The Cholistan Desert Rally, organized by the Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab (TDCP), is South Asia’s premier motorsport event, held annually in the expansive Cholistan Desert of Pakistan. Initiated in 2005, the rally has grown significantly, showcasing the rich history and culture of the region while promoting tourism and benefiting local communities. PakWheels will be bringing you all the latest details of the event, so stay tuned to PakWheels Blog.
Event Details
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Date: The 20th edition of the rally is scheduled from February 12 to February 16, 2025.
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Location: The rally spans approximately 500 kilometers, covering the districts of Rahim Yar Khan, Bahawalnagar, and Bahawalpur. The route includes significant desert forts such as Dingarh Fort, Marrot Fort, Khan Garh, Bhijnot Fort, Moujgarh Fort, and Jamgarh Fort. The starting point is near the historic Derawar Fort, located about 95 km south of Bahawalpur.
Event Categories
Participants compete in various categories:
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Prepared Category: Divided into subcategories A, B, C, and D.
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Stock Category: Also divided into subcategories A, B, C, and D.
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Women’s Category: Encouraging female drivers to showcase their skills.
Venue Details
The rally’s central venue is Derawar Fort in the Cholistan Desert. This impressive fort, with its forty bastions, is visible from miles around and stands as a testament to the region’s historical significance. To reach Derawar Fort from Bahawalpur, take the GT Road towards Karachi, turn left at the Ahmedpur East Bypass towards Dera Nawab Cantt, and follow the signs leading to the fort. The recent opening of the motorway has reduced travel times to the venue.
Program Schedule
Here is the complete schedule of the rally:
| DATE/DAY | Description | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| 11th Feb, 2025 (Tuesday) | Inaugural Ceremony (Cultural performance and fountain show) 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Proposed to be shifted to closing) | Bahawalpur |
| 12th Feb, 2025 (Wednesday) | Registration / Technical Inspection / Medical Exam & Driver’s Conference 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM | TDCP Resort |
| 13th Feb, 2025 (Thursday) | Qualifying Round (All Categories) 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Dilwash Stadium |
| 14th Feb, 2025 (Friday) | 1st Round Prepared Men & Women Category Race 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Dilwash Stadium to Jamgarh |
| 15th Feb, 2025 (Saturday) | Stock Men & Women Category Race (9:00 AM – 3:00 PM) Cultural Night & Fireworks (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM) |
Dilwash Stadium to Bhijnot |
| 16th Feb, 2025 (Sunday) | 2nd Round Prepared Men & Women Category Race 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM Dirt Bike & Quad Race (1:30 AM – 3:30 PM) Truck Race (3:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
Prize Distribution (7:00 AM – 9:30 PM) |
Dilwash Stadium to Bhijnot
TDCP Resort Derawar / Sadiq Ghar Palace |
Rally Rules and Registration
Comprehensive rules and registration details for the Cholistan Desert Rally 2025 are available on the official TDCP website. Prospective participants can download the competition rules and safety guidelines to ensure compliance and safety during the event.
For the most current information, including detailed schedules and registration procedures, please visit the official TDCP website. Meanwhile, here are the final results from Cholistan Rally 2024.
