Purana Qila (Old Fort ), Delhi is one of the oldest forts in Delhi. Its incredible history and monument’s impeccable architectural style makes it one of the famous tourist attraction in Delhi, India. It was constructed by the Mughal emperor Humayun in 1533 CE and later expanded by the Afghan emperor Sher Shah Suri. It is also known as the Old Fort. It is a masterpiece of the ancient glory as well as the sterling architecture of the bygone era of the Mughal Empire. This fort has tons of legends and myths of the medieval era attached to it. The interesting fact about the fort is that it was the assembly hall of the Indraprastha which is mentioned in the popular epic Mahabharata.
The Purana Qila is the perfect example of the fusion of the Indian and Mughal architectural styles. It is located on the banks of river Yamuna which is spread over a vast 1.5 km of area. The thick ramparts of the Purana Qila rise to a height of 18 meters and consist of three gateways. The first gate is the Humayun Darwaza from where people can see Humayun’s Tomb, the second gate is the Bara Darwaza means “Big Gate” that faces the west, and the last one is Talaqi Darwaza which means “the forbidden gate”. All the gates are double-story which are ornamented with the rich embellishments and colorful marbles. The massive walls and gates of the forts are the main attractions of its grand exterior.
It is the home to the Archaeological Museum which contains numerous artifacts, painted grey ware, a wide variety of pottery, and the objects belongs to the ancient empires of Rajputs, Kushana, Mughals, and Delhi Sultanate. Besides, the tourists can visit Qila-e-Khana Mosque within the premises. It was made by Sher Shah Suri in 1541 which is the beautiful version of Indo-Islamic architectural design. It was primarily called the “Jami Mosque” and was mainly used for the Friday prayers for the king himself as well as his courtesans. Apart from this, the king also built the red stone double-story octagonal building which is known as Sher Mandal. From the top of the tower of this place, the king enjoyed the majestic view of the city. It is also believed that Sher Shah Suri took his last breaths at this place.
This place attracts archaeology enthusiasts and history buffs. Here, one can admire the marvelous fortifications and its enormous gates. People can stroll around the beautiful garden and can enjoy a gala time here. Old Fort is surrounded by the moat which is now used for boating.
Delhi is a well-connected through various transportation modes. One can reach there by taxi, metro, battery-run rickshaw, state-run buses, etc. The nearby attractions of the Purana Qila are Devi Mandir, National Science Centre, Sher Shah Suri Gate, Crafts Museum, India Arts Palace, National War Memorial and much more.
Purana Qila, New Delhi is the venue for the magnificent light and sound show held every evening except Friday. The Old fort (Qila) hosts this show on the “The Seven Cities of Delhi” concept and represents the highlights the evolution of New Delhi from Indraprastha.
Purana Quila Timings: 7 A.M to 5 P.M
Purana Quila Entry Fees: INR 20 for Indian nationals and INR 200 for foreign national
Purana Quila Light and Sound Show Fees: INR 50 for kids and INR 100 for adults
Purana Quila Light and Sound Show Timings: 7:00 P.M to 8:00 P.M (Hindi show), 8:30 P.M to 9:30 P.M (English show)
