Purana Quila: Echoes of Empires in Delhi

4.1 (1558)

Explore Delhi's ancient Old Fort, a historic landmark with Mughal architecture and a rich history spanning millennia.

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Purana Quila

Purana Quila, or Old Fort, is a historic site in Delhi with layers of history spanning over millennia. Built on the ancient site of Indraprastha, it showcases Mughal and Suri architectural styles. Explore its walls, gates, and structures like the Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque and Sher Mandal.

A brief summary to Purana Quila

35, Devi Mandir Rd, Panipat, Panipat Taraf Makhdum Zadgan, Old Housing Board Colony, Haryana, 132103, IN

Monday 4:30 am-10 pm
Tuesday 4:30 am-10 pm
Wednesday 4:30 am-10 pm
Thursday 4:30 am-10 pm
Friday 4:30 am-10 pm
Saturday 4:30 am-10 pm
Sunday 4:30 am-10 pm

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the fort involves a considerable amount of walking.
Carry water, especially during hot weather.
Visit during the cooler months (October to March) for a more pleasant experience.
Check the timings for the sound and light show in advance.

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Getting There

Public Transport

The nearest metro station to Purana Quila is Pragati Maidan. From the metro station, you can hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach the fort. Auto-rickshaws typically charge ₹30-₹50 for the ride. Alternatively, several buses also ply to Purana Qila. Check local bus routes for the most convenient option. Bus fares are generally between ₹10-₹20.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Ola are readily available in Delhi. A short taxi ride from nearby areas such as India Gate or Connaught Place to Purana Quila will typically cost between ₹100-₹200, depending on traffic and distance. Ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare beforehand.
Walking

If you are near the Delhi Zoo or other nearby attractions on Mathura Road, you can walk to Purana Qila. It's a pleasant walk, especially in good weather. Be mindful of traffic along Mathura Road. There are no specific access fees for walking.

Discover more about Purana Quila

Purana Quila, meaning "Old Fort," is one of Delhi's oldest and most historically significant sites. Believed to be built on the site of Indraprastha, the ancient capital of the Pandavas from the Mahabharata, the fort's history stretches back over 3,000 years. The fort's current structure largely dates back to the 16th century, with contributions from both Mughal Emperor Humayun and Sher Shah Suri, founder of the Sur Empire. Humayun began construction of Dinpanah, his new capital, in 1533, but was later defeated by Sher Shah Suri, who renamed the fort Shergarh and added to its structures. The fort later reverted to Mughal control. Enclosed within its massive walls are several notable structures. The Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque, built by Sher Shah in 1541, exemplifies pre-Mughal design with its pointed arches and intricate marble inlays. The Sher Mandal, an octagonal tower, served as Humayun's library after he reclaimed the fort. The fort also features three main gates: the Bada Darwaza, Humayun Gate, and Talaqi Darwaza, each showcasing distinct architectural features. Today, Purana Quila is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into Delhi's rich past. The site also hosts a sound and light show in the evenings, narrating the fort's history through an audio-visual presentation.