Red Fort Delhi – Delhi tourist place
The Red Fort, or Lal Qila, situated in the heart of Old Delhi, is one of the most iconic monuments in India. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort stands as a timeless symbol of India’s history, architecture, and struggle for independence. Built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, the Red Fort is not just a massive red sandstone fortress but also a beacon of India’s rich heritage.
Historical Background
The construction of the Red Fort began in 1638 and was completed in 1648. Shah Jahan, who also built the Taj Mahal, decided to shift his capital from Agra to Delhi and wanted a fort that would reflect the power and grandeur of the Mughal Empire. Designed by architect Ustad Ahmad Lahori, the Red Fort served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years.
The fort was originally called Qila-i-Mubarak meaning the “Blessed Fort”, and was part of the city of Shahjahanabad, the new capital built by Shah Jahan. After the Mughal Empire declined, the Red Fort saw control pass into the hands of several powers, including the British, who took over in 1857 after the First War of Independence.
Architectural Brilliance
One of the most striking features of the Red Fort is its architecture. It is an excellent example of Mughal architecture, blending Persian, Timurid, and Indian architectural styles. The fort is named for its massive red sandstone walls, which are about 2.5 kilometers in circumference and rise up to 33 meters.
Main Structures within the Red Fort
1. Lahori Gate
The Lahori Gate is the main entrance to the fort and faces the city of Lahore (now in Pakistan). It is through this gate that Prime Ministers of India hoist the national flag and address the nation on Independence Day (15th August) every year.
2. Delhi Gate
Another magnificent gate is the Delhi Gate, located on the southern wall of the fort. It resembles the Lahori Gate in structure and was used as the entrance for important dignitaries.
3. Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience)
This was where the emperor addressed the general public and heard their grievances. It is a beautiful hall with arches and a richly decorated throne balcony.
4. Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience)
This was a more exclusive area where the emperor met important guests and ministers. It was in this hall that the famous Peacock Throne once stood, which was later taken by Nadir Shah of Persia.
5. Rang Mahal (Palace of Colors)
This palace was used by the emperor’s wives and mistresses. It is beautifully decorated with mirrors and painted walls, and had a stream of water called Nahr-i-Bihisht (Stream of Paradise) flowing through it.
6. Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque)
Built by Aurangzeb, this small mosque is made of white marble and was used for private prayers.
7. Hammam (Royal Baths)
These were steam baths used by the emperor. The baths have intricate marble inlays and channels for hot and cold water.
The Red Fort and the British Era
The Red Fort played a significant role during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. After the British suppressed the rebellion, they took control of the fort and much of it was destroyed or repurposed. The British also removed many precious items, including the Peacock Throne and jewels.
The fort was used as a military camp by the British, and several structures were demolished. In 1945-46, the Indian National Army trials were held in the Red Fort, marking a significant moment in the Indian freedom movement.
Post-Independence Significance
After India gained independence from British rule in 1947, the Red Fort became a powerful national symbol. On 15th August 1947, the first Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, raised the Indian national flag at the Lahori Gate of the Red Fort and delivered a historic speech.
Since then, every year on Independence Day, the Prime Minister hoists the national flag and gives a speech from the fort’s ramparts, making it a central part of India’s national identity.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 2007, the Red Fort was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural significance. The fort is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and has undergone several conservation efforts to preserve its historical structures and gardens.
Cultural Events and Tourism
The Red Fort is one of Delhi’s most visited tourist destinations. It hosts a number of cultural events, such as:
- Sound and Light Show: A fascinating show held every evening that narrates the history of the Mughal Empire and the fort.
- Independence Day Celebrations: A grand event attended by thousands of people and watched by millions on television.
- Festivals and Exhibitions: Various exhibitions, craft melas, and food festivals are held in the open areas around the fort.
The fort is open to the public throughout the week (except Mondays) and draws both domestic and international tourists. With audio guides, AR/VR experiences, and improved infrastructure, visiting the fort is both educational and engaging.
Current Preservation Efforts
Due to environmental factors, pollution, and human interference, the Red Fort has suffered from wear and tear. The Government of India has taken multiple steps to restore and preserve this historical monument. Under the Adopt a Heritage scheme, the Red Fort was adopted by Dalmia Bharat Group for maintenance and conservation in collaboration with the ASI.
Digital preservation techniques, regular cleaning, and controlled visitor access to sensitive areas are helping to maintain the fort’s grandeur for future generations.
Interesting Facts About Red Fort
- The Peacock Throne, once housed in the Diwan-i-Khas, was made of solid gold and encrusted with precious stones.
- The fort’s walls are about 18–33 meters high, depending on the side.
- It took 10 years to complete the construction of the Red Fort.
- Bahadur Shah Zafar, the last Mughal emperor, was tried by the British in this fort.
- The Nahr-i-Bihisht, or Stream of Paradise, was an elaborate water channel running through several buildings of the fort, inspired by Islamic paradise garden design.
1. Tourist Routes to Reach Red Fort (Delhi):
By Metro (Most Convenient)
- Nearest Metro Station: Lal Quila (Violet Line) – Just a 2-minute walk to Red Fort
- Alternative: Chandni Chowk (Yellow Line) – 10-minute walk via old bazaar lanes
By Bus
- Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses operate to/from Red Fort.
- Buses: 214, 502, 901, etc.
- Stop: Red Fort Bus Stop or Chandni Chowk
By Car/Taxi
- Located on Netaji Subhash Marg
- Parking available near Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk side (limited on weekends)
By Auto Rickshaw / Cycle Rickshaw
- Easily available from all nearby areas like Chandni Chowk, Jama Masjid, and Kashmere Gate.
🗺️ 2. Nearby Tourist Routes from Red Fort:
If you’re planning a sightseeing route around Red Fort:
- Red Fort
- → Jama Masjid (1 km)
- → Chandni Chowk (1.2 km – street food and shopping)
- → Raj Ghat (2 km – Gandhi’s memorial)
- → India Gate (6.5 km)
- → Rashtrapati Bhavan (8 km)
- → Qutub Minar or Lotus Temple (South Delhi)
🧭 3. Historical Route of Mughal Processions (Inside Red Fort):
When Shah Jahan lived there, the royal route inside the fort typically included:
- Entry through Lahori Gate
- → Chatta Chowk (market street)
- → Naubat Khana (drum house)
- → Diwan-i-Aam
- → Diwan-i-Khas
- → Rang Mahal and Zenana (women’s quarters)
- → Moti Masjid and Hammam