Purana Qila, also known as the Old Fort, is a historical monument located in the heart of New Delhi. The fort is believed to have been built by the Afghan ruler Sher Shah Suri in the 16th century, but some historians argue that it dates back to the Mahabharata era. The fort is situated on a high hill overlooking the city, and it is surrounded by a moat that is now dry.
The fort is made of red sandstone and has three main gates: the Humayun Gate, the Talaqi Gate, and the Bara Darwaza. The Humayun Gate is the main entrance and is adorned with intricate carvings and calligraphy. The Talaqi Gate is located on the southern side of the fort and is named after the victory of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb over his brother Dara Shikoh. The Bara Darwaza, or the Great Gate, is located on the western side of the fort and is the largest of the three gates.
Inside the fort, there are several structures that are worth exploring. The most prominent of these is the Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque, which was built by Sher Shah Suri and is one of the earliest examples of Mughal architecture in India. The mosque has three domes and is decorated with intricate carvings and calligraphy.
Another notable structure inside the fort is the Sher Mandal, which was built by the Mughal emperor Humayun as a library and observatory. The structure is made of red sandstone and has two floors, with the upper floor being open to the sky. It is said that Humayun fell down the stairs of the Sher Mandal and died as a result.
The fort also has a museum that houses several artifacts from the Mughal era, including weapons, pottery, and coins. There is also a sound and light show that takes place in the evenings, which tells the story of the fort and its history.
Overall, Purana Qila is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and architecture. The fort is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India and is a reminder of the country's glorious past.
Hours:
Monday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM,
Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM,
Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM,
Thursday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM,
Friday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM,
Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM,
Sunday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM