Significant in terms of its location, Purana Qila/Old Fort marks the beginning of Mughal career in Delhi. Close to Humayun’s tomb and the holy shrine of Nizam-ud-din Auliya, its eastern side touched R. Yamuna, which changed its course over a period of time. Commissioned by Humayun, the Old fort was developed by Sher Shah Suri. In its present state the fort is incomplete and partly restored. The fort is expansive and houses a number of important structures inside it. It is a well preserved complex popular for its old structures, light and sound show, and theatre and dance performances. Old Fort is also the ancient site of Indraprastha, the city where the Pandavas from Mahabharata lived.
The Purana Qila of Humayun is a daunting Mughal structure. The monument is important in its well-balanced execution of Hindu and Islamic art and architectural traditions. It is built in red sandstone with an occasional use of white and black marble inlay and glazed tiles. A walk through this imposing fort will leave you mesmerised. A few hours would be enough to appreciate this marvel and explore its various monuments. Take a walk around the beautiful Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque, Sher mandal, Talaqi Darwaza, Humayun Darwaza, Baoli and Hammam. The mosque and Sher Mandal are particularly significant for their architecture. While the mosque is a rectangular structure with Hindu decorative motif and Islamic arches and dome, the Sher Mandal is a double-storeyed octagonal structures with pillared kiosks. It is the same structure which met Humayun’s end. The two Darwazas and Hammaman is made out of rubble and looks similar to the enclosure wall of the fort. Learn about the art, architecture and history of the Mughals at this gigantic fort. Join our guided walks for best Old Fort experience. It’s sure to leave you awestruck.
