Purana Qila Delhi: Tickets, Timings, Photos, History, Nearest Metro and More

There’s nothing that speaks about the historical and architectural glory of Delhi like Purana Qila, meaning “Old Fort” in Hindi. 

The ancient fortress, nestled in the heart of the metropolis, cradles a history of empires, wars, and the passage of time that shines through. Counted among the oldest forts of the capital, Purana Qila boasts grandeur and historical significance parallel to none.

If you’re considering visiting Purana Qila in Delhi, it’s essential to arm yourself with some background information to ensure a smooth, hassle-free visit. Guess what, our travel guide shares every little insight visitors need to know before visiting this architectural marvel that beckons the world.

Purana Qila Delhi – Overview

The Purana Qila, which was built by the Afghan king, Sher Shah Suri in the 16th century, is a vast complex measuring 2 kilometers. 

Its red sandstone walls, gateways, and grand architecture express an interplay of Mughal and Afghan design features. 

The fact that the fort sits on the banks of the River Yamuna makes it even more attractive, and one of the best place to visit in Delhi.

Build in	1530s
Status	UNESCO World Heritage Site
Location	Mehrauli
Constructed By	Qutb-ud-din Aibak
Preserved By	Archaeological Survey of India
Architecture	Indo-Islamic Afghan
Material Used	Delhi quartziteRed and yellow sandstoneWhite and black marbleBurnt bricks
Dimensions	Height — 18 Meters Length — 1.5 km

Purana Qila Tickets

Entry to Purana Qila Delhi is allowed in exchange for a nominal fee for Indian as well as foreign visitors. The ticket prices are as follows:

• Indian Nationals: INR 30 per person
• Foreign Nationals: INR 300 per person
• Children: Free (Below 15 Only)

Purana Qila Timings

Purana Qila, or Old Fort Delhi, is open from sunrise to sunset every day of the week, allowing ample time for exploration and soaking in the historical ambiance.

• Purana Qila Visiting Hours: 7 AM to 5 PM
• Old Fort Visiting Days: All days

Attractions or Activities at Old Fort Delhi

Purana Qila Delhi promises a pleasant visit by allowing visitors to explore a range of attractive spots and take up several activities.

The two-storey octagonal tower constructed of red sandstone that is within the fortress is said to have been built by Emperor Sher Shah Suri as a personal observatory and library. 

It is designed with a blend of Timurid and Safavid architecture and is the only surviving palace structure inside the palace walls. 

This Purana Kila Mosque is located inside the structure and was a part of the medieval architecture complex and is believed to gae been constructed in 1541 CE. 

The mosque exhibits exquisite carvings and a spacious courtyard and soon became a symbol of Humauyn’s rural aspiration. 

The mosque has two internal staircases located into end bays but lacks any kind of inscriptions. 

In the evening, visitors can see an exciting sound and light show that tells the story of Delhi and Purana Qila. The blinking lights enhance the beauty of quila ready to immerse visitors.

The show showcases the story of Delhi was destroyed seven times and rebuild, opening with the rule Prithvi Raj Chauhan and ending with the launch of Delhi Metro. 

The fort is encompassed by a calm lake, which boats are allowed to go through and add a special touch to the old structures. The boating was suspended in 2016, however it started again after the G20 summit making it one of the most fun places to visit in Delhi with friends. 

The timings of boating are from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm and will cost you around ₹100 for a 20-minute ride. 

Within the fort enclosure is the museum that opened on 22nd Feb 2005 and  displays various artifacts and relics uncovered by the excavations, giving background information about Delhi’s cultural heritage.

The museum opens from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and stays closed on Fridays. You can witness various objests of pottery recovered during the excavations from the stratas of different periods has been put on display.

It is an excellent place for spending time having a picnic on green lawns and gardens within the ancient fortress. You can enjoy some quality time with your family, especially with kids, inside the fort premises. 

The lush gardens offer a charming setting for family and lovers to reunite and have a good time. 

The green lush surroundings and the lake at the Old Fort Delhi, attract a variety of bird species, making the fortress a must-visit for bird watching and embracing the fauna. 

It is also photographer’s delight with the enchanting nature, historical monuments and a beautiful lake. Photography enthusiasts will find endless inspiration here. 

Purana Qila frequently serves as a venue for cultural events, encompassing music concerts, dance showcases, and theatrical performances. 

Attending events will surely be a memorable experience with the rich cultural tapestry creating a unique blend of the past with the present. 

To see more of Purana Qila, watch this YouTube video by Prasar Bharati Archives: 

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Old Fort Delhi Dos and Don’ts

Listed below are some of the things that you must consider before visiting the Purana Qila Delhi!

Purana Qila Must-Try Foods

After a day of exploration, visitors can indulge in some delectable street food offerings near Purana Qila. From piping hot parathas to mouth-watering chaats, here are some must try food near the Fort ~ 

1. Masal Chai at The Lota Cafe 

Address — National Crafts Museum, Bhairon Marg, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi 

Price — ₹70

2. Galouti kebab at Delhi Golf Club

Address — Dr. Zakir Hussain Marg, Golf Links, New Delhi 

Price — ₹675

3. Butter Chicken at Gulati Restaurant

Address — 6, Pandara Road Market, Pandara Road, New Delhi

Price — ₹625 

Rules & Regulations

To ensure that this historical monument is preserved for future generation, you should adhere to the subsequent rules: 

• Photography is allowed for personal use only. Commercial photography requires prior permission.
• Drones and other aerial devices are strictly prohibited within the fort complex.
• Visitors are requested to refrain from touching or leaning against fragile structures.
• Smoking and consumption of alcohol is not allowed within premises.
• Any form of vandalism or defacement of historical monuments will result in strict action.
• Climbing on the monuments is strictly prohibited. 

What’s the Best Time to Visit the Old Fort in Delhi?

The best time to visit depends on individual and their preferences, here are some of the best time to visit ~

• Weather — Purana Qila in Delhi is one of the best places to visit in January, or you can visit it between October to March when the weather is pleasant, making exploration more enjoyable. 

• Evening — Visiting in the evenings will allow you to witness the light and sound show and a beautiful sunset! 

• Weekdays and weekends — Visiting during weekends will be quite inconvenient since it gets a bit crowded. So visit on weekdays to experience the serenity of the place.  

How to Reach Purana Qila Delhi?

Purana Qila is conveniently located in the heart of Delhi and can be reached via various modes of transportation:

• By Metro: Purana Qila nearest metro station is Supreme Court (Pragati Maidan) on the Blue Line, from where the fort is a short auto-rickshaw or taxi ride away.
• By Bus: Several public buses ply to and from Purana Qila, connecting it to different parts of the city. The following transit lines have routes that pass near Purana Qila ~ 181A, 181B, 351, 355, 39, 807, 894CL, and 953. 
• By Car: Visitors can also drive to the fort and avail parking facilities available nearby.

Old Fort Contact Details

If there is anything else you would like to enquire about, contact the fort authorities of the Fort. 

• For inquiries and further information, visitors can contact:
• Purana Qila, Mathura Road, New Delhi, India
• Phone: +91-11-24357594

Nearby Famous Places

Visiting Purana Quila will take around 3 hours to half of your day, so in case you get the time, you can visit the below-given places located near Purana Quila: 

1. India Gate: A prominent landmark and war memorial located a short distance from Purana Qila.
2. National Zoological Park: Ideal for a family outing, this sprawling zoo houses a diverse range of wildlife species.
3. Humayun’s Tomb: Another architectural marvel, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its Mughal-era splendor.
4. National Museum: Explore India’s rich cultural heritage through a vast collection of artifacts and artworks housed in this museum.
5. Lotus Temple: A symbol of peace and tranquility, this stunning lotus-shaped temple is a must-visit for its architectural beauty and serene ambiance.

The Final Word

From its towering walls to its intricate carvings, every corner of the ancient Purana Qila recreates a time long gone.

A visit to Old Fort Delhi promises a soul-stirring experience in the heart of the city, but away from the cacophony of the urban rush. If you’re planning to visit it, brace yourself to create a memory for a lifetime within its storied confines.