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Lal Kila: A Mughal Marvel in Delhi

Explore Lal Kila, Delhi's historic Mughal fort: a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing stunning Indo-Islamic architecture and India's vibrant history.

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Lal Kila, also known as the Red Fort, is a historic fort in Delhi, India, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1648. Serving as the main residence for Mughal emperors, it showcases a blend of Persian and Indian architectural styles and stands as a symbol of India's rich history and independence.

A brief summary to Lal kila

  • P432+JXH, Delhi, Pocket 25, Sector 3G, Rohini, Delhi, IN
  • +911123365358

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (October to March) for a more comfortable experience.
  • Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the fort and its museums.
  • Hire a local guide to learn more about the fort's history and architecture.
  • Photography enthusiasts should visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting.
  • Be aware that the fort is closed on Mondays.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The nearest metro station to Lal Kila is Chandni Chowk on the Yellow Line. From the station, it's a short walk or rickshaw ride to the fort. Metro tickets cost between ₹30-₹40. Alternatively, several DTC buses connect to the Red Fort, including routes 425, 429, and 502. Bus fares range from ₹12 to ₹90.

  • Walking

    From the Chandni Chowk area, the Red Fort is easily accessible by foot. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Head east towards the fort, and you'll find the entrance near Netaji Subhash Marg. Be mindful of traffic and pedestrians along the way.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Ola are readily available in Delhi. A short taxi ride from Connaught Place to the Red Fort typically costs between ₹150-₹250, depending on traffic. Be sure to negotiate the fare or use the app for transparent pricing.

  • Parking

    Limited parking is available near the Red Fort, close to the Sunehri Masjid. Parking charges are approximately ₹200. Due to high demand, especially on weekends and holidays, it's advisable to arrive early or use public transport. Consider using parking apps like Park+ to discover and reserve parking spaces in advance.

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Discover more about Lal kila

Lal Kila, or the Red Fort, is a majestic fort in Delhi, constructed by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1648 after he shifted his capital from Agra. The fort, originally known as Qila-i-Mubarak (the Blessed Fort), served as the primary residence of the Mughal emperors and embodies the zenith of Mughal architecture, blending Persian, Timurid, and Hindu architectural styles. Constructed with red sandstone, the fort's imposing walls, which rise to 75 feet, enclose a complex of palaces, entertainment halls, projecting balconies, baths, indoor canals (Nahr-i-Bihisht), and geometric gardens. Key structures within the fort include the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), with its 60 red sandstone pillars, and the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), a smaller pavilion of white marble. The Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque), added by Aurangzeb, and the Hayat-Bakhsh-Bagh (Life-Giving Garden) further enhance the fort's beauty. The Red Fort has been a silent witness to many significant events in Indian history. In 1739, it was plundered during Nadir Shah's invasion, and following the Indian Rebellion of 1857, many marble structures were demolished by the British. On August 15, 1947, Jawaharlal Nehru hoisted the Indian flag above the Lahori Gate, marking India's independence. Today, the Prime Minister of India continues the tradition of raising the national flag at the main gate each year on Independence Day. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2007, the Red Fort is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India and houses museums displaying historical artifacts. These museums include the Subhash Chandra Bose Museum, the Museum of 1857, Yaad-e-Jallian, Drishyakala, and Azadi Ke Deewane, offering visitors a glimpse into the fort's rich past.

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