Red Fort, Old Delhi

Red Fort Delhi

Red Fort or Lal Quila is a landmark monument of Old Delhi, built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. Not only does it remind us of the magnificence of the Mughal era, but it also has great historic significance in modern India. Its main gate named Lahore Gate witnessed the dawn of independent India, and every year, a huge crowd assembles in front of the Gate to spectate an address by the prime minister on Independence Day.

Red Fort was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 2007. The astonishing fort is made up of massive red sandstones and encloses an intriguing complex of palaces, balconies, royal baths, indoor canals, entertainment halls, and beautifully-designed geometrical gardens. Some of the epic edifices of the fort include the Mumtaz Mahal, Khas Mahal, Rang Mahal, Hira Mahal, and Hammam. It also has an ornate Pearl mosque along with Diwan-i-Am (meant for public gatherings) and the white marble Hall of Diwan-i-Khas (meant for private meetings). Do not forget to visit the Drum House.

One of the prime attractions of Red Fort is the vaulted arcade called Chatta Chowk. Its artistic arches are memerising and telltale the fineness of Mughal craftsmenship. You can also explore the connected bazaar for trinkets and souvenirs. Explore the veritable treasure trove of ancient structures that lead to a huge fort compound. Capture memorable shots as you walk through the lanes of Red Fort. Do not forget to attend the evening light and sound show that beautifully re-creates the milestone events of Indian history related to the fort.

Best Time to Visit Red Fort

Although Red Fort is open for public visits all year round, from sunrise to sunset. Its juxtaposition in Old Delhi makes it suitable to explore during evenings and early mornings because of the high temperatures and scorching sun heat during afternoons. You can visit Red Fort from Tuesday to Sunday between 7 am to 5:30 pm and may need to pay a minimal entry fee. Red Fort is closed on Mondays. The light and sound show begins at 6 pm. You need to purchase additional tickets for the same.

Best Month to Visit Red Fort

The best months to visit the fort are during the winter season when the mornings are pleasant and evenings are rejuvenating. Even the afternoons are not so hot to take a stroll through the edifices and lanes of the fort. November to February is the best time to enjoy the massive sandstone fort at its best, without the scorching heat of the sun and unbearably hot temperatures.

Things To Do in Red Fort

Explore a zenith of Mughal artistry reflecting a perfect fusion of Timurid, Persian, and Hindu traditions. Take epic pictures of the pavilions, palaces, gathering halls, and serene gardens of the Red Fort. Enjoy a mesmerizing light and sound show in the evening that outlines the glorious history of the Mughal Era and recreates the events that led to their downfall.

Entrance Fees Red Fort Old Delhi

• 10 per person for Indians
• 250 per person for foreign tourists
• 25 per camcorder 80 per person for adults (Light and Sound Show)
• 30 per person for children (Light and Sound Show)

Attractions near Red Fort

Some notable tourist destinations near Red Fort include Shahi Burj, Archaeological Museum, and Delhi Gate. You can also explore the world-famous Meena Bazar, Jama Masjid, and Mirza Galib Haweli in Chandni Chawk.