Poonch Fort

The origins of Poonch Fort date back to the early 18th century. The foundation of the structure is generally attributed to Raja Abdul Razak Khan around 1713, while major construction was undertaken by his successor Raja Rustam Khan between approximately 1760 and 1787.^[1]

The fort developed during a period of shifting political control in the region. Over time, Poonch came under the influence of the Mughal Empire, Afghan rulers, the Sikh Empire, and later the Dogra dynasty, each contributing to the fort’s expansion and modification.^[2]

In the 19th century, under Dogra rule, Raja Moti Singh carried out extensive renovations to the fort. These works introduced European architectural elements, including modifications to façades and interior layouts.^[3]

The fort functioned both as a fortified residence and an administrative centre for the rulers of Poonch until the accession of princely state into India after 1947.^[4]

Poonch Fort exhibits a hybrid architectural style combining Mughal, Sikh, Dogra, and European influences. Mughal features include arched openings, large courtyards, and symmetrical planning, while later additions reflect Sikh and Dogra aesthetics.^[5]

The fort complex covers an area of approximately 7,500 square metres and consists of multiple interconnected buildings arranged around open courtyards, consistent with palace-fort architecture in northern India.^[2]

European-style elements introduced during later renovations are visible in parts of the structure, making it a notable example of architectural fusion.^[3] The fort’s exterior is primarily constructed from red brick masonry featuring decorative herringbone patterns within recessed arches. Its defensive design includes high walls with small, arched embrasures for ventilation and fire, supported by a sloping stone plinth of uncoursed rubble that follows the natural topography. Circular bastions with vertical surveillance slits provide flanking fire capabilities, though some upper parapets show significant weathering. Recent renovations for tourism include a paved pedestrian walkway with globe-style lamp posts and faux-bois concrete railings designed to mimic natural wood. The fort offers a vantage point over the Sheesh Mahal Mohalla, a dense urban valley characterized by flat-roofed residential structures and modern multi-story buildings. The transition from the urban landscape to the surrounding steep, forested hillsides is abrupt, reflecting the region's sharp topographical constraints.

Historical accounts indicate that the fort complex included multiple religious structures, such as a temple, a mosque, and a gurdwara, reflecting the diverse cultural influences in the region.^[7]

The fort, constructed on top of a hill, occupies a strategically advantageous position within Poonch and historically served both defensive and administrative purposes.^[4]

It represents the layered political and cultural history of the region, shaped by successive regimes including Mughal, Afghan, Sikh, and Dogra authorities.^[7]

In contemporary times, Poonch Fort is described as being in a partially dilapidated condition, although it remains a prominent historical landmark.Many rooms and halls are now non-functional and are infested by pigeons and pests^[1]

The structure sustained damage during the 2005 Kashmir earthquake, contributing to its deterioration.^[6] Since then, it has been largely neglected by the government, considered by some to be an 'insult' to the old heritage of the region.Primary causes are overcrowded constructions and encroachments which has shrunken its boundaries.^[7] Parts of the fort complex are currently used for administrative purposes, including government offices.^[6]

A heritage library and youth recreation centre has been established within the premises of Poonch Fort as part of efforts to promote cultural preservation and adaptive reuse of the historic complex.^[8]

The project was initiated by the district administration under the AVSAR scheme, with the aim of connecting local youth with their cultural heritage while also providing facilities for career counselling, guidance, and skill development.^[8]

The facility includes a heritage library, reading spaces, and dedicated areas for academic and career-oriented activities, creating an environment conducive to learning and personal development.^[8]

Subsequent reports indicate that the library has become operational and is used by students preparing for competitive examinations, offering both online and offline resources, reading rooms, and access to educational materials.^[9][10]

The establishment of the heritage library within the fort reflects broader efforts to integrate heritage conservation with public utility, ensuring the continued relevance and maintenance of the historic structure.^[8]

Poonch Fort is a local tourist attraction, drawing visitors interested in history and architecture, though it remains relatively under-promoted compared to other heritage sites in Jammu and Kashmir.^[11]