Red Fort

Mughal-era fortification above the Neelum River confluence

The Red Fort — also known as Muzaffarabad Fort — stands on a hill above the confluence of the Jhelum and Neelum rivers, commanding views over both valleys. Built in the 16th century, it is the city's most prominent historical monument and worth climbing to for the views alone.

The fort is partially ruined but structurally interesting, with towers, thick walls, and remnants of rooms that give a sense of its strategic importance. The location above the rivers is dramatic — you can see the clear blue-green Neelum meeting the murkier Jhelum directly below. Access is from the road that winds up to the hilltop; the climb takes about 15 minutes on foot.

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The Red Fort was built in the 16th century by the Chak dynasty and later extended under Mughal governors. It changed hands repeatedly — between Mughals, Sikhs, Dogra rulers, and Pakistani administration — and bears the marks of each period. The 2005 earthquake caused significant damage to parts of the structure, and restoration has been slow.