Mysore Palace | Mysore

Information

Landmark: Mysore Palace
City: Mysore
Country: India
Continent: Asia

Mysore Palace, Mysore, India, Asia

Purana Qila, also known as the Old Fort, is a historic fortress located in New Delhi, India.

Visual Characteristics

The fort is constructed primarily from red sandstone and marble. Its walls stand approximately 18 meters high and extend for 1.5 kilometers. The architectural style incorporates elements of early Mughal design, featuring imposing gateways, bastions, and arched openings. The main structures within the complex include the Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque and Sher Mandal.

Location & Access Logistics

Purana Qila is situated on the Mathura Road, approximately 5 kilometers southeast of Connaught Place, the city center. Access is via Mathura Road. Parking is available on-site, though it can be limited during peak hours. The nearest metro station is Pragati Maidan on the Blue Line, approximately 1 kilometer walk from the fort entrance. Several DTC bus routes also serve the area, with stops near the fort.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Purana Qila began in 1533 under the reign of Mughal Emperor Humayun and was completed by Sher Shah Suri of the Sur dynasty in 1545. It was intended to be the sixth city of Delhi, Dinpanah. The site itself has historical significance, believed to be the location of Indraprastha, the ancient capital of the Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the three main gates: the South Gate (Humayun Darwaza), the West Gate (Talaqi Darwaza), and the East Gate (Sher Shah Darwaza). The Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque offers intricate carvings and a prayer hall. Sher Mandal, a two-story octagonal tower, served as an observatory and library. Sound and light shows depicting the history of Delhi are conducted in the evenings.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the complex. Shaded areas are limited, primarily found near the entrances and within the mosque. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good. Food vendors are typically located outside the fort complex along Mathura Road.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is in the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight casts long shadows and highlights the red sandstone. The optimal months for visiting are from October to March, when the weather is cooler and drier. There are no tide-related considerations.

Facts & Legends

A local legend suggests that the fort was built on the site of the ancient city of Indraprastha, dating back over 5,000 years. Archaeological excavations within the fort have revealed pottery dating back to the Mauryan period, lending credence to this theory. A specific tip for visitors is to look for the intricate stucco work on the Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque, which is a fine example of pre-Mughal architecture.