The Red Fort, also popularly known as Lal Qila across the country, is a historical fort located in Delhi. It stands as a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, the Red Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an architectural marvel that symbolises Mughal grandeur.
The Red Fort for more than two centuries was the home to Mughal kings and to this day remains an important landmark of the country’s political and cultural fabric. The iconic red sandstone structure houses many marvellous structures, lush green gardens and museums that recite the glorious history of India. During the Independence Day celebrations, the Prime Minister unfurls the tri-colour Indian flag here making Red Fort a site of national pride.
Timings (Operation Hours): 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Red Fort Light & Sound Show Timings:
Hindi | English |
7:30 PM to 8:30 PM (May to Aug) | 9:00 PM to 10:00 PM (May to Aug) |
7:00 PM to 8:00 PM (Sep & Oct) | 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM (Sep & Oct) |
6:00 PM to 7:00 PM (Nov to Jan) | 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM (Nov to Jan) |
7:00 PM to 8:00 PM (Feb to Apr) | 8.30 PM to 9.30 PM (Feb to Apr) |
Red Fort Entry Fee:
Time Required – 3 to 5 hours
Best Time to Visit – November to April
By Bus – The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) provides scheduled services from all parts of the city to the Red Fort.
By Metro – The best way is to get to the Yellow Line going to the Chandni Chowk Metro Station, from there the fort is only a 15-minute walk away.
By Taxi/Auto – There are plenty of app-based taxis and local autorickshaws available for a ride to the Red Fort from anywhere in the city.
Karim’s – A renowned restaurant serving mouthwatering traditional Mughlai cuisine as its speciality. Karim’s is an institution set deep in the social fabric of Delhi.
Moti Mahal Delux – Famous for butter chicken and regional Indian food. Tandoor (clay oven) based food is its speciality.
Chandni Chowk – It is a labyrinth of narrow lanes and timeless stores in the soulful Delhi. Chandni Chowk is a popular market for hawker foods, textiles and authentic local ornaments.
Daryaganj Sunday Book Market – A bustling Sunday book market that provides an assortment of textbooks at relatively cheaper rates. It is a must-visit for the bibliophiles.
The Lalit, New Delhi – Comfy and cosy rooms with outstanding facilities.
Hotel Broadway – An affordable accommodation located close to the Red Fort.
Built in 1638 the Red Fort was commissioned by the fifth Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to serve as the political and ceremonial capital of the empire. It stands on the left bank of the Yamuna River to ensure the fort is placed in the most defensive location. Red Fort has seen many ages from the Mughal Empire to British rule up to the Indian freedom struggle and now a democratic India.
The Red Fort is a splendid example of Mughal architecture, blending Persian, Timurid, and Indian styles. Its massive red sandstone walls stretch over 2 kilometres and rise to 33 meters. The Red Fort from the outside seems massive but you only truly get a glimpse of the true immensity of the structure by going inside.
There are gorgeous gardens and you can easily get lost here because there’s so much to see after entering. The fort also features stunning structures like the Lahori Gate, the Chatta Chowk (covered market), and the Rang Mahal. The intricate floral designs, marble inlays, and symmetrical gardens exemplify the artistry of the Mughal era.
Red Fort is not just a monument but a symbol of India’s resilience, not just a structure but the story of the nation’s strength and glory. The art on its walls speaks of emperors, invaders, freedom fighters and of course, victory in independence. You can feel the history under your feet, stepping on the site carries history with it.
History lover, architecture freak or, simply, an explorer who is eager to get a touch closer to the Indian spirit – Red Fort has something for everyone. It is the lasting testimony of how history is created and how the buildings with souls are constructed.