Image Source: Wanderer Panjal
About Poonch fort
Poonch fort is one of the most historically significant architectural landmarks in the region. Located in the heart of Poonch town, the fort overlooks the lush green valley of the Poonch river surrourounded by the Pir Panjal mountains. The fort is a symbol of the region’s political importance, cultural diversity, and military-strategic value across centuries.
Historical Origins
The origin of the fort traces back to the rule of the Mughal empire. It was during the reign of Raja Rustam khan the fort was constructed around 1713 CE. Many popular architectural elements, such as arches, domes and large courtyards, are clearly visible in the fort. The location of the fort was chosen for both defence and administration—it stood on a ridge with commanding views over the valley and the river, allowing it to serve both as a royal residence and a fortified bastion.
Over time the fort underwentseveral expansions and especially during the Dogra rule. The Dogra Maharajas used the fort as a summer palace and administrative centre, adding elements of Rajasthani and Kashmiri styles into its structure.
Strategic and Administrative Role
Historically, Poonch is situated at a geographically sensitive location at the western end of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. It was a frontier district bordering what is today Pakistan-administered Kashmir. This made the Poonch Fort not just a residence but a symbol of state power, a control point over the western routes, and a command centre for military and civil governance.
During the colonial period, Poonch was a jagir (fiefdom) under Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab but later became part of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir under Dogra rule. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, the fort served as an administrative headquarters, tax collection hub, and royal court.
Role During Conflicts
Poonch Fort’s strategic value came sharply into focus during the First Indo-Pak War of 1947–48. After the partition of India, Poonch became one of the most contested regions in Jammu and Kashmir. The fort, overlooking the town and its surroundings, became a focal point during the Siege of Poonch, when local militias and tribal invaders backed by Pakistan laid siege to the town.
Siege of Poonch (1947–48): The Indian Army and local defenders used the fort and surrounding high ground to resist Pakistani-backed forces for several months.
The siege was eventually broken by Indian reinforcements that landed via air and advanced overland through challenging terrain, underscoring the fort’s role in wartime logistics and resistance.
Even in the later decades, particularly during cross-border tensions and skirmishes in the region, the fort area remained under the radar of military observation due to its commanding location.