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Red Fort, Delhi
The red sandstone walls of the
massive Red Fort (Lal Qila) rise 33m (108ft) above the clamour of
'Old' Delhi as a reminder of the magnificent power and pomp of the
Moghul emperors. The walls, built in 1638, may have been designed to
keep out invaders, but today they mainly keep out the noise and
confusion of the city, making the fort and its gardens and pavilions a
peaceful haven from the surrounding chaos. The fort's main gate, the
Lahore Gate, is one of the emotional and symbolic focal points of the
modern Indian nation and attracts a major crowd each Independence Day.
The vaulted arcade of Chatta Chowk, an impressive covered bazaar now
dedicated to selling tourist junk, leads into the huge fort compound.
Inside is a veritable treasure trove of buildings, including the Drum
House, the Hall of Public Audiences, the white marble Hall of Private
Audiences, the Pearl Mosque, Royal Baths and Palace of Colour. An
evening sound and light show re-creates events in India's history
connected with the fort. It's well worth seeing the show, but make
sure you bring that modern self-defence system - mosquito repellent.
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