Tour to Historical Red Fort in Delhi

Red Fort

How to visit the historical place, Red Fort, in Delhi?

The Red Fort is a fortified city built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century AD in the walled city of Old Delhi (now Delhi, India). Until 1857, the fort was the capital of the Mughal Empire. After the British Indian government deported the Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah II, the capital of India was shifted to Calcutta. 

Until 1947, the British used the fort as a military camp. It is now a popular tourist destination and a strong symbol of the sovereignty of the Republic of India: every year on the occasion of Indian Independence Day, the Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag at a place near the Lahore Gate of the Red Fort. In 2007, the fort was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In 1638, Emperor Shah Jahan started the construction of this huge fort. Construction was completed in 1848. At first, the name of this fort was "Kila-i-Mubarak" ("Blessed Fortress"); Because the emperor's family lived in this fort. The fort is located on the banks of the river Jamuna. Fort-type moats were nourished by the waters of this river. 

The northeast corner wall of the fort is connected with another ancient fort called Salimgarh fort. This fort was built in 1548 by Islam Shah Suri. The planning and decoration of the Red Fort is an important example of the excellence of Mughal architecture and painting during the reign of Shah Jahan. 

In fact, the Red Fort was the palace of Shahjahanabad, the seventh city in the Delhi region and the new capital of Shahjahan. Later, however, he shifted the capital from Delhi to Agra. On 11 March 1783, the Sikhs temporarily entered the Red Fort and were able to capture Diwan-i-Am.

Red-Fort India

The last Mughal emperor to live in the Red Fort was Bahadur Shah Jafar II. After the failure of the Great Revolt of 1857, Bahadur Shah Jafar II abandoned the Red Fort on 16 September. He later returned to the fort as a British prisoner. It was here that his trial began on 27 January 1857 and he was sentenced to exile on 7 October. 

The Red Fort then passed into the hands of the British Indian Army. They continue to use it as a cantonment. After the defeat of the Azad Hind Fauj in 1945, the prisoners of war were tried at the Red Fort. From independence until 2003, the fort was under the control of the Indian Army.

The decoration and artifacts of the Red Fort are of a very high standard. Created from a combination of Persian, European, and Indian art, this fancy art is consonantal, colorful, and demands uniqueness. The Red Fort in Delhi is one of the few structures in India with which the addition of Indian art is rooted in historical sources. 

The fort is also very important in terms of architectural convenience. For this reason, the Red Fort has declared a nationally important structure in 1913 and the government took over the maintenance of the fort.

The wall of the fort is smooth and strong. The fort has two main gates - Delhi Gate and Lahore Gate. The Lahore Gate is the main gate. Entering through this gate leads to a long-covered market path. Its name is Chatta Chuck. The walls on both sides of this path are decorated with stalls like shops. The north-south path is found by going straight to Chatta Chowk. This path actually borders the military field to the west of the fort and the palace to the east. The gate at the southern end of this road is the Delhi Gate.

Historical Red Fort visiting

Touring the Red Fort (also known as Lal Qila) in Delhi is a captivating experience. Here's some information to help you plan your visit:

Red Fort Location: The Red Fort is situated in the Old Delhi area, specifically on Netaji Subhash Marg, Chandni Chowk, Delhi, 110006, India.

Red Fort Opening Hours: The Red Fort is open to visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. It is closed on Mondays.

Red Fort Entry Fee: There is an entry fee for visiting the Red Fort. The fee varies for Indian citizens and foreign tourists. Additional charges may apply for photography or videography.

Red Fort Historical Significance: The Red Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant historical landmark in India. It was constructed by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century and served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors until 1857. The fort showcases impressive Mughal architecture, including intricate designs, domes, and red sandstone walls.

Red Fort Must-See Attractions: While exploring the Red Fort, make sure to visit its prominent attractions. These include the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), Mumtaz Mahal, Rang Mahal (Palace of Colors), and the stunning Lahori Gate.

Red Fort Sound and Light Show: In the evening, the Red Fort hosts a spectacular sound and light show that narrates the history of the fort and the Mughal dynasty. It's a captivating way to delve deeper into the historical significance of the monument.

Red Fort Nearby Attractions: The Red Fort is located in the heart of Old Delhi, so you can combine your visit with exploring other nearby attractions like Jama Masjid (mosque), Chandni Chowk (marketplace), and Raj Ghat (Mahatma Gandhi's memorial).

Remember to wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and dress appropriately for the weather. It's advisable to check for any updated information on timings, entry fees, or COVID-19 related guidelines before your visit to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.