Red Fort is a historic masterpiece that stands as an invincible symbol of India’s rich heritage. It is located in the heart of Old Delhi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and unfolds centuries of captivating tales within its red sandstone walls. It was built during the pinnacle of the Mughal Empire, the Red Fort is a testament to the architectural brilliance of Emperor Shah Jahan.
History of Red Fort
The Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built the Red Fort to serve as the palace fort for his capital Shahjahanabad. When he decided to move his capital from Agra to Delhi, he commissioned the construction of the fort on the banks of the Yamuna. The construction of the fort began in 1638 and took more than eight years to finish. The building was formerly referred to as Qila-i-Mubarak, which translates as “the Blessed Fort.”
The fort has had various occupants during its three-century existence, including Aurangzeb, Jahandar Shah, Muhammad Shah, and Bahadur Shah II, among others. The Red Fort was completely destroyed in 1739 by the Persian emperor Nadir Shan, who stormed the city and looted the fort of numerous important artifacts, including the Peacock Throne. The fort’s marble buildings were later demolished during the 1857 Revolt against the British.
The Architecture of Red Fort
The fort is spread over 255 acres. You can easily witness the mix of architectural styles such as Islamic, Hindi, Timurid, and Persian. The enclosing walls of the fort are massive and 2.5 km long. The fort got its name Red Fort due to the major use of red sandstone and white marble in a few places. The shape of the fort is octagonal and it nestles several; beautiful gardens, palaces, turrets, bastions, pavilions, two gates, and several other sections.
Structures Inside Red Fort
The Red Fort is located beside the historical Salimgarh Fort. Both of these forts together form the Red Fort Complex with several monuments inside. They are as follows:
Lahore Gate: This gate is very grand and high. It is used as the main entrance to the fort.
Delhi Gate: It is the Southern gate used by the public.
Mumtaz Mahal: It is a palace turned into the Red Fort Archaeological Museum.
Rang Mahal: Emperoro’s wife and mistresses used to reside inside this mahal.
Khas Mahal: This used to be the residence of the King.
Diwan-i-Aam: Here, the Emperor used to interact with common people and solve their problems.
Diwan-i-Khas: Meetings with nobles and ministers used to take place in this special court.
Hira Mahal: It is a pavilion made of white marble. It was built by Bahadur Shah II.
Tea House: The tea house used to be one of the Prince’s quarters. It is currently turned into a working restaurant.
Chatta Chowk: It is a long passageway with a bazaar.
Naubat Khana: It used to be the drum house. Currently, it is the Indian War Memorial Museum.
Nahr-i-Bihisht: It is a canal that runs through the pavilions.
You will also witness the Princes’ quarters and imperial quarters used by members of the royal Mughal family.
Interesting Facts about Red Fort
- The Red Fort is made of red sandstone and white marble as these were the favorite colors of Shah Jahan.
- The fort is featured on the back of the new 500 rupee currency.
- In 2019, the PM of India inaugurated five more museums in Red Fort – the Subhash Chandra Bose Museum, the Museum of 1857, Yaad-e-Jallian, Drishyakala, and Azaadi Ke Deewane.
- The magnificent and unique Koh-i-Noor diamond was part of the Red Fort’s furnishings before it was taken by Nadir Shah or joined the British crown.
- Qila-E-Mubarak was the original name of the Red Fort.
- The Fort Once Had a Water Gate.
- Red Fort Has an Octagonal Shape.
Red Fort Light and Sound Show
Red Fort’s light and sound show is one of the most entertaining parts of the tour. The show takes place in the evenings only. It is considered one of the best shows by travelers. The show represents the monument’s history more alluring and visually appealing. Further, the show ends with a speech by India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. You can either book the tickets online or at the booths directly.
Duration of Light & Sound Show: 1 hour (60 minutes)
Hindi Show Timings: 7:30 pm to 8.30 pm
English Show Timings: 9.00 pm to 10.00 pm
Ticket Price –
Weekdays: ₹ 60 for adults; ₹ 20 for kids
Weekends and Public Holidays: ₹ 80 for adults; ₹ 30 for kids
Tickets & Timings of Red Fort
The times for visiting the Red Fort are from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. It is closed on Mondays. The entry fees are as follows:
Entry Fee for Indians: INR 35
Entry fee for SAARC/BIMSTEC citizens: INR 35
Entry Fee for Foreigners: INR 500
The entry is free for children below the age of 15