Purana Qila, Delhi

Purana Qila Delhi Things To Know

Purana Qila, Delhi's oldest fort, is located on the banks of the Yamuna River. The fort was originally said to have been built in 1533 CE as part of the city of Din Panah by Mughal Emperor Humayun. But very soon, Sher Shah seized the city and dubbed it Shergarh; he built other structures to the complex and the fort along with its surrounds came to be known as the "sixth city of Delhi". Sher Shah died not long after, and the fort was returned to Humayun.It fell into the hands of the British after being held by various kings for extremely brief periods of time. Edwin Lutyens connected Rajpath to Purana Qila when New Delhi became the capital of British India in 1920. 

Following independence, the fort was utilized as a refugee camp for refugees moving to Pakistan. The fort served as a refugee camp until 1948, when trains to Pakistan began running in October 1947.Later, in the 1970s, the National School of Drama utilized the fort to stage three plays: Tughlaq, Andha Yug, and Sultan Razia. It gradually became a popular location for cultural events and concerts.

Most Important 5 Fact about Puran Qila

1. Sher Shah Suri, an Afghan monarch, built this world-famous fort between 1538 and 1545 AD for his win and security.
2. Researchers have confirmed that a settlement called Indraprastha existed within the fort walls until 1913.
3. It has three main gates: Humayun Darwaja, Talaki Darwaza, and Bara Darwaza. These are all red sandstone doors.
4. A garden, a lake flanked by rows of trees and beautiful plants, and paddle-boating facilities are accessible near this fort.
5. So far, the ASI has recovered a rare Vishnu sculpture from the 12th century, clay seals from the Gupta era, and many other items.

Things to Do at Purana Qila

• Enhance your Architecture knowledge ArchQila-e-Kuhna Mosque - The Qila-e-Kohna mosque, built as a Jami or Friday Mosque, is a stunning example of Indo-Islamic architecture. This mosque, built by Sher Shah Suri, features rich embellishment, particularly on its mihrabs, and has one dome and five gates. Geometrical motifs in red, black, and white marble are beautifully inlaid onto the walls. The inside of the dome features a lovely color play of brilliant blue and yellow glazed tiles.

• It is a Picture Perfect place Sher mandal - The two-story octagonal structure was built in red stone and included a Chhatri on the top. Sher Mandal was established with the intention of providing the ruler with luxury rooms. He used it to read, rest, and enjoy the view of the city below from the highest point of the pinnacle. It is believed that the structure was intended to be built higher and used as an observatory, but due to the unfortunate death of the lord, the construction was cancelled.

• Visit ASI Museum - All of the above is more or less widely known. The ASI Museum is one of the lesser-known attractions. It chronicles the history of Delhi via artifacts uncovered during excavations in various sections of the Delhi region, including this one. The elaborate entrances of old Jain temples from the Mehrauli region may be seen here. Along with potteries from different times uncovered in the various strata of the Yamuna riverbed.

• There are many more things you can do in and around Purana Qila-This fort has three gates and a large moat that surrounds it and is presently utilized for boating. The main entrance of the fort is the Bara Darwaza, which faces west and is flanked by two massive bastions. Humayun Darwaza is the name given to the southern gate facing Humayun's tomb. The third gate facing north is named Talaqi Darwaza and is permanently locked due to a narrative.

Closed, Open, Timings & Fee Information

• The best time to visit Purana Qila is during the months of October, November, December, January, February and March. 
• Below are the timings and fees for the entry in Purana Qila.INR 20 for Indians, INR 300 for Foreigners 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM Every Day

List Places to Visit around Purana Qila 

Conclusion

If you are planning to visit the Purana Qila, do not miss the light and sound show that happens each evening. You can go at a time when you can admire the beautiful architecture of the qila as well as enjoy the evening festivities. As mentioned above, you can enjoy the boat ride in the moat as well. The garden of the qila is also as beautiful as the architecture, where you can enjoy a picnic with your family or friends.