Red Fort, commonly known as Lal Quila (Qilah), is the largest monuments of Delhi. It is one of the most beautiful forts of the Mughal era built by Shah Jahan, the Mughal emperor. The construction of the fort was started in the year 1638 and was completed in 1648. The fort has up to two kilometers of walls which are as high as eighteen meters. In 1997 UNESCO declared it as a World Heritage Site.
Today, Red Fort Delhi is one of the most famous tourist destinations of India. It attracts thousands of visitors every year. In the year 2003 the Indian tourist authorities took the charge of the fort from the Indian Army. A sound and light show is a special attraction every evening inside the fort which describes the Mughal history.
Originally the Red Fort was named “Qila-i-Mubarak,” which means the blessed fort. Royal family used to live in this fort. The aesthetics of the quila represents zenith Mughal creativity that prevailed during Shah Jahan’s reign.
Lal Quila showcases high level of art form and ornamental works. It has a Persian touch with European and Indian art. As a whole it resulted with unique Shahjahani style i.e. rich in form, expression and color.
On August 15, 1947 when India became independent, the then Prime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru unveiled Indian flag here. This practice still continues by every Prime Ministers of India. After the World War II, Red Fort of Delhi became the scene of famous trial of Indian National Army.
There are few important buildings inside the Red Fort. They are as follows:
- Diwan-i-Aam – Throne-balcony of the emperor.
- Nahr-i-Behisht – A pavilion connected to water channel from the river Yamuna.
- Zenana – Women’s quarters.
- Moti Masjid – The Pearl Mosque.
- Hayat Bakhsh Bagh – A large formal garden.
Lal Quila stand tall reminding the glory of the Mughal emperor to every visitor. It is a calm haven of peace.
How to Reach Red Fort
Red Fort is close to Old Delhi Railway Station, Chandni Chowk and Kashmere Gate Bus Terminus. The taxis, auto-rickshaw and buses are available easily.
Nearest Railway Station : Old Delhi Railway Station
Nearest Metro Station : Kashmere Gate Metro Station
Nearest Bus Terminus : Kashmere Gate (ISBT)
Nearest Airport : Indira Gandhi International Airport
Local Bus Route : 411, 405, 409, 461, 404, 363, 301, 118, 185, 271, 7, 751, 185, 190, 260, 729
Hotels Near Red Fort
The Park Hotel, 15 Parliament Street, New Delhi 110 001
Rating : 5 Star Deluxe
Distance : Approx. 4 Km from Red Fort
Maidens Hotel, 7 Sham Nath Marg, New Delhi - 110054
Rating : 5 Star Luxury
Distance : 2.70 Km from Red Fort
The Hans Hotel, 15 Barakhamba Road, New Delhi-110001
Rating : 4 Star
Distance : 3.30 Km from Red Fort
Hotel Lals Haveli, Paharganj, New Delhi - 110055
Rating : Budget Hotel
Distance : Approx. 3 Km from Red Fort
Hotel Rama Inn, 4 Ara Kashan Road, New Delhi - 110055
Rating : Budget Hotel
Distance : Approx. 3 Km from Red Fort
