Introduction

A regal sandstone entrance ‘Lahore Gate’ leads you into the three sq. kilometer stretch of the Red Fort, a veritable treasure trove of buildings, courtyards, bazaar and a lovely flowering garden. Rising 33 meters (110 feet) above the clamor of Old Delhi, the red stonewalls are a testimony to the power and flamboyance of the Mughal Empire. Built in 1639 by Emperor Shah Jahan when Mughal creativity and aesthetics were at its zenith, the fort showcases delicate ornamental work and a marvelous architectural design. A fine blend of Persian, European and Indian art, the Shahjahani style, as it is popularly called, is an awe-inspiring kaleidoscope of colors, form and expression. This UNESCO World Heritage Site’s smoothly-dressed walls, articulated by heavy string-courses along the upper section, transcend time and space.

From Lahore Gate, walk straight into a stretch of bazaar arcade, Chatta Chowk, whose walls are lined with shops selling a great variety of antique silver trinkets, silk scarves and traditional jewelry. If you wish to purchase some local stuff, you can do better by wandering off to Chandni Chowk just outside the fort walls. Further on, amble eastwards to the royal palace grounds and the red sandstone Diwan-I-Aam (Hall of the Public Audiences). Here you will be faced with a spacious square beyond which were the private apartments of the king and his family. The southern side of this square houses women’s quarters including the marble Moti Mahal and Rang Mahal. Look out for its beautiful gilded ceiling and don’t miss out the view of the Yamuna river flowing nearby. Continue your way north from the square to the white marble Diwan-I-Khas (Hall of Private Audiences). Browse the royal hammam building for its marble baths and brilliant murals, followed by a tour of Moti Masjid that has a conventional Mughal pattern with attractive decorative elements.

The decline of Mughal Empire in the 18th century and the capture of the fort by the British after the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857, lead to the destruction of the residential palaces to make room for the British Indian Army. After India gained independence in 1947, the Indian Army took over the fort, only to hand it back after many years in 2003 to the tourism board. Though some places still remain off limits due to the presence of the army, Red Fort is a pleasure to explore for its sheer architectural elegance and colorful history.

The place also has an onsite restaurant that can be accessed through the side entrance. If you are visiting late in the afternoon, it is definitely worth the wait to witness a beautiful sound and light show in the evening that recreates events in India’s history relating to the fort. The shows are held in Hindi and English with tickets available at the Red Fort. The English shows are from November to January at 7.30 p.m., in January to April and September to October at 8.30 p.m. and from May to August at 9 p.m.

Special Attributes

Red Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Indian Prime Minister addresses the citizens from here on Independence Day (15th August), after a lavish ceremony.

Nuisance

Touts and pick pockets

Dressing restrictions

None, but avoid wearing short or revealing clothes

Connectivity

Interstate bus, train, metro-rail, taxi or auto-rickshaw

Enjoyed by

Families, Backpackers especially history lovers

Exposure

You will be partly in the shade and partly under the sun. So, it is advisable to carry your sunshades, sunscreen lotion and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

June, July

Facilities

There is an accessible restroom with a ramped entrance near the ticket counter. The place also has an onsite restaurant that can be accessed through the side entrance.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

If you wish to purchase some local stuff, you can do better by wandering off to Chandni Chowk just outside the fort walls rather than buying things at a higher price from Chatta Chowk.

Type of site

A 17th century fort built by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan