Delhi is home to several historical forts, but none carry the aura of mystery and grandeur quite like Tughlaqabad Fort. Built in the 14th century by Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq, the founder of the Tughlaq dynasty, this massive fortification stands as a testament to Delhi’s medieval military architecture. Today, its vast ruins narrate stories of ambition, betrayal, and decline.
The History Behind Tughlaqabad Fort
The Dream of Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq
Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq founded the Tughlaq dynasty in 1321 and dreamed of a powerful fort, which would be his capital. He built Tughlaqabad Fort as an unconquerable fortress to showcase his empire’s strength and prevent capture.
The Curse of Nizamuddin Auliya
Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya felt annoyed when the construction of Tughlaqabad Fort forced workers to toil there instead of building a stepwell (baoli) for the poor.. He cursed the fort, they say, because of the words, “Ya rahey ujjar, ya basey gujjar” (May it ever remain empty or be occupied by nomads). Ghiyas-ud-din’s mysterious and untimely death left the fort uninhabited.
Architectural Marvel of Tughlaqabad Fort
Tughlaqabad Fort is a breathtaking architectural marvel of Tughlaq fortification architecture constructed from mighty stone walls, massive bastions, and clandestine exit tunnels.
- Gigantic Fortifications
- Outer walls of the fort are more than 6.5 km long and 10-15 meters high, and thus the fort is one of the largest in Delhi.
- Watchtowers and bastions gave the fort defensive value over the invader.
- Underground Passages and Tunnel System
- Underground tunnels, opening into clandestine escape passes, would have been possessed by the fort.
- There are few of them still closed or unheard of today.
- Citadel and Royal Palace
- Within the fort complex, sections of royal palace, courts of audience, and mosques remain open.
- Mausoleum of Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq
- Situated close to the fort, the tomb of Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq is a red sandstone and marble architectural wonder.
- The mausoleum complex is enclosed by high walls and a causeway that linked it to the fort in the past.
Things to Do at Tughlaqabad Fort
- Walk Through the Ruins: Walk through the huge stone ruins, climb the bastions, and imagine the fort in its prime time.
- Tomb of Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq: Immerse yourself in the Indo-Islamic architecture and beautiful calligraphy of this well-preserved mausoleum.
- Capture Breathtaking Photographs: Hilly terrain, weathered walls, and sweeping vistas make the fort a photographer’s paradise.
Key Visitor Information
Timings and Entry Fee
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (All days of the week)
- Entry Charge: INR 25 (Indian), INR 300 (Foreign Tourist)
How to Reach Tughlaqabad Fort
- Nearest Metro Station: Govindpuri (Violet Line), followed by a short auto-rickshaw ride.
- By Road: Well linked through connecting roads; taxis and buses are readily available nearby.
Attractions nearby
When you are at Tughlaqabad Fort, you can go to:
- Surajkund Lake – Picturesque water tank, just a few minutes’ drive away from here.
- Chhatarpur Temple – Dignified Hindu temple complex which worships Goddess Durga.
- Qutub Minar – UNESCO World Heritage Monument, just a stone’s throw away.
Why You Must Visit Tughlaqabad Fort
- Experience the pulse of medieval Delhi.
- Explore one of India’s biggest and strongest forts.
- Find out about the myth of Nizamuddin Auliya’s curse.
- Escape the madness of Delhi in peaceful solitude.
Book Your Visit with Shahin Travels!
Uncover the secrets of Delhi’s historic Tughlaqabad Fort with Shahin Travels. Book a guided tour today and immerse yourself in the grandeur of this medieval stronghold!