Red Fort (Lal Qila)
- Address: Netaji Subhash Marg, Old Delhi
- Hours: Tues - Sun, sunrise to sunset. Closed Mondays
- Admission: Rs 250. Sound & Light Show: Rs 50
ATTRACTION Keywords:
Cultural Experience,
UNESCO Heritage Site,
Monument - Military
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The massive Red Fort (or Lal Qila) stands rather forlornly, a sandstone carcass of its former self. In ages past, when Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan paraded out of the fort atop an elephant into the streets of Old Delhi, he and the fort that he built were a grandiose display of pomp and power. The walls of the fort extend for 1.25 miles (2 kilometers) and vary in height from 60 ft (18 m) on the river side to 110 ft (33 m) on the city side. Shah Jahan began construction of the massive fort in 1638 and it was completed in 1648. Shah Jahan never completely moved his capital from Agra to his new city of Shahjahanabad in Delhi because he was deposed and imprisoned in Agra Fort by his sly son Aurangzeb.
The Red Fort dates from the very peak of Mughal power. Their reign from Delhi was a short one, however; Aurangzeb was the first and last great Mughal emperor to rule from here. The 33 ft (10 m) deep moat, which has been bone-dry since 1857, was originally crossed on creaky wooden drawbridges, but these were replaced with stone bridges in 1811.
Since Independence, many landmark political speeches have taken place at the fort and every year on Independence Day (15 August) it hosts the prime minister's address to the nation. In 2007, the Red Fort was added to UNESCO's World Heritage Site list.
Latest Reviews
Review by Marsha A, April 2013
Doing what: Private Custom Tour: Delhi in One Day
We had a wonderful experience on our Delhi tour. Our guide, Ashish, was able to share the history about India overall and each site specifically. He was lots of fun, spoke excellent English, and engaged in very informative discussions throughout the day. He knew a great place for us to have lunch - the best Indian food we've ever had. Our driver was also wonderful and navigated the complexities of Delhi traffic with great expertise. We couldn't have been more pleased with our experience.
Review by K J A, February 2013
Doing what: Private Tour: Old and New Delhi in a Day
Very informative and a great way to see all the 'must see' aspects of Delhi in an organised fashion without an overload. There was just enough places to see without feeling it was too long and the guide was excellent.
Review by Subodh D, February 2013
Doing what: Private Tour: Old and New Delhi in a Day
This was one of the best tours I've ever had- beautiful city! The tour guide named Ashish was passionate about the city and so extremely friendly, informative, and open to all questions. My family and I were able to learn not only about delhi's history but India's as well! Had the best experience!
Practical Info
The nearest metro station is Chowri Bazaar or get there by taxi or auto-rickshaw. Each evening (except Monday) a one hour sound-and-light show re-creates events of India's history, particularly those associated with the Red Fort.
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