Delhi: Purana Qila Walking Tour
ID: GYG1111910-1707217
Category:
Country: India
Country: India
Duration: 03:00 hours
Description
Explore the historic Purana Qila in Delhi on a guided walking tour. Discover the Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque, Sher Mandal, and the fort’s ramparts.
Begin your tour at Bara Darwaza, the majestic main gate built of red sandstone and grey quartzite. This 16th-century gate has stood since the time of Sher Shah Suri and still functions as the main entrance. Notice the arched balconies, domed chhatris, and the sheer size — this was a statement of power and control.
Walk straight in and head to the Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque, a stunning example of Indo-Islamic architecture built in 1541 by Sher Shah Suri. Admire the five arched entrances, intricate calligraphy, and the mihrab (prayer niche) made of red, white, and black marble.
Next, walk over to Sher Mandal, a two-story octagonal tower that now stands in partial isolation. It’s believed to have been started by Sher Shah and later used by Emperor Humayun as a library and observatory. This is also the tragic spot where Humayun fell to his death in 1556 while descending the stairs after a prayer.
Head toward the eastern side of the fort to walk along the ramparts. From here, you get a great view of the Humayun Gate, the rear gate facing the direction of Humayun's Tomb. Also enjoy views of the moat (now dry), once filled with water from the nearby Yamuna River, which once flowed just beside the fort.
Close to the mosque, you’ll see fenced-off areas where archaeological digs have revealed layers of Delhi’s past — from Mauryan (3rd century BCE) to Mughal periods. Some potsherds and artifacts found here are preserved in the on-site Purana Qila Museum (a small but worthwhile stop if open).
Exit the monument area and walk to the lake just outside the fort’s walls. Paddle boating here gives you a great view of the fort’s massive structure reflected in the water — a serene end to your historical walk.
Begin your tour at Bara Darwaza, the majestic main gate built of red sandstone and grey quartzite. This 16th-century gate has stood since the time of Sher Shah Suri and still functions as the main entrance. Notice the arched balconies, domed chhatris, and the sheer size — this was a statement of power and control.
Walk straight in and head to the Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque, a stunning example of Indo-Islamic architecture built in 1541 by Sher Shah Suri. Admire the five arched entrances, intricate calligraphy, and the mihrab (prayer niche) made of red, white, and black marble.
Next, walk over to Sher Mandal, a two-story octagonal tower that now stands in partial isolation. It’s believed to have been started by Sher Shah and later used by Emperor Humayun as a library and observatory. This is also the tragic spot where Humayun fell to his death in 1556 while descending the stairs after a prayer.
Head toward the eastern side of the fort to walk along the ramparts. From here, you get a great view of the Humayun Gate, the rear gate facing the direction of Humayun's Tomb. Also enjoy views of the moat (now dry), once filled with water from the nearby Yamuna River, which once flowed just beside the fort.
Close to the mosque, you’ll see fenced-off areas where archaeological digs have revealed layers of Delhi’s past — from Mauryan (3rd century BCE) to Mughal periods. Some potsherds and artifacts found here are preserved in the on-site Purana Qila Museum (a small but worthwhile stop if open).
Exit the monument area and walk to the lake just outside the fort’s walls. Paddle boating here gives you a great view of the fort’s massive structure reflected in the water — a serene end to your historical walk.
Highlights
- Step back in time as you explore the ancient Purana Qila in Delhi
- Admire the Indo-Islamic architecture of the Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque
- Discover the Sher Mandal, a historic tower with a tragic past
- Walk along the fort’s ramparts and enjoy views of the Humayun Gate
- See archaeological excavation sites revealing layers of Delhi’s past
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Wear comfortable shoes as paths are uneven.
Bring water and a hat/sunscreen to protect against the sun.
You’ll receive the guide’s contact details from the local service provider via WhatsApp (or by email if you don’t use WhatsApp) one day before your tour. The local service provider’s WhatsApp number will also be listed on your booking voucher so you can easily reach out to them directly if you have any questions or need assistance before or during your tour.
Bring water and a hat/sunscreen to protect against the sun.
You’ll receive the guide’s contact details from the local service provider via WhatsApp (or by email if you don’t use WhatsApp) one day before your tour. The local service provider’s WhatsApp number will also be listed on your booking voucher so you can easily reach out to them directly if you have any questions or need assistance before or during your tour.
INCLUDED
- Walking tour of Purana Qila with Guide
- Entrance fees
NOT INCLUDED
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.