Delhi is an enchanting city that is famous for its rich history and culture. The city is dotted with a plethora of historical monuments, and among them, forts hold a significant place. These majestic forts are not only architectural marvels but also provide a glimpse into the city’s glorious past. In this article, we will explore the 5 most popular forts in Delhi.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Red Fort
- Qutub Minar
- Tughlaqabad Fort
- Old Fort (Purana Qila)
- Feroz Shah Kotla Fort
- Conclusion
- FAQs
1. Introduction
Delhi has been the capital of several empires, including the Mughals, the Khiljis, the Tughlaqs, and the British. These empires have left their mark on the city in the form of stunning forts, palaces, and monuments. Forts, in particular, were built to protect the city from foreign invaders and served as the seat of power for the ruling dynasty. Today, these forts are a testament to the city’s glorious past and are popular tourist attractions.
2. Red Fort
The Red Fort, also known as Lal Qila, is one of the most iconic forts in India. It was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century and served as the residence of the Mughal dynasty for over 200 years. The fort is made of red sandstone and is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture. It also houses several museums that showcase the rich history and culture of Delhi.
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3. Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the tallest minarets in the world. It was built in the early 13th century by the first Muslim ruler of Delhi, Qutub-ud-din Aibak. The minaret is made of red sandstone and marble and is adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions from the Quran. The Qutub Minar complex also houses several other historical monuments, including the Iron Pillar, Alai Darwaza, and Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque.
4. Tughlaqabad Fort
Tughlaqabad Fort is an imposing fortress built by the Tughlaq dynasty in the 14th century. It is made of granite and was designed to be impregnable, with massive walls and bastions. The fort is spread over an area of 6.5 km and has several underground chambers and tunnels. It is said that the fort was abandoned soon after it was built and is now in ruins, but it still attracts visitors for its sheer size and grandeur.
5. Old Fort (Purana Qila)
Old Fort, also known as Purana Qila, is a fortification built on the site of the ancient city of Indraprastha. It was built by the Afghan king Sher Shah Suri in the mid-16th century and is made of red sandstone and marble. The fort has three gateways, several bastions, and a mosque. It is also famous for its light and sound show, which showcases the history of Delhi and its monuments.
6. Feroz Shah Kotla Fort
Feroz Shah Kotla Fort is an ancient fort built by the Tughlaq dynasty in the 14th century. It was renovated and rebuilt by Feroz Shah Tughlaq in the 15th century and served as his capital for a brief period. The fort is made of sandstone and is known for its unique architectural style, which combines Hindu and Islamic elements. The fort has several structures, including a mosque, a baoli (stepwell), and a pyramidal structure known as the Ashoka Pillar. It is also believed to be haunted by the djinns (spirits) of Feroz Shah Tughlaq, and many visitors come here to offer prayers and seek blessings from the spirits.
Travel Tips & Tourist Attractions
Before visiting Delhi’s forts, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved in exploring the forts.
- Carry a hat or an umbrella to protect yourself from the sun.
- Always carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated.
- Dress modestly, especially while visiting religious sites within the forts.
- Respect the local customs and traditions.
Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the popular tourist attractions near these forts:
- Jama Masjid: Located near the Red Fort, this 17th-century mosque is one of the largest in India and a must-visit for anyone interested in Islamic architecture.
- Raj Ghat: This memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi is located near the Red Fort and is a serene spot for those seeking some quiet time amidst the chaos of Delhi.
- Chandni Chowk: This bustling market near the Red Fort is a shopper’s paradise and a food lover’s haven. Sample some of the famous street food here, like parathas and chaat.
- Humayun’s Tomb: Located near Purana Qila, this 16th-century mausoleum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a beautiful example of Mughal architecture.
- Qutub Minar: This 12th-century minaret is located near the Mehrauli Archaeological Park and is the tallest brick minaret in the world. The complex also houses several other historical structures.
Conclusion
Delhi’s forts are not only architectural marvels but also a testament to the city’s rich history and culture. These forts are a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture. From the majestic Red Fort to the haunting Feroz Shah Kotla Fort, each fort has a unique story to tell and offers a glimpse into the city’s glorious past.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Delhi’s forts? Ans. The best time to visit Delhi’s forts is from October to March when the weather is pleasant.
- Are there any entry fees for visiting these forts? Ans. Yes, there are entry fees for visiting these forts. The fees vary for Indian and foreign tourists.
- Can we take a guided tour of these forts? Ans. Yes, guided tours are available for most of these forts. You can either book a guide online or hire one at the entrance.
- Are these forts wheelchair accessible? Ans. Not all forts are wheelchair accessible, but efforts are being made to make them more inclusive.
- Is photography allowed inside the forts? Ans. Yes, photography is allowed inside the forts, but some restrictions may apply.