Ramkot Fort
Ramkot Fort Mirpur, Pakistan, is one of the most majestic forts in Pakistan, and its history is as rich and varied as its stunning architecture. The View from the Fort is breathtaking. It is atop a hill surrounded by water. Because of its enchanting beauty and spectacular views, there is much to do and see. The iconic Mangla Dam, one of the most famous dams in Pakistan, is one of the best locations for picnics close to the River Jhelum in Azad Jammu & Kashmir. Don’t forget to stop by the historic Ramkot Fort, which is close to the River Jehlum, if you plan to visit this region.
History of Ramkot Fort
According to some historians, the Gakhar chieftain named Toglu built the Ramkot Fort 900 years ago for defensive purposes. According to the traveler and geologist Fredrick Dew’s book, Ghiyath al-Din Muhammad, the Guraid Sultan, constructed it.
According to legend, the ancient Hindu Shiva temple stood where Ramkot Fort now stands. Excavations in the vicinity of Qila Ram Kot have turned up artifacts from the fifth and ninth centuries. Kashmir’s Muslim rulers built many forts in the 16th and 17th centuries AD to protect their borders. The Fort has undergone upgrades and fortifications from both Muslim and Sikh rulers.
The Architecture of Ramkot Fort
When you visit Ramkot Fort, you’ll first notice its imposing architecture. The Fort is majestic, with its alluring curves and imposing walls. The architecture of Ramkot Fort is similar to the splendor and beauty of Scottish castles. Mangla and Muzaffarabad Forts’ and Ramkot Fort’s architectural features are the same. The Fort is perched atop a tall hill and looks out over the waters of the River Jhelum and the magnificent views of the Mangla Dam Lake, which is far away.
Dogra Maharaja of Kashmir altered narrow loopholes for musketry when he controlled the Fort in the 19th century. The Fort is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. The intricate carvings and beautiful detailing make it a True work of art.
What is the best time to visit Ramkot Fort?
The best time to visit the Fort if you want to see it in all its splendor is from July to September because that is when the lake is full of water. Otherwise, the lake is dry during other seasons, and an unpleasant 8-kilometer hike is required to get to the Fort. You must always bring water with you when you travel.
If you’re looking to avoid crowds, I suggest going in the off-season. That’s between April and June or September and November.
What are the Attractions at Ramkot Fort?
There are many attractions at RAMKOT FORT AZAD KASHMIR, making it a popular destination for travelers. The Fort is a reminder of the region’s rich history with its epic, scenic and imposing architecture. So, let’s explore its attractions one by one.
Scenic Boat Ride
From the top of Ramkot Fort, located deep within Mangla Lake, you can see hills encircled by water. You can get to the Ramkot Fort by riding a boat across the Mangla Dam Lake in 30 to 45 minutes. It takes a speed boat over 20 minutes to get to the cliff of the Qila Ram Kot. Getting to the Fort takes another 15-20 minutes of arduous climbing. It was so peaceful, almost like a dream, with hills and water on all sides providing breathtaking photo opportunities.
Four Hundred Plus Thrilling Uphill Stairs
Reaching Qila Ram Kot Mirpur can be a bit of an adventure. There are over four hundred steps leading up to the Fort, and it can be a pretty thrilling hike. But it’s worth it because once you reach the top, you come across some of the most stunning views. For thrill-seekers and experienced trekkers, it is a location that they must visit.
Beautiful Mangla Dam View
If you’re ever in the area, take in the stunning view of Mangla Dam from Ramkot Fort because the scenic view of the dam is simply breathtaking. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb to the top of the Fort for a panoramic view of the area.
Surrounded By Beautiful Mountains
Qila Ram Kot Mirpur, nestled on a hill surrounded by some of the most beautiful mountains and Mangla lake, is a lovely sight to behold. The red sandstone walls and turrets against the backdrop of the green mountains are a sight to behold.
Arched Doorways
The walled area has just one entrance, possibly to keep the fort safe from invasion and attacks. The Fort’s interior slopes make it possible to transport cannons to the barriers, and this arched doorway is between two watchtowers.
Several buildings with arched doorways and sizable water tanks buried deep in the ground can be found inside the Ramkot Fort Azad Kashmir. In front of a backdrop of turquoise waters, the watchtowers along the other exterior walls are still standing tall.
Courtyard
As you enter the Fort through steps, you’ll find a courtyard in Qila Ram Kot. There are rooms on each side of the yard. In the square, the soldiers would gather before going into battle. The courtyard is a beautiful space and a great place to take a break from sightseeing and relax. The Darogha women would have been protected from the ordinary soldiers’ lustful eyes by a veil in the courtyard.
Fortified Wall (Defensive Wall)
Make sure to explore the fortified wall where the Fort’s defenders would have stood, ready to repel any attack.
Sandstone makes up the wall, and it’s well-preserved. You can still see the carvings and the intricate details carved into them centuries ago. It’s an awe-inspiring sight and a reminder of just how important Ramkot Fort was in its heyday.
Two Pounds Inside The Fort
Walking around the Qila Rohtas, you’ll notice a couple of huge ponds inside the walls. One is a drinking pond, while the other is a bathing pond. The drinking pond is on the east, and the bathing pond is on the west.
Paintings and Specimens of Rocks
In 1992, the Pakistani government constructed a museum here. Make sure to visit the museum, which is full of interesting artifacts from the past. It has several rock specimens as well as artistic models and paintings. As you explore the Fort, don’t forget to look at the Paintings and Specimens of rocks. Some of the stones have a high sheen polish that makes them appear to be glowing. It’s something to see! Be sure to take your time and admire all the details.
Best Picnic Spot
If you’re ever in Mirpur, take a break and visit Ramkot Fort. It’s one of the most beautiful spots in the valley and the perfect place to have a picnic. You will not find any food here, so bring your own. Bring your water to drink; the best time to travel is from February until the start of winter.
Ramkot Fort Ticket Price
You have to ascend to the Fort once you reach the jetty. The ascent takes 20 to 30 minutes. The guard in charge of the Qila Ram Kot Mirpur now charges an entrance fee of PKR 200 per person.
Qila Ram Kot Timings
Ramkot Fort Azad Kashmir remains open 24 hours a week; however, July to September is the best time to explore Qila Ram Kot if you want to enjoy its breathtaking and panoramic picturesque mountains and Mangla lake.
Location of RAMKOT FORT AZAD KASHMIR
The Ramkot Fort is situated in Mirpur, Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, at the confluence of the rivers Jhelum and Poonch, on a sheer cliff overlooking the brilliant blue waters. The Ramkot Fort stands out among fortresses built in the Kashmir region due to its unusual architecture. Ramkot was probably constructed in the same era as the Mangla and Muzaffarabad Forts because its architectural features are identical to those of those structures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is Ramkot Fort?
The Fort is not pretty big; however, it is picturesque are charming. Avoid climbing on roofs because they may collapse due to senescence. There’s a lot to explore here, so make sure you take your time when visiting. Wander through the narrow corridors and grand courtyards, and check out the stunning views from the top of the Fort. It’s worth it!
How to Get to Ramkot Fort?
Ramkot Fort can only be reached by boat because no paved or unpaved roads lead there. 13 kilometers separates Qila RamKot from Dina and 79 kilometers away from Dadyal town in Azad Kashmir from Mirpur by road. It can also be reached from Gujjar Khan by Boat after traveling via Jabbar and Notla. By boat, it takes 20 to 30 minutes from Mangla. Boating costs PKR 12k for a roundtrip with a 2-hour stay permissible. Additionally, it comfortably seats five people.
Is the Ramkot Fort worth it?
So, is the Ramkot Fort worth it? In a word, absolutely. This Fort is one of the most majestic in Mirpur, and the views from the top are breathtaking. Even though this Fort is more diminutive than Rohta’s Fort, it is still worth visiting because of the stunning scenery. Ascending the Fort involves climbing a lot of stairs. Ramkot Fort is a less-frequented tourist destination because of its remote location and steep terrain, so if you hate crowded tourist spots, skip the well-liked Mangla picnic spot and go to Qila Ram Kot instead.
If you’re looking for a day trip out of Mirpur, the Ramkot Fort is worth checking out. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes—climbing to the top is steep!
Conclusion
The Ramkot Fort is an imposing structure that dominates the Mirpur skyline. The Ramkot fort is a reminder of the region’s rich history and is home to several historical relics. Visitors can explore the Fort’s interior and see its impressive architecture. The Fort is a must-see for visitors to Mirpur and is one of the area’s most popular tourist destinations.
Since there is no café at the Qila Ram Kot, bring food, water, and a camera. There are no local guides, so read about Ramkot Fort Mirpur, Pakistan’s history online. Make sure to visit Ramkot Fort during your next trip to Mirpur!