Introduction: Cholistan Desert Rally 2026 Date Change Announced
The 21st International Cholistan Desert Jeep Rally 2026 has been officially rescheduled, creating a buzz among motorsport enthusiasts and tourists. Originally planned for February 4–8, 2026, the rally will now take place from February 11 to February 15, 2026, across the districts of Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, and Rahim Yar Khan.
Cholistan Desert Rally 2026
Updated dates, route & complete event plan revealed
New Dates
February 11–15, 2026
- Inauguration on Feb 10 in Bahawalpur
- Rally rounds Feb 13–15
- Prize distribution Feb 15
Route & Venue
Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Rahim Yar Khan
- Mixed terrain: sand dunes & desert plains
- Derawar Fort landmarks
- Dirt bike races included
Participants & Vehicles
National & international drivers
- Jeep, SUV, dirt bike categories
- Men & women drivers divisions
- Stock & modified vehicle categories
Safety Measures
Vehicle inspections & emergency teams
- Mandatory safety gear
- Medical support on standby
- Marshals deployed along route
Cultural Events
Music, crafts & exhibitions
- Cultural nights & traditional performances
- Local craft exhibitions
- Tourism highlights included
Event Significance
Bigger, safer & inclusive rally
- Enhanced safety & logistics
- Diverse participation & vehicle categories
- Boost to regional economy & tourism
The Punjab Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) has emphasized that the new schedule aims to improve logistics, participant coordination, and audience engagement. With updated dates, organizers are ready to host a larger, more organized event that combines thrilling motorsports with cultural festivities and tourism promotion.
- Event dates: February 11–15, 2026
- Main districts: Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Rahim Yar Khan
- Official notification issued by PTDC
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New Rally Dates, Venue & Official Schedule
The revised schedule starts with an inaugural ceremony in Bahawalpur on February 10, providing a formal kickoff to the rally. Registration, technical inspection of vehicles, and a driver’s conference are scheduled for February 11, ensuring all participants meet safety and regulatory standards.

The qualifying round will take place at Dilwash Stadium near Derawar Fort on February 12. Following this, the rally will feature multiple rounds and competitions over the next three days, culminating in the prize distribution ceremony. This structured schedule allows both participants and spectators to plan their visits efficiently.
- February 10: Inauguration in Bahawalpur
- February 11: Vehicle inspection & driver’s conference
- February 12: Qualifying round at Dilwash Stadium
- February 13–15: Rally rounds, cultural events, and prize distribution
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Updated Rally Route & Track Categories
The rally route has been revised to enhance competitiveness and safety. Drivers will navigate challenging terrain across desert tracks, sand dunes, and rural stretches connecting Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, and Rahim Yar Khan. Special attention has been given to track categorization, including stock and modified vehicle divisions.
Participants will compete in multiple categories, including men and women drivers, ensuring a diverse and inclusive event. Dirt bike races and other off-road vehicle competitions will also take place, adding variety and excitement for both participants and spectators.
- Mixed terrain: sand dunes, rural roads, desert plains
- Categories: Stock vehicles, modified vehicles, men & women drivers
- Additional events: Dirt bike races
| Date | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Feb 10, 2026 | Inaugural Ceremony | Bahawalpur |
| Feb 11, 2026 | Vehicle Registration & Inspection | Bahawalpur |
| Feb 12, 2026 | Qualifying Round | Dilwash Stadium, Derawar Fort |
| Feb 13, 2026 | First Round (Male & Female Drivers) | Cholistan Desert Tracks |
| Feb 14, 2026 | Stock Category Race & Cultural Night | Cholistan Desert Tracks |
| Feb 15, 2026 | Second Round & Dirt Bike Race | Cholistan Desert Tracks |
| Feb 15, 2026 | Prize Distribution Ceremony | Cholistan Desert Tracks |
Participants, Vehicles & Safety Arrangements
The rally attracts professional and amateur drivers from across Pakistan, along with enthusiasts from neighboring countries. Participants will compete in jeeps, SUVs, and dirt bikes designed to handle extreme desert conditions.
Strict safety measures are being enforced, including vehicle inspections, safety gear requirements, and medical support on standby. Organizers have also deployed marshals and emergency response teams along the rally route to ensure smooth operations and rapid response in case of accidents.
- Participants: National and international drivers
- Vehicles: SUVs, jeeps, and dirt bikes
- Safety: Technical inspections, emergency teams, medical support
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Tourism, Cultural Events & Local Attractions
The Cholistan Desert Rally doubles as a major tourism event. Visitors can enjoy cultural nights, traditional music performances, and exhibitions of local crafts. Landmarks such as Derawar Fort and the surrounding desert landscape add to the appeal for tourists and photographers.
Hotels, local markets, and tour operators in Bahawalpur and surrounding districts are preparing to welcome large crowds. The rally thus not only promotes motorsport but also boosts regional tourism and economic activity.
- Cultural nights and traditional performances
- Local crafts and exhibitions
- Tourism highlights: Derawar Fort, desert excursions
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Why Cholistan Rally 2026 Is Bigger Than Ever
With the updated schedule, expanded route, and enhanced safety measures, the 2026 rally promises to be one of the biggest in recent years. Inclusion of women drivers, stock and modified categories, and additional dirt bike races adds diversity and excitement.
The event also aims to attract more international attention, promoting Pakistan’s desert landscape and motorsport capabilities on a global stage. For participants, spectators, and local communities alike, Cholistan Rally 2026 represents a thrilling and culturally rich experience.
- Bigger participant pool and vehicle categories
- Enhanced safety and event management
- Boost for local economy and international tourism
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FAQs
When will the Cholistan Desert Rally 2026 take place?
The rally is scheduled for February 11–15, 2026, across Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, and Rahim Yar Khan.
Where will the qualifying round be held?
The qualifying round will be held at Dilwash Stadium near Derawar Fort on February 12, 2026.
Are women allowed to participate in the rally?
Yes, there are separate categories for male and female drivers in the rally.
Will there be cultural events alongside the rally?
Yes, cultural nights and local craft exhibitions are part of the rally schedule.
Is safety ensured for participants and spectators?
Strict safety protocols, vehicle inspections, and medical support will be provided throughout the rally.
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