Dera Ismael Khan City in 2025 | KPK, Pakistan | شہر ڈیرہ اسماعیل خان کی سیر

Dera Ismail Khan, often abbreviated as D.I. Khan, is a city in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. Located on the western bank of the Indus River, it serves as the capital of Dera Ismail Khan District. The city is known for its diverse culture, which is a blend of Pashtun, Saraiki, and Balochi traditions.

History 📖

The city was founded in the late 15th century by Malik Sohrab Khan, a Balochi chief, and named after his son, Ismail Khan. The original settlement, which was located closer to the Indus River, was washed away by a flood in 1823. The present city was rebuilt a few miles away in 1825 and was carefully planned, with distinct areas for different communities. This new layout included four central bazaars that converge in the main chowk (square).

Economy and Agriculture 🌾

The economy of D.I. Khan is primarily based on agriculture. The fertile plains, irrigated by the Indus River and the Chashma Right Bank Canal, are ideal for farming. Key crops include wheat, sugarcane, rice, and dates. The city is particularly famous for its unique and sweet Dhakki dates, which are exported to countries in the Middle East and the United States. Other industries include textile, flour, oil, and soap mills. The city is also a significant trading center, especially for goods coming from and going to Afghanistan.

Culture and Demographics 🧑‍🤝‍🧑

Dera Ismail Khan is a melting pot of cultures. The native language is Saraiki, a dialect of Punjabi, but Pashto is also widely spoken due to the city's proximity to the Pashtun tribal areas. The local food is a major part of the culture, with specialties like Sohan Halwa, sobat, and pulao. The city has a high literacy rate and is home to educational institutions like Gomal University.












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