Ramkot Fort

Ramkot Fort (قلعہ رام کوٹ) is a medieval fort in Mirpur, Azad Kashmir. The fort is accessible via three routes from Dina, Dadayal, and Mirpur, with 440 stairs leading to the main gate, which is built on a sloped rock for defensive purposes.

History
The fort was constructed in 1186 during the Ghurid dynasty by Sultan Ghiyas-ud-din, according to the information board at the entrance but that fort is no longer in existence.". In the late 14th century, the fort was under control of Jasrat, a Punjabi Khokhar chieftain. At this fort Khokhars clashed with the armies of amir Timur in 1398. However, the current structure probably dates to the 16th century builted by Kashmir Sultanate.

A temple with a large red Shivalinga, brought from the Ganges River, suggests a significant Hindu population once resided in the area. The presence of Hindu mythological figure Ram Chandra's birthplace in nearby Pharwala may explain the fort's name. However, British geologist and historian Frederick Drew attributes the fort's construction to a Gakhar named Taghlu, contradicting the information board. The fort underwent renovation during the reign of Gakhar Queen Mango, whose daughter married Aurangzeb Alamgir's son. During the Sikh era, the fort was handed over to the Dogras.

Ramkot Fort held strategic importance, as one of the four ancient routes to Srinagar passed through it. The nearby Mangla Fort, attributed to Queen Mangla, daughter of King Porus, is closely associated with the famous battle between Raja Porus and Alexander the Great in 326 BC. The area is also significant for being the birthplace of Ram Chandra in 1500 BC and, much later, Mian Muhammad Bakhsh, author of Saif-ul-Malook.

Architecture
The main gate, constructed with red bricks, contrasts with the stone used elsewhere, suggesting possible destruction and reconstruction. A smaller gate at the back was likely used for escape.

The fort's interior features two large ponds for rainwater collection, essential due to its elevation and previous location at the confluence of the Jhelum and Poonch rivers. Collapsed rooms, raw iron deposits, and the superintendent's residence are found within the complex. The fort also includes a slope for hauling cannons, with a donated cannon on the rampart.