THE DACHI

DESERT RESORT CHOLISTAN

THESIS ADVISOR
MR. ADNAN JALIL

MR. SIRMAD SALAHUDIN

ABDULREHMAN
13003101026
B.ARCH
Table of Contents
1.1 THE DACHI:.................................................................................................................................... 5
MISSION OF THE PROJECT:...................................................................................................................... 5
1.2 INTRODUCTION TO THE PROJECT:........................................................................................................ 5
THE FESIBILITY OF THE RESORT WILL INCLUDE:..................................................................................5
1.3 PROJECT SCOPE:...........................................................................................................................6
1.4 SITE:...............................................................................................................................................6
1.5 CLIENT:..........................................................................................................................................6
CLIENT BRIEF:......................................................................................................................................6
TARGET GROUP:..................................................................................................................................6
1.5.1 FACILITIES OF THE RESORT:........................................................................................................7
1.6 STRUCTURE OF REPORT:...............................................................................................................7
2.1 RESORT:........................................................................................................................................ 8
2.2 CONCEPT OF THE PROJECT:................................................................................................................ 8
LIVE THE ENVIRONMENT!........................................................................................................................ 8
ECO-TOURISM:..................................................................................................................................... 8
SPECIALLY, A SUCCESSFUL ECOTOURISM PROJECT MUST:...................................................................9
2.3 THE CHOLISTAN ECO-RESORT:.......................................................................................................... 10
3.1 FEASIBILITY OF THE PROJECT:............................................................................................................ 10
3.2 CULTURAL TOURISM IN PAKISTAN:..................................................................................................... 10
FOREIGN TOURISTS TO PAKISTAN:.......................................................................................................... 11
AREAS VISITED BY FOREIGN TOURISTS-2007:............................................................................................ 12
FOREIGN TOURIST ARRIVAL TO PAKISTAN BY PURPOSE:................................................................................ 13
WHAT ATTRACTED TO FOREIGN TOURISTS TO PAKISTAN IN 2007:.................................................................13
3.3 CHOLISTAN TOURISM:..................................................................................................................... 14
A HISTORIAN’S ACCOUNT:..................................................................................................................... 14
NUMBER OF THE TOURISTS TO BAHAWALPUR AND CHOLISTAN:.....................................................................14
3.4 ATTRACTIONS IN AND NEAR CHOLISTAN:............................................................................................. 15
3.5 CULTURE OF CHOLISTAN:................................................................................................................ 16
CHOLISTAN THE AREA:.......................................................................................................................... 17
4.1GEOLOGICAL SETTING IN THE WORLD:................................................................................................. 17
4.1.1AREA:........................................................................................................................................ 17
4.1.2SETTLEMENT PATTERNS:................................................................................................................ 18
4.2CLIMATE:...................................................................................................................................... 18
4.2.1TEMPERATURE:........................................................................................................................... 18
4.2.2RAINFALL:.................................................................................................................................. 18
4.2.3DROUGHTS AND DROUGHTS PATTERN:............................................................................................. 19
4.2.4ARIDITY:.................................................................................................................................... 19
4.2.5 WIND........................................................................................................................................19
4.2.6 FLORA AND FAUNA:.................................................................................................................19
4.2.7 SAND RIDGE FORMATION:.......................................................................................................19

THE DACHI Page 2

 4.3 SOILS:..........................................................................................................................................20
4.4 WATER SUPPLY:..........................................................................................................................20
4.4.1 WELL.........................................................................................................................................20
4.5 PRESENT SCENARIO IN CHOLISTAN:.................................................................................................... 21
SITE :................................................................................................................................................ 21
5.1 SITE SELECTION FOR A DESERT RESORT:............................................................................................... 21
5.2 LOCATION OF THE SITE:................................................................................................................... 21
5.4 TOPOGRAPHY:............................................................................................................................... 24
5.5 VIEWS:........................................................................................................................................ 25
6.1 INTRODUCTION:............................................................................................................................. 26
6.2 ARCHITECTURE IN MUD:.................................................................................................................. 26
6.2.1 THE OPEN SPACES:...................................................................................................................... 26
PLATFORM:........................................................................................................................................ 26
COURT:............................................................................................................................................. 27
6.2.2 THE CONCEPT OF BUILDING:.......................................................................................................... 27
6.3 MAIN CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS:..................................................................................................... 27
6.4 PROTECTION FROM THE ENVIRONMENT:............................................................................................. 28
7.0 CASE STUDIES:............................................................................................................................... 30
7.1 STUDY OF A 5 STAR ECO-RESORT:...................................................................................................... 30
7.1.1 HERITAGE RESORT BIKANER INDIA:.................................................................................................. 30
7.1.2 ARABIAN NIGHT VILLAGE ABU DAHBI:.....................................................................................33
8.1 BUILDING TYPE:...........................................................................................................................35
8.1.2 FEATURE:..................................................................................................................................35

THE DACHI Page 3

Abstract

The Dachi is tucked deep in the desert miles away from

the cities. It replicates an oasis, a retreat as it combines
magical location with unique ambience.
The cholistan resort rises up from the desert sand dunes
like a Dachi. Offering elegant experience in traditional
cholistan setting creating bygone desert architecture
with comfortable and luxurious accommodation.

THE DACHI Page 4

1.1 The Dachi:

The Dachi, Cholistan Is The Destination Desert Resort Where People Can Seek Luxury, Adventure And
Serenity Within The Wildest Landscapes To Reveal And Learn This Challenging Side Of Nature.

Mission of the project:

My Mission Is To Create An Enabling Environment To The Tourists From All Around The World And To
Develop World Class Facilities That Are Commensurate With Our Rich Cultural Heritage And Rare
Archeological Treasures And At The Same Time Preserving And Protecting Our Cultural And Moral Values
And Projecting A Soft Image Of The Country.

1.2 Introduction to the project:

The Areas Of Multan, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Uch Shareef And Cholistan Have Their Own Charm,
Culture And Crafts Some Of Which Are Common To This Entire Area. These Areas Are Not Only
Developing But There Historical Background Dates Back To About 325bc. This Part Of Punjab Reveals
History In True Essence. The Forts Shrines, Masajid And Local Handi Crafts Have Always Gathered And
Much Attention From Tourists All Around The World Especially Local Tourists. Religions Festivals In
These Areas Are A Peculiar Mixture Of Devotion And Recreation.

There Are Around Fifty Shrines Located In The Areas Mentioned Above. Annual Urs Is Held On Every
Shrine. Bahauddin Zikria Bibi Jawindi, Channa Pir, Etc Are Few Of The Popular Ones.

The Inadequacy Of Hotels And Motels Restrict The Tourism Whereas Such Cultural Richness Draws
Everybody Towards Itself. Therefore A Proposal For A Destination Resort In The Desert Area Of

THE DACHI Page 5

Cholistan Is Being Put Forward To Enhance Tourism And To Give An Up Boost To All These Wonderfully
Enchanting Places Of Pakistan .

THE FESIBILITY OF THE RESORT WILL INCLUDE:

 Analysis Of Land Resources And Potential Local Amenities

 The Size And Future Demand Of Targeted Market

 Budgeting And Expenditure

 Site Data And Environment

 Local Acts And Regulations

 Assessment Of The Feasibility Of Adapting Existing Attractions

 Availability Of Infrastructure: Road Access Water, Sewage And Waste Disposal

 Client And Government Grants

1.3 PROJECT SCOPE:

The Cholistan Development Authority Seeks The Development Of A Five Star Eco-Resort Near The Meer
Garh Fort Fort In Cholistan.
The Major Goal Through The Development Of This Project Is To Create Environment Friendly Resort To
Provide A Positive Economic Impact On The People Living In That Rural Area And It Will Contribute To
The Economy On Long Term Basis. Moreover It Will Cater The Quality Facilities Needed By The
Corporate, Private And Government Sector.
The Resort Will Be 40-50 Room/Suite Facility With International Standards Set In Local Way. The
Amenities Will Be One Of Its Kind And Will Feature Two Presidential Suites, Restaurants, Business
Center, Shopping Area Culture Theatre And Access To Nearby Village And Tourist Destinations.

1.4 SITE:
The Project Site Is Located On 20 Actre Land, Near The Meer Garh Fort, Cholistan. The Site Is Belongs To
The Cholistan Development Authority.

.
1.5 CLIENT:
Ministry Of Tourism Pakistan.

THE DACHI Page 6

CLIENT BRIEF:
 AN IDYLLIC AND EXCUSIVE OASIS
 ECO FRIENDLY
 PROMOTING CULTURE, PEOPLE AND WILDLIFE
 ENRICHING THE IMPORTANCE OF THE DESERT

TARGET GROUP:
 Foreign Tourists
 Local Tourists
 Scholars And Educators
 Industrialists
 Business People
 Sheikhs And Caravans

1.5.1 FACILITIES OF THE RESORT:

 Suites
 Rooms
 Business Center
 Amphitheater
 Spa And Health Club
 Restaurants
 Tours Desert Exploration Facilities
 Handicraft Shops
 Mini Cinema

1.6 STRUCTURE OF REPORT:

 The Report Covers The Following Aspects In Respective Chapters:
 The Report Tells Out The Information About Pre-Requisites And Importance Of Project In The
First Chapter. This Includes The Name, Introduction And An Explanation As To Why This Report
Is Strategically And Economically Important.
 There Is A Detail On Concept Of Project And The Vision Of Resort Which Broadens Its
Perspective. The Feasibility And Cholistan Tourism Are Also Discussed.
 A General Overview On The Parts Of Resort, Basic Design Configuration. What Ideas Are Being
Proposed And Basic Facilities That Will Be Provided. Another Chapter Discussed The Case Studies
That Have Been Considered As Primarily Study For Thesis Project.
 There Is A Detailed Discussion On The Geography And Mud Architecture Of Cholistan Which
Propose The Basic Design Theme. The Site Has Been Analyzed And Requirments Have Been
Listed. The Last Chapter Inclueds The Site Plan And Design Analysis Of The Dachi.

THE DACHI Page 7

2.1 Resort:
A Report Is A Place Used For Relaxation Or Recreation, Attracting Visitor For Holidays And Vacations.
Resorts Are Places, Towns Or Sometimes Commercial Establishment. Such A Self-Contained Resort
Attempts To Provide For Most Of A Vacationer’s Wants While Remaining On Promises Such As Food,
Drink Lodging, Entertainment Sports And Shopping. Commonly These Facilities Are Of Higher Quality.
Some Examples Are Atlantis In Bahamas, Sun City In Johannesburg, Al Maha Resort In Dubai.

2.2 Concept of the project:

The Vision Of Project Is To Create A Niche For Pakistan In Global Tourism Market By Promoting It As A
Four Season. Special Interest Tourist Destination, Processing Rich Culture And Historical Heritage.
The Basic Idea Of Project Is To Enhance Tourism In Lower Punjab, A Huge Area Of Which Is Based On
Desert. Desserts Have Always Been Associated With Drought And Dryness But Their Beauty Cannot Be
Neglected Anymore. In The World Of Today Uniqueness, Exploration And Adventure Is All Everyone
Strives For.
The Local Culture Of Cholistan Along With Sand Dunes And Oasis Make Such A Scenic Beauty Which Is
Magical And Enchanting Therefor This Resort Will Be Provide Panoramic Landscapes And An Array Of
Attrective And Lifetime Experience To The Tourists.

LIVE THE ENVIRONMENT!

Responsible Ecotourism To Cholistan Will Include Programs That Minimize The Negative Aspects Of
Conventional Tourism On Environment And Enhance The Cultural Integrity Of Local People. Therefore,
The Promotion Of Culture, Energy Efficiency, .

ECO-TOURISM:
“Responsible Travel To Natural Areas That Conserves The Environment And Improves The Well-Being Of
Local People”
Eco-Tourism Typically Focuses On Learning New Ways To Live On The Planet, Bettering The Environment
And Appreciating The Natural Surroundings. To Accomplish This, Guests Volunteer To Help The
Environment And Local Communicating As Well As Variety Of Eco-Activities Are Offered, Such As Nature
Tours And Conversation Programs.
Eco-Tourism Focuses On Local Cultures, Wilderness Adventures, Volunteering, Personal Growth And
Learning New Days To Live On Our Vulnerable Planet. It Is Typically Defined As Travel To Destinations
Where The Flora, Fauna And Cultural Heritage Are The Primary Attractions.
Eco-Tourism Is Considered The Fastest Growing Market In The Tourism Industry, According To The
World Tourism Organization With An Annual Growth Rate Of 5% Worldwide And Representing 6% Of
World Gross Domestic Production.

SPECIALLY, A SUCCESSFUL ECOTOURISM PROJECT MUST:

 Effectively Promote The Preservation Of Entire Local Ecosystems.
 Be Economically Viable In Order To Attract Financing And Be Sustainable:
 Be Well Planned, Financed Managed And Marketed In Order To Meet The Stringent
Environment And Recreational Demands Of A True Eco System Development.
Live The Environment!

THE DACHI Page 8

Responsible Ecotourism To Choli Stan Will Include Programs That Minimize The Negative Aspects Of
Conventional Tourism On Environment And Enhance The Cultural Integrity Of Local People. Therefore ,
The Promotion Of Culture, Energy Efficiency, Water.
Eco-Tourism:
“Responsible Travel To Natural Areas That Conserves The Enviromentand Improves The Well-Being Of
Local People”
Eco-Tourism Typically Focuses On Learning New Ways To Live On Planet, Bettering The Environment And
Appreciating The Natural Surroundings. To Accomplish This , Guests Volunteer To Help The Environment
And Local Communities As Well As A Variety Of Eco-Activities.
Eco-Tourism Focuses On Local Cultures, Wilderness Adventures, Volunteering Personal Growth And
Learning Personal Growth And Learning New Ways To Live On Our Vulnerable Planet. It Is Typically
Defined As Travel To Destinations Where The Flora, Fauna And Cultural Heritage.
Eco-Tourism Is Considered The Fastest Growing Market In Tourism Industry, According To The World
Tourism Organization With An Annual Growth Rate Of 5% Worldwide And Representing 6% Of World
Gross Domestic Production.
Eco-Tourism Is Cultural Tourism, Nature Tourism, A Travel-Learn Experience , A Little Bit Soft Adventure,
And Benefiting The Well-Being Of Indigenous People.
Specially , A Successful Eco-Tourism Project Must:
Effectively Promote The Preservation Of Entire Local Ecosystems, Not Just Individual , Species Vista
Sites :
Be Economically Viable In Order To Attract Financing And Be Sustainable:
Be Well Planned, Financed , Managed And Marketed In Order To Meet The Stringent Environmental And
Recreational Demands Of A True Eco-Tourism Development.

2.3 The Cholistan eco-resort:

This Resort Will Be An Oasis For Travelers All Around The World Providing Attractions Like :
Entertainment, Local And Continental Cuisines , Lodging , Shopping Camel Riding, Desert Exploration ,
Spa And Gym , Horse Riding , Sunset And Scenic Decks And Tours To Nearby Shrines, Villages And
Important Locations.
In The Cholistan Eco-Resort The Features Of The Built And Natural Environment To Resort Area And Yet
Ensure That The Facility Was Built And Managed Along Ecological Sustainable Practices Is Important
Consideration. People Need To Be Attracted To The Place To Stay As Long As Possible.
Following Are Few Impotent Points Which Are To Be Considered While Designing An Eco-Resort:
 Making Designs User Friendly
 Making Designs Accessible To A Diversity Of Users
 Encouraging People To Act Wisely And Be Nice

3.1 feasibility of the project:

Cholistan Has A Long History Of Traditions, Dating Back Almost To The Advent Of Islam In Sub-Continent.
This Culturally Rich Area Needs To Retell Its Story To All Those How Want To Listen To It, Therefore, This
Resort Will Be One Of Its Kinds In The Subcontinent, Giving An Up Boost To The Cultural And Economy Of
This Dry Land.

3.2 cultural tourism in pakistan:

Tourism Is The Industry Which Emits No Smoke.
Tourism Is Often Accompanied By Cultural Enrichment Of Both The Traveler And The Cultural
Enrichment Of Both The Traveler And The Locals. Main Cultural Factors Attracting Tourists To A

THE DACHI Page 9

Destination Are: Architecture, Historical Sites Archeological Monuments, Civilization, Cultural Heritage
And Social Values. Pakistan Is The Land Of Rich Culture And History And Rich Culture Heritage Of The
Country Exerts A Pull On Both Foreign And Domestic Tourists. More Than Half A Dozen Civilizations Have
Flourished In The Areas Now Compromising Pakistan Each Leaving Behind Its Finger Prints On The Same
Of The Time.
Tourism Has Become A Popular Global Leisure Activity. In 2008 There Were Over 922 Million
International Tourist Arrivals With A Growth Of 1.9% As Compared To 2007. International Tourism
Receipts Grew To Us$944 Billion In 2008, Corresponding To An Increase In Real Terms Of 1.8%.
Every Year More Than 2.5 Million Visitors Visit Archaeological Sites, Museum And Historical Places For
Pleasure And Education. During 2000, Visitors To Historical Places Archaeological Site And Museum
Numbered 3 Million.
CONTRIBUTION OF TOURISM IN THE PAKISTAN ECONOMY (RS-MILLION):

Year G.N.P Export Tourism Receipts as Receipts as Tourism

Receipts % G.N.P % export position in
export
2004-05 4970546 854255 10759 0.2 1.3 Xvi
2005-06 5303974 984767 13199 0.2 1.3 Xvi
2006-07 5638818 1029267 16643 0.3 1.6 Xvi

The Share Of Visitor Traffics To Archaeological Places Increased To 233 Percent N 2000 From 28.72 In
1995. The Long Term Trend In The Share Of Visitors To Museum Has However Shown Steady Upward
Movement Till The 9-11 Incidents.
Tourist Year 2006 Year 2007

Foreign 0.8984 million 0.8395 million

Local 43.4 million 44.5 million

Foreign tourists to Pakistan:

Area Tourists

Balochistan 12.6
Sindh 281.2
Punjab 472.7

THE DACHI Page 10

N.W.F.P 47.0
Northern areas 5.0
Azad jammu and Kashmir 21.0

Areas visited by foreign tourists-2007:

Year Number of tourists

1998 428.8
1999 432.2
2000 556.6
2001 499.7
2002 498.1
2003 500.9
2004 648.0
2005 798.3
2006 898.4
2007 839.5

THE DACHI Page 11

Foreign tourist arrival to Pakistan by purpose:

60

50

40

30

20

10

0 Series 3 Series 2 Series 1

Holiday/Recreation V.F.R BUSINESS Others

What attracted to foreign tourists to Pakistan in 2007:

Tourist attractions Tourists Percentage share

Scenic beauty 78.9 9.4
Mountains 34.4 4.2
Culture 59.6 7.1
Historical places 39.5 4.5
Old bazars/shopping areas 67.2 8.0
People 167.7 2.0
Deserts 13.4 1.6
Climate 77.2 9.2
Handicraft 48.7 5.8
Sports 19.3 2.3
Entertainment 14.3 1.7
Wildlife 15.9 1.9
Local foods 84.7 10.1
Shopping 10.8 12.9
Others 10.1 1.2

THE DACHI Page 12

 Total 839.5 100

3.3 cholistan tourism:

The Highest Arrival Of Tourist In The Areas Of Multan, Bahawalpur, Uch FORTABAS And Cholistan Is
From March To October.

A historian’s account:
“Muslims Have A Knock Of Creating Wonders Even In Deserts, Treeless Mountains And In The
Unrelieved Monotony Of Infinite Vistas. Environmental Factors. However Dull And Monotonous They
Have Never Hindered Their Creative Abilities Right From Atlantic To The Sea Of China”

The Rich Traditional Of The Art Of Architecture In Cholistan Got Its Inspiration Got Its Inspiration From
Uch, Which Before The Arrival Of Islam Was A Flourishing Beautiful City And Afterwards It Became A
Great Seat Of Muslim Learning When It Was Selected As The Capital Of Sindh. It Started With Mosques
And Tomb Mosques Were Used Not Only For The Religious Purpose But Also For Social And Political
Activities.
During Abbasid Rule The Cholistan Cities And Towns Were Virtually Littered With Forts Royal Palaces,
Villas, Havelies, Gateways, Gardens Fortifications And City Walls The Main Feature Of The Palaces Were
Their Airy Rooms , Open Courtyards, And Roof Terraces. And The Main Feature Of All Cholistan Forts
Was Their Mosque And The Mughal Style Of Architecture Was Introduced In All Buildings As Well As In
Mosques.

Number of the tourists to bahawalpur and cholistan:

Year Foreign tourists Local tourists

2005 359 3094

2006 655 2874

2007 628 2914

2008 275 2076

2009 (October) 168 1737

3.4 attractions in and near cholistan:

Cholistan Jeep Rally:
Tourism Development Corporation Of Punjab Cholistan Jeep Rally Event Began In The Majestic Desert Of
Cholistan In The Year 2005 With A View To Promote Southern Punjab As A Winter Tourist Destination
And A Way To Introduce Motor Sports In Pakistan.
Every Year The Cholistan Jeep Rally Is Held. Many Adventurous

THE DACHI Page 13

Drivers Drives Their Four Wheelers Through The Dessert Stands. The End Of The Rally Is Marked By The
Folk Mela, Spectacular Fireworks, Wrestling Competitions, Horse And Cattle Show And Exhibition Of
Cholistan Handicrafts.
Desert Trekking:
More Than Thousand Spectators Gather Around And Become A Part Of This Dessert Race. The Locals
Entertain These Visitors With Folklores And Folk Music.

Cholistan Desert Safari:

It Is Once In A Life Time Opportunity. The Tours Of The Ancient Forts. Nomadic Villages. Shrines Of The
Saints Can Be Mounted On The Camel.
Lal Suhanra National Park:
This Park Is Ideal For Recreation Education Of Research But Shooting Is Forbidden .This Park 36 Km To
East Of Bahawalpur, Is A Combination Of Natural Lake And Forest On 77.480 Acres Of Land And Spread
Over On Both Sides Of Bahawal Canal. It Has Watch Towers Catching Ground Tourist’s Huts, Rest
Houses, Camping Grounds And Treks For The Visitors And Lovers Of Nature.

Some Shrines :
Other Shrines Of Bahawalpur Region Are That Of
Khawaja Noor Muhammad Known As Qibla-E-Alam At Chishtian
Shrine Of Another Saint At Chachran
Shrine Of Hazrat Mohkam Din Known As Sahib-Us-Sair (Great Traveler) At Khanqah Sharif 20km From
Bahawalpur.

Panjnad Head Workers:

Panjnad Is Located 12 Km Away From Uch Sharif Where All The Five Rivers Of Punjab. It Is Nice Picnic
Spot With Scenic Beauty.
Forts:
The Old Fort Of Munde Shahid 50 Km From Bahawalpur And Marot Fort Are Considered To Be
Antiquities. A Place Outside The Marot Fort Is Known As “Baithak Maula Ali”. The Tomb Of ‘Naugaza’ Is
Located In The Munde Shahid Fort.OTHER FORTS INCLUDING PHULRA FORT, MEER GARH FORT, JAAM
GARH FORT ETC.
Wildlife :
Hog Deer, Ravine Deer, Black Buck And Blue Bull Are Common. Fox, Jackals, Hares, Owls And Hawks Are
Also Found. Wild Boars Are Found In Large Numbers In The Forest Areas.

3.5 CULTURE OF CHOLISTAN:

People:
It’s The People That Make The City. The People Of Cholistan Are Nomads And They Are Shifting From
One Place To Other. They Roam About In Search Of Pastures And Water. They Are Very Simple And
Loving, Have Great Faith In Religion, Pirs, Saints Are Shrines. They Love Music And Singing.In The
Absence Of Other Musical Instruments Even A Ghara Pitcher Would Keep The Concert Going. The
Cholistan People Tend To Preserve Their Primitive Customs And Traditions.

COSTUMES:

THE DACHI Page 14

The Costumes Of Women In Cholistan Are Embroidered And Printed Colorful Cholid Ordinary And Long
Embroidered Shirt, Baggy Shalwars, Dupatta And Chunries .Ghagras Which Are Prepared Beautifully In
Strong Contrast .Village Women Still Wear Heavy Skirts Made Of 40 Yards Of Cloth Known Cholas Hath
Ghagra.
Men Wear Embroidered And Colorful Cholas (Long Shirts). Balaposh (Robe Like Coat), Heavy Baggy
Shalwars. Turkish Caps, Turbans And Zari Shoes Have A Liking For Plain And Embroidered Colorful
Cholas. Bangis, Turbans And Balaposh.
Men In The Urban Area Wear Shalwar, Kameez, Coat And Trousers Are Also Worn By Some People.
LANGUAGE:

The People Of Cholistan Speak A Language Of Their Own Which Is A Mixture Of Saraiki And Sindhi. It Is A
Sweet And Polite Nature.

ECONOMY:

A Distinctive Feature Of Cholistan Is The Relative Abundance Of Vegetation. This Consists Of A Variety Of
Wild Grass And Shrubs In The Rainy Season On Which Depends The Livelihood Of The People.
Cholistan May Be Considered A Rural Area But It Is Richer In History, Tradition, Culture, Arts And Crafts
Compared With Well-Developed Urban Areas Of Pakistan.

Cholistan the area:

4.1geological setting in the world:

The Project Area Is An Extension Of The Great Indian Desert Which Includes The Third Desert In Sindh
Province And The Rajhistan Desert In India. The Word Cholistan Comes From The Word Chol Which
Means Desert Which Is From Turkish Origin Localized With Persian And Ending It With Tan From Punjabi.
Cholistan Is Unique In Many Respects As It Is Not A Desert In Real Sense Of The World. It Contains Dry
Land, And Wet Land At The Same Time. It Is Because Of The Fact That Rivers Have Flown Through This
Area.

4.1.1area:
The Area Of Cholistan Extends Over 10399 Square Miles (6655360 Acres) Between The Altitude 27.42 –
30.25 North And Longitude 69.31 – 74.1 East.

NORTH AND WEST

Towards The North And West Of The Project Area Are Canal Irrigated Region Which Was Reclaimed
From The Cholistan Desert Through The Construction Of Diversion Works On The Sutlej And Panjnad
River In The 1950s And 1960s. This Is Generally Referred To As Lesser Cholistan. The Main Karachi-
Lahore Highway Runs Some Distance To The North Of The Project Area.

SOUTH

The Area To The South, Beyond The Bed Of The Dead Hakra River Is Referred As Greater Cholistan. The
International Border With India Forms The Southern Boundary Of His Project Area.

THE DACHI Page 15

4.1.2settlement patterns:
There Are Three Distinct Types Of Settlement Patterns Which Can Be Identified In The Project Area
1 The Settlements In The Irrigated Areas Are Comparatively More Compact Consisting Of Concrete And
Mud Houses.
2 The Second Type Consists Of Semi-Permanent Abodes Found Around The Found Around The Forts
And Wells. The Majority Of The Households Spend Approximately Four To Eight Months In These
Settlements After They Return Home From The Tobas (Water Reservoirs).
3 The Third Type Comprises Of Temporary Residences Around The Tobas Where Households Reside
After Monsoon Rains.

4.2climate:
The Climate Of Cholistan Is Characterized By Low Rainfall, Which Is Highly Variable Both In Time And
Space, With Periodic Droughts. The Mean Annual Rainfall Varies From 100 Mm In The West To 200 Mm
In The East. Rain Usually Falls In Monsoon Season And Between Januarys To March, As Winter-Spring
Rains.

4.2.1temperature:
Temperatures Are High In Summer And Mostly Mild By Day In Winter , But Cold At Night, Occasionally
With Frost. Cholistan Is Recorded As One Of The Hottest Places Of Pakistan. The Mean Annual
Temperature Is 25.5’c. The Mean Summer Temperature (May-June) Is 34’c With Maximum-Maximum
Temperature 45.6’c, Extreme 49’c With Minimum-Minimum 2’c With Extreme -2’c.
Frost May Occur Occasionally For A Few Nights In Winter, Usually In December.

4.2.2rainfall:
Monsoon Rains Fall In Heavy Showers, Parts Of Which Readily Infiltrates Into The Sandy Ground And It Is
Conserved Here For Plant Utilization. Cholistan Falls In A Rain Shadow Regime. The Mean Annual Rainfall
Is Therefore Very Low. Variable And Aractic The Annual Rainfall May Occur During Winter Spring
Rainfalls In Light Shower.

4.2.3droughts and droughts pattern:

Rainfall In This Area Is Not Only Low But Also Highly Variable And Uncertain. Droughts Are Quite
Common, Sometimes Standing Over Two To Five Years In The Eastern Arid Part (Bahawalpur Zone) And
4-7 Years In The Western Hyper Arid Part Kaanpur Zone.

4.2.4aridity:
Aridity Is Them Ost Shrinking Feature Of Cholistan With Wet And Dry Years Occurring In Clusters.
Hyper Arid (<100mm/Year) In The Western Part.
Arid (100-200mm/Year) In The Eastern Part.

4.2.5 WIND
There Are Two Important Wind Regimes In Cholistan.
 Wind From The South, Southwest And Southest During May To October Arising From The
Arabian Sea And From The Bay Of Bengal.
 Wind From The North, Northest And Northwest Coming From The Siberian Cold Desert.

THE DACHI Page 16

The Summer Winds Are Stronger Speed 1-5.7 Knots Then The Winter Winds Speed 0.2-3.8 Knots.

4.2.6 FLORA AND FAUNA:

Among Trees Sheesham. Mulberry, Kikar, Farash, Jal, Beir, Jahand, Pipal And Neem Are Common In This
Region.
Wolf, Deer And Neel Gai Are Found In This Part Of Cholistan.
The Hot Dusty Wind Of Cholistan Is Controlled With Trees And Shrubs. The Height And Density Of The
Trees Determine The Amount Of Protection From The Winds. Trees And Shrubs Can Be Used To Block
The Direct Path Of The Wind And Redirect It To Windows Or Other Building Openings. Therefore
Landscape Is An Effective Way To Help Remain Comfirtable During The Hot Summer Days.

4.2.7 SAND RIDGE FORMATION:

The Formation Of Various Types Is Caused By The Wind In The Different Localities. In The Area Stronger
Wind Direction Is From South To West, The Ridges Are Therefore Are Aligned Is That Direction. These
Ridges Are 3-5 M High, 30-50 M Wide And Are Essentially Uniform In Cross Section.
 Logtidunal Sand Ridges:
These Occur In The Eastern Part Of Cholistan. They Develop Wherever The Winds Of Similar Direction
Prevail And Are Aligned To The Product Of The Dominent Winds.
 Transverse Sand Ridges:
These Occur In The Southern And South-Western Part Of The Area. These Are Formed Where The Winds
Are Relatively Gentle And They Lie Perpandicular To The Opposing Winds.

4.3 SOILS:
There Are Three Types Of Soil In Cholistan:
1. Submersed Mixed Clayey Alluvium: It Is Redder In Color And Generally Homogenized To Moderate
Depths. It Is Moderately Calcareous Locally Containing Gypsum.
2. Late Pleistocene Mixed Sandy Alluvium: It Is Brown In Color Homogrnized, With Gradual Gradation
Of Color And Texture. These Soils Are Strongly Calcareous.
3. Middle Pleistocene Aeolian Sands: It Is Generally Found In South Western Parts Of Cholistan. These
Soils Differ In Mineralogical Composition, Color, Degree And Depth Of Homogenization And Amount Of
Distribution Of Calcium Carbonate.

4.4 WATER SUPPLY:

There Are No Promanent, Natural Bodies Of Surface Water In Cholistan. Low Rainfall The Excessively
High Rate Of Water Infiltration Into The Sands Which Cover Most Of The Area And High Evaporation Of
Permanent Water At The Surface.
Ephemeral, Shallow Lakes Persist For A Few Hours Or Days At Depths Of Less Than One Mere Where
Runoff Is Collected In Dahars. They Have High Impervious Loam Or Clay Soils Often Of Saline Or Saline
Nature.
Sweet Waters Are Also Present In Isolated Lenses In Greater Cholistan.Government Has Now Installed
Water Pumps In This Area And Therefore The Water Supply To Villages Is Quite Adequate. In Irrigated
Areas There Is More Than Sufficient Water Consuption. Canal Water Is Stored In Reservoirs Called Digs.

THE DACHI Page 17

4.4.1 WELL
Outside The Irrigated Area Small, Scatered . It Is Estimated By The Cholistan Development Authority That
The Total Number Of Tobas In Cholistan Is Approx 1000 Of Which Are Only 50 Percent Are Functional.
Tobas Are Very In Size And Volume But According To Cda Its Standerd Specification Have Been Laid
Which Are 30.5m X 30.5m. A Toba Life Is Said To Be Only 4-7 Years If Not Properly Maintained.

4.5 present scenario in cholistan:

The Present Condition Of The Villages And People Has Quite Improved As Government Has Provided:
 Electricity
 Water Pumps Therefore Water Is Now Supplied To All The Dwellings.
 Proper Sewerage System.
The Department Of Public Health Engineering Provides Domestic Water And Sewerage System In The
Rural Areas Of Cholistan. Services Are Incorporated With A Tameer-E-Watan Program , Sponsored By
The Govt Of Pakistan .

Site :

5.1 site selection for a desert resort:

THE SELECTION OF A SITE FOR THIS PROJECT MAY PROVE TO BE ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT DECISIONS.
THE SITE FOR THIS DESTINATION RESORT SHOULD BE ENOUGH TO HOLD FIVE STAR FACILITIES YET IT SHOULD
NOT SPOIL THE LANDSCAPE AND OTHER EXISTING FEATURES.

5.2 location of the site:

The Site Is Located In Cholistan, Near Meer Garh Fort. Moreover, City Of Fortabas Located Nearby

THE DACHI Page 18

.5.3 Access routes:
Following The 80 More Along Lost River Hakra Fortabas Site Is Located. Main Road Is 16 Feet Wide.
The Road Is Narrow But It Is Not In A Bad Very Bad Condition. There Are No Street Lights And One Feels
Very Isolated.

THE DACHI Page 19

THE DACHI Page 20
5.4 topography:
Topographically Cholistan Compromises Of Dahars And Sand Dunes. The Site Is Flat, Leveled And Clayey
Piece Of Land Measuring Several Miles In Length And Width. The Flat Pieces Of Land Are Amazingly
Leveled With Very Hard Tops Nearly Impervious To Rain Water Beyond Few Centimeters.

5.5 views:
Following Are The Views From The Site To Its All The Surroundings, Giving Views To The Meer Garh Fort.
Masjid, Small Dwelling Area, Graveyard And To The Open Vast Landscapes Of Desert.

THE DACHI Page 21

6.1 introduction:
The Architectural Heritage Of Cholistan Is Very Rich. Manifestations Of The Unique Heritage Can Be Seen
In Different Regions Of This Desert Area. Like Many Other Ancient Cultures Architecture Of Cholistan
Also Evolved In Two Distinct Directions. While Royal Architecture Maintained A Certain Degree Of
Formality And Followed A Classical Tradition, Secular Architecture Retained Regional And Vernacular
Characteristics.
The Vernacular Architecture Of Cholistan Responds To The Land Form And The Climate. It Makes Use Of
Materials Available In The Vicinity. It Also Takes Into Account The Lifestyle Of The People.

THE DACHI Page 22

6.2 architecture in mud:
The Arid Climate Of The Area And The Heat, The Uncomfortable Hot Winds And Erratic Rainfall Has
Combined To Make The Architectural Characteristics Of Cholistan. The Desert Is Characteristics By Sand
Dunes With Patches Of Prickly Grass And Bushy Plants That Grow In This Hostile Environment.
The Size Of Each Settlement Depends On The Local Availability Of Water And Grass Land.
Mud Is The Most Commonly Used Building Material Throughout The World And It Is In Cholistan. Being
In The Area Of Arid Climate Its Utility Has Advanced Through The Ages.
A Traditional Habitat Today Is Not The Result Of One Time Effort But Is The Culmination Of Hundreds Of
Years Of Understanding And Responses To A Particular Context. Dwelling Forms And The Building
Methods Which Are Used To Make These Forms Are Rich Expressions Of Creative Instincts. The Results
Are Not Only Aesthetically Appealing, But Also Functionally Satisfactory.

6.2.1 the open spaces:

While Cultural Constraints And The Attitude Of The People Towards Privacy Pushed Architectural
Developments Inwards, Climates Factors Brought Them Increasingly Into The Open Which Created A
Variety Of Spatial Situations In And In And Around Living Areas Of Cholistan. Courtyard And Terraces And
Platform Are Common Which Enrich Vernacular Architecture Of Cholistan.

Platform:
A Raised Platform, Otla, Is Built In Mud Near The Entrance Which Is Paused And Transitional Element.
The Entrance Of The House Leads To Rectangular Rooms Enclosing The Courtyard. The Mud Plastered
Walls Are Juxtaposed At Right Angles. The Flat Roof Is Made Either With Wood Twinges, Reeds And
Mud. Invariably One Of The Rooms Has Thatched Roof Which Is Better Heat Insulator.
Unlike Old Times, The Bathrooms Are Now A Part Of The House As Cda Has Now Provided Electricity
Water And Proper Drainage System.

Court:
The Inner And Central Court Is The Place Into Which All The Rooms Open. And It Is The Hub Of All The
Activities.
The Climate Of The Area Is Dry And Generally Healthy, Though Characterized By The Extremes Of
Temperature; Therefore, It Is Natural That The House Of Region Have To Be Built To Respond To Such
Extremes.
The Houses Are Constructed Of Sun Dried Mud Bricks. Rectangular Rooms Arranged In Geometric
Patterns Around The Courtyard Constitute The Basic Plan Form. All Major Spaces Are Rectangular With
Flat Thatched Roof Plastered With Mud Or Rough Wood Roofs, Except For One Circular Space With A
Conical Thatch Roof.

6.2.2 the concept of building:

Desert Cultures Acquired Certain Form Concept In Their Settlement Patterns, Evolving Out Of The Socio
Physical Context And Due To Local Acceptance Of Its Validity Over A Period Of Time , They Have Become
The Traditional Type Of Habitat Of The People. The Major Contextual Forces Shaping These Settlement
Can Be Enumerated As Climate, Available Materials , Technology And Culture.

SINGLE CELL:
In Vernacular Architecture Of Cholistan, The Conception Of Space Begins With A Single Cell Shelter.

THE DACHI Page 23

Even When There Are Large Number Of Spaces Constituting A Dwelling, Their Genesis Can Be Traced To
A Single Cell Space, Which Is Multiplied To Make Dwellings.

GOPA:
A Gopa Is A Round Mud Structure With Conical Thatched Roof.
Their Low Profile Approximates The Human Scale. The Bottom Of The Roof Almost Touches The Head Of
A Man. The Rooms Are Small And People Build Only To Minimum Extent And Waste Very Little.

6.3 main construction materials:

THATCH:
The Thatch Consists Of The Main Twinges From The Food Grains. These Are Straight Sticks. 1.0cm In
Diameter And 1.5meter Long. These Twinges Act As Vertical Stiffener. They Are Woven Together And
Then Mud Plastered On Its Side To Form A Wall.
These Are Good Insulators And They Are Tied Together From One End And Then Let Loose From The
Other.

MUD:
Mud Is A Plastic Material In The Sense That Many Forms Are Possible With It. Walls Are Plaster With
Mud And At Times Earthy Colors Are Painted In Geometric Patterns.
Mud Houses Need To Be Maintained And Repaired. Mud Bricks Are Molded And Then Sun Dried For The
Construction Purposes. These Walls Are Then Plastered With Mud. Mud Re-Plastering Is Done Every Year
After The Rains.

6.4 protection from the environment:

NATURE AS PROVIDER OF SHELTER:

Shelter Id Provided To Reduce Unwanted Environment Expects. Elevation Orientation And Wind
Protection Are Considered For Building Houses In This Part Of Region. Almost Every Type Of Outline
Dwelling Shows Sensitivity To Local Climate, Taking Maximum Advantages Of The Natural Ammunition
To Gain Comfort. The Mud Houses Are Designed Keeping The Above Expects In Consideration.
STAYING DRY:

A Simple Shelter Serves As Protection From Sun And Rain. The Protection Of Walls From Rain Is An
Important Factor. For This Down Spouts And Drain Holes Are Provided In The Flat Roof. The Spouts Drain
The Water Away From The Walls Keeping The Rain From Eating Away The Soft Mud Brick Wall.
PROTECTION FROM THE WIND:

 A House Form Provides Little Air Resistance And Creates No Turbulence, Reducing The Structural
And Thermal Impacts Of Wind.
 Plastering Of Mud Protects The Thatch On Roof
 Diagonal Bracing The Massive External Masonry Buttresses Protects A Few Houses Against The
Wind.
STAYING COOL AND WARM:

THE DACHI Page 24

For Staying Cool And Warm The Choice Of Dwelling Is Very Important. The Intention Is To Maximize The
Natural Advantages Of The Site, Terrain, Location Etc And To Minimize The Impact Of Cold.
The Houses Are Usually Faces East To Attain Maximum Sun Light In Winter And To Avoid The Intense
Sunlight During The Hot Summer Days From South. Usually No Door And Windows Are Provided On The
South Side To Avoid The Winter Winds.
THERE ARE TWO IMPORTANT ASPECTS THEY FOLLOW:

 To Stay Warm Is To Minimize The Dwelling Exposure To Cold

 To Maximize The Structures Ability To Hold And Insulate Heat

ZONING:

Zoning Of Spaces In The House Puts The Major Living Areas On The East Side. They Provide A Platform
Where They Work In Summer And Winter, Arranging In Such A Way To Gain Maximum Out Of The
Environment.
ORIENTATION:

Major Living Areas Can Be Oriented To The Cool, Away From Eastern And Southern Exposure. The Desire
For The Solar Heat And Natural Light Puts Great Emphasis On The Design And Openings Of A Dwelling.
Windows Are Kept To Get Air For Ventilation. The Size Are Approximately 3’x3’.
The Building Is So Shaped That It Captures The Sense Of Warmth By Reducing Dwelling Exposure To The
Cold And To Maximize The Space Contained While Minimizing The Exposed Surface.

THERMAL MASS:

In Hot Arid Areas If Cholistan, Dense Heat Absorbing Materials Moderate The Daily Temperature By
Absorbing Heat During The Day And Slowly Releasing It At Night.
The Degree Of Temperature Variation Outside Because The Peak Effect Of The Days Heat Is Delayed By
The Thermal Mass To A Time When It Is Counter Balanced By The Cool Of The Night. Thus The House
Helps Cool Itself During The Day And Heat Itself At Night. The Property In Thermal Lag. The Time Lag
Provided By The Mug Houses Turns The Interior Cool In The Hottest Days Of Summer.
INSULATION:

Mud, Thatch, Animal Waste And Sometimes Bales Are Used Which Provide Good Insulation.
The Main Aim Is To Minimize Heat By Using Various Insulation Techniques, Using Mud Sun Dried Bricks
And Wood Rafters.
SHADING THE OPENINGS:

In Warm Climate It Is Important To Design Openings That Admit The Cool Winds But Not The Heat Of
The Sun. One Way Is To Recess The Window Or Door So That The Depth Of The Wall Shades Much Of
The Opening.
The Open Planning Of Villages Is Also Essential For Good Air Flow. Flat Tiles Are Arranged To Form Grilles
That Admit Air Not The Sunlight.
The Natural Tendency Of Warmer Air To Rise Is Used As The Driving Force To Ventilate Buildings. The
Ventilation Of Warmer Air To The Top Draws Cooler Air In At The Bottom.
USING COURTYARD TO TRAP COOLER AIR:

THE DACHI Page 25

The Tendency Of Cooler Air To Sink Permits An Enclosed Court Created By Placing A Group Of Houses
Around Common Open Spaces To Effectively Trap Cool Night Air. Grouping Dwellings In Protective
Circles Is Another Way To Creates Better Environment.

7.0 case studies:

7.1 study of a 5 star eco-resort:

7.1.1 heritage resort bikaner india:

The Three National Highways That Criss- Cross At Bikaner Today Are A Reminder Of Times Long Past
When Bikaner Served As An Important Link On The Caravan Trade Route Between Asia And Africa.
Bikaner Lies Around Three Hundred Kilometers To The Northwest Of Jaipur, The State Capital Of
Rajasthan. The City Got Its Name From Rao Bika In The 1400's. He Chose Bikaner As His Capital And His
Descendants Occupy The Palace Today. The City Is Famous With Its Palaces And Fort, Its Cuisine And
Way Of Life.
In The Year 2000 The Heritage Resort, Bikaner Was Built. It Stands On Eleven Acres In The Outskirts Of
The City, Surrounded By Lush Green. Within Ten Km From The City Center, The Railway Station And The
Bus Stand.

THE DACHI Page 26

Here Some Picture Of Heritage Resort Bikaner.
Its A Eco Five Star Resort.
Local Materials Are Used In It.
The Resort Offers:
 Unique Spaces.
 Spa And Fitness.
 The Gallery.
 The Art Collection.
 The Environment.

DESERT EXPLORATION:
 Wildlife Drives.
 Horse Riding.

THE DACHI Page 27

  Nature Walks.
 Desert Safaries.

SUITES:
 Suits-75 Sq Meters 37 In Number
 Royal Suits-175 Sq Meters 2 In Number
 Maharaja Suit-375 Sq Meters 2 In Number
 Presidential Suites-530 Sq Meters Only One.

7.1.2 ARABIAN NIGHT VILLAGE ABU DAHBI:

Arabian Nights Village Abu Dhabi, UAE Situated In The Al Khatim Desert, Arabian Nights Village Has
Emirati Themed Accommodation, An Outdoor Swimming Pool, A Terrace And A Restaurant. The
Traditional Rooms And Suites At Arabian Nights Village Are Set Within Cottages Overlooking The Desert
Dunes. Each Includes A Minibar And A Private Bathroom, And There's A Garden And Pool On The
Property.
AL MAQAAM RRESTAURENT :

Al-Maqaam Mean Geathering Place In Arabic.

FOOD AND BEVERAGES:

THE DACHI Page 28

  Local Emariti Dish
 Tredational Arabic Dishes
 A Wide Selection Of Beverages
 Healthy Food Choices
SUITS:

 1 MASTER BED ROOM

 1 LOUNGE 2ND BED ROOM
 2 BATHROOMS
 4 GUESTS
 50 SQ M
DOUBLE ROOMS:

 1 Master Bed Room

 1 Bath Room
 2 Guests
 24 Sq M

THE DACHI Page 29

8.1 BUILDING TYPE:
 Cholistan Is Untouched Rural Area And Its Original Beauty And Landscape Should Be Maintained.
It Must Be Kept Clean.
 Care Should Be Taken Of The Surrounding And Make It Environment Friendly.
 The Height Of Any Unit Should Not Exceed Double Story Height.
 Ample Green Landscaping Should Be Provided To Give The Feel Of An Oasis.

8.1.2 FEATURE:
 Environment Friendly
 Thermal Sealed And Double Glazed Windows.
 Low Energy Lamps And Lighting
 Automatic Ac System
 Organise Community Awareness Programs
 Water Bodies Will Preserve And Collect Rain Water
 Recycle Waterdevices To Increase Force And Decrease Water Outflow
 Concealed Cisterns
 Solar Panels
 Bio-Waste Decomposing Pits
 Water Purification Plants.

ACCOMMODATION:
THE DACHI Page 30
According To The Data And Statistics
 15 Foreigner Per Day
 50 Locals Per Day
 Caravans In Any Time Of The Year.

ENTERENCE

LIVING AREA
KITCHEN TERRACE

SLEEPING AREA

COVERED AREA:
 639800 Sqft (20 Acre).
 Calculation 30% Of Total Covered Area.

LOBBY RECEPTION:
 Flow Area 20 Sq Ft Per Guest Room
 Lounge Seating Area 10 Sq Ft Per Guest Room.

THE DACHI Page 31

THE DACHI Page 32