Built in 1538 by then Mughal Emperor Humayun, the Old fort, also know as Purana Qila is one of the oldest monuments in Delhi.

Purana Qila is a testament of utility over luxury, unlike other forts from the Mughal era; Purana Qila did not originally contain any palaces, administrative and recreational buildings. Instead the Purana Qila was built with single aim, to protect the City of Delhi that Emperor Humayun had created. It is also believed to be built on the site of the ancient city of Indraprastha; recent archeological excavations in the forts have unearthed relics as old as 1000BC.

Unfortunately in 1539-1540 Humayun’s arch rival Sher Shah Suri managed to capture not only Purana Qila and Delhi but also the city of Agra. After capturing the Purana Qila, Sher Shah Suri erected Qal’a-I-Kunha Masjid (masque) in its premises along with Sher Mandal.

It was only after the death of She Shah Suri in 1545 that Humayun managed to recapture Delhi and Agra with the help of Persians. After recapturing Purana Qila, Humayun converted Sher Mandal in to an observatory and library. Rumors has it, Humayun died after falling from the steps of Sher Mandal, after which the Purana Qila was considered cursed by the Mughal’s and was abandoned.

Today most of the old fort’s walls are in shambles, of the three gates of the fort (Humayun Darwaza, Talaqi Darwaza and Bara Darwaza) only Bara Darwaza is open for public.

However Qal’a-I-Kunha Masjid and Sher Mandal have stood the test of time and still look spectacular.

Qal’a-I-Kunha Masjid

Sher Mandal

The gates of the old fort are opened every morning after sunrise and this is the best time to come here for photography and sightseeing. Though leave the tripod at home, since one need to have written permissions from the archeological survey of India to use/carry it inside the fort. There is also an extra fee on the usage of video cameras (apart from the entry fee), while usage of still camera is permitted for free. One can also visit Delhi Zoo or indulge in boating next to the Bara Darwaza.

Entrance Fee: Indian citizens – Rs. 5/- per head, others: US $ 2 or Indian Rs. 100/- per head (Free entry to children up to 15 years)