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Poonch Fort

Poonch Fort is an important landmark in Indian history and in present day Poonch city. Built in 1179, this fort stands on a small hilltop covering a magnificent area of 7, 500 sq m. This fort has been a bystander for many political and historical events of Poonch. This exquisite structure not only adds beauty to the city but it’s also an example of a living era in the course of time.

This fort has witnessed partition and beholds significant secretive stories of Muslim rulers, Dogras and Sikh rulers.

History

Poonch Fort bears typical Mughal architectural influence. Though the foundation was laid by Raja Abdul Razak Khan in 1701 A.D., this fort was completed by Raja Rustam Khan. Poonch district was initially named Rustam Nagar after him. This fort was under the rule of Maharaja Ranjeet Singh from 1850- 1947 which is also coined as golden period by historians. Sikh rule was from 1819 – 1846 which reflects in style of construction of a central block. Front block design is reflective of Raja Moti Singh’s compassion towards style and ethnicity. He engaged a European architect in 1850-1892 to reconstruct it.

This fort has more than 80 rooms that are elegantly designed. There is also a small mosque, a temple and a Gurudwara in the fort premises.

How to Reach

The nearest railway head to Poonch is at Jammu. Poonch can be accessed by road route via buses or taxis. The closest airport to Poonch is at Jammu, which is at a distance of 250 km. Jammu Airport has regular domestic flights connecting it to other major cities of the country. A hired taxi is the most comfortable and easy modes of local transport.

Best Time to Visit

Poonch district at Jammu offers pleasant climate throughout the year. Temperatures are friendly and can be visited anytime. Summers are mild warm and temperatures may soar high during peak summer months. Winters are comparatively much cooler and heavy woollen wear is recommended. There is a lot of heavy rainfall as well during monsoons.

Summers extend from April to June with maximum temperature extending up to 32 degree C. The minimum temperatures at night may fall down by 10 degree C and nights can become much cooler.

Winters are extreme and temperatures may fall below freezing point. Snowfall and hail storm are frequent during the months of December to February.

Monsoons last up to September starting from July. The weather is pleasant with green surroundings. The months of October and November are good time to visit.

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