacrifices made Pakistan’s defence strong and impregnable. Their remarkable achievement not only established strategic balance in the region but also reinforced Pakistan’s position as a responsible and sovereign nation.

Youm-e-Takbeer reminds us of the importance of national unity, resilience, self-reliance, and collective purpose in overcoming every challenge. As a nation, we reaffirm our commitment to peace, stability, and the protection of our homeland with courage, wisdom, and unwavering patriotism.

May Allah Almighty continue to bless Pakistan with peace, strength, and prosperity.

🌙✨ 𝗘𝗶𝗱-𝘂𝗹-𝗔𝗱𝗵𝗮 𝗠𝘂𝗯𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗸 ✨🌙
The Department of Archaeology & Museums extends warmest greetings and heartfelt wishes to the people of Pakistan and the Muslim Ummah across the globe on the blessed occasion of Eid-ul-Adha.

This sacred festival symbolizes the spirit of sacrifice, devotion, compassion, and unity. As we celebrate this joyous occasion, may we be inspired by the timeless values of selflessness, generosity, and gratitude, while remembering those in need and sharing the blessings of Eid with others.

May this Eid bring peace, harmony, happiness, and prosperity to our nation and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and togetherness within our communities.

𝗡𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗿𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗮𝗿 𝗖𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗽𝗲 # 4
The temple is part of the broader Jain heritage cluster of Nagarparkar, a region that historically served as an important cultural and trade corridor between Sindh and other parts of the subcontinent. Before the partition of 1947, the area had a considerable Jain population, and several temples were constructed between the 12th and 15th centuries. Bodhesar is believed to have been a sacred Jain pilgrimage site, and the temple stands as evidence of the once-flourishing Jain community in southern Sindh.
The temple is constructed primarily from stone blocks. Architecturally, it follows a rectangular sanctum (garbhagriha) plan, preceded by a mandapa used for ritual gathering and worship. The overall layout is compact yet well proportioned, reflecting a balanced design approach suited for both spiritual function and structural stability.
One of the most distinctive features of the temple is its ceiling, a hallmark of Jain architecture. The superstructure is supported by finely carved stone pillars and brackets, while the interior design features concentric stone rings rising toward a central apex, symbolically representing spiritual ascent and enlightenment.
The interior space is enriched with ornately carved pillars decorated with floral patterns, geometric designs, and symbolic motifs. Elements such as lotus carvings, kalash designs, and miniature shrine forms highlight the high level of craftsmanship and reflect strong influence from broader temple-building traditions. The entrance of the temple is modest yet artistically framed with carved stone details, maintaining a sense of simplicity and sacredness.

𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗲𝘂𝗺 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲
The Department of Archaeology & Museums proudly joins the international community in celebrating International Museum Day on 18th May 2026 under the theme “Museums Uniting a Divided World.”

Museums are vital institutions that preserve the cultural, historical, and archaeological heritage of humanity. They connect people with their past, promote mutual understanding, and inspire future generations through knowledge, research, and cultural dialogue. In today’s rapidly changing world, museums serve as powerful spaces for education, inclusion, tolerance, and unity.

Pakistan is blessed with a rich and diverse heritage spanning thousands of years, from the Indus Valley Civilization to Gandhara, Islamic, and regional cultural traditions. Through its museums, archaeological sites, and conservation efforts, the Department of Archaeology & Museums remains committed to protecting and promoting this invaluable legacy for the benefit of present and future generations.

On this occasion, we pay tribute to the dedicated efforts of museum professionals, archaeologists, conservators, researchers, and cultural workers across the country who continue to safeguard our shared heritage with passion and dedication.

The Department encourages citizens, especially students and young people, to visit museums, explore history, and appreciate the cultural diversity that strengthens our national identity and unites communities beyond borders and differences.

Let us celebrate International Museum Day by recognizing museums as bridges of knowledge, understanding, and peace.

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The Department of Archaeology & Museums organized a special exhibition titled “Legacy Returns Home” to showcase the repatriated artifacts returned to Pakistan from the United States of America. The exhibition highlighted the importance of safeguarding national heritage and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the protection and preservation of its invaluable cultural legacy.

The distinguished guests were warmly received by the Director General of the Department of Archaeology & Museums, Mr. Aman Ullah. The event was graced by the presence of Mr. Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, Federal Minister for National Heritage & Culture; Mr. Asad Rehman Gillani, Secretary, National Heritage & Culture Division; Mr. Huzaifa Rehman, Minister of State; Ms. Farah Naz Akbar, Parliamentary Secretary; and Mr. S. Paul Kapur, Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs, United States Department of State.

The exhibition featured a specially curated collection of 170 select artifacts repatriated through the collaborative efforts of the Government of Pakistan and the authorities of the United States. The displayed artifacts reflected Pakistan’s rich historical and cultural heritage and underscored the significance of international cooperation in combating the illicit trafficking of cultural property.

During the visit, Dr. Abdul Ghafoor Lone, Deputy Director (Museums), conducted a comprehensive guided tour for the Honourable Minister and distinguished guests, providing detailed insights into the historical, cultural, and archaeological significance of the exhibited artifacts.

The exhibition served as a symbol of cultural diplomacy and a renewed commitment to the protection, preservation, and promotion of Pakistan’s archaeological heritage.

𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐀𝐂𝐘 𝐑𝐄𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐍𝐒 𝐇𝐎𝐌𝐄
Visit the Special Exhibition “LEGACY RETURNS HOME” and witness the extraordinary collection of repatriated artifacts that will be on display at Islamabad Museum.


📅 Open for Public: 14th May 2026 , Thursday
📍Sir Syed Memorial Building, 19th Attaturk Avenue , G-5/1 , Islamabad


Don’t miss this remarkable exhibition of repatriated artifacts.