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Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Tughlaqabad Fort
- The Tughlaqabad Fort in New Delhi, constructed by Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq in 1321, stands as a testament to the power of the Tughlaq Dynasty.
- It was part of the third city of Delhi but was abandoned in 1327, leaving behind a captivating ruin that attracts visitors to this day.
- Surrounding the fort is the Tughlaqabad area, home to the Tughlaqabad Institutional Area and the Mehrauli-Badarpur Road, originally built by Tughlaq to connect the city to the Grand Trunk Road.
- Situated near the Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range and Okhla Industrial Area, the fort also encompasses a significant biodiversity region within the Northern Aravalli leopard wildlife corridor, linking to the Sariska Tiger Reserve.
- Visitors can explore nearby historical sites like the Anangpur Dam, Surajkund Reservoir, Adilabad ruins, Badkhal Lake, and Damdama Lake.
- The fort boasts 13 entry gates, each showcasing intricate designs, and is renowned for its Islamic architecture.
- Despite its grandeur, the fort was tragically abandoned shortly after its construction.
- Accessible via the Govindpuri metro station, the fort is conveniently located around 20 km from Delhi Airport and 25 km from Delhi Railway Station.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
History
- Origin Story: Ghazi Malik, a feudal lord under the Khilji rulers of Delhi, proposed building a fort while walking with his master.
- Prophecy Fulfilled: The Khilji king jokingly told Ghazi Malik he’d have to build it himself when he became ruler. Ironically, Ghazi Malik did just that after driving away the Khilji rulers in 1321.
- Rise to Power: Upon assuming the throne, Ghazi Malik became Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq, establishing the Tughlaq Dynasty.
- City Dream: Tughlaq wasted no time in fulfilling his dream of a grand city, starting with the construction of a fortified stronghold.
- Fortification: Tughlaqabad Fort was strategically built on a hillock in southern Delhi, designed to repel invaders and safeguard the new dynasty’s power.
- Legacy: Tughlaqabad Fort stands as a testament to Tughlaq’s vision and ambition, marking the beginning of a significant era in Delhi’s history.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Story: The Curse Fort
In the heart of medieval Delhi stood the formidable Tughlaqabad Fort, a testament to the grandeur of Sultan Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq’s vision. Yet, amidst the fervor of its construction, a quiet turmoil brewed. Saint Nizamuddin Auliya, revered for his wisdom and piety, watched with dismay as the laborers, drawn by the Sultan’s decree, abandoned work on his cherished Baoli, a well that provided solace to the weary. In a moment of righteous anger, he uttered a solemn curse, declaring, “Hunuz Dilli Door Ast” — “Delhi is still far away.”
Meanwhile, as the Sultan triumphed in distant Bengal, fate wove a tragic thread. His return journey, marked by the eager anticipation of reunion, turned fatal when a fateful encounter with his son, Muhammad bin Tughlaq, unfolded near Kara, Uttar Pradesh. In a twist of destiny, a hastily erected shamiana, meant to honor the Sultan’s return, became the instrument of his untimely demise, crushed beneath its weight in the year 1324. Thus, the echoes of the saint’s curse reverberated through history, intertwining the fate of a ruler and the destiny of a city.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Information About Tughlaqabad Fort
- Location: Tughlaqabad Fort, situated in Delhi, India.
- Causeway and Entrance: A 600-ft elevated causeway, flanked by 27 arches, connects the fort’s southern outpost to the mausoleum of Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq. This causeway traverses an artificial lake and leads to the tomb complex.
- Gateway: The entrance to the mausoleum is adorned with a red sandstone gateway, accessed via a flight of steps.
- Architecture: The mausoleum itself is constructed in a square shape, featuring smooth red sandstone walls with intricate marble arch borders and inscribed panels. It is capped with an elegantly shaped dome resting on an octagonal drum covered with white marble and slate slabs.
- Interior: Inside the mausoleum, three graves are present. The central one is believed to belong to Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq, while the other two are thought to be for his son, Muhammad bin Tughlaq, and his wife.
- Additional Tomb: Adjacent to the main mausoleum is another octagonal tomb, with a smaller marble dome and adorned with inscribed sandstone and marble slabs. It is said to house the remains of Zafar Khan, according to its inscription.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Architecture Of Tughlaqabad Fort, Delhi
1. Fortifications and Walls:
- Massive stone-made fortifications encircle the irregular city ground plan.
- City walls, 10-15 meters in height, are filled with rubble and slope inward.
- Adorned with imposing battlements, parapets, and circular bastions, some reaching two storeys high.
- Originally had 52 gates; only 13 gates remain today.
2. City Layout:
- Divided into three main sections.
- Wider city zone: Houses developed along a rectangular grid between gates.
- Citadel with Bijai-Mandal tower, the highest point, housing remnants of halls and a lengthy underground passage.
- Adjacent palace zone: Residences for the royal family, with an existing underground passage.
3. Accessibility and Surroundings:
- Dense vegetation surrounds a large part of the city, limiting access.
- Many settlements occupy the area, especially around the lakes.
4. Water Reservoir and Connectivity:
- South of the city lies a massive artificial water reservoir within the fortified Ghiyath al-Din Tughlaq Tomb.
- The tomb is connected to the fort via an elevated causeway.
5. Adilabad Fortress:
- Located in the southeastern corner, remains of the Adilabad fortress built later by Muhammad bin Tughlaq can still be viewed.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Visitor Information For Tughlaqabad Fort
Famous For:
- Architecture: Renowned for its monumental stone fortification.
- History: Founded in 1321 AD by Ghiyas-uddin-Tughlaq, the first ruler of the Tughlaq dynasty.
- Excursion Trip: Ideal for a historical outing and exploration.
- Photography and Sightseeing: Offers picturesque views and photo opportunities.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Entrance Fee
- Indian Adults: Entrance fee of 5 INR per person.
- Foreign Adults: Admission fee of 100 INR per person.
- Children: Entry is free for children up to 15 years old.
- Photography: No additional fee for taking photographs.
- Note: Fees could be change therefore use official website to book your tickets on right price.
Book Your Tickets
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Visiting Time
- Open on all weekdays and weekends.
- Operating Hours: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Visit Duration
- Approximately 2 hours required for a thorough exploration of the premises.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Historical Significance
- Founded by Ghiyas-uddin-Tughlaq in 1321 AD after defeating the Khilji ruler.
- Features tall sloping walls up to 15 meters high with battlement parapets and 2-meter-high bastions.
- Abandoned in 1327 AD due to superstitions surrounding the site.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Travel Tips For An Unforgettable Journey
Footwear Essentials:
- Opt for sturdy sports shoes to navigate Adventureland’s diverse terrain comfortably.
- The ground can be uneven and inhabited by thorny grasses, so prioritize comfort and protection.
- Beware of hidden crevices harboring insects, lizards, and even snakes; your footwear choice matters!
Picture-Perfect Moments:
- Capture the essence of Adventureland during the tranquil morning hours.
- Seize the opportunity to snap breathtaking photos of the surroundings and its captivating landscapes.
- Morning light enhances the beauty of the grounds, ensuring your memories are nothing short of spectacular.
Satisfy Your Hunger:
- Prioritize a hearty meal before embarking on your Adventureland excursion.
- Prepare for a lack of food stalls or eateries nearby; sustenance options are scarce.
- While a small shop offers necessities, be prepared to pay a premium for convenience.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Tughlaqabad Fort: Must-Do Activities
Marvel at the Thirteen Majestic Gates:
- Take a moment to admire the intricate craftsmanship and historical significance of the fort’s thirteen spectacular gates, each a portal to the past.
Soak in Panoramic Views from the Summit:
- Ascend to the highest points of the fort to enjoy sweeping panoramic views of its sprawling premises, the regal mausoleum, and the bustling modern settlements below.
Wander Through Historic Halls and Residences:
- Explore the labyrinthine corridors, public halls, and royal residences, where echoes of centuries-old stories still resonate within the ancient walls.
Discover the Fort’s Secret Underground Passage:
- Uncover the mystery of the fort’s hidden underground passage as you learn about its history and architecture, and perhaps even attempt to trace its elusive route.
Witness the Remnants of Rainwater Harvesting Tanks:
- Visit the remnants of the fort’s seven manmade rainwater harvesting tanks, marveling at the engineering ingenuity that sustained life within the fortress.
Explore the Southern Tomb-Complex:
- Venture to the southern walled outpost to explore the solemn tomb-complex of the royal family, where you can pay homage to the storied past of this historic site.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Local Guides
- Engage a local guide to enrich your visit with insights into the fort’s various sections and their historical significance.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Best Time To Visit
- March, April, and May offer the optimal weather for exploring the captivating ruins.
- Alternatively, November to February provides pleasant conditions, ideal for a visit.
- It’s advisable to avoid the summer and rainy seasons due to discomfort.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
How To Reach
- Bus routes from Badarpur (Noida) and Gurugram (Gurgaon) connect to the fort.
- Buses such as 34, 525, 511, and 874 stop at the nearby local bus stand.
- Govindpuri Metro rail-line, located 5 km away, provides another transportation option.
- From the metro, take an individual or shared autorickshaw ride to reach the fort, typically costing a minimum of 50 INR.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Fascinating Facts About A Historical Landmark
- Nizam-ud-din Auliya’s Curse: The construction of the monument was cursed by the famous Sufi mystic Nizam-ud-din Auliya, who uttered the words, “Ya rahe ujjar, ya bassey gujjar,” which translates to ‘either it stays occupied or taken by gujjars’.
- Prophecy of Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq’s Death: Saint Auliya also predicted the death of Emperor Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq with the words, “Hunuz Dilli dur ast,” meaning ‘Delhi is yet far away’. Surprisingly, the Emperor died en route to Delhi after his battle victory in Bengal.
- Construction Materials: The mausoleum was built using red sandstone, slate, and marble slabs, showcasing a blend of architectural elements.
- Bridge Access: Access to the tomb area is facilitated by a 600 ft long bridge constructed across a now-defunct manmade reservoir, adding to its grandeur.
- Zafar Khan’s Grave: Inside the royal family’s mausoleum lies the grave of a commoner named Zafar Khan. Historical inscriptions suggest that his grave was originally located in this area before construction began.
- Fort-Gate Entryways: Despite originally having 52 fort-gates, only 13 entryways have remained intact over time, reflecting the passage of history and architectural changes.
- Qutub-Badarpur Road: Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq is credited with building the landmark Qutub-Badarpur road, later renamed the Mehrauli-Badarpur road, which continues to be a significant route to this day.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Discover Nearby Attractions
- Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary:
- Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary, where lush greenery and diverse wildlife await.
- Explore serene trails amidst the sanctuary’s pristine landscapes, perfect for nature walks and birdwatching.
- Experience the thrill of spotting indigenous species such as deer, monkeys, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
- Adilabad Fort:
- Step back in time as you visit the historic Adilabad Fort, a magnificent testament to the region’s rich heritage.
- Marvel at the impressive architecture and intricate designs of this ancient fortress, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Delve into the stories of valor and conquest that echo within the walls of Adilabad Fort, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
- Karni Singh Shooting Range:
- Sharpen your shooting skills or simply enjoy a thrilling day out at the Karni Singh Shooting Range, a world-class facility for sports enthusiasts.
- Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned marksman, the range offers state-of-the-art facilities and professional guidance for an unforgettable shooting experience.
- Challenge yourself with various shooting disciplines, from pistol to rifle, and experience the adrenaline rush of hitting your target with precision.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Nearby Restaurants in Tughlaqabad Industrial Area (TIA):
Lazeez Restaurant:
- Offers delectable dishes with a focus on traditional flavors.
- Known for its cozy ambiance and friendly service.
- Specializes in authentic Indian cuisine, catering to diverse tastes.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Peacock Restaurant:
- Renowned for its elegant décor and inviting atmosphere.
- Features a menu highlighting a fusion of Indian and international cuisines.
- Particularly famous for its grilled specialties and refreshing beverages.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Om Sai Pizza Point:
- A go-to spot for pizza lovers, serving a wide range of toppings and crust options.
- Offers quick service and affordable prices, making it a favorite among locals.
- Ideal for a casual dining experience or grabbing a quick bite with friends.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
Khana Khazana:
- Celebrated for its extensive menu, featuring dishes from various regions of India.
- Emphasizes freshness and quality ingredients in its preparations.
- Provides a cozy and welcoming ambiance for families and groups.
Tughlaqabad Fort 2024: Best Guide Book Ticket & More
If you’re in the area, don’t miss out on exploring the majestic fortress nearby, which holds immense historical significance as the symbol of the illustrious Tughlaq dynasty’s inception.