Purana Qila, Delhi
Stoically standing in the placid vicinity of Indraprastha, Purana Qila or the Old Fort is a masterpiece of the ancient glory and sterling architecture of the bygone Mughal Empire, and is one of the oldest forts in Delhi. Built on the banks of the river Yamuna and spread over a vast 1.5 km of area, the monument has tons of myths and legends of the medieval era attached to it.
The gigantic citadel has three entrances and is surrounded by a moat, which is now used for boating. The lush green lawns graciously blessed with several shady trees are a haven if you are looking to spend some quiet time in the summers. The fortress constructed in traditional Mughal style and ornamented with rich embellishments attracts history buffs and archaeology enthusiasts day in and day out. In addition to this, Purana Qila hosts a light and sound show on “the seven cities of Delhi”, every evening, which is very popular among the tourists. The show highlights the evolution of New Delhi from Indraprastha.
History of Purana Qila
Marked by many interesting historical tales, Purana Qila is one of the best places to visit for avid history lovers. Before, the fort was the inner citadel of the city of Din Panah which was renovated during Humayun’s rule in 1533 and converted into a beautiful fort. But in 1540, Sher Shah Suri; the founder of the Suri Dynasty defeated Humayun, demolished most of the structure inside to customize the fort as per his taste, and then named it Shergarh.
Once again when Humayun took back the hold of the fort from Sher Shah Suri’s son, he finished what he had started and resumed the glory of the old fort. Sher Mandal which was named after the Afghan ruler was originally conceptualized by Babur that was to be used as his son Humayun’s library and personal observatory, the construction of which only got completed when Humayun recaptured the fort from Sher Shah Suri. Ironically, Humayun took his last breath on the steep footsteps of Sher Mandal while he was hurrying to attend his daily prayer.
It is also said that the site where the old fort is located is considered to be guarding the ruins of the legendary city of Indraprastha mentioned in Mahabharata. As far as the history of the Purana Qila goes, it also became the site for Muslim refugee camps, during the Partition of India in August 1947.
Architecture of Purana Qila
Purana Qila is a rectangular fort with walls rising up to 18 meters, spanning 1.5 km. Its architectural highlights include:
- Three main gates:
- Bara Darwaza (Big Gate)
- Humayun Darwaza (South Gate)
- Talaqi Darwaza (Forbidden Gate)
Each gate is double-storied, built in sandstone, with semi-circular towers, jharokhas, and Rajasthani-style pavilions.
- Qila-i-Kunha Mosque: Exhibiting Indo-Islamic architecture with five doorways.
- Lush gardens and moats: Now used for boating, providing a serene environment for visitors.
The fort also hosts a popular light and sound show every evening narrating the story of the seven cities of Delhi, tracing the city’s evolution from Indraprastha.
Nearby Attractions
- India Gate: Iconic war memorial, 4 km away.
- Lodhi Garden: Famous for Mughal tombs and greenery, around 5 km away.
- National Museum: Showcases India’s rich cultural heritage, 3 km away.
- Humayun’s Tomb: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, perfect for Mughal architecture lovers.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: October to March (cooler months).
- Timings: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: Nominal charges; free for children below 15.
- Activities: Boating in the moat, photography, evening light & sound show.
- Nearby Facilities: Food stalls and rest areas are available near the gates.
Quick Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Mathura Road, Delhi |
| Built By | Humayun & Sher Shah Suri |
| Style | Mughal & Indo-Islamic Architecture |
| Area | 1.5 km² |
| Famous For | Sher Mandal, massive gates, light & sound show |
Purana Qila is more than just a fort; it is a living witness to Delhi’s layered history. From the tales of Humayun and Sher Shah Suri to its connection with legendary Indraprastha, this monumental fortress offers visitors a perfect blend of history, architecture, and serene landscapes. Whether you are a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or a curious traveler, Purana Qila promises a captivating experience in the heart of Delhi.
