Purana Qila

Purana Qila, or Old Fort, is a historic fortification in New Delhi with origins dating back to the 16th century, though the site is much older. The fort's massive walls enclose a peaceful park with a lake, where visitors can enjoy boat rides. Inside, the Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque and Sher Mandal (a library) showcase fine Indo-Islamic architecture. An archaeological museum displays artifacts found during excavations. The evening sound-and-light show narrates Delhi's history. It's a serene escape from the city's hustle, offering a glimpse into the layers of history that define the capital.

Don't miss

• Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque with its five-arched prayer hall
• Sher Mandal, an octagonal tower used as a library
• Archaeological Museum with artifacts from the site
• Boat rides on the lake
• Evening sound-and-light show

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Purana Qila

Cheapest way inNew Delhi and Old Delhi Tour Full Day5★ · 136 travelers4–8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$10 per personSee dates →Best full dayOld & New Delhi City Tour – Half or Full Day Options Available4.9★ · 5,222 travelers4–7 hoursFree cancellationFrom$37 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleOld and New Delhi Private City Tour5★ · 31 travelers~8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$20 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Open daily from sunrise to sunset. Museum hours 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Fridays.
• Buy tickets at the gate; no online booking. Carry small bills.
• The sound-and-light show starts after sunset; check timings at the gate.
• No food inside the fort; eat before or after your visit.

A bit of history

Purana Qila was built by the Mughal emperor Humayun in the 1530s, later expanded by Sher Shah Suri. Excavations have revealed pottery and structures from the Mauryan period (300 BCE), supporting the belief that the legendary city of Indraprastha once stood here.