Red Fort

Most famous as ‘Lal Quila’ in English it transcribes into Red Fort. Shah Jahan, the Mughal Emperor built this colossal monument during the 17^th century when he shifted his capital from Agra to the walled city of old Delhi. He was ambitious about the building and this place seemed to provide him ample opportunity to do so.

The fort lies along the Yamuna River that feeds the various moats that surround the walls of the fort. Its massive walls are built in red sandstone, and hence the name – Red Fort. The construction of the fort began in 1638 and took 10 years to complete. Even after completion, many additions were incorporated, especially during the reign of Aurangzeb.

Representative of the pomp and power of the Mughals, the fort houses four main structures within its confines- The Diwan-i-aam, Diwan-i-Khas, Nahr-i-Behisht, Zenana, and Moti Masjhid. Diwan-i-aam was the Hall of Public Audience, from where the emperor would listen to the problems and complaints of common folk. He held all this private meetings in the Diwan-i-Khas or Hall of Private Audiences, with the rest of them having their own individual purpose.

Even in the present times, it remains to be the largest monument in the Delhi, with a few of its walls extending to an astounding length of 2kms.

Every year on Independence Day, August 15, the Prime Minister of India hoists the National Flag at the Red Fort and broadcasts a speech from here. An added attraction for all visiting tourists is the sound and lights show organized here every night. It is the most interesting way to learn about the history of the Mughal Rule in India.

The tea house on the campus, although not much in its historic shape has been converted into a fully functional restaurant. The place also has a small retail mall where tourists can purchase a vast variety of Indian Handicrafts, paintings and jewellery.