The Red Fort, also known as Lal Qila in Hindi, is a historic fortress located in Old Delhi, India. It was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century and served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors until the end of the dynasty. The Red Fort is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination in Delhi.
The fort's striking red sandstone walls, impressive architecture, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Delhi's culture and heritage. Visitors to the Red Fort can explore its various structures, including the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), and the beautiful gardens and fountains of the fort's interior. The fort also houses several museums showcasing Mughal art and artifacts.
The Red Fort is also known for its impressive sound and light show, which takes place every evening and highlights the fort's history and importance. This show is a must-see for visitors interested in experiencing the fort's unique atmosphere and history.
Here are some lesser-known facts about the Red Fort in Delhi:
The Red Fort was originally named "Qila-i-Mubarak," which means "blessed fort."
The fort was constructed over a period of ten years, from 1638 to 1648, using red sandstone brought from Rajasthan and white marble from Agra.
The Red Fort was not always red. It was originally built with white sandstone, but it was later painted red by the British.
The fort's walls are 18 meters high and stretch for 2.5 kilometers.
The fort's architecture is a blend of Indian, Persian, and Timurid styles, reflecting the Mughal dynasty's cultural and artistic influences.
The fort has two main entrances, the Lahore Gate and the Delhi Gate. The Lahore Gate is the main entrance, and it faces Lahore, which is now in Pakistan.
The fort's famous Diwan-i-Khas hall was adorned with a large Peacock Throne, which was studded with precious stones and was considered one of the most valuable objects in the world. The throne was eventually taken by Nadir Shah of Persia in 1739 and later disappeared.
The Red Fort was the site of many significant events in India's history, including the Indian Rebellion of 1857, when it served as a stronghold for Indian rebels against British rule.
The fort was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.
The Indian national flag is hoisted on the fort's ramparts every year on Independence Day (August 15) to celebrate India's freedom from British rule in 1947.
Important Buildings inside the Fort Complex
The Red Fort in Delhi is a vast complex that contains several important buildings, including:
Diwan-i-Aam: Also known as the Hall of Public Audience, this building was used by the Mughal emperors to meet and address the general public.
Diwan-i-Khas: This building served as the private audience hall of the Mughal emperors, where they would meet with important dignitaries and court officials.
Mumtaz Mahal: This building was originally built as a palace for the wife of Emperor Shah Jahan, Mumtaz Mahal. It later served as a prison for his son, Aurangzeb.
Rang Mahal: The Rang Mahal, or Palace of Colors, was the residence of the Mughal emperor's wives and concubines. It was adorned with beautiful paintings and decorations.
Khas Mahal: This palace was the private residence of the Mughal emperors and was decorated with intricate carvings and paintings.
Moti Masjid: The Pearl Mosque, as it is commonly known, is a small mosque located inside the Red Fort complex. It was built by Emperor Aurangzeb for his personal use.
Hayat Bakhsh Bagh: This beautiful garden was laid out by Emperor Akbar and contains several fountains and water channels.
These buildings showcase the grandeur of Mughal architecture and provide a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Mughal emperors.
What to Expect
During a visit to the Red Fort in Delhi, you can expect to see some of the most impressive Mughal architecture in India. The fort is a vast complex of palaces, gardens, and buildings, all surrounded by imposing walls. Some of the things you can expect to see and do during your visit include:
Admiring the intricate marble carvings and beautiful decorations that adorn the buildings and interiors of the fort.
Taking a stroll through the sprawling gardens and courtyards that surround the fort complex, which are beautifully landscaped and well-maintained.
Learning about the history of the fort and the Mughal dynasty through informative exhibits and displays throughout the complex.
Enjoying panoramic views of Old Delhi from the ramparts of the fort.
Attending cultural events and festivals that are often held within the fort complex, such as the annual Independence Day celebrations.
Witnessing the famous sound and light show, held in the evenings, which narrates the story of the fort's history and its significance in India's struggle for independence.
Marveling at the impressive scale and construction of the Lahori Gate, the main entrance to the fort complex.
Exploring the small but well-curated museum within the fort, which houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to Mughal history and culture.
Taking a guided tour of the fort complex, which is available in multiple languages and provides a more in-depth understanding of the fort's history and significance.
Sampling delicious local street food and snacks from the numerous vendors and stalls located outside the fort complex.
Shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts from the various markets and shops located in the vicinity of the fort, which offer a range of traditional Indian products and wares.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Red Fort in Delhi is during the winter season, which lasts from October to March. During this time, the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor sightseeing. The temperature ranges between 10 to 25 degrees Celsius during this time, and there is minimal rainfall.
Visiting the Red Fort during the summer months of April to June can be avoided as the weather can be very hot and humid, with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius. The monsoon season causes high humidity, which can make sightseeing uncomfortable.
So, to enjoy the best weather and avoid the extreme heat and humidity, plan your visit to the Red Fort in Delhi between October to March.
