Castles & palaces
Purana Qila
Purana Qila
Purana Qila is one of the oldest forts in Delhi, constructed by the Mughal emperor Humayun and Sher Shah of the Sur dynasty. Visitors go here to explore the massive sandstone walls, the central mosque, and the archaeological remains that reflect the early architectural styles of the Mughal and Sur periods.
Getting There
The fort is located in central Delhi. From the city center, it is most accessible via taxi or auto-rickshaw. Depending on traffic conditions, the journey typically takes 20 to 40 minutes.
Duration of Visit
Allow approximately 2 to 3 hours to walk through the grounds and view the structures and the onsite museum.
When to Visit
The site is an open-air complex, so visiting during the cooler months from October to March is recommended to avoid extreme heat. Early morning or late afternoon is preferable for better lighting and lower temperatures. The area can get crowded during weekends and public holidays.
Nearby Attractions
Because of its location near the Pragati Maidan exhibition grounds, this site can be combined with several other nearby points of interest:
- National Zoological Park Delhi: 0.6km
- Bharat Mandapam: 0.8km
- National Gallery of Modern Art: 1km
- Humayun's Tomb: 1.9km
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors