Some structures are so popular, due to their rich history, that they become defining features of a city. When you travel to the capital of India, you already have certain places on the top of your head that are a must-visit. Red Fort is definitely one of those places that you just can’t miss on a tour to Delhi. But before you visit this gargantuan edifice, get detailed information as to why it is a historical monument so that when you do make your way to this site, your experience is enhanced manyfold.
About Red Fort
The glorious red-colored fort is a shining feather in the cap of Delhi. It is located in the Old Delhi area of India and is a marvel featuring the beautiful Indo-Islamic style of architecture. What makes the place distinguished and rather significant is the yearly ritual of Indian Independence Day when the Prime Minister of the country hoists the national flag at the entrance gate of the Red Fort and addresses the entire country in a speech that is broadcasted nationally.
History Of Red Fort
Like many stunning structures of our country, the Red Fort was also constructed in the ruling period of the Mughals. The Mughals were true connoisseurs of art and that reflects in the striking architecture of the monuments of their ruling era. Shah Jahan ordered the construction of the enormous Red Fort in the year 1638 under the able leadership of the architect Ustad Ahmad Lahori who is also the man behind the construction of the glorious Taj Mahal. The fort has witnessed an entire era of the peak of Mughal prowess and its gradual decline and still continues to watch over the capital city and happens to be the most famous aspect of a Delhi city tour.
How To Reach Red Fort
Delhi is well connected to all the major cities in the world. One can easily visit Delhi by taking a flight to Indira Gandhi International Airport or by boarding a bus to Anand Vihar or Kashmiri Gate Bus Terminal. On reaching Delhi, you can visit Red Fort by making use of public transport. If you wish to travel by metro, the nearest metro station to the fort is Chandni Chowk which is located on the Yellow Line. From the metro station, you can take a cab or auto to Red Fort. You may also travel by DTC buses for a cheaper option.
Red Fort Entry Fee And Ticket Price
Viewing a work of art requires a price to be paid. But the entry fee for visiting Red Fort is highly affordable. The price differs according to citizenship. If you are an Indian native, a BIMSTEC national, or a SAARC citizen, the entry fee is mere 35 rupees. For foreign visitors, the ticket is priced at 500 rupees. If you are accompanied by children below the age of 15, you don’t need to pay for their tickets. If you wish to carry your cameras with you, you have to pay an additional price of 25 rupees per gadget.
Apart from the entry fee, there is an interesting Light and Sound Show that you need to pay for. The ticket price is as follows:
- Adults on Weekdays: INR 60
- Adults on Weekends: INR 80
- Children on Weekdays: INR 20
- Children on Weekends: INR 30
Red Fort Timings
If you are on a Delhi sightseeing tour, make sure you time your visit to Red Fort between 9:30 am to 4:30 pm on any of the days from Tuesday to Sunday. The Red Fort remains closed on Monday.
The timings of the Sound and Light Show differ on different months and according to the language that you want to see the show in. Here’s a list of shows and their timings:
For Hindi language audience:
- 07:30 PM to 08:30 PM (May to Aug)
- 07:00 PM to 08:00 PM (Sep and Oct)
- 06:00 PM to 07:00 PM (Nov to Jan)
- 07:00 PM to 08:00 PM (Feb to Apr)
For English language audience:
- 09:00 PM to 10:00 PM (May to Aug)
- 08:30 PM to 09:30 PM (Sep and Oct)
- 07:30 PM to 08:30 PM (Nov to Jan)
- 08:30 PM to 09:30 PM (Feb to Apr)
The Architecture Of Red Fort
Stretching over a massive area of 254.67 acres, the Red Fort is truly a sight to behold. Its stunning red sandstone structure is extremely captivating and the marble and floral decoration in its interior add to its beauty. The octagonal edifice once had Kohinoor- the biggest diamond in the world as a part of its furniture. But what makes the fort truly a masterpiece is the synthesis of Persian, European, and Indian art in its architecture, which adds to its gorgeous form, colour, and expression.
Interesting Facts About Red Fort
While the magnificence of the Red Fort is reason enough to visit the place, there is also interesting trivia associated with this enormous structure that makes it one of the most fascinating places to visit in Delhi. Here are some of those intriguing facts:
- As the fort is named after its red colour, you will be surprised to know that originally the Red Fort was white in color and was called Qila-e-Mubarak which translates into the Blessed Fort. It was made of limestone which was later painted red by the British when the limestone started chipping off.
- The most interesting fact about Red Fort is that the biggest diamond in the world, Kohinoor, which now sits gloriously on the crown of the Queen of England, was once a part of the furniture of Red Fort.
- The Red Fort is not only a celebrated monument of India but is also recognized globally for making it to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the year 2007.
- It took 10 long years for the Red Fort to be built but it was definitely worth the long wait!
- The Fort has witnessed the trial of its own inhabitant- Bahadur Shah Zafar! The emperor was accused of treason by the British and was sent to Rangoon after being stripped off his title.
Best Time To Visit Red Fort
Delhi can get pretty hot in the summer season so going on a Delhi tour to visit its famous monuments like the Red Fort should be avoided during this time. The months between October and February are apt to enjoy the regal beauty of the Red Fort as you will be able to spend long hours touring around the fort without having to beat the heat.
Market Near Red Fort
Shopping always makes for one of the most fun things to do in Delhi and if you think that visiting Red Fort will only satiate your love for visiting historical monuments and won’t provide you with a chance to pamper yourself with some retail therapy, you are wrong! Red Fort has some very interesting markets in and around its complex that feature fine products that can be bought at amazing prices. You can visit the famous Chandni Chowk market for relishing some delicious street food.
Meena Bazaar is another gem located near the fort that specializes in products like India wear, carpets, and artificial jewelry that will definitely please the ladies.
If you want to witness a historic market that is still active, then you shouldn’t miss a chance to visit the Chhatta Chowk, which is a long passage of covered shops inside the Red Fort itself, beginning right at the entrance of the Lahori Gate.
Places To Visit Near Red Fort
While Red Fort is a wonderful place to explore, it is also surrounded by several exquisite places that are an important part of a Delhi tour package. After visiting the Red Fort, you must discover the wonders of some of these interesting places to visit in Delhi. Firstly, do not forget to head to the popular Jama Masjid which is one of the largest mosques in India.
You must also explore Chandni Chowk market to get that local flavor of the hustle and bustle of Puraani Dilli (Old Delhi). This place is a food lover’s paradise, selling some mouth-watering authentic Indian dishes. It also houses several shops dealing in clothes and jewelry.
Another unique and striking aspect of this side of the city is the famous Kabootar Bazaar which features several pet-shops, selling exotic birds, rabbits, rats, etc. that add a unique charm to the busy lanes.
Within the fort complex itself, you will come across some fascinating spots like the Indian War Memorial Museum and the Mumtaz Mahal which is a palace and museum of archaeology. Conclusively, there is a lot to explore in and around Red Fort so you will be spoilt for choice.
Frequently Asked Questions about Red Fort
Even though we have tried to cover everything about Red Fort and you may already be feeling pretty well equipped with the knowledge about this grand fort, there may still be a few questions that haven’t been addressed yet. Let’s try to answer some of the most common queries people have about Red Fort-
- Who built the Red Fort?
The fifth Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, ordered the construction of Red Fort and it was brought into form by the famous architect Ustad Ahmad Lahori and his team of workers.
- What makes the Red Fort famous?
The fort is famous for its enormous red-sandstone structure and for being an important historical monument that was built when Emperor Shah Jahan decided to shift the capital city from Agra to Delhi.
- Which is the main entrance gate to the Red Fort?
The fort has two main gates, namely Delhi Gate and Lahore Gate but the Lahore Gate is the main entrance to the Red Fort and was named so because it was built in the direction of Lahore which was once a part of India.
- Why was Red fort built?
When Shah Jahan decided to move the capital of the country from Agra to Delhi, he ordered the construction of Red Fort to serve as the palace fort of the city of Shahjahanabad.
- Is there any parking facility at Red Fort?
Yes, a government authorized parking lot is fully functional just adjacent to the Red Fort so you can easily park your vehicles there and reach the fort after a short walk.
- Who is the architect of Red Fort?
The Red Fort was designed by the Iranian architect Ustad Ahmad Lahori who is also the architect of the world-famous Taj Mahal.
- Where is Red Fort located in Delhi?
Red Fort is situated in Old Delhi, near Chandni Chowk metro station.
- What is Red Fort Delhi address?
Red Fort is located at Netaji Subhash Marg in Chandni Chowk, New Delhi- 110006. I’m sure reading about this stunning monument in such detail must have fascinated you and you must be willing to explore the place as soon as possible. So, go through Delhi tour packages now and plan a trip already!
