Category Rally raid Inaugural season 2005 Official website www.tdcp.gop.pk | Country Pakistan Drivers 100 (approx.) | |
Cholistan Desert Jeep Rally (or simply "Cholistan Jeep Rally" or also known as "TDCP Cholistan Jeep Rally") is a rally raid type of off-road race, organised by the TDCP in Pakistan. The event is annually run in the Cholistan Desert venue. It was first introduced in 2005 by Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab (TDCP). The event is run by the Government of Punjab. The rally initiates near the Derawar Fort in Ahmadpur East Tehsil. Around 100 drivers and teams from all over Pakistan participate and almost 100,000 visitors witness it every year.
The word "Jeep" in the name of the rally has nothing to do with the car company "Jeep". This rally is not sponsored by or for exclusive use of Jeep vehicles. In Pakistan, the name/word Jeep has been used interchangeably for off-road vehicles or SUVs. It is not uncommon to hear phrases like "I have a Toyota Land Cruiser jeep", or "I drive a Nissan Patrol jeep".
The purpose to hold this event in the heart of Cholistan desert is to show outside world its history and rich culture and open this area as a winter tourist destination. It is anticipated that event will receive widespread projection in print and electronic media.
Cooperation
The rally is held with cooperation of the following stake holders.
• Houbara Foundation International Pakistan • Pakistan Army • Punjab Rangers • Toyota Indus Motor • Cholistan Development Authority • Punjab Wildlife Department • Bahawalpur 4 wheel club (Host Club) • Motor Sports Club Pakistan • Toyota Highway Motors • Bahawalpur 4x4 Club • Punjab Motor Racing Club • District Govt. Bahawalpur • Bahawalpur Police • Print and Electronic media • Auto Racing Club Pakistan • Lahore 4 Wheel Drive Club