Red Fort, popularly known as Lal Kila, is the majestic tourist destination of Delhi. Originally known as ‘Qila-e-Mubarak’, Red Fort accommodates impressive buildings with elaborate designs and architecture, doubled domes, and magnificent defense walls. Sprawled over a large area of 255 acres, this impressive monument serves as a source of attraction for tourists from all over India and the World.
If you are planning to visit Red Fort, and want to know details about this place, delve into this blog to get detailed information including Red Fort Ticket price, Red Fort ticket booking process, transportation options, history, etc.
Red Fort, Delhi Ticket Price
Red Fort ticket prices for Indian, SAARC, and BIMSTEC Country visitors are Rs. 35. Besides, Foreign visitors are required to pay Rs. 550. There is an additional amount of Rs. 25 people carrying video cameras need to pay. Details related to the Red Fort Delhi Ticket price are mentioned below:
| Tourists | Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Indians | Rs. 35 |
| SAARC and BIMSTEC Country tourists | Rs. 35 |
| Foreigners | Rs. 550 |
Light and Sound Show Ticket price
| Days | Adults | Children |
|---|---|---|
| Weekdays | Rs. 60 | Rs. 20 |
| Weekends | Rs. 80 | Rs. 30 |
Red Fort, Delhi Timings
Red Fort Delhi Timings are 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. You can visit it any day of the week except Monday as it remains closed on Monday.
| Days | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Closed | Closed |
| Tuesday to Sunday | 09:00 AM | 04:30 PM |
Red Fort Light & Sound Show Timings
| Red Fort Light & Sound Show Timings | ||
| Months | Hindi Show Timings | English Show Timings |
| May to August | 7.30 PM to 8.30 PM | 9 PM to 10 PM |
| September & October | 7 PM to 8 PM | 8.30 PM to 9.30 PM |
| November to January | 6 PM to 7 PM | 7.30 PM to 8.30 PM |
| February to April | 7 PM to 8 PM | 8.30 PM to 9.30 PM |
Best Time to Visit Red Fort
Well, you can visit Red Fort any time as per your preferences, however, the best time to explore this place is between October and March during the winter season due to the favorable weather conditions. The temperature remains pleasant between 8°C and 21°C, allowing visitors to delve into the historical richness of the Red Fort without feeling discomfort and inconvenience.
Online Ticket Booking Process Step by Step
To book tickets for Red Fort Delhi online, follow the step-by-step “Red Fort ticket booking” procedure that is mentioned below:
- First, enter into your preferred browser and type the Heritage Monuments of India on the search bar. Various results will feature on the search engine results page. Get into the official website. To directly reach the official website, tap on the link https://asi.payumoney.com/.
- After opening the website, Select the city Delhi and the monument “Red Fort”.
- Then, choose the preferred date on the calendar and the timing and proceed to the next page.
- Now, select the nationality, add the number of visitors, enter the email, and fill in the captcha.
- Then, enter the required details such as name and ID-related information.
- After filling in all the details, you are required to make the payment. Choose any of the online options among UPI, Net banking, etc.
- As you complete the payment process, you will receive a message in your mail, confirming your booking status and including all the other details about booked ticket.
- Take the printout of the booked ticket or download it on your device to show it at the entrance.
How to Reach Red Fort, Delhi?
Red Fort is a popular location in Delhi, conveniently connected to the main locations through various transport options, including Bus, Train, Flights, and metro. Delve into this guide, to get details about all the transportation ways you can utilize to reach Red Fort, Delhi.
1) By Bus-
People preferring the road option, can take buses from major points such as ISBT Kashmiri Gate, ISBT Anand Vihar, and ISBT at Sarai Kale Khan. Both AC and non-AC buses run from these terminals.
2) By Train-
The capital city of Delhi is linked by train conveniently to all the Indian States except Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram. There are many railway stations in Delhi such as New Delhi, Old Delhi, Hazrat Nizamuddin, Delhi Sarai Rohilla, Delhi Cantt, and Delhi Safdarjung, offering easy access to the Different parts of India.
3) By Airport-
Indira Gandhi International Airport is the nearest airport to Red Fort, Delhi, situated at approx. 23 km from it. From here, visitors can get both domestic and international flights at different terminals.
4) By Metro-
The nearest metro station to Red Fort is Lal Quila metro station, located 0.38 km from this place.
Red Fort Nearest Metro Station
The closest metro station to Red Fort is Lal Quila metro station. It is an underground station, located on the violet line of the Delhi Metro. The distance between Red Fort and Lal Quila metro station is approx. 0.38 km, providing easy access through autos or taxis.
| Tourist place | The nearest metro station | Distance |
| Red Fort | Lal Quila Metro Station | Approx. 0.38 km |
Light and Sound Show
The Light and Sound show at Red Fort introduces the historical brilliance of the fort and Delhi. It is a one-hour audiovisual show that begins with the story of the selection of this location by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to build the fort and further goes to signifying the efforts taken by various rulers of the Mughal dynasty to protect the fort and India from intruders from different parts of the world.
Additionally, the show takes through the notable events that defined the Indian freedom movement. Audio segments include the few parts of speeches of Indian freedom fighters Mahatma Gandhi and Chandra Sekhar Azad. The show concludes with the speech given by Jawaharlal Nehru and the National Anthem.
The shows are featured both in English and Hindi. The Hindi show timing is 6 pm and the English show timings are 7.30 pm. Tickets need to be purchased separately to attend the show.
Why to visit Red Fort, Delhi?
Red Fort, Delhi is a spectacular tourist place, established by Mughal king Shah Jahan as a palace of Shahjahanabad, the capital city of the Mughal emperor. Constructed with red sandstone, this fort holds the national importance. Due to its historical significance, it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Architectural brilliance and graceful marblework are the exclusive features of this site. Holding the historical richness within itself, Red Fort served the purpose of a site to protest and rebel against Colonial powers in earlier times.
Historical Significance of Red Fort, Delhi
The history of Red Fort, Delhi begins in 1639 when it was established by Mughal ruler Shah Jahan when he decided to relocate the capital from Agra to Delhi on the bank of Yamuna. The responsibility of construction was given to Architect Ustad Ahmad Lahauri, which was completed in 1648, and took almost a decade. Standing alongside the Salimgarh Fort built in 1546 by Islam Shah Suri, Red Fort’s historical richness is not just limited to the period of Mughal rule, but to the course of the freedom struggle. With its timeless significance, this fort is the prime Indian attraction as each year, the Indian Prime Minister hoists the flag on Independence Day, August 15th since India gained freedom.
Red Fort Architecture
The architectural elegance of Red Fort Delhi is led by Ustad Ahmad Lahori. This enormous monument has the shape of an irregular octagon, accommodating long east and west sides and two main gates on the western side and the southern side. The walls and other few parts were built using red sandstone and in the remaining parts, marble was used. Here, you can witness gorgeous structures such as Diwan-e-‘Aam, Diwan-e-Khass, Tasbih-Khana, Nahr-e-Bihisht, Delhi Fort Museum- Mumtaz-Mahal, Hammam, Moti-Masjid, Hayat-Bakhsh-Bagh, Chhatta-Chowk, Zafar-Mahal, Rang-Mahal, etc. After the arrival of the British, it came under their control and went through numerous modifications.
Things to Explore in Red Fort, Delhi
There are various attractions you can explore in Red Fort. Details related to these attractions can be found below.
Delhi Gate-
Delhi Gate also known as Dilli Darwaza is situated on the southern wall of the Red Fort, towards the entrance. Its outward appearance shows a similarity to the Lahori Gate of the fort. It was established during the Shah Jahan rule and Barbican facing the West was created during Aurangzeb’s reign. It has three arched panels in a rectangular, cusped, and square shape, edged by towers of semi-octagonal shape and covering of octagonal-shaped open pavilions. The pavilion roof is built of white stone and the gate is constructed with red sandstone. Between two pavilions, there is a small canopy with seven miniature domes. These walls have flame-shaped fortifications. Between the inner and outer gates, stone elephants are present with no riders.
Lahori Gate-
Lahori Gate is the main entrance situated on the western wall. It holds utmost significance as in this place, the Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag every Independence Day. It got the name “Lahori” due to its direction towards the Lahore the city of Lahore. Like the Delhi Gate, the Lahori Gate has three stories with arched panels in square, rectangular, and cusped shapes. Semi-octagonal towers enclose open octagonal pavilions. The gate is built up red sandstone and the pavilions are made of white stone. Between two pavilions, they are covering, including 7 domes. As you enter through Lahori Gate, a covered market area known as Chatta Chowk will be unveiled.
Chhatta Chowk-
Chhata Chowk is a vibrant market, situated behind the Lahori Gate. As you enter the market, you will get a glimpse of spectacular Mughal architecture. Chhatta Chowk which means the covered market has two storied flats including 32 arched bays. Presenting a long passage in the shape of an arch, arched bays are the shops selling specialized items related to the royal Mughal times. Here, you can find items such as precious stones, gems, silverware, and gold to velvet, silk, and brocades. In the 17th century, following Shah Jahan’s visit to the market of Peshawar, this market was created. In the 20th century, the market was refurbished due to the enclosing of arches, that were spoiling the original touch. Passing across this market will take you through a drum house named Naqqar-Khana or Naubat Khana. This place was used to be the spot for ceremonial music in earlier times. From here, you can get access to Diwan-e-‘Am. On the upper Storey, there is an Indian War Memorial Museum where you can witness various kinds of exhibits.
Diwan-e-Aam-
Diwan-i-Aam served the purpose of the hall for public audiences. This hall has the shape of a rectangle, where Mughal kings used to have public hearings. There is a massive railing that was used to separate the emperor from the people. Additionally, it comprises an alcove with a marble canopy which served as the sitting place of the king who used to address the issues presented by the masses. Embellished with stucco work, it exudes elegance. When it comes to the panels of the thrones, The pietra dura or the Parchin Kari work was crafted by a Florentine artist named Austin de Bordeaux. Behind this hall, there is a huge courtyard consisting of a range of artistic structures.
The Rang Mahal-
Popularly known as the Palace of Colours, Red Fort Rang Mahal was a harem, and later when the British took over the fort, it was used as the mess hall. The rang mahal is the big hall, including an arched façade and the southern and northern ends with the domed compartments. The hall’s interiors are pained with vibrant hues, imparted it the name, Rang Mahal. The ceilings of free structures comprise small pieces of mirror, thus giving it the name of Sheesh Mahal, meaning palace of mirrors. The center of Red Fort Rang Mahal features a marble basin with an ivory fountain, letting a shallow water channel flow known as Nahr-i-Bihisht which means stream of paradise.
Diwan-e-Khas-
Diwan-i-khas is the Hall designed to address the Private audiences. It is a grand hall with exquisite interiors. It was used by the king to hold private meetings with his royal guests. The chamber has a rectangular shape with arched entrances developed on sturdy piers, having floral designs. There are wonderful carvings on the arches and the ceilings are decorated with pillared umbrellas enhancing its overall aesthetic. On the walls of the halls, holy verses are imprinted. Earlier, the center of the chamber had the famous peacock throne that was robbed by the Persian conqueror Nadir Shah. At present, the throne rests in the New York Metropolitan Museum.
Khas Mahal-
Khas Mahal as its name refers to, Special palace, designed especially as a place of residence for the Mughal emperor. This mahal houses the sitting room known as baithak; a wardrobe room known as tosha-khana; a sleeping room called khutbah and Tasbih-khana which is a chamber for beads counting. The internal part of the Mahal comprises colorful floral designs with partly golden ceilings. The eastern side of the Khas Mahal will take you through the projecting tower known as Muthamman Burj. In earlier times, this octagonal tower served as a spot from where the emperor used to spear in front of the people. In 1808, the Balcony was attached to the Burj by Akbar Shah II, and later in 1911, this balcony was used by King George V and Queen Mary to show their appearance before the public.
Red Fort Museum-
The Red Fort Museum is a must-see location in the Red Fort due to its significance as comprising the artifacts belonging to the Mughal Period. It is also known as Mumtaz Mahal of the Lal Kila and Palace Museum, accommodating 6 galleries, each with an extensive pile of items. Here, from manuscripts, stone inscriptions, and miniature paintings to royal orders and other exhibits from the era of Akbar I and other Mughal rulers, you can delve into a rich history of the Mughal times. The Museum has also a separate gallery, featuring a distinct variety of jade items such as swords, daggers, celadon, porcelain, tiles, textiles, dresses, carpets, pillows, curtains, etc.
Bahadur Shah Zafar gallery:
This gallery in the museum shows the wonderful items of the last Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah II and his queen like a rose water sprinkler, power horns, a toilet box, a pen holder inkpot, Bahadur Shah; ‘s prison photograph of Rangoon, etc.
Portraits-
The Red Fort museum accommodates the portraits of renowned court poets like Mirza Ghalib, Bahadur Shah, Bahadur Shah’s letter to Queen Victoria, Bahadur Shah and the Pataudi Nawab’s used weapons, and Zinat Mahal ivory painting, etc.
Hamman-
Inside the Lal Kila complex, you can explore a Hamman, a space for a royal bath, including Hot and Cold water provisions. Created with marble, it has three primary chambers, parted by a corridor. Its designs are adorned with colorful stones.
Pearl Mosque-
The western part of Hamman features the Moti-Masjid known as the Pearl Mosque. This mosque was not part of the original structure of the Red Fort and was later built by Aurangzeb as a private mosque. This mosque has three domes with copper plating and doors are also covered in copper-plated leaves carvings. It also houses raised prayer mats crafted with black marble, called musalla.
Hayat-Bakhsh-Bagh-
Walking north of the Moti Masjid will let you witness the Hayat-Bakhsh-Bagh, the Life-Giving Garden. In the middle of this garden, there is a pavilion, founded by Bahadur Shah II in 1842. Also known as Zafar Mahal, this pavilion is created with red stone. This garden comprises fountains, tunnels, tanks, landscapes, and a vast collection of plants.
Mehtab Bagh-
There is a small garden named Mehtab Bagh, the Moonlight Garden in the Qila. Currently, the museum is under the Archaeological Survey of India.
Activities to do at Red Fort, Delhi
There are diverse kinds of activities you can indulge in while visiting Red Fort, Delhi.
- Light and Sound Show- If you are curious to know about the historical background of the fort and Delhi, you should not miss exploring the Light and Sound Show. The show is around one hour long, and features in both Hindi and english language. It starts with unveiling the reasons for choosing this place by Mughal rulers to build the structure and stretches to the historical movements that played a significant role in defining the Indian Freedom struggle.
- Delhi Fort Museum- The Red Fort Archaeological Museum is situated in Mumtaz Mahal of the Red Fort Delhi. Also known as the Palace Museum, it was established in 1911 and is available in Naubat Khana, comprising Artifacts, Calligraphy, Paintings, Fabrics, and other relics of the Mughal Period.
- Mahal and Palaces- Red Fort comprises many Palaces like Mumtaz Mahal, Rang Mahal, Khas Mahal, Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-khas, and Moti Masjid etc. These palaces uncover the Mughal history, including the culture and lifestyle of the royal families prevalent during the Mughal era.
Shopping Spots Near Red Fort, Delhi
There are various markets or shopping places available near Red Fort, which are mentioned below.
- Chandni Chowk- Chandni Chowk is a bustling shopping center, including handiwork, furniture, garments, dress materials, food, gems, etc. It is available a short distance away from Red Fort.
- Bhagirath Palace- Bhagirath Palace is the largest wholesale market in Asia where you can find diverse light fixtures, lamps, and lanterns for different occasions. These Fixtures are spectacular and budget-friendly, well suited for enhancing festive vibes. From Vintage chandeliers to steampunk lamps, fairy lights, and café-type lamps, you can get a variety of items here. Additionally, you can buy electronic items at affordable costs.
- Khari Baoli- Khari Baoli is the largest spice market in Asia. It is popular for eye-watering chili, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and other spices, including herbs, nuts, and wholesale grocery items like rice and tea. It was started in the 17th century, letting you delve into the vibrancy of various colors, smells, and tastes.
- Paharganj Market- If you are a shopaholic, Paharganj Market is an ideal location for you. After entering the main market lane, you get to witness shops, varying from books, clothes, bags, handbags, backpacks, etc. Additionally, it comprises an extensive collection of footwear, including casual wear, formal shoes, and sports shoes.
Popular Tourist Places Near Red Fort, Delhi
If you have spare time from your planned visit to Red Fort, you can explore other tourist destinations that are available near Red Fort. In the table given below, you can get information about the different tourist places located near Red Fort, Delhi.
| Tourist Destination | Distance from Red Fort |
|---|---|
| Jama Masjid | 1.1 km |
| Chandni Chowk | 1.5 km |
| Raj Ghat | 1.8 km |
| India Gate | 7.7 km |
| Qutub Minar | 18.3 km |
| Lotus Temple | 16.1 km |
| Akshardham Temple | 8.1 km |
| National Gandhi Museum | 2 km |
| Gurudwara Bangla Sahib | 6.0 km |
| Humayun’s Tomb | 8.8 km |
| Birla Mandir | 7.2 km |
| Lodhi Garden | 9.7 km |
| National Gallery of Modern Art | 6.9 km |
Red Fort, Delhi – India
FAQs
Q.1. What is the entry fee for Red Fort Delhi?
A.1. Red Fort ticket price is Rs. 35 for Indians, SAARC, and BIMSTEC Country visitors. Foreigners are required to pay Rs. 550 to get entry into the Red Fort, Delhi.
Q.2. What is the timing of the light show in Red Fort?
A.2. The time of the Hindi Light show is 6:00 PM and the tourists who want to watch the show in English Language, can watch it at 7:30 PM.
Q.3. How much time is enough for Red Fort?
A.3. Red Fort is a massive structure sprawled on a huge area, including mahals, gardens, museum, etc. thus it will take approx. 2-3 hours to explore this place.
Q.4. Is mobile allowed in Red Fort?
A.4. Yes, Mobile is allowed in Red Fort. ‘
Q.5. On which day Red Fort is closed?
A.5. Red Fort remains closed on Mondays and national holidays.
Q.6. How much money was spent on Red Fort?
A.6. It is reported that around 1 crore has been spent on constructing this marvelous Red fort.
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