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Dera Ismail Khan – History, Location, Map & More (2025 Guide) |
🕌 Dera Ismail Khan – History, Map, Language, and Postal Info (2025)
Dera Ismail Khan, commonly known as D.I. Khan, is a historic and culturally rich city located in the southern region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. It's known for its strategic location, ancient history, and diverse culture.
📍 Where is Dera Ismail Khan Located?
Dera Ismail Khan is situated near the west bank of the Indus River. It lies close to the Punjab and Balochistan borders, making it a hub connecting various regions of Pakistan.
🔗 Google Map: View D.I. Khan on Map
🗺️ Dera Ismail Khan Map & Boundaries
D.I. Khan borders:
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Tank (to the northwest)
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Bhakkar District (Punjab, to the southeast)
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South Waziristan (to the west)
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Lakki Marwat (to the north)
The city acts as a gateway between KPK and Southern Punjab.
📜 History of Dera Ismail Khan
The city was established in the 15th century by Ismail Khan, a Baloch chieftain under the Langah Sultanate. Originally destroyed by flooding, it was rebuilt and named after him.
D.I. Khan has seen several historical transitions — from Mughal to British rule, and later into modern-day Pakistan. Its importance grew during colonial times due to trade routes and military positioning.
🏷️ Name History – Why “Dera Ismail Khan”?
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"Dera" means camp/settlement in Persian
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"Ismail Khan" was the founder of the city
So, Dera Ismail Khan literally means “The Settlement of Ismail Khan.”
📆 Dera Ismail Khan Age
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Founded: 15th century
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Modern Reconstruction: 1820s (by British)
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Age: Approximately 600+ years old
🗣️ Languages Spoken in Dera Ismail Khan
The major languages include:
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Saraiki (widely spoken)
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Pashto
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Urdu
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Punjabi (in nearby rural areas)
This linguistic mix reflects the cultural diversity of the region.
✉️ Dera Ismail Khan Postal Code
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Postal Code (GPO): 29050
This code is used for mail delivery and location-based services in the city.