Delhi, the capital of India, is a city steeped in history and culture. Among its many attractions, the forts in Delhi stand out as monumental testaments to the city’s rich past. These forts, with their grand architecture and historical significance, provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the emperors and rulers who once governed this land. In this blog post, we will explore ten of the most famous forts in Delhi, each offering a unique story and a captivating experience for visitors.
10 Famous Forts To Visit In Delhi:
1. Red Fort (Lal Qila)
The Red Fort, also known as Lal Qila, is perhaps the most iconic of all the forts in Delhi. Built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century, this massive red sandstone structure served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. The fort’s imposing walls, intricate carvings, and expansive courtyards make it a must-visit destination.
Highlights:
- Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas: Halls of public and private audiences.
- Rang Mahal: The palace of colors.
- Light and sound show: A spectacular evening event narrating the fort’s history.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities: Exploring the museum, attending the light and sound show, and guided tours.
Timing:
- Open: 9:30 AM
- Close: 4:30 PM
- Closed on Mondays
How to Reach:
- Nearest Metro: Chandni Chowk (Yellow Line)
- The Red Fort is easily accessible by auto-rickshaws and taxis from the Chandni Chowk metro station. It’s a short walk from the station, located near the Old Delhi area.
2. Purana Qila (Old Fort)
Purana Qila, or Old Fort, is one of the oldest forts in Delhi, dating back to the pre-Mughal era. It is believed to be built on the site of the ancient city of Indraprastha, mentioned in the Mahabharata. The fort’s massive walls and impressive gateways provide a glimpse into the architectural prowess of that period.
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Highlights:
- Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque: An excellent example of Indo-Islamic architecture.
- Sher Mandal: A double-storeyed octagonal tower.
- Boating in the adjacent lake.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities: Boating, exploring the fort and its museum, picnicking.
Timing:
- Open: 7:00 AM
- Close: 5:00 PM
- Open all days
How to Reach:
- Nearest Metro: Pragati Maidan (Blue Line)
- From the Pragati Maidan metro station, you can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach Purana Qila, which is situated nearby, along Mathura Road.
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3. Tughlaqabad Fort
Tughlaqabad Fort, built by Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq in the 14th century, is a massive fortress that stretches over a vast area. Though in ruins, the fort’s grandeur and the sheer scale of its construction are awe-inspiring. It offers a rugged charm and a sense of adventure to those who explore its ancient walls and secret passages.
Highlights:
- Bijai Mandal: The highest point offering panoramic views.
- Tomb of Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq: A striking tomb with a unique design.
- Hidden tunnels and passages.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities: Photography, exploring the ruins, trekking.
Timing:
- Open: 7:00 AM
- Close: 5:00 PM
- Open all days
How to Reach:
- Nearest Metro: Tughlaqabad (Violet Line)
- The fort is a short auto-rickshaw or taxi ride from the Tughlaqabad metro station. The fort is located on the Mehrauli-Badarpur Road.
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4. Feroz Shah Kotla
Feroz Shah Kotla, built by Sultan Feroz Shah Tughlaq in the 14th century, is known for its Ashokan Pillar, which was brought here from Topra in Haryana. The fort, though not as well-preserved as others, still holds significant historical importance and offers a peaceful retreat amidst the hustle and bustle of modern Delhi.
Highlights:
- Ashokan Pillar: A polished sandstone pillar with inscriptions.
- Jami Masjid: One of the oldest mosques in Delhi.
- Baoli: An ancient stepwell.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities: Exploring the ruins, historical photography, picnicking.
Timing:
- Open: 7:00 AM
- Close: 6:00 PM
- Open all days
How to Reach:
- Nearest Metro: ITO (Violet Line)
- Feroz Shah Kotla is accessible via a short walk or an auto-rickshaw ride from the ITO metro station, situated on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg.
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5. Siri Fort
Siri Fort, built by Alauddin Khilji in the early 14th century, was the second city of Delhi. Although only parts of the fort remain, the site offers an interesting exploration of medieval architecture. The nearby Siri Fort Auditorium is a popular venue for cultural events.
Highlights:
- Remnants of the fort’s walls and gates.
- Siri Fort Auditorium: Hosting various cultural performances.
- Nearby Hauz Khas Complex.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities: Attending cultural events, exploring the ruins, visiting Hauz Khas.
Timing:
- Open: 7:00 AM
- Close: 6:00 PM
- Open all days
How to Reach:
- Nearest Metro: Green Park (Yellow Line)
- From Green Park metro station, you can take an auto-rickshaw or a taxi to reach Siri Fort, which is located near the Hauz Khas area.
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6. Jahanpanah Fort
Jahanpanah Fort, built by Muhammad bin Tughlaq in the 14th century, was intended to be the fourth city of Delhi. The fort’s ruins are spread over a vast area and are interspersed with modern urban development. However, several parts of the fort, such as the Bijai Mandal, still stand as a testament to its historical significance.
Highlights:
- Bijai Mandal: A high tower offering panoramic views.
- Adilabad Fort: A smaller fort within Jahanpanah.
- Dense foliage and wildlife.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities: Exploring the ruins, photography, nature walks.
Timing:
- Open: 6:00 AM
- Close: 6:00 PM
- Open all days
How to Reach:
- Nearest Metro: Malviya Nagar (Yellow Line)
- The fort is accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi from the Malviya Nagar metro station, located in South Delhi.
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7. Salimgarh Fort
Salimgarh Fort, built by Islam Shah Suri in 1546, is situated adjacent to the Red Fort. It played a significant role during the Mughal period and later during the Indian freedom struggle. The fort offers a fascinating blend of historical and political significance.
Highlights:
- Connection to the Red Fort via a bridge.
- Historical prison used during the British period.
- Views of the Yamuna River.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities: Historical tours, photography, exploring the fort.
Timing:
- Open: 9:00 AM
- Close: 5:00 PM
- Closed on Mondays
How to Reach:
- Nearest Metro: Kashmere Gate (Red Line, Yellow Line, Violet Line)
- From Kashmere Gate metro station, you can take an auto-rickshaw or walk to the fort, which is located near the Red Fort area.
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8. Qila Rai Pithora
Qila Rai Pithora, also known as Rai Pithora’s Fort, was built by the Chauhan king Prithviraj Chauhan in the 12th century. The fort marks the expansion of the city of Lal Kot and is significant for its role in the early history of Delhi. The remnants of the fort walls can still be seen in South Delhi.
Highlights:
- Remnants of ancient fort walls.
- Statues of Prithviraj Chauhan.
- Nearby attractions like the Qutub Minar.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities: Historical tours, visiting nearby attractions, photography.
Timing:
- Open: 8:00 AM
- Close: 6:00 PM
- Open all days
How to Reach:
- Nearest Metro: Saket (Yellow Line)
- From Saket metro station, you can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach Qila Rai Pithora, located in the Mehrauli area.
9. Adilabad Fort
Adilabad Fort, built by Muhammad bin Tughlaq, is located near the Tughlaqabad Fort. Though lesser-known, it offers a serene environment and an opportunity to explore history away from the crowds. The fort provides a peaceful retreat and a sense of the medieval era’s strategic planning.
Highlights:
- Well-preserved fortifications.
- Proximity to Tughlaqabad Fort.
- Secluded and peaceful surroundings.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities: Exploring the ruins, photography, nature walks.
Timing:
- Open: 6:00 AM
- Close: 6:00 PM
- Open all days
How to Reach:
- Nearest Metro: Tughlaqabad (Violet Line)
- The fort is located near the Tughlaqabad metro station, accessible by a short auto-rickshaw or taxi ride.
10. Lal Kot
Lal Kot, built by the Tomar king Anangpal II in the 11th century, is considered the first city of Delhi. The fort’s ruins are spread across the Mehrauli area and offer a fascinating journey into the city’s ancient history. The nearby Qutub Complex adds to the historical allure of the area.
Highlights:
- Ancient fort walls and gateways.
- Proximity to the Qutub Minar and Mehrauli Archaeological Park.
- Historical significance as Delhi’s first city.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities: Exploring the ruins, visiting the Qutub Complex, and photography.
Timing:
- Open: 6:00 AM
- Close: 6:00 PM
- Open all days
How to Reach:
- Nearest Metro: Qutub Minar (Yellow Line)
- From the Qutub Minar metro station, you can take an auto-rickshaw or walk to reach Lal Kot, which is located within the Mehrauli Archaeological Park.
FAQs:
What are some of the most famous forts in Delhi?
Some of the most famous forts in Delhi include the Red Fort (Lal Qila), Purana Qila (Old Fort), Tughlaqabad Fort, Feroz Shah Kotla, and Siri Fort. Each of these forts has its unique historical significance and architectural grandeur.
Which forts in Delhi are ideal for couples?
Forts like Purana Qila and Red Fort are ideal for couples due to their expansive gardens, serene surroundings, and beautiful architectural features. These locations offer a romantic ambiance perfect for a leisurely visit.
Are there any famous forts in Delhi NCR worth visiting?
Yes, besides the forts in Delhi, the Delhi NCR region also boasts several impressive forts, such as the Neemrana Fort Palace in Alwar and the Kesroli Hill Fort. These forts are great for day trips and weekend getaways.
What is the significance of Agra Fort about Delhi forts?
Although Agra Fort is located in Agra, not Delhi, it is often mentioned in the same context due to its similar Mughal architecture and historical significance. Both Agra Fort and the Red Fort in Delhi were central to the Mughal Empire’s administration.
What are some notable fort names in Delhi?
Notable fort names in Delhi include Red Fort, Purana Qila, Tughlaqabad Fort, Feroz Shah Kotla, Siri Fort, Jahanpanah Fort, Salimgarh Fort, Qila Rai Pithora, Adilabad Fort, and Lal Kot.
Are there forts near Delhi where I can stay overnight?
Yes, there are several forts near Delhi where you can stay overnight. Neemrana Fort Palace and Kesroli Hill Fort are two popular options that offer a unique blend of history and luxury accommodations.
Which forts in Delhi are best for photography?
The Red Fort, Purana Qila, and Tughlaqabad Fort are excellent for photography due to their stunning architecture, vast courtyards, and historical ambiance. These forts provide numerous picturesque spots perfect for capturing memorable photos.
What should I know about the Red Fort in Delhi?
The Red Fort, also known as Lal Qila, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. It served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors and is famous for its red sandstone walls, beautiful gardens, and intricate marble carvings. It hosts the annual Independence Day celebrations and a spectacular light and sound show.
Can you suggest some lesser-known forts in Delhi worth exploring?
Besides the famous forts, Delhi also has several lesser-known forts worth exploring, such as Salimgarh Fort, Jahanpanah Fort, and Adilabad Fort. These forts offer a quieter, more intimate experience and a chance to delve deeper into Delhi’s rich history.
Conclusion
The forts in Delhi are more than just historical structures; they are storytellers that narrate the tales of empires, battles, and the rich heritage of India. Visiting these forts offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the grandeur of bygone eras. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or someone seeking a tranquil escape, the forts in Delhi have something to offer everyone.
We hope this guide to the famous forts in Delhi inspires you to explore these magnificent monuments. Have you visited any of these forts? Which one is your favorite? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!
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