Purana Qila

Purana Qila, meaning "Old Fort," is an ancient fort located in Delhi, India. It is believed to have been built by the Afghan king Sher Shah Suri in the mid-16th century, although the site has been occupied by various rulers throughout history. Here is a detailed guide to Purana Qila, including its history, architecture, and notable features.

History:

The site of Purana Qila has a long and storied history dating back thousands of years. Excavations have revealed evidence of human habitation dating back to the 3rd century BCE, and the site is believed to have been the location of the legendary city of Indraprastha, mentioned in the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata.

In the 16th century, the Afghan king Sher Shah Suri built a new fort on the site, which became known as Purana Qila. The fort was later modified and expanded by the Mughal emperors Humayun and Sher Shah's successors.

Things not to miss in and around purana qila 

Purana Qila is an ancient fort with a rich history and plenty of things to see and explore. Here are some of the things you shouldn't miss when visiting Purana Qila and its surrounding areas:

Purana Qila: The fort itself is the main attraction and a must-visit. Built in the 16th century by the Mughal emperor Humayun, it is a fine example of Mughal architecture with its massive walls, gates, and bastions.

Sound and Light Show: Don't miss the sound and light show at Purana Qila that takes place every evening, which depicts the history of the fort and Delhi.

National Zoological Park: Located just across the road from Purana Qila, this zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including tigers, lions, elephants, and more.

Humayun's Tomb: Located about 6 km from Purana Qila, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun and is a great example of Mughal architecture.

Nizamuddin Dargah: This is the mausoleum of the famous Sufi saint Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya and is located about 4 km from Purana Qila. It's a popular pilgrimage site and also offers qawwali performances in the evenings.

India Gate: Located about 5 km from Purana Qila, this iconic monument is a war memorial for Indian soldiers who died in World War I and is a popular spot for picnics and evening walks.

Lotus Temple: This beautiful temple, shaped like a lotus flower, is located about 10 km from Purana Qila and is a must-visit for its unique architecture and serene atmosphere.

Visiting Purana Qila:

Purana Qila is located in the heart of Delhi and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. The fort is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free. However, there is a small fee to enter the Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque and the Archaeological Museum.

The best time to visit Purana Qila is during the winter season, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for outdoor sightseeing. During this time, the average temperature ranges between 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit), making it ideal for exploring the fort's architectural marvels and enjoying the beautiful gardens and lakes in the complex.

It's also important to note that the fort is closed on Fridays, so plan your visit accordingly. Additionally, it's advisable to visit the fort in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the scorching heat and crowds during the peak hours.