Get Your History Facts Right By Visiting And Knowing UNESCO’s World Heritage Site - The Red Fort!

Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, the Red Fort (Lal Qila) is the one tourist attraction in Delhi that never fails to attract international & local tourists alike. Moreover, every year on Independence Day, the 15th of August, the Prime Minister of India hoists the National Flag at the Red Fort & addresses the nation, thus anointing great national & emotional significance to the monument. It is located on Netaji Subhash Marg, right next to Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi. The closest metro station is Chandni Chowk on the Yellow Line, and we’re here to give 7 absolutely awesomesauce reasons to visit this regal palace.

1. To Marvel At The Sheer Magnificence Of This Erstwhile Mughal Palace

Picture Credits: camerawalebhaiya

This red sandstone complex is one of the largest forts in the city, spanning over 250 whopping acres, and will surely leave you in awe. Built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan next to the banks of River Yamuna, the structure was built by the Mughal emperor to serve as his palace and the royal family’s residence in his newly instated capital city of Shahjahanabad, which was the seventh city to have been established at the site of the present-day Old Delhi. The place was opened as a tourist attraction only after 2003 until then it was under the Indian National Army’s control.

2. For A Glimpse Into The Royal Quarters Of The Dynasty That Once Ruled Delhi 

Picture Credits: joshi.monalisa/

The Red Fort complex was known at one time to house 3,000 people. Most of the residential palaces were destroyed by the British. However, a few important structures of Shah Jahan’s court - like the Diwan-i-Khas (hall of private audience), Diwan-i-Am (hall of public audience), Naubat Khana (drum house), Rang Mahal (palace of colours), Moti Masjid (pearl mosque) & Hammam (Royal baths) - are still intact. We can totally imagine how opulent these rooms would have been at one time.

3. For A Glance At The Affluent Blend Of Architectural Styles Prevalent Here

Picture Credits: leraiadventures

Once the royal quarters of the ruling and flourishing Mughal Empire, this fort has certainly stood the test of time, watching several rulers rise and fall. The majestic palace is based on Islamic prototypes with the architecture of each house inspired by the blend of Persian, Timurid and Hindu traditions, making it a typical Mughal building.

4. To Walk Through The Corridors Uninhibited That Was Once Prohibited For Commoners

Picture Credits: madhurnangia_photography/

Can you imagine walking through the now deserted corridors of the palace, except for a few excited tourists, which was once restricted to the general public? Yep, the intricately detailed hallways and corridors connecting several rooms and verandahs with equally detailed floorings will leave you spellbound with their excellent craftsmanship. It’s definitely an experience in itself to walk through these age-old corridors

5. To Relive History By Visiting The Museum ‘Azadi Ke Deewane’

Built by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), this museum is dedicated to the unsung heroes of the country’s freedom struggle. It’s the fifth gem in the series of the newly inaugurated museums dedicated to the sacrifices of the Indian freedom fighters. This relatively new interactive museum is a digitised, state-of-the-art, informational and educational exposition that features multi-sensory technology which will keep the visitors engaged. It’s temporarily closed, so you may want to enquire before you decide to land up here.

Timings | 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM (Closed On Mondays)
Entry | Rs 80 (Adults)

6. To Shop Like The Mughals At Meena Bazaar

Though now it’s called Chatta Chowk Bazaar, this market has been in existence since the time of the Mughals. The moment one walks through the Lahori Gate, one enters this covered two-storied arcade. The whole of the market, in the interior and on the exterior, was originally stuccoed, painted and gilded to give a dazzling effect. Bazaar on each side contained 32 arched bays that served as shops, just as they do even today. Now, who wouldn’t like some good deals with a side of History!

Timings | 9 AM - 6 PM

7. To Explore Old Delhi And Go On A Food Binge

Picture Credits: nitish.jpeg

Can there be an Old Delhi recommendation that doesn’t involve food? Not at all! And so, once you’re done walking around the fort, working an appetite, make sure to quell your hungry stomach with a range of delicious goodies available in the surrounding areas. From Daulat Ki Chaat (available only in winters) in Chandni Chowk to succulent piping hot kebabs from the lanes of the Jama Masjid area, you’ve gotta make the most of this opportunity!

If you’re a true-blue Delhiite or just a visitor to our shores, it’ll be a sin if you miss witnessing this breathtaking sight!

Where | Red Fort - Netaji Subhash Marg, Red Fort, Chandni Chowk
Timings | 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM (Closed On Mondays)