# Naukot Fort

- **Country:** Pakistan
- **Location Text:** Sindh

Naukot Fort is a historic desert fortification located in the Mithi Taluqa of Tharparkar District, Sindh, Pakistan. Constructed in 1814 by Mir Karam Ali Khan Talpur of the Talpur dynasty, the structure was strategically built to defend the region against Rajput incursions and is often referred to as the Gateway to the Thar Desert. The fort covers an area of approximately 113 by 98 meters and is architecturally unique for its exclusive use of burnt bricks set in mud mortar, notably avoiding traditional materials like wood and iron. Its design features attenuating walls, nine semi-circular bastions positioned at corners and wall centers, and a narrow, twisted entrance passage guarded by heavy bastions leading into the internal complex.

Historically, the site played a pivotal role during the British conquest of Sindh, falling to British forces in 1843 before transitioning through various administrations including the British East India Company. Today, the fort is owned by the Government of Sindh and remains open to the public, though it currently stands in a condition requiring ongoing restoration efforts due to environmental exposure and past neglect. Inside, visitors can observe remnants of what were likely luxurious residential quarters, along with structures believed to have served as dungeons or ammunition stores known as barood khana. Despite suffering from rain damage and administrative apathy over the centuries, the fort retains its imposing presence with high arched gateways and extensive causeway-like internal halls that hint at its former military and residential grandeur.

![Photo of Naukot Fort](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/73/Naukot_Fort_2011_MIT_0504.jpg)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naukot_Fort (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)