Red Fort, the largest monument of
Delhi, is situated along the
Yamuna River. An architectural marvel in sand stone, Red Fort extends for 2 km and varies in height from 18 m on the riverside to 33 m on the city side.
Shah Jahan, the Mughal emperor started the construction of the magnificent fort in 1638 and it was completed in 1648. With a circumference of over 2 km, the fort has mainly two entrances – the Delhi Gate and the
Lahore Gate. Both the entrance faces the famous
Chandni Chowk market.
Red Fort houses the impressive Diwan-e-Am and Diwan-e-Khas. The fort also contains Rang Mahal, Mumtaz Mahal,
Khas Mahal,
Moti Masjid, Naubat Khana and
Shahi Burj. On the
Independence Day (August 15), the prime minister of India addresses the people from Red Fort. Traditional Indian goods can be purchased at a normal rate from the basement of the fort.
Red Fort stands testimony to the glorious era of
Mughal Empire. Sound-and-Light Show held during the evening is a major attraction. Red Fort is also known as Lal Quila.
Red fort is open from Sunday to Tuesday. Entrance fee is Rs 5 for Indian nationals and US $2 for foreigners.
