OLD FORT OF DELHI / PURANA QUILA Location : South-East of India Gate Completed By : Afgan Ruler Sher Shah Suri Famous For : Lodhi Style of Architecture Major Attractions : Sher Mandal, Qila-i-Kuhna Masjid

So Old...That You Can Feel Drops of Time Dripping From Its Walls

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'As long as there are people on this earth, may this edifice be frequented, and people be happy in it'

-- Inscriptions on a Mosque inside the Quila

As you will move from the bustling quarters of Lajpat Nagar in South Delhi towards the serene zoological park, you will find a colossal stone fort standing in mute testimony to your left. Legend has it that, the fort nestles on the ruins of the princely state of Indraprastha, the original city of Delhi. Today, every stone wholeheartedly sings the drama of blood and blade, enacted between two great dynasties of Indian history. Although the construction was started by Humayun, the Afgan ruler, Sher Shah - who briefly punctured the Mughal reign by defeating Humayun - completed it during his raj during 1538-45, before Humayun regained control of India. Interestingly, the fortress offers an impeccable blend of Mughal, Hindu and Afgan architecture, that creates an impressive sight. There is also a shimmering lake of emerald waters where tourists can enjoy boating in the afternoon, cruising on tranquil waters under the shadow of history. So are you in?

Ancient But Still Rocking...

Wander around the humoungous walls that still guard the glory of this stately fort, and you will come across three exquisite gateways punctuating the fort from three directions. The fourth one was guarded bya moat which was linked to river Yamuna. Entering from the south gate, you'll see a small octagonal red sandstone tower on your right. Known as 'Sher Mandal', it was later used by Humayun as his library and observatory. Some Mughal historical documents indicate that it was while descending the stairs of this tower one day in 1556 that he slipped, fell and received injuries from which he later died. Rumours exist that after his death, the Mughals, considering the fort to be cursed one, vacated the structure and built their capital in a new fort, now known as Lal Quila, to defend Delhi from foreign invasions.

Just beyond it is the Qila-i-Kuhna Masjid, or Mosque of Sher Shah, which, unlike the fort itself, is in fairly good condition. Remember, the mosque is the epitome of Delhi's Lodi style of architecture, where you can see a perfect blend of Hindu elements (square pillars) with Muslim arches and domes, to crate the first genuinely secular architectural style. Gaze at the mihrabs (prayer niches) and you will be overwhelmed to see those richly decorated concentric arches embellishing its walls. . From the prayer hall, staircases lead you to the second storey from where you can enjoy a splendid vista of the fort with the greens of Delhi at the backdrop.

Just inside the main gate, from where you will enter, there is a small archaeological museum, which beside housing curious Mughal artefacts also offers magnificent views of New Delhi from atop. Tourists may also see archaic pottery and other pieces of art and handicrafts, dating back to the Mahabharata era, compiled from recent excavations conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India. These excavations have also thrown up material, like coins, associated with the Gupta (about 4-5th century AD) and post-Gupta ages (700-800AD) of Indian history as well, which can be seen in the museum itself. Don't forget to enjoy a memorable boat ride on the emerald waters of the Purana Qila moat with your loved ones. Although it's little more than a large, stagnant pool, the pedal boats here are a popular source of entertainment among Delhites.

How To Reach

The Old Fort is situated to the south-east of India gate and to the north of Humayun's tomb in New Delhi. There is no entry fee and is open from sunrise to sunset. The boats are available for a nominal price per hour rate. Since it is situated at a stone's throw from India Gate, reaching to this ancient fort is a matter of joke for every tourist.