RED FORT
Pakistan is a nation with a vibrant past and present. Throughout the nation, there are numerous historic forts. These well-known Pakistani forts serve as a reminder of bygone eras and conflicts fought to defend Pakistan’s borders. Each regiment has a unique history that is interesting to learn about. One well-known fort in Pakistan is Red Fort Muzaffarabad, also known as Lal Qila. Muzaffarabad Fort is a magnificent building dating back to the 17th century. This Red Fort is known by its local name Rutta Qila or simply Qila. Located in the heart of Azad Kashmir, this ancient fort is providing a stunning backdrop to the local landscape for centuries. This article will give a deep insight into the Red Fort Muzaffarabad and its rich history.
Red Fort Weather
· January in Red Fort Muzaffarabad is Humid and Mild Summer. In January and February, one can expect fog and rain every once in a while. The average daytime temperature is13℃ to 21℃. The humidity level is high. The breeze is cool.
· There is a high Humidity level and Continental Mild Summer in March. Frequently Thunderstorms and sometimes rain. In March, there is scorching weather with the heat wave. The average temperature is about 29℃. The fourth week of March is usually the hottest. There are almost seven rainy days in March.
· The weather in April is often rainy with frequent Thunderstorms.
· Although the weather is scorching, there is sparse hailing, and the average temperature is about 34℃. UV Index is high, which is almost 8 in April. The last week of April is usually the hottest, but rainy days are nearly 11 and 1 times hail.
· In May in Muzaffarabad Lal Qila, there is a frequent Thunderstorm and rain, and hail is on and off, but the weather is hot. The average temperature is about 40℃, with an extremely high UV Index of 11. The fourth week is the most desirable of the month, and moderate rainy days are 8.
· June is the hottest month in Rutta Qila Muzaffarabad. The average temperature is 41℃, and the UV index is high, approximately 11. The first week of June is usually the hottest. There are almost seven rainy days in June, and the wind is a gentle breeze.
· In July in Rutta Qila, the average temperature is almost 34 to 38℃ with a higher UV Index of 11.
· Rain is frequent, hail is exceptional, and the weather is scorching. The first week is usually the hottest. 13 rainy days and 22 times thunderstorms with a gentle breeze.
· August is a hot month in Lal Qila. It is a month of a heat wave, and the average temperature is around 35℃ with scorching weather. UV Index is 11, and the first week is the hottest week of the month.
· In September, every other day is hot. Dripping sun days with cloudy sky. The temperature is approximately around 32℃ with a light wind breeze. UV Index was 9 in September. No rain, no Thunderstorms, and no hail this month.
· In October, the average temperature is about 33℃ with scorching weather. The weather is hot, with a UV Index of 7. The first week is hottest usually, and the Average rain days are only 6. The sky remains cloudy, and the wind is light.
· November month in Muzaffarabad is not so warm but with average temperature. The daytime average temperature is 22℃ and 27℃.
· December is the month of average temperature in Rutta Qilla Muzaffarabad. The average temperature range is 20 to 24℃. The first week is usually hot; the average rainy days are 2 with a light breeze.
Red Fort Location
This fortification is famous by the name Red Fort Muzaffarabad because of its strategic location in Muzaffarabad, Kashmir. You can reach Red Fort Muzaffarabad through 20 minute drive from the city of Muzaffarabad and a 3- and 56 minutes drive from the capital city of Islamabad. Located opposite the Neelum River, Muzaffarabad, in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Rutta Qila is a hidden Kashmiri chronicle.
Red Fort History
Initially Constructed in 1559 at a beautiful location at the River Neelum, Rutta Qila was to defend rulers. Then in 1587, Kashmir was annexed by Mughal Empire. In the Mughal Emperor times, the Muzaffarabad Fort lost its importance due to the negligence of the rulers. Sultan Muzaffar Khan of the Bomba Dynasty founded Muzaffarabad. Sultan Muzaffar Khan completed the construction of Muzaffarabad Fort in 1646 during his reign. And Rutta Qila got back its fame.
Maharaja Gulab Singh of the Dogra Dynasty restarted the fort’s reconstruction in 1846. He ordered the extension of the Lal Qila for military and political operations.
After Maharaja Gulab Singh, Maharaja Ranbeer Singh, his successor, completed the construction of Lal Qila.
The Dogra military used this Red fort up till 1926. After 1926, the rulers constructed a new cantonment and abandoned Rutta Qila. In 1947, the Dogra forces left, and this Red fort came under the custody of the Pakistan administration. Now it is under the authority of Muzaffarabad, Azad Jammu, and Kashmir, Pakistan.
Red Fort Architecture
As you enter the Muzaffarabad Fort, it will greet you with its sheer size and impressive architecture. Fort is surrounded on three sides by the river Neelum ( previously known as River Kishenganga). Lal Qila is a marvelous creation of architecture. Architects made this fort with great expertise and showed great design and structure in its construction.
There are terraces on the northern side of the fort that leads to the bank of River Neelum. Its building is an essence of the Chak dynasty, Mughal Emperor architecture, and Kashmiri architectural flavor. The water of the River used to damage the fort, and only terraces remain left due to lack of protection, but the eastern side of the defense is well secured and protected from the flood.
Who Built the Muzaffarabad Fort?
Sultan Muzaffar Khan of the Bomba Dynasty founded the Muzaffarabad and completed the final construction of Red Fort Muzaffarabad in 1646. This Rutta Qila has seen the rise and fall of many dynasties over the centuries and still stands as a proud symbol of the region’s rich culture and heritage. It’s no wonder it’s one of the most visited tourist destinations in Azad Kashmir.
What is Red Fort Famous For?
The Lal Qila Muzaffarabad is a 17th-century fortification. Its location is mesmerizing, providing a panoramic view of mountains and enhancing its beauty. It is at the center of the plate and the bank of the beautiful River Neelum. Its strategic location enhances its importance and attracts the attention of both local and international tourists.
When is the Best Time to Visit Red Fort?
It remains open 24 hours but the best time to visit the Lal Qila Muzaffarabad is during the day hours. There is no Cafeteria or other arrangement of food items, so don’t forget to bring your drinking water and some food items along with you.
Red Fort Attractions
The Rutta Qila or Red Fort is an attractive place for local and foreign tourists due to the:
Neelam River
River Neelum surrounds the Red fort on its three sides. The Lal Qila Muzaffarabad is standing at the bank of the River. On the northern side, the terraces led to the bank of the River, giving aesthetic enjoyment of the river view and its beauty. It’s no wonder the fort has become a popular tourist destination; thanks to its location on the banks of the Neelam River, it’s an Instagrammer’s dream come true. The fort is also an excellent spot for a picnic, so pack a few snacks and beverages before you head out.
Grassy Sitting Lawns inside Fort
There is a lush green Grassy lawn inside the fort. Sitting on the green grassy lawns of Rutta Qila, with its enchanting beauty, is a sight to behold. Lal Qila is the perfect place to relax after your journey through history. The lawn is shady and cool, and it’s a great place to take a break. Due to the tragic earthquake of 2005 and the negligence of authorities, these grassy lawns lost their charm. But now Government is paying attention to the restoration of Lal Qila.
Lush Green Scenic View Around the Fort
Muzaffarabad Fort is standing with all its might in a picturesque location. Additionally, the lush green Grassy land and panoramic view of mountains from the fort are breathtaking. Its surroundings, which include sky-rocketed mountains, are increasing the never-ending beauty of Rutta Qila.
Peaceful Atmosphere
Located at a breathtaking location, Red Fort Muzaffarabad is a treat to the eyes. The beautiful turquoise Neelam River and widespread greenery around the Lal Qila provide a perfect destination if you want to spend quality time in a peaceful atmosphere. As you walk through the imposing Lal Qila Muzaffarabad, you can feel its centuries-old history emanating from its imposing red sandstone walls.
Is there any Hotel Near Red Fort Muzaffarabad?
There are many hotels for food and to stay in Muzaffarabad near Red Fort Muzaffarabad.
Akbar International Hotel
Akbar International hotel is at 0.5km from Lal Qila. It is the nearest hotel to Red Fort Muzaffarabad. And the most important thing about it is that the hotel is available at the best and most affordable prices.
Shalimar Hotel
Shalimar hotel is at a 500m distance from Red Fort Muzaffarabad. This hotel is also pocket friendly.
Hotel Kashmir View
Hotel Kashmir view is at 0.8km distance from Centre Muzaffarabad. The specialty of this hotel is that you can enjoy the beauty of Kashmir through the windows of this hotel.
West End Family Homestay
West End Family Homestay is at a 1km distance from the Lal Qila Muzaffarabad. It is the best place to stay for families and is also available at pocket-friendly rates.
How to Reach Red Fort Muzaffarabad?
Red Fort Muzaffarabad is located at the center and is a 20minutes drive from Muzaffarabad City. While moving on Neelam Road, Red Fort Muzaffarabad is a 16 min (4.9 km) drive through the Neelum Road. While at 6.3km, 16 minutes drive through Tariqabad Bypass, and 17 min (4.8 km) through the Tanga Adda Road. From Islamabad, the Red Fort is at 209.9 km, and it takes a 3 hr 56 min drive via Hazara Motorway/M-15. Public transport is also available for visitors and tourists.
Red Fort Damages & Restoration
The 2005 Kashmir earthquake severely damaged Rutta Qila. The western part of the fort is severely damaged, and the northern region has vanished with only terraces left. The whole building is immensely affected by the earthquake. This fortification of the 17th century is under the Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Rutta Qila has seen many wars. It has tolerated many floods, disasters, and earthquakes. The most devastating earthquake of 2005 damaged this fort badly. The whole building is severely affected by this earthquake. And it is still neglected by the authorities. Muzaffarabad Fort is demanding attention, and it is essential to conserve this historical monument as it will also attract tourists’ attention. It is an hour of need to restore the historic Red Fort.
The Government of Azad Jammu & Kashmir and (LWCA) Lahore Walled City Authority have recently inked an (MoU) memorandum of understanding for the conservation and restoration of ancient historic Red Fort Muzaffarabad and other heritage monuments of Azad Jammu Kashmir.
FAQs
What is another name for Red Fort Muzaffarabad?
The Red Fort Muzaffarabad is also named Muzaffarabad Fort because of its location in Muzaffarabad territory. This Red fort is renowned as Lal Qila and is locally famous by the Rutta Qila name.
How many forts are in Muzaffarabad?
There are mainly two historical forts present in Muzaffarabad. These two famous forts are Lal Qila Muzaffarabad and Black Fort, located on the Neelum River, but both are on opposite sides of the Neelum River.
Sultan Muzaffar Khan, the founder of Muzaffarabad, completed the final construction of the 17th-century Fort, Lal Qila, in 1646.
What is in Red Fort?
Red fort is a historic fortification. Thus Red Fort has seen many floods and wars. It is one of the best touring spots to visit and to enjoy the beauty of river Neelum and Kashmir. The panoramic mountain views and lush green land make this place more unique. The lush green lawn inside the fort and the peaceful and calm environment gives relief to mind and soul. It is one of the must-visit places.
Conclusion
The Muzaffarabad Fort is a precious piece of history in Muzaffarabad that holds many stories and memories for the people of Azad Kashmir. It’s a beautiful fort with intricate details and stunning views. The sight of Kashmir and the River Neelum is spectacular. The panoramic view of the mountains is simply incredible. To go through the pages of history and enjoy the beauty of nature at the same time, make sure to pay a visit to Red Fort Muzaffarabad.