India houses various historic monuments which offer a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage, the freedom struggle and architectural grandeur. If you are searching for a place to witness the royal heritage of the Mughal era and learn about the architecture of that time, the Red Fort (Lal Quila) is a must-visit place for you.
Recognised as the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort, situated in the heart of Old Delhi, is the grandest monument of the city. Built of red sandstone by Shah Jehan, the Mughal emperor, the fort spans 255 acres and is bordered by massive walls. There are various towers and gardens filled with intricate carvings, majestic arches and breathtaking marble structures, making it one of the stunning world heritage sites in India. While exploring the fort, you will witness various private apartments, a series of elegant pavilions connected by the enchanting Nahr-i-Behisht, or ‘Stream of Paradise’, dazzling mirror mosaics and the remnants of Shah Jahan’s exquisite Persian-inspired palaces.
So, let’s dive into the testament of the peak Mughal creativity and learn about the historic significance and the best time to visit the Red Fort.
Historic Significance
The Red Fort (Lal Quila) was designed by the esteemed architect Ustad Ahmad Lahori, who also crafted the iconic Taj Mahal, on the orders of Shah Jehan. The emperor wanted the fort to be a symbol of Mughal power and the sophistication of Indian culture. Ironically, the fort was an integral part of the Mughal Empire’s decline.
The towering walls, crenellated ramparts and fortified gateways were designed to repel the attacks. Whereas the inside architecture has the most delicate and beautiful architecture created for the emperor, his queens, consorts, children, courtiers and servants.
While exploring the fort, you will come across the exquisite art and miniature paintings showcasing the extravagant music, dance and poetry recitals held in the palace gardens.
Due to its mesmerising beauty and artefacts, the fort was attacked several times in the past. The first one and the most disastrous one was by the Persian warlord Nadir Shah in 1739. During the attack Persians took away the most precious bejewelled Peacock Throne, which incorporated the famous Kohinoor Diamond. Later in time, the fort was taken by Rohilla Afghans, Marathas and the East India Company.
The fort also played a significant role in India’s independence struggle during British rule and it is the same place where the first Indian Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, hoisted the Indian flag after attaining independence in 1947. Since then, every year, the Prime Minister of India raises the national flag and addresses the nation, thus making it a powerful symbol of the country’s heritage.
Best Time to Visit Red Fort (Lal Quila)
The best time to explore the beauty of the palace is early morning, when there is fewer crowds and the weather is pleasant for long walks inside the Red Fort and its gardens. You can also enjoy the Jai Hind Sound and Light Show organised every evening (except Mondays) and learn about the history of the fort through dazzling lights, music and storytelling.
Moreover, Bharat Parv, a vibrant five-day festival showcasing India’s diverse culture and cuisine through cultural and traditional performances, displays of handicrafts and handloom, Republic Day Parade tableaux and food stalls.
Timings: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Fort is closed on Mondays).
Entry Fee: INR 35 for Indians and INR 500 for Foreigners.
How To Reach the Red Fort (Lal Quila)
The Red Fort is located in Old Delhi and has excellent connectivity through road and metro. Indira Gandhi International Airport, around 20 km is the closest airport to reach the fort. From the airport, you can either hire a taxi or take a metro from the Airport Express Line metro to the New Delhi Metro Station. From there, switch to the Violet Line to reach Chandni Chowk Metro Station and walk just 750 meters to the Lahori Gate of Red Fort.
If you are travelling by train, then both New Delhi Railway Station and Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station are well-connected to the Red Fort (Lal Quila). From any of the railway stations, you can take a metro or an auto-rickshaw to reach the fort.
However, there are numerous hotels in Delhi near the Red Fort that offer private cab facilities for hassle-free commuting.
Tourist Attractions Near Red Fort (Lal Quila)
While visiting the Red Fort (Lal Quila), don’t forget to explore nearby tourist attractions. One of the most popular places to visit around the fort is the Chandni Chowk, located opposite the Red Fort. It was the main street of the old Mughal city, “Shahjahanabad”, now known as old Delhi. The street is lined with Hindu temples, Sikh Gurudwaras, mosques and markets. The Chandni Chowk market is a heaven for shoppers and food lovers, where you will find an endless variety of clothes, jewellery, footwear, spices and street food.
You can also explore other significant places to visit in Delhi, including Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-i-Aam, Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib, Jama Masjid and Shri Gauri Shankar Temple.
Nearby Cities to Visit From Delhi
1. Gurgaon
One of the most rapidly developing cities in North India, Gurgaon is a popular destination near Delhi for entertainment, shopping and fine dining. The city is a hub for the world’s best MNCs and is also known as the Cocktail Capital of India.
It boasts vibrant nightclubs, bars and pubs, attracting party lovers from around the neighbouring cities and states.
- Accommodation Tip: Stay in budget-friendly hotels in Gurgaon.
- Places to Visit in Gurgaon: Kingdom of Dreams, Leisure Valley Park, Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, Aravalli Biodiversity Park, Gurgaon, Ambience Mall, Lohagarh Farms and Damdama Lake.
2. Noida
Another famous place to visit near Delhi is Noida, located around 46 km from the city centre. Noida is a satellite city of Delhi, situated in Uttar Pradesh. The place is a major commercial and entertainment hub of the country.
Filled with high-end shopping malls, amusement parks and green spaces, the city attracts in large number.
Accommodation Tip: Stay in budget-friendly hotels in Noida.
Places to Visit in Noida: Worlds of Wonder, Botanical Garden, Okhla Bird Sanctuary, ISKCON Temple, Kidzania, Budh International Circuit and Bharamputra Market.
3. Agra
Famous for one of the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal, Agra is one of the popular places to visit in Uttar Pradesh. It is a part of the Indian Golden Triangle and a joyful tourist destination filled with art, architecture and cultural heritage.
While visiting the city, you can witness the grandeur of the Mughal era in various historic monuments.
Accommodation Tip: Stay in budget-friendly hotels in Agra.
Places to Visit in Agra: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Itmad-ud-Daula, Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal, Tomb of Akbar, Jama Masjid, Mehtab Bagh and Shri Mankameshwar Temple.
Thus, Red Fort (Lal Quila) is a testament of Mughal architecture, the freedom struggle and the art of the country. The place is perfect to explore the history and enjoy the scenic beauty of lush green gardens.
While looking for a stay near the fort, Treebo Hotels in Delhi are an ideal choice for affordable and comfortable accommodation. Book your stay at Treebo Club’s website or app to get additional benefits.
