Purana Qila, New Delhi
Purana Qila is the oldest continuously inhabited fortress which forms the center of the fortified city complex within its walls. It has been an iconic landmark for Delhi, where it stands situated and for the numerous ruling dynasties who have acceded to the Sultanate of Delhi. Excavations have been able to identify artefacts and ruins in the area to as far as 3rd century BC, dating back even earlier than the Mauryan Dynasty under whose rule India reached such glorious heights it attracted a lot of foreign attention from invading forces. It was after the Mauryan Dynasty rule that the Sultanate of Delhi saw a succession of Mughal forces reigning over Delhi. Prior to that all the ruling dynasties at the helm were Hindu royalty and the city was known as Indraprashtha. The name Delhi was accorded by the Mughal Emperors and under the British rule, the design of the new capital of India was designed with the Purana Qila as the centre.
The Purana Qila as it stands today is a citadel complex which houses many remnants and ruins of the past including sections of the fort area that have been designated for specific purposes or converted to a mausoleum to pay homage and tribute. There is a vast water body surrounding the Purana Qila which also plies ferry services for tourists. It has gates on all four sides of the fort marked by the four directions. The main gate is a massive arched gateway which still remains with successive smaller arches leading to the front. The Purana Qila also holds within its premises the Khairul Manzil, a mosque for congregational prayers and a Madarsa. Inside is also a private library that was used by the Emperor but entry to it is restricted.
Location
Pragati Maidan Metro Station
Timings
Purana Qila open at 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM - All Days
Entry Fees
20 INR (online payment) or 25 INR (cash payment) for Indian, SAARC & BIMSTEC Nationals and 250 INR (online payment) or 300 INR (cash payment) for foreign Nationals. (Allow free children up to 15 years of age)
Photography
Free of cost
Videography
25 INR per Video Camera