The Red Fort of Delhi, also known as Lal Qila, is a historic fort located in the city of Delhi, India. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1639 as a symbol of Mughal power and grandeur. The fort served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors for almost 200 years until the British colonial rule. The Red Fort is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Delhi.
The Red Fort is open to visitors from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm every day, except on Mondays. The fort is closed on Mondays for maintenance.
The entry fee for Indian nationals is Rs. 35, and for foreign nationals, it is Rs. 500. There is no entry fee for children below the age of 15 years.
It is recommended to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the Red Fort. Some of the restricted items include weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, and tobacco products.
The Red Fort is an architectural marvel, with its massive red sandstone walls, intricate carvings, and beautiful marble structures. The fort is designed in the Persian and Mughal architectural styles, with influences from Timurid and Hindu architecture.
The best time to visit the Red Fort is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. Avoid visiting during the summer months as it can get extremely hot and humid in Delhi.
The Red Fort is located in the heart of Old Delhi and is easily accessible by road. It is well-connected by public transport, including buses, metro, and auto-rickshaws. The nearest metro station is Chandni Chowk, which is just a short walk away from the fort.
The Red Fort was built by Emperor Shah Jahan as the main residence of the Mughal emperors. It served as the seat of the Mughal Empire for centuries until the British took over in 1857. The fort has witnessed many historic events, including the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
Inside the Red Fort, you can explore the various structures like the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), Rang Mahal (Palace of Colors), Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque), and the famous Mumtaz Mahal. The fort also houses various museums and exhibitions showcasing Mughal artifacts and history.
It is advisable to wear comfortable clothing and footwear as you will be doing a lot of walking inside the fort. Carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated, especially during the hot months. Be respectful of the historical significance of the fort and avoid littering.
Some of the hotels near the Red Fort of Delhi include: 1. The Lalit 2. Hotel Tara Palace 3. Hotel Alka Classic 4. Hotel Red Castle 5. Maidens Hotel 6. Hotel Ajanta 7. Hotel Broadway
There are several other tourist attractions near the Red Fort that you can visit, including Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Raj Ghat, India Gate, Humayun's Tomb, and Qutub Minar. These places offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Delhi.